Cozy up to a plateful of comfort with these 20 deliciously down-home recipes inspired by the beloved American restaurant chain, Cracker Barrel. From classic Southern favorites like buttery biscuits and creamy mac and cheese, to hearty breakfast dishes like fluffy pancakes and crispy fried chicken tenders, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll take a culinary road trip through the heart of America, exploring the flavors and traditions that make Cracker Barrel a staple of homestyle cooking. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the restaurant or just looking for some new inspiration in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to become fast favorites. So grab your apron, get comfortable, and let’s dive in!
Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole
This classic casserole recipe is a staple of Southern comfort food, featuring crispy hash browns, savory ground beef, and creamy cheese. It’s an easy and crowd-pleasing dish perfect for family gatherings or weeknight meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 (32 oz) container of frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
4. In a separate bowl, combine thawed hash browns, milk, egg, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
6. Layer ingredients in the dish: ground beef mixture, then hash brown mixture, followed by shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cracker Barrel Biscuits
Recreate the iconic biscuits from this beloved American restaurant with our simple recipe. With just a few ingredients and a short baking time, you’ll be enjoying flaky, buttery goodness in no time.
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
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 mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir until dough forms.
5. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times.
6. Roll out to about 1 inch thickness and use biscuit cutter or glass to cut shapes.
7. Place biscuits on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cracker Barrel Fried Apples
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this classic Southern treat, featuring tender apples fried to perfection in a crispy coating. Perfect as a snack or dessert topping.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Granny Smith apples, sliced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. In a separate dish, whisk together sugar and 1 tablespoon of water until dissolved.
3. Dip each apple slice into the sugar mixture, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry apples for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
5. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
This beloved meatloaf recipe from Cracker Barrel has been a favorite among comfort food lovers for years. With its rich flavors and tender texture, it’s no wonder why this classic dish remains a staple on many menus.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands until just combined.
3. Add the beaten egg and mix until the mixture is smooth and evenly textured.
4. Shape into a loaf and place in a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cracker Barrel Country Fried Steak
This classic recipe from Cracker Barrel combines tender steak with a crispy, golden-brown crust, all wrapped up in a comforting package that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless beef steaks (1/2-inch thick)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 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 steak into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat. Place coated steaks 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 coated steaks for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cracker Barrel Mac and Cheese
Satisfy Your Comfort Food Cravings with Our Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Colby jack 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.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 2 minutes.
7. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Colby jack cheese until melted and smooth.
8. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Enjoy your creamy, comforting Cracker Barrel-inspired Mac and Cheese!
Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
Satisfy your comfort food cravings with this classic Cracker Barrel-inspired chicken and dumplings recipe. Tender chunks of chicken, fluffy biscuits, and a rich broth come together to create a warm and inviting dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 cup milk
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté chicken, carrots, celery, and garlic in butter until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Add broth, thyme, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, combine flour, baking powder, and milk to make dumpling mixture. Drop by spoonfuls onto the surface of the simmering soup.
4. Cover the pot and cook an additional 15-20 minutes or until the dumplings are cooked through.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cracker Barrel Carrot Cake
This moist and flavorful carrot cake is a beloved classic, reminiscent of the warm and cozy atmosphere found at Cracker Barrel restaurants. With a blend of sweet spices, chopped nuts, and shredded carrots, this cake is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups grated carrots
– 1 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat sugar and eggs until light and fluffy. Add butter and mix until combined.
4. Stir in grated carrots, chopped walnuts, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cracker Barrel Pecan Pancakes
Start your day off right with these scrumptious pancakes, filled with the rich flavor of pecans and a hint of cinnamon. Inspired by the classic breakfast dishes from Cracker Barrel restaurants, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat your skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In another bowl, combine milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped pecans and cinnamon.
6. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the skillet or griddle.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to dry.
8. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cracker Barrel Sweet Potato Casserole
This classic Southern-style sweet potato casserole is a staple of family gatherings and holiday feasts. With its creamy marshmallow topping and crunchy pecans, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, flour, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
3. Stir in heavy cream until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with mini marshmallows and chopped pecans.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until marshmallows are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cracker Barrel Corn Muffins
These tender and flavorful corn muffins are a perfect match for your favorite breakfast or brunch dishes. With their subtle sweetness and crumbly texture, they’re sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup milk
– Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, melted butter, egg, and milk. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Allow muffins to cool in tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Cracker Barrel Grilled Chicken Tenders
Get ready to fire up your grill and recreate the crispy, juicy, and flavorful chicken tenders from Cracker Barrel. This simple recipe requires just a few ingredients and some basic grilling skills.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenderloins
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for grilling
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken to the marinade, making sure it’s fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Dredge chicken in flour, shaking off excess.
5. Grill the chicken tenders for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and slightly charred.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-16 minutes
Cracker Barrel Turnip Greens
Get ready for a taste of Southern comfort with this classic turnip greens recipe, reminiscent of Cracker Barrel’s signature side dish. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side to your favorite comfort foods.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh turnip greens, stems removed and discarded
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
4. Add turnip greens in batches, cooking until wilted and tender, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
5. Season with salt, black pepper, and chicken broth.
6. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cracker Barrel Chicken Fried Chicken
Get ready for a taste of Southern comfort with this recipe for Cracker Barrel-style Chicken Fried Chicken!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, and breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 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 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 coated chicken pieces in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes per batch.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes total cooking time, depending on the size of your chicken pieces.
Cracker Barrel Banana Pudding
Experience the comfort of homemade banana pudding with this simple recipe inspired by the iconic restaurant, Cracker Barrel. This creamy dessert is a staple at any gathering and is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 4 large ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup Nilla wafers, crushed
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat until the mixture comes to a simmer.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks and vanilla extract. Gradually add 1/4 cup of the warm cream mixture to the egg yolks, whisking constantly.
3. Return the saucepan to the heat and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the pudding thickens.
4. Remove from heat and stir in sliced bananas. Let cool slightly before serving.
5. In individual serving cups, layer banana slices, whipped cream, and crushed Nilla wafers.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cracker Barrel Buttermilk Pie
This beloved dessert has been a staple at Cracker Barrel restaurants for years, and now you can make it at home. This creamy pie is infused with the tanginess of buttermilk and the richness of eggs, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, whisk until smooth.
4. Beat in eggs until well combined.
5. Stir in buttermilk and heavy cream.
6. Pour mixture into a pre-baked pie crust (9-inch).
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until filling is set.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cracker Barrel Southern Fried Catfish
A classic Southern comfort food, this recipe yields a crispy and flavorful catfish dish reminiscent of Cracker Barrel’s iconic menu item. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (about 1 pound)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 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 each catfish fillet into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat. Place coated fillets on a plate or tray.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the catfish for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes
Cracker Barrel Green Beans with Bacon
Get ready for a deliciously simple side dish that’s sure to please! This recipe captures the essence of Cracker Barrel’s iconic green beans, smoky bacon, and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
3. Place the bacon pieces on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy.
4. Remove the bacon from the oven and set aside.
5. In a large skillet, combine the green beans, garlic, and chicken broth. Cook over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the beans are tender but still crisp.
6. Add the cooked bacon to the skillet and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cracker Barrel Maple Glazed Ham
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this sweet and savory Cracker Barrel-inspired maple glazed ham recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham, trimmed of excess fat
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together maple syrup, brown sugar, mustard, vinegar, cloves, and nutmeg.
3. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the crevices and any holes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
7. Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Cracker Barrel Skillet Apple Pie
Get cozy with this twist on the classic apple pie, cooked to perfection in a cast-iron skillet. This dessert is perfect for a chilly evening or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup peeled and sliced apples (Granny Smith or Golden Delicious work well)
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, combine apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples are tender.
3. Add heavy cream, melted butter, and beaten egg to the skillet. Stir until combined.
4. Roll out pie crust to fit the skillet. Place crust on top of apple mixture and crimp edges to seal.
5. Brush egg wash over crust and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get cozy with these 20 mouth-watering Cracker Barrel recipes that are sure to bring homestyle comfort to your table. From classic comfort foods like Meatloaf and Mac and Cheese, to sweet treats like Pecan Pancakes and Banana Pudding, there’s something for everyone. These tried-and-true recipes are perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or just a cozy night in. So go ahead, grab a plate of Hashbrown Casserole and get ready to indulge in some good ol’ fashioned comfort food!
