Craving that down-home Southern comfort food without leaving your kitchen? You're in for a treat! I've gathered 40 of the absolute best Cracker Barrel copycat recipes that taste just like (or even better than) the originals. From their iconic breakfast favorites to savory main dishes and decadent desserts, these recipes will bring the country store experience right to your dining table.
As someone who has spent countless hours perfecting these recipes, I can promise you one thing - these homemade versions will satisfy your Cracker Barrel cravings while letting you customize each dish to your family's taste. Plus, there's something special about recreating restaurant favorites in your own kitchen!
Breakfast Favorites That Will Start Your Day Right
1. Cracker Barrel Pancakes
There's something magical about Cracker Barrel's fluffy, tender pancakes that just melts in your mouth. The secret? Buttermilk! It creates that perfect tangy flavor and unbelievably light texture. I've made these countless times, and they disappear faster than I can flip them!
For best results, don't overmix the batter (those little lumps are your friends!) and let the batter rest for about 5 minutes before cooking. Trust me, you'll never go back to boxed pancake mix again.
Get the perfect pancake recipe here
2. Cracker Barrel Buttermilk Biscuits
Is there anything more comforting than a warm, buttery biscuit fresh from the oven? These copycat biscuits have that perfect golden crust with a tender, flaky interior that's ideal for sopping up gravy or drizzling with honey.
The key to perfect Cracker Barrel biscuits is cold butter and handling the dough as little as possible. For extra-flaky layers, fold the dough over itself a few times before cutting out your biscuits.
Master these flaky biscuits with this recipe
3. Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole
This cheesy potato goodness is the side dish dreams are made of! Creamy, comforting, and incredibly satisfying, this hashbrown casserole pairs perfectly with breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
I've found that using freshly grated cheese (rather than pre-shredded) makes a world of difference in the creamy texture. And don't skip the sautéed onions – they add that subtle flavor that makes this dish truly special.
Dive into this cheesy goodness here
4. Cracker Barrel French Toast
Using thick-cut sourdough bread for French toast might seem unconventional, but it's absolutely brilliant! The slightly tangy bread holds up beautifully to the egg custard without becoming soggy.
For that authentic Cracker Barrel flavor, add a splash of vanilla and a pinch of cinnamon to your egg mixture. I like to let the bread soak for about 30 seconds on each side before cooking for the perfect texture.
Make this delicious French toast with this recipe
5. Cracker Barrel Ham and Egg Casserole
This hearty breakfast casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for busy weekday mornings. With a sourdough base and savory ham and egg filling, it's comfort food at its finest.
Feel free to customize with your favorite mix-ins – bell peppers, spinach, or different cheese varieties all work wonderfully. I often prepare everything the night before and simply pop it in the oven in the morning.
Create this breakfast favorite here
Savory Main Dishes That Steal The Show
6. Cracker Barrel Meatloaf
This isn't your average meatloaf – it's packed with onions, bell peppers, and sharp cheddar cheese, all held together with crushed Ritz crackers instead of breadcrumbs. The result is a moist, flavorful meatloaf that will have everyone asking for seconds.
The key to perfect meatloaf texture is mixing just until combined – overmixing can make it tough. And don't skip the glaze! That sweet-tangy topping is what makes this meatloaf truly special.
Get this mouthwatering meatloaf recipe here
7. Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplings
This Southern classic is the epitome of comfort food – tender chunks of chicken in a velvety broth with pillowy dumplings. It warms you from the inside out!
The dumplings are remarkably simple – just flour and buttermilk – but they're absolutely divine. For an authentic touch, roll your dumplings thin and cut them into rectangles rather than dropping them by spoonfuls.
Master this comforting classic here
8. Cracker Barrel Sunday Homestyle Chicken
There's a reason this chicken is only served once a week at Cracker Barrel – it's special! Perfectly crispy on the outside while staying juicy and tender inside, this fried chicken is simply irresistible.
The double-dipping method is crucial for that thick, craggy coating. Let the chicken rest in buttermilk for at least an hour before coating for maximum tenderness and flavor.
Create this Sunday special any day with this recipe
9. Cracker Barrel Fried Chicken
This Southern fried chicken recipe delivers that perfect crunch with juicy, flavorful meat inside. It's the ideal comfort food for family gatherings or Sunday dinners.
Brining the chicken in buttermilk overnight makes all the difference in tenderness. And be sure to maintain your oil temperature around 350°F for that perfect golden crust without burning.
Perfect your fried chicken technique here
10. Cracker Barrel Mushroom Pot Roast
This slow-cooked pot roast is fall-apart tender and infused with rich, earthy mushroom flavors. It's the kind of meal that makes your house smell amazing all day long.
Don't skip searing the meat before slow cooking – those browned bits create incredible depth of flavor. For even more richness, add a splash of red wine when sautéing your mushrooms.
Make this hearty pot roast with this recipe
11. Cracker Barrel Broccoli Cheddar Chicken
This cheesy, creamy chicken dish is pure comfort food! The combination of tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and sharp cheddar creates a meal that's both satisfying and delicious.
For extra flavor, season your chicken well before adding the soup mixture. A sprinkle of crushed Ritz crackers on top adds a wonderful crunchy texture contrast.
Get this cheesy chicken recipe here
12. Cracker Barrel Chicken Tenders
These grilled chicken tenders are marinated in a surprisingly simple mixture of honey, lime juice, and Italian dressing that creates incredible flavor. They're juicy, tender, and perfect for kids and adults alike!
For the best results, let the chicken marinate for at least 4 hours – overnight is even better. And don't overcook them! They're done when they reach 165°F internally.
Make these flavorful tenders with this recipe
13. Homemade Chicken Potpie
Nothing says comfort like a bubbling chicken pot pie with its flaky crust and creamy chicken and vegetable filling. This version tastes just like Cracker Barrel's – homey and delicious.
Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver, and frozen vegetables work perfectly here. For an extra-special touch, brush the top crust with egg wash for that beautiful golden shine.
Bake this comforting potpie using this recipe
14. Cracker Barrel Country Ham
This salty, smoky ham is a breakfast staple at Cracker Barrel and makes for a wonderful main dish at any meal. The distinctive flavor comes from traditional curing methods.
When preparing country ham at home, soaking it briefly can help reduce saltiness if desired. Pair with red-eye gravy (made from the ham drippings and coffee) for an authentic Southern experience.
Master this country ham with this recipe
Sides That Steal The Show
15. Cracker Barrel Mac and Cheese
This isn't your everyday mac and cheese! Cracker Barrel's version uses chicken broth instead of milk for the base, creating a unique flavor profile that's absolutely addictive.
Using Colby cheese gives this dish its characteristic taste, but don't be afraid to experiment with other cheeses too. I love adding a bit of smoked gouda for extra depth.
Create this cheesy delight here
16. Cracker Barrel Country Green Beans
These aren't ordinary green beans – they're simmered with bacon and onion until tender and infused with smoky, savory flavor. They'll convert even the most determined vegetable skeptics!
For the best flavor, use bacon with a good amount of fat and don't rush the cooking process. These beans benefit from a long, slow simmer to develop their rich taste.
Get these flavorful green beans recipe here
17. Cracker Barrel Fried Apples
These sweet, tender apples cooked in a buttery cinnamon sauce are the perfect side dish or dessert. They complement savory dishes beautifully with their sweet-tart flavor.
Using a mix of apple varieties gives the best flavor and texture – I like combining Granny Smith for tartness with sweeter apples like Honeycrisp or Gala. And don't overcook them – you want them tender but still holding their shape.
Make these delicious fried apples with this recipe
18. Cracker Barrel White Gravy
This creamy, peppery white gravy is perfect for pouring over biscuits, chicken fried steak, or mashed potatoes. It's simple but incredibly satisfying.
The secret to lump-free gravy is constant whisking, especially when adding the milk. For extra richness, use whole milk or even add a splash of cream at the end.
19. Cracker Barrel Mashed Potatoes
These creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are the perfect canvas for gravy and complete any comfort food meal. Russet potatoes create that ideal fluffy texture.
For the smoothest texture, use a ricer or food mill rather than a potato masher. Warming your milk and butter before adding them to the potatoes helps keep everything hot and creamy.
Get perfect mashed potatoes with this recipe
20. Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots
These butter-glazed carrots have a perfect balance of sweetness and savory flavor. They're a simple but memorable side dish that complements any main course.
Cooking the carrots until just tender-crisp preserves their natural sweetness and beautiful color. A touch of honey in the glaze brings out the carrots' natural sweetness.
Create these sweet glazed carrots here
21. Cracker Barrel Corn Bread Dressing
This savory cornbread dressing is packed with herbs and aromatics, creating a side dish that's good enough to be the main event. It's especially perfect for holiday meals.
Using day-old cornbread gives the best texture – fresh cornbread can become too soggy. Don't be afraid to adjust the herbs to your taste; fresh sage is particularly wonderful in this dish.
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Make this flavorful dressing with this recipe
22. Cracker Barrel Baby Limas
These buttery lima beans are surprisingly delicious, especially when cooked with bacon, garlic, and a hint of red pepper. They're a Southern classic for good reason!
For the best texture, don't overcook the limas – they should be tender but still hold their shape. Fresh lima beans are wonderful when in season, but frozen work beautifully year-round.
Enjoy these tasty lima beans with this recipe
23. Cracker Barrel Fried Okra
Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, this fried okra transforms a sometimes-challenging vegetable into a crave-worthy snack or side dish. The cornmeal coating provides perfect crunch.
The key to non-slimy okra is making sure it's completely dry before coating. For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne to your cornmeal mixture.
Master fried okra with this recipe
24. Cracker Barrel Kale and Brussels Sprouts Salad
This fresh, vibrant salad provides a lighter counterpoint to Cracker Barrel's hearty offerings. The combination of nutrient-dense kale and Brussels sprouts creates a satisfying crunch.
Massaging the kale briefly with a bit of the dressing helps tenderize it. This salad holds up well, so it's perfect for make-ahead meal prep.
Create this nutritious salad here
25. Cracker Barrel Cucumber Tomato Onion Salad
This refreshing salad is the perfect side for hot summer days. The simple vinegar dressing enhances the fresh vegetable flavors without overwhelming them.
For the best flavor, make this at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld. English cucumbers work especially well as they have fewer seeds and a crispier texture.
Enjoy this refreshing salad with this recipe
Desserts Worth Saving Room For
26. Cracker Barrel Coca Cola Cake
This incredibly moist chocolate cake has a secret ingredient – Coca-Cola in both the cake and the frosting! The result is a uniquely flavored dessert that's sure to become a family favorite.
The key to this cake's fudgy texture is pouring the warm frosting over the warm cake and letting it set. It creates a beautiful glossy finish and perfect texture.
Bake this unique cake with this recipe
27. Cracker Barrel Chocolate Pecan Pie
This decadent pie takes traditional pecan pie to the next level with the addition of rich chocolate chips. It's a perfect balance of gooey, nutty, and chocolatey goodness.
Using high-quality chocolate makes a noticeable difference in the flavor. For the prettiest presentation, arrange some pecan halves on top in a decorative pattern before baking.
Create this decadent pie with this recipe
28. Cracker Barrel Campfire S'mores
This clever dessert combines a fudgy brownie with graham cracker crust and toasted marshmallow topping – all the flavors of s'mores without the campfire!
For the most dramatic presentation, use a kitchen torch to toast the marshmallow topping. The contrast between the warm, toasty top and cool, fudgy center is divine.
Make this s'mores dessert with this recipe
29. Cracker Barrel Cherry Chocolate Cobbler
The combination of tart cherries and rich chocolate in this cobbler creates a dessert that's homey yet sophisticated. It's especially wonderful served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Using good quality cherry pie filling makes a difference, or make your own when fresh cherries are in season. The chocolate in the biscuit topping provides a beautiful contrast to the bright cherry filling.
Bake this fruity cobbler with this recipe
30. Cracker Barrel Strawberry Shortcake
This classic dessert showcases fresh strawberries at their best. The sweet biscuits provide the perfect base for juicy berries and clouds of whipped cream.
For the sweetest berries, macerate them with a bit of sugar for about 30 minutes before serving. This draws out their juices and creates a delicious natural sauce.
Enjoy this classic dessert with this recipe
Breakfast Sides & Accompaniments
31. Cracker Barrel Sausage Gravy
This hearty gravy loaded with savory sausage is the perfect topping for biscuits or toast. It's rich, peppery, and incredibly satisfying.
Using a good quality breakfast sausage makes all the difference in the flavor. Don't drain all the grease after cooking the sausage – it adds flavor to the gravy.
Master this hearty gravy with this recipe
32. Cracker Barrel Grits
Creamy, buttery grits are a Southern breakfast staple and Cracker Barrel does them right. They're simple but require attention to detail for that perfect texture.
The key to lump-free grits is adding them slowly to the simmering liquid while whisking constantly. For extra richness, finish with a pat of butter and a splash of cream.
Get perfectly creamy grits with this recipe
33. Cracker Barrel Sawmill Gravy
This thick, peppery gravy is the perfect accompaniment to biscuits and breakfast favorites. It's simple but incredibly flavorful.
For the authentic Cracker Barrel flavor, be generous with the black pepper. Using bacon grease as your fat adds wonderful smokiness to the gravy.
Create this classic gravy with this recipe
34. Cracker Barrel Pecan Pancake Syrup
This sweet, nutty syrup elevates ordinary pancakes to something special. The hint of pecan flavor adds wonderful warmth and complexity.
For the most intense pecan flavor, toast your pecans before adding them to the syrup. This syrup keeps well in the refrigerator, so consider making a double batch.
Make this delicious syrup with this recipe
Secret Menu Items & Specialties
35. Cracker Barrel Sweet Tea
This perfectly sweetened iced tea is refreshing and quintessentially Southern. The secret is adding the sugar while the tea is hot to ensure it fully dissolves.
Using fresh tea bags (rather than old ones that have been sitting in your pantry) makes a noticeable difference in flavor. For a special touch, garnish with fresh mint or lemon slices.
Brew this refreshing tea with this recipe
36. Cracker Barrel Apple Butter
This smooth, spiced apple spread is perfect on biscuits, toast, or even stirred into oatmeal. It captures the essence of fall in every bite.
Using a mix of apple varieties gives the most complex flavor. Don't rush the cooking process – the slow reduction is what creates that intense apple flavor and beautiful deep color.
Make this flavorful spread with this recipe
37. Cracker Barrel Country Steak
This savory dish features tenderized steak coated in seasoned flour and fried until golden, then smothered in gravy. It's pure comfort food!
The key to tender country steak is properly tenderizing the meat before cooking. Using a meat mallet or the edge of a plate works well for this purpose.
Master this comforting dish with this recipe
38. Cracker Barrel Chicken Salad
This creamy chicken salad with a perfect balance of sweet and savory elements makes a wonderful sandwich filling or topping for a green salad.
Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor. For the best texture, don't over-process the ingredients – you want some chunks for interest.
Create this versatile salad with this recipe
39. Cracker Barrel Pinto Beans
These savory beans cooked low and slow with ham hocks develop incredible depth of flavor. They're hearty enough to be a main dish with some cornbread on the side.
Soaking the beans overnight results in more even cooking and better texture. Don't add salt until the beans are tender – adding it too early can make them tough.
Simmer these flavorful beans with this recipe
40. Cracker Barrel Raisin Bread
This sweet, cinnamon-scented bread studded with plump raisins makes wonderful toast or French toast. It's worth making a double batch to freeze some for later.
Plumping the raisins in hot water before adding them to the dough keeps them from drawing moisture from the bread. For the prettiest loaf, brush the top with egg wash before baking.
Bake this delicious bread with this recipe
Tips for Recreating the Cracker Barrel Experience at Home
The food is just part of what makes Cracker Barrel special. To truly recreate the experience:
- Set the mood: Use checkered tablecloths and mason jars for drinks.
- Family-style serving: Place dishes in the center of the table for everyone to share.
- Play peg game: You can find instructions online to make your own!
- Country music: Create a playlist of gentle country tunes for authentic ambiance.
- Rocking chair time: If you have a porch with rocking chairs, enjoy a relaxing sit after your meal.
Pro Tips for Authentic Results
- Make-Ahead: Prep casseroles (hashbrowns, mac n’ cheese) 1 day ahead – flavors deepen!
- Reheat Like a Pro: Add a damp paper towel over fried foods when microwaving to retain crispness.
- Gluten-Free Swaps: Use 1:1 GF flour in gravies, and crushed pork rinds for fried coatings.
- Freezer Hacks: Freeze unbaked biscuits/pies – bake straight from frozen (+5 mins cook time).
Why Make These Recipes at Home?
Besides satisfying your Cracker Barrel cravings, making these recipes at home lets you:
- Control the ingredients: Adjust salt, fat, and other elements to suit dietary needs
- Save money: Feed the whole family for less than restaurant prices
- Customize to taste: Prefer more cheese in your hashbrown casserole? Go for it!
- Create traditions: Pass down these recipes and create special memories
- Enjoy anytime: No need to wait for Sunday for that special chicken!
From breakfast to dessert, these Cracker Barrel recipes bring the comfort of country cooking right to your kitchen. Whether you're craving their famous hashbrown casserole or can't stop thinking about that chocolate coca-cola cake, you now have everything you need to recreate these Southern classics at home.
So grab your apron, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy some down-home cooking that would make Cracker Barrel proud! Which recipe will you try first?
