Cracker Barrel isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a Southern institution. From its nostalgic decor to the smell of fresh biscuits, it’s a place that feels like home. But with a massive menu, knowing what to order can be overwhelming. We talked to longtime fans, former employees, and devoted regulars to round up the absolute must-try meals. These are the dishes that keep diners coming back, bite after bite. Whether you’re a pancake purist or a comfort-food enthusiast, here’s your ultimate guide to Cracker Barrel favorites.
Momma’s Pancake Breakfast: Southern Sweetness First
Momma’s Pancake Breakfast is legendary for a reason. You get three fluffy buttermilk pancakes, two eggs, and a choice of bacon or sausage. Fans love customizing with blueberry syrup or adding pecans for extra richness. Grandma’s Sampler ups the ante with a mix of bacon, sausage, and ham. It’s a hearty, nostalgic way to start any morning.
Get the Recipe: Momma’s Pancake Breakfast: Southern Sweetness First
Old Timer’s Breakfast: Classic Southern Comfort
For a bigger spread, the Old Timer’s Breakfast delivers eggs cooked your way, a choice of meat, and a side of biscuits & gravy. Regulars recommend pairing it with Hashbrown Casserole or Fried Apples. It’s a reliable Southern breakfast that hits all the right notes. Simple, satisfying, and undeniably traditional.
Get the Recipe: Old Timer’s Breakfast: Classic Southern Comfort
Chicken & Dumplings: Cozy Comfort in a Bowl
Cracker Barrel’s Chicken & Dumplings is pure comfort food. Juicy chicken simmers with chewy homemade dumplings in savory sauce. Pair it with biscuits or muffins plus a couple of Country Sides, and you’ve got a meal that feels like home. One bite and you’ll see why it’s a menu staple.
Get the Recipe: Chicken & Dumplings: Cozy Comfort in a Bowl
Country Vegetable Plate: Veggies Done Right
The Country Vegetable Plate is anything but basic. Pick four Country Sides from options like green beans, macaroni & cheese, or Fried Apples, plus biscuits or muffins. Hashbrown Casserole is a fan favorite, with Colby cheese, onions, and special seasoning. Even vegetable skeptics find themselves savoring every bite.
Get the Recipe: Country Vegetable Plate: Veggies Done Right
Chicken & Rice: Monday-Only Magic
Available only on Mondays, Chicken & Rice is a baked chicken breast smothered in mushroom sauce over seasoned rice. Add two Country Sides and a biscuit, and you’ve got a Monday meal worth marking on your calendar. Limited availability makes it extra special.
Get the Recipe: Chicken & Rice: Monday-Only Magic
Country Fried Steak: Crispy, Creamy, Perfect
Cracker Barrel’s Country Fried Steak is a golden-fried USDA Choice steak topped with creamy Sawmill Gravy. Choose your favorite Country Sides and biscuits or muffins to complete the plate. It’s crispy, comforting, and undeniably indulgent.
Get the Recipe: Country Fried Steak: Crispy, Creamy, Perfect
Spicy Grilled Catfish: Seafood That Surprises
For fish lovers, the Spicy Grilled Catfish delivers perfectly flaky, well-seasoned fillets. Served with Country Sides and biscuits or corn muffins, it’s a flavorful alternative to fried options. Fans also recommend trying the cornmeal-crusted version with hushpuppies for a Southern classic twist.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Grilled Catfish: Seafood That Surprises
Apple Cider & Apple Butter: Fall Flavors Year-Round
Not a meal on its own, but a frosty mug of apple cider or a dollop of apple butter elevates any breakfast. Warm spices like cinnamon and clove make this duo irresistible during fall, but fans enjoy it anytime. Pro tip: spread apple butter thick on a warm biscuit for the ultimate indulgence.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cider & Apple Butter: Fall Flavors Year-Round
Biscuits & Corn Muffins: Bread Worth Choosing
Whether with Chicken & Dumplins or your Country Vegetable Plate, the choice of bread matters. Buttermilk Biscuits are soft, buttery, and perfect for soaking up gravy. Corn Muffins offer a slightly sweet alternative, ideal with apple butter. Both are essential to a complete Cracker Barrel experience.
Get the Recipe: Biscuits & Corn Muffins: Bread Worth Choosing
Hashbrown Casserole: Secret Side Superstar
The Hashbrown Casserole is a fan favorite for good reason. With Colby cheese, chopped onions, and a secret seasoning blend, it elevates any breakfast or dinner plate. It’s creamy, cheesy, and perfectly textured, making it a must-order side.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole: Secret Side Superstar
Fried Apples: Dessert-for-Dinner Classic
Fried Apples are like a slice of warm pie on the side of your plate. Sweet, tender, and slightly spiced, they pair perfectly with breakfast and dinner dishes alike. Fans often include them with the Country Vegetable Plate or alongside Chicken & Dumplins.
Get the Recipe: Fried Apples: Dessert-for-Dinner Classic
Your Cracker Barrel Checklist
Cracker Barrel has a menu full of fan favorites, but these 12 dishes consistently steal the show. From pancakes to catfish, each plate offers a little piece of Southern nostalgia. Did your personal favorite make the list? Or is there a hidden gem we missed? Share your must-order dishes and tips in the comments — your fellow diners will thank you.
Get the Recipe: Conclusion: Your Cracker Barrel Checklist
