5 Must-Try Menu Items at Cracker Barrel This Year

For decades, the iconic rocking chairs and familiar, home-style sign have been a welcome sight for travelers across America. The Cracker Barrel Old Country Store is more than just a restaurant; it’s a slice of Americana, a reliable stop for a comforting meal, and a place to stretch your legs on a long road trip. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned regular, navigating their extensive menu of Southern classics can be a delicious challenge. To help you make the most of your next visit, we’ve compiled a list of the 5 absolute must-try menu items that consistently deliver on flavor and comfort.

1. Chicken n’ Dumplins

You can’t talk about Cracker Barrel without mentioning their legendary Chicken n’ Dumplins. This is the pinnacle of comfort food, a dish that tastes like it came straight from grandma’s kitchen. The chicken is slow-simmered and incredibly tender, falling apart with the touch of a fork. But the real stars are the dumplins—strips of rolled dough that are soft, chewy, and cooked to perfection in the savory chicken broth. It’s not a soup, but a hearty, satisfying meal that sticks to your ribs in the best way possible.

Each plate comes with your choice of two or three Country Sides. We recommend pairing it with:

• Macaroni n’ Cheese
• Fried Okra

This dish is a testament to simple ingredients prepared with care, making it the quintessential Cracker Barrel experience. Don’t leave without trying it at least once.

2. Country Fried Steak

If you’re in the mood for something truly decadent, the Country Fried Steak is your answer. This isn’t just any fried steak; it’s a generous USDA Choice steak, lightly breaded with a special seasoning blend and fried to a perfect golden-brown crisp. The magic happens when they ladle rich, creamy Sawmill Gravy over the top. The contrast between the crispy coating and the tender steak, all smothered in that peppery, savory gravy, is pure culinary bliss.

It’s a hearty portion that guarantees you won’t leave hungry. Like other entrées, it comes with your choice of Country Sides and either Buttermilk Biscuits or Corn Muffins. Strongly consider the Mashed Potatoes to soak up every last drop of that incredible gravy. This is Southern cooking at its most indulgent.

3. Hashbrown Casserole

While technically a side dish, the Hashbrown Casserole has earned its place as a legend in its own right. Many visitors consider a meal incomplete without it, and for good reason. This isn’t just a pile of shredded potatoes; it’s a rich, cheesy, and creamy baked casserole with a perfectly browned top. Shredded potatoes are blended with Colby cheese, chopped onions, and a creamy sauce, then baked until hot and bubbly.

You can order it as a side with any breakfast or dinner, or even get a “loaded” version topped with bacon and extra cheese. It’s so popular that fans have spent years trying to replicate the recipe at home. For many, this dish is the taste of Cracker Barrel. It’s the perfect accompaniment to literally everything on the menu, from eggs and bacon to fried chicken.

4. Momma’s Pancake Breakfast

Cracker Barrel serves breakfast all day, and Momma’s Pancake Breakfast is the star of the show. You get three giant, fluffy buttermilk pancakes that are light on the inside with slightly crisp edges. They come served with real butter and a bottle of 100% Pure Natural Syrup (no fake stuff here). You have the option to add delicious toppings like pecans, blueberries, or peaches for an extra treat.

But that’s not all. This breakfast platter also includes two farm-fresh eggs cooked to your liking and your choice of Thick-Sliced Bacon or Smoked Sausage Patties. It’s a complete, classic American breakfast that’s both filling and incredibly satisfying. It’s the perfect fuel for a long day of travel or a lazy weekend morning.

5. Double Chocolate Fudge Coca-Cola® Cake

You must save room for dessert, specifically for this iconic creation. The Double Chocolate Fudge Coca-Cola® Cake is a beloved fixture on the menu. The use of Coca-Cola® in the batter creates an incredibly moist and rich chocolate cake with a unique, subtle tang. It’s served warm, which makes the rich, fudgy icing melt slightly into the cake.

To top it all off, it comes with a generous scoop of premium vanilla bean ice cream. The combination of the warm, rich chocolate cake and the cold, creamy ice cream is an unforgettable experience. It’s a decadent, sweet, and satisfying end to any meal and a dessert you’ll be thinking about long after you’ve left.

Expert Tips for Your Next Cracker Barrel Visit

To make your experience even better, keep a few things in mind. First, be prepared for a wait, especially on weekend mornings. Use that time to browse the famous Old Country Store, filled with nostalgic candy, unique gifts, and apparel. Second, don’t be afraid to customize. The staff is usually very accommodating to special requests. Finally, always check their seasonal menu. Cracker Barrel often introduces limited-time offerings that are worth exploring, from Campfire Meals in the summer to festive dishes during the holidays.

For the most up-to-date menu options and to find a location near you, you can always visit the official Cracker Barrel website. Whether you’re stopping for a quick bite or a full family dinner, these classic dishes ensure a delicious and memorable visit every time.