Cracker Barrel Dinner Menu

Surprising fact: over 600 locations serve evening plates that start at 11 AM, so you can grab a hot meal nearly anywhere along U.S. highways.

You’re here to find made-from-scratch comfort food and clear menu prices. This guide helps you plan a family meal with confidence.

Expect classic entrées like Country Fried Steak and Southern Fried Chicken priced in the low to mid‑teens. Most plates come with two or three sides and warm bread.

Sides carry the flavors: mashed potatoes with gravy, mac ’n’ cheese, fried apples, and hashbrown casserole. Pair a plate with a half-gallon of sweet iced tea to share.

Hours usually run 7:00 AM–9:00 PM (later on weekends) and many spots sit just off major routes. Read on to pick the right plate, sides, and drink the first time.

Southern comfort for dinner, made-from-scratch and served daily

You get homestyle, country comfort every day after 11 AM. Plates are cooked to order and served simply so choices are clear and dependable.

Hearty items include Country Fried Steak (about $12.99–$16.49), Meatloaf (roughly $13.49–$14.99 or a $10.99 daily special in some areas), and Turkey n’ Dressing (weekday lunch around $9.99; dinner near $14.99). Most entrées come with two or three classic sides and a biscuit or corn muffin.

“Made-from-scratch techniques and classic gravies keep textures and flavors familiar,”

Ordering is quick and stress-free. The kitchen focuses on fried, grilled, or slow-roasted preparations. That keeps portions hearty and pleasing whether you dine in or carry out.

• Daily availability means the same dependable items every day.
• Straightforward choices make it easy to tailor plates with familiar sides.
• Portions are made to feel like a full, sit-down country meal.

Cracker Barrel Dinner Menu overview with menu prices

Here’s a clear snapshot of common entrées, their approximate costs, and what each plate includes.

Most dinner plates come with two or three classic sides and a biscuit or corn muffin. A two‑side option usually sits at the lower end of the price range. Three sides add a dollar or two depending on location.

Popular dinner favorites and approximate pricing

What’s included: two sides, breads, and homestyle add-ons

You can expect classic sides like mashed potatoes, mac ’n’ cheese, fried apples, and green beans. Meals often offer meat-and-steak upgrades such as New York Strip or sirloin for higher prices.

Half‑gallon drinks are handy for groups and range roughly $5.49–$8.89. For a barrel lunch or lunch dinner crossover, lighter lunch plates start at 11 AM and may be cheaper than full evening meals.

Signature dinner entrées: homestyle classics to try first

If you’re picking one plate to try first, choose from these signature entrées. They show the restaurant’s homestyle approach and steady portion sizes.

Country Fried Steak, Chicken Fried Chicken, and Southern Fried Chicken

Start with the golden country fried steak topped with sawmill or brown gravy. It typically runs about $12.99–$16.49 and comes with two sides and warm bread.

Chicken Fried Chicken brings a crisp, juicy cutlet covered in homestyle gravy. The plate is usually $14.79–$16.29 and offers your choice of sides.

Southern fried chicken is the bone-in, hand-breaded favorite many families order. Expect prices from roughly $13.04–$16.99 and hearty portions that pair well with gravy and mashed potatoes.

Cracker Barrel Sampler and Sunday Homestyle Chicken

The sampler is a great value at about $13.99. It gives you a taste of several favorites in one plate and helps you decide what to order next time.

Sunday Homestyle Chicken is a weekend-style favorite, often near $14.49. It arrives with warm biscuits or corn muffins and classic sides for a comforting meal.

Grilled Sirloin, Maple Bacon Grilled Chicken, Barrel-Cut Sugar Ham

If you want something lighter or meat-forward, try the maple bacon grilled chicken or a grilled sirloin. Prices span from about $13.99 for the grilled chicken to $15.49–$23.99 for steaks.

Barrel-cut sugar ham is a smoky, country-style option near $12.49. Most entrées include two sides, so you can pair ham with mashed potatoes, greens, or mac ’n’ cheese.

Chicken & turkey plates: fried, grilled, and slow-roasted

Choose from fried, grilled, or slow-roasted chicken and turkey plates that suit any appetite. These homestyle options balance comfort and value. Plates typically come with two or three sides and warm bread.

Homestyle Chicken and Chicken n’ Dumplins

Homestyle Chicken runs about $11.99–$16.99 in 2025. It’s hand‑breaded, crisp on the outside and tender inside. The plate is a dependable pick for kids and grownups and usually includes two sides.

Chicken n’ Dumplins is a slow‑simmered comfort classic. Expect soft dumplings in a savory sauce and prices near $10.49–$11.99, with weekday lunch specials closer to $9.69–$9.99.

Chicken Tenders (grilled or fried) and Turkey n’ Dressing

Chicken Tenders come grilled or fried and range about $13.99–$15.49 depending on two vs. three sides. Pick sauces and sides to match your appetite.

Turkey n’ Dressing is a weekday favorite at roughly $9.99 for lunch and about $14.99 for dinner. Choose sawmill or brown gravy to dress mashed potatoes and complete family meals.

These plates give flexible portions and fair prices. Order online or to‑go for the same simple choices when nights get busy.

Beef favorites: country fried, pot roast, and steak combos

Beef takes center stage with plates built for hearty appetites and familiar flavors. You can pick a classic crusted cut or a slow‑cooked slice that falls apart with a fork.

Country Fried Steak and hamburger/steak plates

Country fried steak anchors the beef lineup. It brings a crispy crust and rich homestyle gravy. Typical 2025 menu prices range from $12.99 to $16.49.

Hamburger and steak plates offer juicy, simple preparations. Each plate comes with two or three sides and warm bread. Portions stay satisfying without extra fuss.

Pot roast, meatloaf, and New York Strip combos

Pot roast is slow‑cooked until fork‑tender. Expect hearty vegetables and traditional seasoning. Prices hover near $15.99 for this homestyle pick.

Scratch‑made meatloaf serves a classic slice. It’s often $13.49–$14.99, with weekday lunch specials around $9.69–$10.99 in select markets.

The New York Strip gives a steakhouse feel at about $19.99. Combo plates that add chicken or shrimp reach roughly $23.99.

“Pick two or three sides — from mac ’n’ cheese to green beans — to round out each homestyle plate.”

• Country fried crust and gravy top the beef favorites.
• Pot roast and meatloaf deliver slow‑cooked comfort.
• Steak combos add variety when you want more than one protein.

Seafood suppers: catfish, shrimp, and rainbow trout

From crispy fry baskets to lemon‑pepper trout, the seafood selection balances comfort with freshness. Plates arrive after 11 AM, so you can order fish at both lunch and evening hours.

Friday Fish Fry and Country Fried Shrimp

The Friday Fish Fry is a weekly favorite. Expect a golden, crispy plate that feels like tradition and runs about $15.79–$16.49.

Country Fried Shrimp brings a crunchy bite and pairs well with tartar or cocktail sauce. Prices typically range from $12.49–$16.99.

U.S. Farm‑Raised Catfish (fried or grilled) and Lemon Pepper Rainbow Trout

U.S. farm‑raised catfish comes fried or grilled. One piece is about $13.49, while two pieces span roughly $16.99–$19.49.

Lemon pepper rainbow trout offers a brighter, seasoned grilled option. Expect prices near $13.49–$15.99.

“Seafood plates are built around approachable options like catfish, shrimp, and trout, each available with two or three sides.”

• Plates come with two or three sides and bread included.
• Straightforward sides like green beans, fries, or hashbrown casserole round out each plate.
• Prices scale by portion size, so single‑ and two‑piece catfish choices help you order just enough for your family.

Shareables and Barrel Bites to start the meal

Kick off your meal with a round of shareable plates built for passing around the table. These starters are small enough to sample and hearty enough to satisfy hungry kids and grownups alike.

Onion Petals, Country Fried Pickles, and White Cheddar Cheese Bites

Onion Petals come out hot and crisp. They’re great for dipping and usually about $6.29.

Country Fried Pickles add a tangy crunch that pairs well with ranch. Expect roughly $5.49–$7.49 depending on location.

White Cheddar Cheese Bites melt inside a light crust. Party platters run about $34.99 for larger groups.

Loaded Hashbrown Casserole Tots and Biscuit Beignets

Loaded Hashbrown Casserole Tots bring the classic casserole flavors in a hand-held bite. Prices hover near $6.99–$7.69.

Biscuit Beignets add a sweet finish. These come dusted with sugar and a buttery dipping sauce for about $5.59–$5.99.

• Portion sizes and prices make it easy to add one or two shareables without stretching the bill.
• Barrel Bites are sized for groups so your family can snack while choosing mains.
• These dishes echo the same familiar flavors you’ll find on main plates and sides.

Two sides that make the plate: country vegetables and more

Two sides shape the meal. Pick one hearty and one light to balance textures and flavors. You can mix classics or try a vegetable with something creamy.

Macaroni n’ Cheese and Mashed Potatoes with gravy

Macaroni n’ Cheese is creamy and kid‑friendly. It’s a go‑to classic priced around $3.79 as an individual side.

Mashed Potatoes run about $3.59 and come with your choice of Sawmill or Brown Gravy. That gravy ties savory plates together.

Fried Apples, Green Beans, Fried Okra, and Hashbrown Casserole

Fried Apples add a warm, cinnamon‑kissed sweetness. Expect roughly $3.09–$3.79 per side.

Green Beans and Fried Okra keep the country vegetable tradition. Hashbrown Casserole is a golden, cheesy bake at about $3.09 and pairs well with grilled or fried entrées.

• Every plate shines with two sides; mix hearty and light for balance.
• Order individual sides or family pans ($17.49–$26.49) for gatherings.
• Clear prices and choices make tailoring options easy.

For more favorite side ideas and pairing tips, see a curated list of popular picks at cracker barrel menu favorites.

Cracker Barrel drinks menu: sweet tea, lemonade, and coffee

From a half‑gallon to a single cup, drink choices are built for sharing and comfort. You’ll find the classics that match homestyle plates and a few seasonal sips to try with your meal.

Freshly brewed sweet iced tea, lemonade, sodas, and half‑gallon take‑homes

Freshly brewed sweet iced tea runs about $2.99. A half‑gallon to take home costs roughly $5.49. Lemonade is also near $2.99, with a half‑gallon at about $6.29.

Pink Lemonade is a seasonal option for around $3.69; the half‑gallon version sits near $8.89. Standard sodas (Coca‑Cola, Diet Coke, Dr Pepper) typically cost about $3.79.

Seasonal sips and specialty coffees to pair with dinner

Coffee is priced around $2.49–$2.79. Specialty lattes, like the S’mores Latte, are near $4.49 hot or iced. Half‑gallon Peach Tea and Southern Half & Half are available for family meals and to‑go orders.

The barrel drinks menu keeps options straightforward. Mix and match beverages across the table to suit kids and adults. Prices stay simple so you can pick what fits your plate and budget.

Save on supper: daily specials and early dinner deals

Weekday specials can shave dollars off a full plate without sacrificing the homestyle taste you expect.

Look for Lunch Pick 2 starting at 11 AM for lighter portions and value. Many spots offer an Early Dinner deal during select weekday hours where full plates run about $8.99–$9.99.

Weekday Pick 2 and Early Dinner offers

The Lunch Pick 2 mixes two small dishes for less. It’s a tidy way to try sides and a main without paying full prices.

Early Dinner windows let you order standard entrées at reduced prices. Times vary by location, so check local hours.

Rotating weekday specials

Some weekly favorites and typical prices include:

“Check weekday windows for Early Dinner offers — they bring full plates at smaller prices while supplies last.”

• Check weekday windows for Early Dinner offers where full plates are offered at a smaller price.
• Lunch Pick 2 and lunch-only specials start at 11 AM for lighter portions and value.
• Ask for gravy preferences and side swaps to keep your plate just the way you like it.

Specials vary by location and time. A quick look at today’s offerings can save you a few dollars and help you plan when to visit for classic beef, chicken, tenders, or fried seafood dishes.

Family Meals and baskets: dinner for four to six

Bring home a warm, homestyle feast that serves four to six without the fuss. These family meals bundle main proteins, classic sides, and biscuits or corn muffins for easy sharing.

The lineup includes Southern Fried Chicken Family Meals (~$42.74–$52.99), Chicken n’ Dumplins (~$40.99–$41.99), and Meatloaf family options (~$47.99–$51.99). Grilled Chicken Tenderloins family packs run near $50.99–$51.99. Prices vary by location but give a predictable range for planning.

Family-sized sides, biscuits, and beverages

Family pans cover hashbrown casserole, mac & cheese, and mashed potatoes. Pans range from $17.49 to $24.49 for larger servings. Add half‑gallon drinks for $5.49–$8.89 to round out the meal.

“Feed four to six with bundled entrées, classic sides, and biscuits—comfort made simple.”

• Southern Fried Chicken Family Meal is a crowd favorite for easy, crispy servings.
• Chicken n’ Dumplins brings cozy, homestyle warmth to the table.
• Meatloaf family packs deliver scratch-made flavor with hearty gravy.
• Mix two sides or add extra pans when you want more variety.
• Order online for pickup to save time on busy weeknights or lunch crossovers.

These family options show the variety you’ll find on the cracker barrel menu and pair well with two sides per plate when guests want plated servings. Adding a few family pans and a half‑gallon from the barrel drinks menu keeps hosting simple and affordable.

Party Platters for gatherings and office lunches

Party platters make feeding a group simple when time is short and appetites are big.

You can pick shareable trays designed for office lunches or family meals. Choices include chicken tenders, sliders, tots, and a dessert sampler. Order times and minimums may apply, so plan pickup ahead to avoid delays.

Ready-to-serve platter options

The Chicken Tenders Platter serves about 25 pieces and costs roughly $45.99. It pairs well with familiar dipping sauces and is easy to pass around.

Barrel Cheeseburger Slider platters run about $32.99 to $34.99. Loaded Hashbrown Casserole Tots trays are a hearty side option near $29.99.

Build-Your-Own sandwich bars

Build-Your-Own Saucy Chicken Sandwich Bars let guests customize fried or grilled sandwiches. Prices range from about $90.99 to $103.99 depending on your choices.

Platters pair nicely with half-gallons of sweet tea or lemonade for a simple, complete spread. These options keep service easy and let you focus on guests instead of the kitchen.

Kids dinner favorites: tasty, affordable, and includes a drink

Kids plates keep family dining simple with familiar flavors and easy pricing. You get right‑sized portions that still taste like home.

Kids Chicken Tenders, Macaroni n’ Cheese, Cheeseburger, and more

Popular picks include Kids Chicken Tenders ($5.99, includes drink), Kids Cheeseburger ($5.99), and Kids Macaroni n’ Cheese ($4.99). Grilled Cheese runs about $4.99.

Sides usually come as Tater Rounds with a drink. A veggie plate gives two sides plus a drink. Portions are sized for smaller appetites but keep the same homestyle flavors adults enjoy.

• Budget‑friendly pricing around $4.99–$5.99 keeps checks predictable.
• Top kid favorites: chicken tenders, mac ’n’ cheese, and cheeseburgers.
• Works for lunch or dinner and pairs with adult plates from the cracker barrel menu.

Whether you’re ordering at the table or taking food to go, these kids’ choices make it easy to feed the family. There’s something everyone at the table will recognize and enjoy.

Cracker Barrel Dinner Menu nutrition and pricing notes

Nutrition facts and price notes help you choose a satisfying plate without surprises.

Most entrées list calories so you can compare items like Country Fried Steak (~600–720 cal) and Lemon Pepper Rainbow Trout (~280–500 cal). Family pans and half‑gallon beverages list totals for the whole container. That makes it easier to plan a meal for a group.

Calories listed per item; prices are approximate and vary by location

Prices shown in the guide are 2025 estimates and change by city, season, and side count. Choosing two versus three sides affects both calories and cost. Gravy choice (Sawmill or Brown) will add a bit more calories and sodium, so pick what you prefer.

Seasonal dishes and limited‑time items may use different recipes and nutrition values. When in doubt, check the local store’s current listing for the most accurate menu prices and allergen updates.

From lunch to dinner: homestyle choices served after 11 AM

After 11 AM the line between lunch and evening plates fades; you can pick lighter sandwiches or full homestyle entrées any time. Service opens the door to both quick midday choices and heartier plates for later in the day.

Lunch-to-dinner crossover picks: BLTs, salads, and country plates

Sandwiches and salads bridge the gap well. The Homestyle Chicken BLT (~$10.79–$10.99) and Grilled Chicken Salad (~$10.49) are lighter picks that still feel hearty.

Also on the list: Roast Beef Melt (~$11.49), weekday specials like Chicken & Dumplins (~$9.69), and Chicken Tenders for a familiar favorite. Many full plates are offered in lunch portions, so you can skip a later meal or build a larger spread.

• After 11 AM you can move from lighter lunch items to full dinner plates on your schedule.
• Sandwiches and salads—like the Homestyle Chicken BLT and Grilled Chicken Salad—bridge the gap nicely.
• Weekday lunch specials bring value while preserving made-from-scratch flavors.
• Order dinner plates with two or three sides if you want a fuller meal right away.

Find a Cracker Barrel near you and today’s hours

Find the nearest location and plan your visit with simple hours and ordering options. Most stores open at 7:00 AM and serve breakfast all day. Lunch and evening plates start at 11 AM, so you can swing by any time after midmorning for a full meal.

Typical hours and locations across the United States

Weekday and Sunday hours commonly run 7:00 AM–9:00 PM. Friday and Saturday often extend to 10:00 PM. These times are typical, but local stores may vary.

There are roughly 600–650+ locations nationwide. States like Florida and Tennessee have strong coverage, and new spots keep appearing in other regions. Many restaurants sit close to highway exits for easy access when you travel with family.

• Most stores open at 7 AM; breakfast all day, lunch/dinner from 11 AM.
• Expect 9 PM closings on weeknights and Sundays; 10 PM on weekends in many places.
• Ordering options: dine-in, online ordering, curbside pickup, and select delivery.
• Call or check your local store page for exact hours and time‑limited specials.

Quick tip: call the local store or check its page before you go. That ensures correct hours, available options, and any regional specials that can shape your meal timing and choices.

Bring home that country flavor tonight

Bring home that country flavor tonight

Turn a busy evening into a country-style feast with a quick pickup order. Family Meals like Southern Fried Chicken ($42.74–$52.99) or Chicken n’ Dumplins ($40.99–$41.99) feed four to six with minimal prep.

Add a half‑gallon of sweet tea or lemonade ($5.49–$8.89) and a couple of shareables — Onion Petals ($6.29) or Biscuit Beignets ($5.59) — to round out the spread. Dinner items are available after 11 AM, so you can order ahead for the time that fits your schedule.

Whether you crave fried chicken, a hearty beef classic, or simple homestyle chicken, the to‑go options make it easy to bring home warm comfort food that gives something everyone at the table will enjoy.