Description
This Crock Pot Cracker Barrel Meatloaf is a comforting, easy-to-make copycat recipe featuring ground beef mixed with buttery Ritz crackers, diced peppers and onions, and a hint of cheese. Slow-cooked to tender perfection and topped with a sweet and tangy tomato glaze, it’s a flavorful classic dinner option that requires minimal hands-on time.
Ingredients
Meatloaf
- 2 pounds lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10)
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed (about 32 crackers)
- ½ yellow onion, finely diced (about 1 cup)
- ½ green bell pepper, finely diced
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ cup shredded colby jack cheese (optional)
Glaze
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly spray the inside of a 6-8 quart slow cooker with nonstick spray or line it with foil or parchment paper for easier removal after cooking. Alternatively, use a slow cooker liner.
- Mix Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, crushed Ritz crackers, diced yellow onion, diced green bell pepper, eggs, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and shredded colby jack cheese if using. Mix gently until just combined to avoid toughness.
- Shape and Place Meatloaf: Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it directly into the prepared slow cooker.
- Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, light brown sugar, and yellow mustard until smooth.
- Apply Initial Glaze: Spread half of the glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf. Cover the remaining glaze and save it for later.
- Cook the Meatloaf: Cover and cook on low for 5 to 6 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until fully cooked and tender. Ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F for safety.
- Drain Excess Grease: If necessary, carefully drain any excess grease from the slow cooker to avoid a greasy final dish.
- Apply Remaining Glaze: Spread the remaining glaze evenly over the meatloaf and cover for an additional 10 to 15 minutes to warm the glaze through.
- Rest and Serve: Carefully remove the meatloaf from the slow cooker and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the slices hold together better. Serve with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Do not overmix the meatloaf mixture to prevent a tough texture.
- Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature is at least 165°F for food safety.
- Optional cheese adds richness but can be omitted for a lighter version.
- Line the slow cooker for easier cleanup and removal of the meatloaf.
- Letting the meatloaf rest before slicing ensures cleaner, more presentable slices.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 5-6 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American