Ah, Cracker Barrel – a beloved American institution that brings people together over warm, comforting meals. Their menu is full of classic Southern dishes that never go out of style. But why not bring those same flavors home with you? With these 20 classic Cracker Barrel recipes, you’ll be able to recreate your favorite comfort food dishes in the comfort of your own kitchen.
From hearty breakfast options like Pecan Pancakes and Sweet Tea, to satisfying dinners like Country Fried Steak and Hashbrown Casserole, we’ve got you covered. And let’s not forget about dessert – our Banana Pudding and Buttermilk Pie recipes are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re a long-time Cracker Barrel fan or just looking for some new inspiration in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
Stay tuned as we dive into each of these delicious dishes and share our secrets for making them at home…
Homemade Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
Savor the comforting flavors of this classic Southern dish, reminiscent of a warm hug on a chilly day. This recipe is an authentic take on the beloved menu item from the iconic Cracker Barrel restaurant.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons baking powder
– 1 cup biscuit or dumpling mix (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add chicken to the pot, cooking until browned on all sides.
3. Sprinkle flour, paprika, salt, and pepper over the chicken, stirring to coat.
4. Gradually add broth and water, whisking continuously.
5. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
6. Meanwhile, prepare dumplings according to package instructions or make your own by combining baking powder with flour and milk.
7. Add dumplings to the pot, cooking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole
Get ready for a comforting casserole that’s perfect for any occasion! This Cracker Barrel-inspired recipe combines crispy hashbrowns with savory seasonings and melted cheese, making it an instant family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine grated potatoes, milk, and seasonings. Mix until well combined.
3. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
4. Add potato mixture to the prepared dish and smooth out.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Copycat Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and sure to please the whole family. This meatloaf is inspired by the famous recipe from Cracker Barrel, but with a few tweaks to make it your own.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped onion (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan lined with parchment paper.
4. If using onion, sprinkle on top of the meatloaf.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
6. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cracker Barrel Fried Apples
A classic Southern dessert that’s perfect for a cozy evening or a quick snack, these crispy fried apples are a staple at Cracker Barrel. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can recreate this beloved treat in the comfort of your own home.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Granny Smith apples, sliced into 1/2-inch thick wedges
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Dip each apple slice into the flour mixture, coating evenly.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F.
4. Fry apple slices in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Remove fried apples from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Cracker Barrel Biscuits
Get ready to serve up a warm, flaky, and buttery treat that’s reminiscent of a country kitchen. These biscuits are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut the cold butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Pour in the heavy cream and beaten egg. Stir until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
6. Roll out the dough to about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thickness. Cut into desired shapes or use a biscuit cutter.
7. Place biscuits on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) space between each.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cracker Barrel Mac and Cheese
Savory comfort food at its finest! This Cracker Barrel Mac and Cheese recipe is a creamy, cheesy delight that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted.
6. Add cooked macaroni, paprika, salt, and pepper to the cheese sauce. Stir until combined.
7. Transfer macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cracker Barrel Country Fried Steak
A classic Cracker Barrel-style country fried steak recipe that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound top round or top sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch thick strips
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each steak strip into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat. Place coated steak strips on a plate or tray.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry the steak strips for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: About 12-15 minutes total (including frying time). Serve hot and enjoy!
Cracker Barrel Carrot Souffle
Experience the warm comfort of Cracker Barrel’s Carrot Souffle at home with this easy-to-make recipe. This classic side dish is perfect for family gatherings, holiday meals, or everyday dinners.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups grated carrots
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine grated carrots, sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar (if desired) before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cracker Barrel Pecan Pancakes
Start your day off right with these indulgent Pecan Pancakes, reminiscent of the popular breakfast treat from Cracker Barrel. This recipe captures the essence of their signature dish in a convenient and delicious homemade version.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a large bowl, combine sugar, milk, egg, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth.
3. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Fold in chopped pecans and vanilla extract.
5. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
6. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
8. Flip and cook an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch (depending on size of pancakes)
Cracker Barrel Southern Fried Chicken
Get ready for a taste of the South with this classic Cracker Barrel-inspired Southern Fried Chicken recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry the chicken for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cracker Barrel Sweet Tea
Relive the charm of Cracker Barrel’s famous sweet tea with this easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 black tea bags (such as Luzianne or Lipton)
– 1 quart water
– 1 cup granulated white sugar
– Lemon slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the quart of water to a boil.
2. Remove from heat and add the 4 black tea bags. Let steep for 5 minutes, allowing the tea to infuse.
3. While the tea is steeping, combine 1 cup of sugar with 1/2 cup of hot water in a separate bowl. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
4. Once the tea has finished steeping, remove the tea bags and add the sugar syrup. Stir well to combine.
5. Chill the sweet tea in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. If desired, garnish with lemon slices.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (steeping time included)
Enjoy your delicious homemade Cracker Barrel-style sweet tea!
Cracker Barrel Turnip Greens
Get a taste of Cracker Barrel’s signature turnip greens with this simple and flavorful recipe. This Southern classic is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your next family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch fresh turnip greens, chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the turnip greens to the skillet in batches, if necessary, stirring to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Cook until the greens are wilted, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Stir in chicken broth and simmer for an additional 2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cracker Barrel Cornbread
Get ready to taste the warmth of Cracker Barrel’s classic cornbread, straight from their kitchens! This simple recipe yields a moist and flavorful loaf that’s perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, combine heavy cream, egg, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet mixture; stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Enjoy your warm and comforting Cracker Barrel-style cornbread!
Cracker Barrel Roast Beef
Get the signature flavor of Cracker Barrel’s roast beef at home with this easy recipe. A perfect blend of tender beef and savory seasonings will make this a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 pound beef top round or rump roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Rub the mixture all over the roast, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the roast in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
5. Roast for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
6. Let the roast rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Cracker Barrel Green Beans
Get ready to enjoy a classic Southern side dish with this easy-to-make Cracker Barrel-style green beans recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 6 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup crumbled bacon (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
3. Place green beans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the butter mixture evenly over the green beans.
6. If using bacon, sprinkle it over the green beans.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cracker Barrel Banana Pudding
Get ready to transport yourself to a warm and cozy spot with this creamy, dreamy banana pudding recipe inspired by the iconic Cracker Barrel restaurant.
Ingredients:
– 4 large ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 package of Nilla wafers (about 30-40 wafers)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
2. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
4. Arrange the sliced bananas in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Pour the warm pudding mixture over the bananas.
6. Top with melted butter, followed by Nilla wafers.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None (assembled and refrigerated)
Cracker Barrel Buttermilk Pie
Get ready to sink your teeth into a tangy and sweet Southern classic – Cracker Barrel’s Buttermilk Pie!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until well combined. Press mixture into a 9-inch pie dish.
3. Bake crust for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned. Let cool completely.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, buttermilk, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour filling over cooled crust and bake for 40-45 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
6. Allow pie to cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes
Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders
Elevate your backyard BBQ game with this simple recipe that yields tender and flavorful chicken tenders, just like the ones served at Cracker Barrel. This classic Southern-style dish is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken strips to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
4. Remove chicken from marinade and coat with flour, shaking off excess.
5. Grill chicken tenders for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes.
Cracker Barrel Fried Okra
Get ready to taste the crunchiest, crispiest fried okra of your life! This classic Southern recipe is a staple at Cracker Barrel restaurants and can now be made in the comfort of your own home.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen okra pods
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip okra pods into buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry okra in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Cracker Barrel Country Ham
This recipe brings you back to a simpler time with the rich, savory flavor of Cracker Barrel’s famous country ham. Made with love and care, this dish is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb country ham, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, ground mustard, and black pepper.
3. Place the country ham slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the sugar mixture evenly over both sides of the ham.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until caramelized to your liking.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to taste the comfort food classics from Cracker Barrel! This collection of 20 recipes brings you authentic Southern dishes that are sure to become family favorites. From savory options like Homemade Chicken and Dumplings, Meatloaf, and Country Fried Steak, to sweet treats like Banana Pudding and Buttermilk Pie, these recipes will transport you to the heart of Dixie. With a mix of comforting casseroles, hearty main courses, and indulgent desserts, there’s something for everyone in this mouthwatering lineup. Start cooking and get cozy with Cracker Barrel’s most beloved dishes!
