Cracker Barrel Meatloaf for a Large Crowd

Feed a crowd in comfort-food style with this Cracker Barrel Meatloaf recipe, a hearty dish bursting with flavor and warmth. Made with 5 pounds of ground beef, finely chopped onion and bell pepper, and an irresistible blend of crushed Ritz crackers, milk, and seasonings, this dish is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks. The signature glaze—featuring tangy ketchup, brown sugar, and mustard—adds a sweet and savory finish that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Designed to serve 16, this easy-to-make meatloaf takes just 20 minutes of prep before baking to mouthwatering perfection in under 75 minutes. Pair it with mashed potatoes and green beans for a true Southern-inspired feast that’s sure to impress large groups.

Nutriscore Rating: 61/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:75 mins

Total Time:95 mins

Servings: 16

Ingredients

• 5 pounds Ground beef
• 2 cups Onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup Green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2.5 cups Crushed Ritz crackers
• 1.5 cups Whole milk
• 4 large Eggs
• 1.5 cups Ketchup
• 0.5 cup Brown sugar
• 4 tablespoons Yellow mustard
• 2 teaspoons Salt
• 1 teaspoon Black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Garlic powder

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two large loaf pans by lightly greasing them or lining with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, and green bell pepper.

Step 3

Add the crushed Ritz crackers, whole milk, eggs, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to the bowl. Mix thoroughly using clean hands or a sturdy wooden spoon until all ingredients are evenly combined.

Step 4

Divide the meat mixture evenly between the two prepared loaf pans. Press the mixture down firmly to remove any air pockets and create a smooth surface.

Step 5

In a small bowl, whisk together the ketchup, brown sugar, and yellow mustard to create the glaze.

Step 6

Spread the glaze evenly over the tops of the two meatloaves with a spatula or spoon.

Step 7

Place the loaf pans on the center rack of the preheated oven and bake for 70-75 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the meatloaf reaches 160°F (70°C).

Step 8

Remove the meatloaves from the oven and let them rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Step 9

Slice and serve warm, garnished with additional ketchup or parsley, if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(4528.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	9503.5

Total Fat 595.3g	0%
Saturated Fat 218.3g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.4g
Cholesterol 2293.2mg	0%
Sodium 15397.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 611.1g	0%
Dietary Fiber 25.3g	0%
Total Sugars 219.0g
Protein 469.3g	0%

Vitamin D 325.0IU	0%
Calcium 1169.7mg	0%
Iron 66.0mg	0%
Potassium 8078.5mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 55.4%

Protein: 19.4%

Carbs: 25.3%