Cracker Barrel Dinner Menu and Hours: Can You Miss This?

cracker barrel dinner menu

Cracker Barrel is a beloved American restaurant chain known for its warm, homey atmosphere and delicious comfort food. If you’re wondering when you can enjoy a hearty meal at Cracker Barrel, understanding their dinner hours is key. The Cracker Barrel Dinner Menu and Hours offer a variety of options, from classic Southern favorites to new, seasonal dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for a filling steak, comforting meatloaf, or a tasty dessert, there’s something for everyone. Knowing the right time to visit can help you avoid long waits and ensure a satisfying dining experience.

In this guide, we’ll explore the Cracker Barrel Dinner Menu and Hours, highlighting the best options and insider tips to make the most of your next visit. Ready to satisfy your cravings? Let’s dive in!

Cracker Barrel Dinner Hours

Day of the WeekStart TimeEnd Time
Monday3:00 PM9:00 PM / 10:00 PM
Tuesday3:00 PM9:00 PM / 10:00 PM
Wednesday3:00 PM9:00 PM / 10:00 PM
Thursday3:00 PM9:00 PM / 10:00 PM
Friday3:00 PM9:00 PM / 10:00 PM
Saturday3:00 PM9:00 PM / 10:00 PM
Sunday3:00 PM9:00 PM / 10:00 PM
Note: Times may vary depending on location, and hours can change for holidays or special events. It’s best to check with your local Cracker Barrel for specific hours.

What Time Does Cracker Barrel Serve Dinner?

Cracker Barrel typically begins serving dinner at around 3:00 PM. This start time ensures that diners have the opportunity to enjoy their favorite comfort foods like meatloaf, chicken fried steak, or country ham in the late afternoon or early evening. The exact time can vary slightly depending on the location, so it’s always a good idea to check with your local Cracker Barrel to confirm the dinner service time. Whether you’re visiting for a quick bite after work or a family meal, Cracker Barrel’s dinner menu offers something for everyone.

Are Cracker Barrel Dinner Hours the Same Every Day?

While Cracker Barrel dinner hours generally follow a consistent schedule across locations, there may be slight variations depending on the day of the week or location. Most Cracker Barrel restaurants begin serving dinner around 3:00 PM and continue until closing time, which is typically 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM. However, on holidays or special events, some locations may adjust their hours to accommodate higher demand or different operating schedules. Always check ahead to avoid any surprises, especially during peak seasons like Thanksgiving or Christmas.

Best Time to Visit Cracker Barrel for Dinner

The best time to visit Cracker Barrel for dinner is usually during the early evening, around 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. During this time, you’re likely to avoid the dinner rush and have a more relaxed dining experience. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere or want to beat the crowds, visiting right as dinner service begins is a smart choice. If you don’t mind a busier environment, you can always head in later, but keep in mind that weekends and holidays can bring in larger crowds, especially during dinner hours.

How Late Does Cracker Barrel Serve Dinner?

Cracker Barrel typically serves dinner until 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM, depending on the location and day of the week. While most locations close by these times, some may have slightly extended hours on weekends or holidays. It’s a good idea to check your local restaurant’s specific hours, as the kitchen may close a bit earlier in certain areas or on slower days. If you’re craving comfort food late at night, be sure to confirm the restaurant’s hours before heading out to ensure you’re within the serving window.

Does Cracker Barrel Serve Dinner All Day?

No, Cracker Barrel does not serve dinner all day. Their menu shifts based on the time of day, offering breakfast items in the morning and transitioning to lunch and dinner options in the afternoon and evening. While Cracker Barrel offers a wide variety of breakfast, lunch, and dinner items, dinner-specific options like country fried steak, chicken tenders, and meatloaf are only available after the designated dinner hours begin around 3:00 PM. Breakfast lovers can enjoy their favorites in the morning, but for a full dinner experience, be sure to visit during the designated dinner time.

Cracker Barrel Early Dinner Deals

ItemPriceCalories
Chicken n’ Dumplins$10.99360 cal
Meatloaf$11.49220 cal
Homestyle Chicken$11.99530 cal
Smoky Southern Grilled Chicken$12.49190 cal
Steak Tips Dinner$13.99300 cal

Cracker Barrel’s Early Dinner Deals provide a range of comforting and satisfying meals, perfect for an early evening meal. One of the standout options is the Chicken n’ Dumplins, featuring tender chicken slow-simmered to perfection and served with a side of hearty dumplings, accompanied by one Country Side. It’s a light yet flavorful choice, ideal for those craving a comforting classic.

For a heartier dish, the Meatloaf is a popular selection. Made with a blend of beef, onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes, it’s served with two Country Sides, making for a filling and satisfying meal.

If you’re in the mood for something crispy, the Homestyle Chicken offers a boneless chicken breast, dipped in buttermilk batter, breaded, and fried to a golden brown. It’s a crispy, indulgent option served with two sides. For a lighter yet flavorful choice, the Smoky Southern Grilled Chicken features a grilled chicken breast seasoned with smoky southern spices, served with two Country Sides.

Finally, the Steak Tips Dinner provides tender sirloin tips coated in a rich, buttery garlic sauce, accompanied by two Country Sides. Whether you’re looking for comfort food, something crispy, or a flavorful grilled option, these early dinner deals offer a variety of delicious choices to suit every taste.

Cracker Barel Dinner Menu

Salads n’ Sandwiches

ItemPriceCalories
Homestyle Fried Chicken SaladVariesVaries
Homestyle Grilled Chicken Salad$9.99440 cal
The Barrel Cheeseburger$11.49940 cal
Homestyle Chicken BLT$10.991130 cal
Grilled Chicken BLT$10.99870 cal

Salads n’ Sandwiches menu offers a delicious selection of fresh and flavorful options, perfect for any craving. The Homestyle Fried Chicken Salad features crispy, fried chicken served over a bed of fresh greens, garnished with boiled eggs, tomatoes, and cucumbers. It’s a classic comfort food with a fresh twist, ideal for those craving something both light and hearty.

For a healthier alternative, the Homestyle Grilled Chicken Salad presents smoky southern grilled chicken breast atop fresh greens, paired with boiled eggs, tomatoes, cucumbers, croutons, and Colby cheese. This dish is a well-balanced, flavorful choice at just 440 calories, and it comes with crackers for added crunch.

If you’re in the mood for a savory sandwich, the Barrel Cheeseburger is a classic. Made with a grilled-to-order patty topped with Colby cheese, mayonnaise, lettuce, and tomato on a soft buttermilk bun, it’s a satisfying and flavorful meal.

You can also add crispy bacon for extra flavor. For those who enjoy a twist on a traditional sandwich, the Homestyle Chicken BLT offers fried chicken drizzled with a maple chipotle glaze, paired with bacon, lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise on a buttermilk bun.

Alternatively, you can opt for grilled chicken for a lighter version of the dish. Both options come with your choice of side, ensuring a filling and well-rounded meal. Whether you prefer a crisp salad or a satisfying sandwich, Cracker Barrel’s offerings deliver comfort and flavor in every bite.

Barrel Bites

ItemPriceCalories
Country Fried Pickles$6.99880 cal (pickles), 200 cal (ranch)
Loaded Hashbrown Casserole Tots$7.49590 cal (tots), 200 cal (ranch)
White Cheddar Cheese Bites$7.29570 cal (bites), 200 cal (ranch)
Biscuit Beignets$5.99480 cal (beignets), 210 cal (sauce)
House Salad$4.99160-420 cal
Veggie Soup$3.99 (cup), $5.49 (bowl)70 cal (cup), 130 cal (bowl)
Soup of the Day$3.99 (cup), $5.49 (bowl)70-190 cal (cup), 130-380 cal (bowl)

Barrel Bites menu offers a variety of mouthwatering appetizers and sides perfect for starting your meal or sharing with friends. For those who enjoy a crispy, tangy treat, the Country Fried Pickles are a must-try. These savory dill pickles are fried to golden perfection and paired with creamy Buttermilk Ranch for dipping, making them a flavorful and crunchy snack.

If you’re craving something indulgent, the Loaded Hashbrown Casserole Tots combine crispy hashbrown casserole tots, topped with bacon crumbles and melted cheese, served with the same creamy ranch dressing for an extra kick.

For cheese lovers, the White Cheddar Cheese Bites are a delightful choice. These crispy, golden-brown cheese bites are lightly breaded and served with creamy ranch for dipping. Alternatively, if you’re in the mood for something sweet, the Biscuit Beignets are an irresistible option. These warm, flaky buttermilk biscuit beignets are dusted with cinnamon sugar and come with a sweet Butter Pecan Sauce for dipping—perfect for those who love a little indulgence to start their meal.

If you’re looking for something lighter, the House Salad is a great option. Made with fresh greens, bacon crumbles, tomatoes, cucumbers, Colby cheese, and croutons, it’s a flavorful and refreshing starter.

For a comforting option, the Veggie Soup offers a savory, herb-infused broth with a mix of tender vegetables, available in a cup or bowl. And for a daily surprise, the Soup of the Day is made fresh daily and varies, allowing guests to enjoy a different flavor with every visit.

Vegetables n’ Sides

Premium Sides

ItemCaloriesPrice
Loaded Mashed Potatoes250 cal$3.49
Loaded Baked Sweet Potato570 cal$4.99
Loaded Baked Potato580 cal$3.99
Bacon Mac n’ Cheese380 cal$3.49

Cracker Barrel offers a delightful variety of sides that complement any meal, with both premium and country options to suit every taste. Their Premium Sides include indulgent choices like Loaded Mashed Potatoes, which feature creamy potatoes topped with bacon crumbles, cheese, and green onions for a savory treat.

The Loaded Baked Sweet Potato is another standout, topped with brown sugar, cinnamon butter, toasted marshmallow, butter pecan sauce, and candied pecans, offering a sweet and decadent flavor combination.

For a hearty option, the Loaded Baked Potato is filled with bacon crumbles, cheese, butter, sour cream, and green onions, while the Bacon Mac n’ Cheese features rich mac n’ cheese with crispy bacon crumbles, parmesan, and green onions.

Country Sides

ItemCaloriesPrice
Hashbrown Casserole140 cal$2.49
Mashed Potatoes160 cal$2.49
Steak Fries380 cal$2.49
Mac n’ Cheese260 cal$2.49
Dumplins240 cal$2.49
Breaded Fried Okra250 cal$2.49
Sweet Whole Baby Carrots110 cal$2.49
Whole Kernel Corn170 cal$2.49
Pinto Beans170 cal$2.49
Country Green Beans80 cal$2.49
Steamed Broccoli35 cal$2.49
Turnip Greens80 cal$2.49
Cole Slaw230 cal$2.49
Fried Apples210 cal$2.49
Coarse Ground Grits70 cal$2.49
Beans n’ Greens570 cal$3.99
Bowl of Turnip Greens180 cal$2.49
Bowl of Pinto Beans710 cal$2.49

Country Sides are a comforting addition to any meal, each offering a taste of Southern tradition and home-cooked goodness. The Hashbrown Casserole is a creamy and cheesy dish that perfectly complements a variety of entrees.

For a classic pairing, Mashed Potatoes and Steak Fries provide hearty, satisfying options, while Mac n’ Cheese offers a rich and creamy flavor that’s sure to please. The Dumplins are a must-try, featuring tender dumplings in a savory broth, while the Breaded Fried Okra delivers a crispy, golden crunch.

For a lighter touch, Sweet Whole Baby Carrots and Whole Kernel Corn offer naturally sweet and flavorful options. Country Green Beans and Steamed Broccoli provide fresh and simple vegetable sides, perfect for balancing out your meal.

If you’re craving something a bit tangier, Cole Slaw and Turnip Greens are ideal choices, while Fried Apples bring a sweet, warm element to your plate. For something a bit more filling, try the Beans n’ Greens, or enjoy a hearty Bowl of Turnip Greens or Bowl of Pinto Beans.

Whether you’re looking for something rich and indulgent or fresh and light, Cracker Barrel’s selection of Country Sides has something for everyone.

Iced Tea n’ Beverages

BeverageCaloriesPrice
Soft Drinks (Bottomless Refills)0-230 cal$2.49
Freshly Brewed Iced Tea
– Unsweetened or Sweet0/160 cal$2.49
– Peach220 cal$2.49
Old-Fashioned Lemonade210 cal$2.49
Southern Half n’ Half (Lemonade & Iced Tea)210 cal$2.49
Juice
– 100% Premium Orange180 cal$2.49
– Apple220 cal$2.49
Bottled Root Beer210 cal$2.99
Traditional Espresso Beverages
– Iced or Hot Latte (Regular, Vanilla, Caramel)110-370 cal$3.49
– Mocha (Made with Chocolate)290/360 cal$3.49
Freshly Brewed Coffee (Bottomless Refills)0 cal$2.49
Hot Tea (Bottomless Refills)0 cal$2.49
Hot Chocolate380 cal$2.99
Milk170-320 cal$2.49

Enjoy bottomless refills of soft drinks, including classics like cola, lemonade, and iced tea. Choose from unsweetened or sweet iced tea, or indulge in a fruity peach iced tea for a tangy twist. For something more nostalgic, their Southern Half n’ Half is a refreshing combination of iced tea and lemonade. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, opt for the Old-Fashioned Lemonade or one of their fresh juices, such as 100% premium orange or apple juice.

For fans of sparkling beverages, Cracker Barrel also offers bottled root beer, perfect for those who enjoy a classic, creamy taste. If you’re a coffee lover, you’ll appreciate their traditional espresso beverages, available as hot or iced lattes in regular, vanilla, or caramel flavors, or a rich mocha made with chocolate. For a caffeine-free option, enjoy freshly brewed regular or decaf coffee, served with bottomless refills, or unwind with a cup of hot tea from Twinings® of London.

If you’re in the mood for something indulgent, treat yourself to a hot chocolate topped with whipped cream or a refreshing glass of milk—available in skim, reduced-fat, whole, or chocolate. With a wide variety of beverages to choose from, Cracker Barrel ensures there’s something to satisfy everyone, whether you’re in the mood for a sweet, fruity drink, a hot espresso, or a comforting cup of coffee.

Beer n’ Wine

BeverageCaloriesPrice
Ice-Cold Beer
Bud Light100 cal$3.99
Miller Lite100 cal$3.99
Budweiser140 cal$3.99
Michelob Ultra100 cal$3.99
Corona Extra150 cal$4.49
Blue Moon160 cal$4.49
Wine (by the glass)
Roscato® Moscato210 cal$6.99
Roscato® Sweet Red210 cal$6.99
Gambino Sparkling Wine150 cal$5.99
Sutter Home Chardonnay160 cal$5.99

Cracker Barrel offers a wide selection of beverages, including both ice-cold beers and wines.

For beer lovers, there are popular options such as Bud Light, Miller Lite, Budweiser, Michelob Ultra, Corona Extra, and Blue Moon, providing a variety of refreshing choices to pair with your meal. Whether you prefer light beers or something with a bit more flavor, Cracker Barrel ensures a satisfying beer experience.

If wine is more to your liking, the by-the-glass offerings include Roscato® Moscato, Roscato® Sweet Red, Gambino Sparkling Wine, and Sutter Home Chardonnay. Each of these wines is carefully selected to complement the flavors of the restaurant’s hearty, home-cooked dishes, providing a delightful and relaxing dining experience.

With a range of both alcoholic beverages available at affordable prices, Cracker Barrel makes it easy to enjoy a drink that perfectly fits your meal.

Cracker Barrel Favorites

Cracker Barrel FavoritesCaloriesPrice
U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish260 cal$12.99
U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish810 cal$12.99
Hand-Breaded Fried Chicken Tenders860 cal$11.99
Meatloaf450 cal$10.99
Country Fried Steak600 cal$12.49
Grilled Chicken Tenders320 cal$11.49
Hashbrown Casserole Shepherd’s Pie1590 cal$14.99
Chicken n’ Dumplins510 cal$11.99
Pot Roast520 cal$13.99
Chicken Fried Chicken1140 cal$13.49

Cracker Barrel offers a variety of hearty and comforting favorites, each served with hand-rolled buttermilk biscuits or corn muffins and real butter. For those who enjoy fish, the U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish is available in two delicious options: spicy grilled fillets or crispy, cornmeal-crusted fried fillets served with tartar sauce and hushpuppies.

If you’re craving fried food, the Hand-Breaded Fried Chicken Tenders are golden-fried to perfection and paired with a zesty dill pickle ranch dipping sauce. For a classic homestyle meal, the Meatloaf combines a hearty blend of beef, onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes, served with your choice of country sides.

Another comforting option is the Country Fried Steak, breaded and fried to a crispy finish, topped with rich sawmill gravy. If you’re looking for something grilled, the Grilled Chicken Tenders are marinated, grilled, and served with a tender finish, making for a lighter yet satisfying choice.

For a truly indulgent dish, the Hashbrown Casserole Shepherd’s Pie features slow-simmered pot roast in a savory homestyle gravy, mixed with carrots, peas, onions, and celery, all topped with a golden hashbrown casserole crust and sour cream.

Another classic choice is Chicken n’ Dumplins, a comforting dish filled with tender chicken and fluffy dumplings in a savory broth. The Pot Roast is a slow-braised rib roast, served with mashed potatoes and a side of vegetables in a flavorful homestyle gravy.

Lastly, the Chicken Fried Chicken provides a satisfying, crispy chicken breast topped with sawmill gravy, offering a classic Southern twist on fried chicken. Each dish can be complemented with your choice of two country sides, ensuring that every meal is hearty and fulfilling.

Home Cooked Classics

DishPriceCalories
Maple Bacon Grilled Chicken$9.99720 cal
Hamburger Steak$10.49480 cal
Smoky Southern Grilled Chicken$9.49380 cal
Country Vegetable Plate$9.9935-380 cal

Maple Bacon Grilled Chicken features two tender, juicy grilled chicken breasts glazed with a sweet and smoky maple chipotle sauce. The dish is topped with ranch dressing, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and fresh green onions, offering a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors. It’s served with two of your favorite Country Sides, creating a hearty and satisfying meal.

Hamburger Steak is a half-pound of freshly ground beef, seasoned and grilled to perfection, then smothered in a rich, buttery garlic sauce. For those who enjoy extra flavor, you can add sautéed onions and brown gravy for a small upcharge. The hamburger steak is accompanied by two Country Sides, making it a filling choice for any meal.

Smoky Southern Grilled Chicken brings you two perfectly grilled chicken breasts, seasoned with a blend of smoky southern spices that infuse the chicken with deep, savory flavor. Paired with two Country Sides, this dish is a great option for those seeking a lighter but flavorful meal.

Country Vegetable Plate gives you the option to create your own meal by choosing four Country Sides. This plate allows you to enjoy a variety of comforting, home-style vegetables, from mashed potatoes to sweet carrots, giving you the flexibility to build a meal that suits your taste preferences.

The Daily Dish

DayDishCaloriesPrice
MondayChicken n’ Rice510 cal$10.99
TuesdayCountry Fried Pork Chops1030 cal$12.99
WednesdayBroccoli Cheddar Chicken660 cal$11.99
ThursdayTurkey n’ Dressing840 cal$12.99
FridayFish Fry730 cal$13.99
SaturdaySouthern BBQ Ribs770 cal$14.99
SundayChicken Pot Pie960 cal$11.99

Cracker Barrel’s The Daily Dish offers a comforting, home-cooked meal every day of the week, showcasing hearty and flavorful dishes that are perfect for any occasion.

Monday’s Chicken n’ Rice features a tender baked chicken breast, smothered in a rich and creamy mushroom sauce, served over buttery, seasoned rice—making it a wholesome and satisfying start to the week.

Tuesday’s Country Fried Pork Chops are crispy, golden-fried pork chops, perfectly seasoned and smothered in homemade gravy, delivering that classic Southern comfort you crave, accompanied by your choice of two delicious Country Sides.

On Wednesday, enjoy the Broccoli Cheddar Chicken, an oven-baked dish combining succulent chicken with a creamy broccoli cheddar topping, served with your choice of sides for a flavorful and balanced meal.

Thursday’s Turkey n’ Dressing offers a festive experience with turkey, homemade dressing, and gravy, paired with sweet potato casserole topped with pecans—perfect for those who love traditional flavors.

Friday’s Fish Fry brings crispy whitefish fillets, dipped in homemade batter and fried to perfection, served with a lemon wedge and tartar sauce to add freshness, along with your choice of Country Sides.

On Saturday, enjoy the smoky, tender Southern BBQ Ribs, slow-cooked to perfection and glazed with a tangy-sweet brown sugar BBQ sauce for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Finally, Sunday’s Chicken Pot Pie features a rich and hearty filling of chicken, vegetables, and creamy sauce, all enclosed in a flaky pastry crust—a comforting dish to end the week.

Each dish in Cracker Barrel’s The Daily Dish offers a unique and satisfying meal, made with fresh ingredients and served with the warmth and hospitality that Cracker Barrel is known for. Whether you’re in the mood for tender chicken, slow-cooked ribs, or a classic comfort dish, there’s something to enjoy every day.

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Conclusion

The Cracker Barrel dinner menu and hours offer a delightful array of comfort food, from hearty classics like hand-breaded chicken tenders to mouth-watering country sides. Whether you’re in the mood for a savory steak or a flavorful grilled chicken, there’s something to satisfy every craving. With their welcoming atmosphere and consistent quality, Cracker Barrel remains a favorite for many.

Be sure to check their dinner hours to plan your visit, as the restaurant is ready to serve you delicious, homestyle meals at convenient times. No matter the occasion, Cracker Barrel’s dinner menu is sure to deliver an unforgettable dining experience!

FAQs

1. Can I get Cracker Barrel dinner menu items for takeout?

Yes, Cracker Barrel offers takeout for their full dinner menu. You can either place your order online or call ahead for pick-up. Many Cracker Barrel locations also have curbside pickup options, making it convenient to enjoy your meal at home.

2. Are Cracker Barrel’s dinner portions large?

Yes, Cracker Barrel is known for its generous portion sizes. Their dinners are served with multiple sides, and many dishes can easily be shared. If you’re not hungry enough for a full meal, consider ordering a country side plate or lighter option to enjoy a smaller portion.

3. What dishes are available on the Cracker Barrel dinner menu?

Cracker Barrel’s dinner menu features a variety of homestyle dishes, including fried chicken, grilled steaks, meatloaf, and country fried steak. They also offer a variety of premium sides like loaded mashed potatoes and mac n’ cheese. For a lighter option, you can choose from their vegetable plates or salads.

4. Are there vegetarian or vegan options available on the Cracker Barrel dinner menu?

While Cracker Barrel’s dinner menu is primarily meat-centric, there are several vegetarian options. You can enjoy dishes like the Country Vegetable Plate, which lets you choose four different country sides such as steamed broccoli, sweet carrots, and mashed potatoes. You can also request modifications to some menu items to suit vegan preferences.

5. Can I customize my Cracker Barrel dinner order?

Yes, Cracker Barrel offers a level of customization for many dishes. You can swap out sides, add extra toppings like gravy or cheese, or choose different preparations for meats. Additionally, many dishes can be smothered in extra sauces or served with your favorite condiments, allowing you to create a personalized meal.

10. Does Cracker Barrel offer a kids’ menu for dinner?

Yes, Cracker Barrel has a special kids’ dinner menu with smaller portions of their classic dinner items, including chicken tenders, mac n’ cheese, and grilled cheese. The kids’ menu also includes a side and a drink, making it a great option for families dining together.

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