There are certain dishes that just have a way of making you feel completely warm and cozy, and a classic meatloaf is at the top of that list. This Cracker Barrel-style Meatloaf is my absolute favorite. It’s a rich, savory meatloaf with a perfectly tender texture, a hint of sweet and savory glaze, and a gooey layer of melted cheddar cheese on top. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug and brings everyone to the dinner table.

I’ve been making this recipe for years, and it’s a dish that never fails to get rave reviews. The secret is in the simple ingredients—ground beef, a touch of onion and seasoning, and a sweet, savory glaze. The addition of crushed crackers and a layer of cheese takes it to a whole new level of deliciousness. It’s a fantastic recipe to have in your arsenal for a cozy family dinner.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. The meatloaf is made with a few simple ingredients and seasoned perfectly, creating a juicy and tender loaf that holds its shape. The sweet and savory glaze is the perfect topping, and the layer of melted cheddar cheese adds a wonderful, cheesy finish. It’s a fantastic one-pan meal that’s easy to clean up and perfect for a weeknight dinner. It’s a dish that feels special and nostalgic, and it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup Kraft Calorie Wise Italian dressing
• 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
• 3/4 cup Heinz ketchup, divided
• 1 (120g) pack of low-sodium chicken stuffing mix
• 3/4 cup water
• 2 large egg whites
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Swaps and Notes

• Meat: I recommend using a lean ground beef (90/10 or 85/15) to prevent the meatloaf from becoming greasy.
• Onion: The finely chopped onion adds a lovely flavor and helps keep the meatloaf moist.
• Stuffing Mix: The chicken stuffing mix is a great shortcut for this recipe. It adds a wonderful flavor and texture.
• Ketchup: The ketchup is used in two places—in the meatloaf and for the glaze on top. Don’t skip this, as it’s key to the classic flavor.
• Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese is a classic choice here, but you can use any cheese you like! Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend would also be delicious.

How to Make Classic Cracker Barrel-Style Meatloaf

1. Prep the Oven and Pan: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 13×9 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Sauté the Onion: Put the finely chopped onions and Italian dressing in a large non-stick skillet. Cook over medium heat for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown, stirring constantly. Remove from the fire and let it cool a little.
3. Mix the Meatloaf: In a large bowl, mix together the lean ground beef, sautéed onion mixture, 1/4 cup of the ketchup, the chicken stuffing mix, water, and egg whites.
4. Shape and Glaze: Shape the blend into a 10×5-inch loaf in the prepared baking dish. Cover it with the remaining ketchup.
5. Bake: Bake for about 50 to 60 minutes, or until the meatloaf is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 160°F / 71°C).
6. Add Cheese and Finish: Cover the meatloaf with the shredded cheddar cheese and cook for an additional 2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Rest and Serve: Let the meatloaf rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overmix: Mixing the meatloaf mixture too much can make it tough. Mix until the ingredients are just incorporated.
• Use a Good Skillet: A large non-stick skillet is perfect for sautéing the onions.
• Let it Rest: The resting time after baking is important. It allows the juices to redistribute and makes the meatloaf even more tender.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This meatloaf is fantastic served with creamy mashed potatoes and a side of green beans. For other great comforting meals, my Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo or a hearty Instant Pot Lasagna would be a perfect match.

Storage and Leftover Tips

Leftovers are delicious! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave individual portions or warm the entire dish in the oven until heated through.

More Recipes You Will Love

If you’re a fan of easy, delicious, and one-pan meals, you’ll want to check out some of these other favorites:

• My Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole is a fantastic one-pan dinner.
• If you need to feed a crowd fast, these Sheet Pan Quesadillas are a lifesaver.
• For a lazy Sunday, these Easy Turkey Wings are a must-try.

Final Thoughts

This Cracker Barrel-style Meatloaf is a classic for a reason. It’s a simple, delicious, and deeply satisfying dish that is perfect for a family dinner. I hope it becomes a new favorite in your home.

If you make this meatloaf, I’d love to hear about it! What’s your secret ingredient for a perfect homemade meatloaf? Let me know in the comments below.