Cracker Barrel has long been a favorite for homestyle meals and true Southern hospitality. They now offer an Early Dinner Menu with great deals. It’s available from Monday to Friday, 4 PM to 6 PM. You’ll find popular dishes at lower prices, making your evening meal both enjoyable and budget-friendly.
The Early Dinner Menu features favorites like Homestyle Chicken, Meatloaf, and U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish. These meals bring the taste of home cooking. And with prices starting at $8.99, you can save money while enjoying the foods you love.
Cracker Barrel is dedicated to combining quality with value through their early dinner specials. This menu creates a warm, traditional dining experience. It shows their commitment to making every visit special for their guests.
Overview of Cracker Barrel Early Dinner Deals
Cracker Barrel offers amazing early dinner deals. These deals happen between 4 PM and 6 PM from Monday to Friday. They are perfect for diners looking for quality meals at affordable prices.
The early dinner menu features some top Cracker Barrel dishes at reduced prices. For example, you can enjoy U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish or Country Fried Steak. Each is priced at just $8.99.
The special deals are aimed at early diners. They are available at times that allow diners to beat the evening rush. For instance, the Sunrise Pancake Special is available all day for $7.99, offering both savings and variety.
Winter 2025 brings new dishes and drinks to Cracker Barrel. These include crispy Tender Dippers and a Signature Saucy Chicken Sandwich. For drinks, try the Sparkling Sugar Plum Mimosa or Sugar Plum Tea.
| Menu Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Early Dinner Deals | $8.99 |
| Sunrise Pancake Special | $7.99 |
| Seasonal Sparkling Sugar Plum Mimosa | $3.99 |
| Signature Saucy Chicken Sandwich | $9.49 |
| Barrel Bite Trio | $11.69 |
Cracker Barrel specials also include $5 take-home meals. Add them to any regular-priced entrée. Favorites include Fried Homestyle Chicken or Meatloaf with Mac ‘n Cheese.
Check out the Cracker Barrel Rewards program too. Members can earn double points on select offers from January 7 to January 11, 2025. It’s a great way to get more value from dining.
By taking advantage of these deals, you can enjoy Cracker Barrel’s offerings. Do so in a calm setting before the night becomes busy. It’s a great opportunity!
Benefits of Cracker Barrel Early Dinner Menu
The Cracker Barrel Early Dinner Menu is great for busy families and early bird lovers. It’s available Monday to Friday, from 4 PM to 6 PM. This means you can enjoy a peaceful meal time without the crowds, perfect for family meals.
One big plus is how affordable it is. Cracker Barrel has over 20 meals under $12. Favorites like Chicken n’ Dumplins only cost $8.99. They come in big portions and are good for your health too. Plus, there’s a $5 Take Home Meals deal that adds even more value for your dollar.
More people now prefer eating out between 2 to 5 PM. Cracker Barrel’s early bird specials match this trend perfectly. This timing helps you skip the busy evening rush. Plus, great deals like Meatloaf for $12.49 and Country Fried Steak for $12.99 pack a flavorful punch.
If you’re watching your calories, Cracker Barrel has you covered. They offer lighter meals and fuller, tasty options too. They also have a rewards system called Pegs. It lets you earn points every time you eat there, making it even more rewarding.
At the end of the day, Cracker Barrel’s Early Dinner Menu puts families first. It offers great prices, a variety of food, and a cozy place to eat before the night gets busy. It’s a smart pick for anyone who wants to dine out and feel right at home.
| Meal | Price | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken n’ Dumplins | $8.99 | 620 |
| Meatloaf | $12.49 | 750 |
| Country Fried Steak | $12.99 | 800 |
| Grilled Sirloin Steak | $14.99 | 340 |
| Vegetable Plate | $9.99 | 340 |
Homestyle Chicken: A Comfort Meal Favorite
Cracker Barrel chicken is a key part of their early dinner menu and a favorite comfort meal. It shines because of the care put into the ingredients and how it’s made. Every piece of chicken is hand-breaded and fried, cooked in a way that feels homemade and stays true to Southern recipes.
This meal is enjoyed with traditional sides like mac n’ cheese and coleslaw, offering a comforting eating experience. The focus on quality and tradition in the Ingredients and Preparation makes each bite feel like home-cooked food.
At $10.39, Cracker Barrel chicken is both affordable and generous in size. This price is part of a range at Cracker Barrel, with options from $8.99 for a Vegetable Platter to $14.99 for a Sirloin Steak. This makes the Homestyle Chicken a great value, appealing to both individuals and families.
| Dish | Price | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Homestyle Chicken | $10.39 | Average |
| Meatloaf | $9.99 | 450 |
| Country Fried Steak | $11.49 | 640 |
| Fried Catfish | $9.99 | 330 |
Enjoying Cracker Barrel chicken means loving its expert preparation and the comfort it brings. It’s perfect for any meal, whether you’re eating alone or with family. It offers a rich, fulfilling taste that reminds you of beloved culinary traditions.
Meatloaf: A Hearty Classic Dish
Cracker Barrel’s Meatloaf is the perfect example of American comfort food. It reminds us of home and fills us up. Made with ground beef, onions, tomatoes, and green peppers, it’s a classic. The savory tomato sauce on top makes it even better. At $11.49, it’s a good deal for a filling meal.
- 2 pounds of ground beef
- 1 cup of finely diced green bell pepper
- 1 teaspoon of kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) of drained diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup of crushed Ritz crackers as a binding agent
- 2 large eggs
To cook this dish, bake it at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 1 hour. Make sure the inside gets to 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
| Dish | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Meatloaf | 660 calories | $11.49 |
| Chicken and Dumplings | 590 calories | $10.99 |
| Turkey and Dressing | 520 calories | $9.99 |
| Fried Chicken | 710 calories | $12.49 |
| Pork Chops | 670 calories | $11.79 |
| Country Fried Steak | 680 calories | $10.79 |
Adding this to the early dinner menu gives customers a taste of tradition with a fresh twist. Cracker Barrel’s Meatloaf and other classics make guests feel the warmth of home-cooked meals.
Country Fried Steak: A Southern Staple
The Country Fried Steak at Cracker Barrel is essential Southern cuisine. It shows Cracker Barrel’s dedication to real home-cooked meals. The meal’s rich flavors showcase the heart of the South.
Ingredients and Preparation: This dish consists of a tenderized beef steak. It is breaded, fried to a golden hue, and drenched in Sawmill gravy. Hashbrown casserole and turnip greens are popular sides. This makes it a hearty, well-rounded meal.
Price and Portion Size: For $11.99, you get a large helping of Country Fried Steak. It’s a comforting, indulgent meal at a good value. The price and size make it a top choice at dinner.
Cracker Barrel has offered home-cooked meals for over 50 years, with more than 650 spots across the country. Their Country Fried Steak is a favorite. It’s proof of their commitment to quality and tradition.
| Dish | Price | Portion Size | Popular Sides |
|---|---|---|---|
| Country Fried Steak | $11.99 | Generous | Hashbrown Casserole, Turnip Greens |
Affordable Early Dinner Choices at Cracker Barrel
Cracker Barrel stands out for offering good quality meals at low prices. Their menu has over 20 options under $12. This means you can enjoy a big meal without spending a lot. The Homestyle Chicken and U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish are favorites for families.
If you’re looking for something lighter, try the Chicken n’ Dumplins for $8.99. The Meatloaf, a beloved classic, is $10.99. These options are not just affordable; they also meet a wide range of tastes. Another favorite, the Country Fried Steak, is $11.99. It’s tasty and filling without being too expensive.
Cracker Barrel really focuses on meals that families will love. Here are some of the best early dinner picks from their menu. They are all about good food that doesn’t cost much:
| Meal Option | Starting Price | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Homestyle Chicken n’ French Toast | $11.49 | 530 |
| Chicken Tenders | $11.69 | 500 |
| Chicken n’ Dumplins | $8.99 | 360 |
| Meatloaf | $10.99 | 220 |
| U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish | $10.49 | 290 |
| Buttermilk Buffalo Ranch Mac n’ Cheese | $10.99 | 580 |
Weekday Deals: Enjoy More for Less
Cracker Barrel makes it easy to eat well without spending a lot. Their Early Dine Menu, from 4 to 6 PM, Monday to Friday, offers great deals. Meals start at just $8.99, perfect for individuals and families.
They have daily specials too, with prices from $9.99 to $10.19. You’ll find favorites like Grilled Sirloin Steak and Country Fried Shrimp. Plus, rewards members get extra perks, like double pegs on new items.
Kids can pick meals from $4.69 to $5.49. There’s also a $5 Take Home Meals deal with each entrée. This makes weekday dining a real treat for families.
| Menu Item | Price | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Homestyle Chicken | $10.39 | 730 |
| Meatloaf | $11.49 | 700 |
| Chicken n’ Dumplings | $10.99 | 850 |
| Maple Pecan Chicken | $12.49 | 780 |
| Country Fried Steak | $11.99 | Unavailable |
Cracker Barrel also gives senior, military, and veteran discounts. This means more people can enjoy their meals at lower prices.
How to Optimize Your Experience
Visiting Cracker Barrel can be even better with a few tips. These are great for both new and regular visitors.
- Plan your visit during early dinner hours to steer clear of the busy dinner rush, which averages a 20% traffic decline compared to pre-pandemic levels.
- Explore the new menu items introduced at 14 Texas locations, ranging from $3.99 for Green Chile Cornbread to $17.99 for Southern BBQ Ribs.
Making the Most of Promotions:
- Sign up for Cracker Barrel’s rewards program to harness promotional benefits. Loyal members reflect a 50% increase in visit frequency and a 10% higher average check.
- Take advantage of daily specials like $5.99 Sunrise Specials and $6.99 lunch deals for substantial savings.
Additional Dining Tips:
- Be sure to sample some revamped dishes such as the Hashbrown Casserole Shepherd’s Pie (650 calories) or the Bee Sting Chicken Sandwich (720 calories).
- Keep an eye out for upcoming remodels in 2025 that aim to enhance the dining environment with improved lighting and decor.
By following this guide, you can get the most out of your Cracker Barrel visit. Both new and returning diners will discover the best food and deals. Below is a handy comparison of prices and calories to help you choose:
| Menu Item | Price | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Green Chile Cornbread | $3.99 | 280 calories |
| Southern BBQ Ribs | $17.99 | 920 calories |
| Hashbrown Casserole Shepherd’s Pie | N/A | 650 calories |
| Bee Sting Chicken Sandwich | N/A | 720 calories |
These tips, deals, and the guide is all you need for a better Cracker Barrel visit. With them, navigating the menu and promotions is easy, enhancing your dining experience.
Comparison with Other Restaurants’ Early Bird Specials
Cracker Barrel now offers amazing Early Dinner Deals. These deals are available from 4 PM to 6 PM, Monday to Friday. This change fits a growing trend where more people eat earlier, between 2 PM and 5 PM. Meanwhile, Cracker Barrel’s stock value has seen a big dip of 68% over five years. This has pushed the company to invest about $700 million to improve its brand and what it offers.
When we look at other restaurants, Texas Roadhouse also has Early Bird Specials in the same hours. Their deals are priced from $8 to $12, letting customers save $5 to $15 per meal. This is compared to the usual prices of $15 to $30. A favorite is their 6 oz. Sirloin, which has 280 calories. Cracker Barrel aims to offer similar value with discounted meals during these hours.
| Restaurant | Early Bird Specials | Caloric Content (Popular Items) | Price Range | Regular Menu Price Range | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cracker Barrel | 4 PM – 6 PM (Mon-Fri) | Varied | $8 – $12 | $15 – $30 | $5 – $15 |
| Texas Roadhouse | 4 PM – 6 PM (Weekdays) | 280 – 800 calories | $8 – $12 | $15 – $30 | $5 – $15 |
Cracker Barrel’s menu is great for families, offering kid favorites like Macaroni and Cheese. The Early Dinner Deals include options like Meatloaf or Country Fried Steak. These meals can stand up to Texas Roadhouse’s choices like Ribeye Steak and Grilled Salmon. With good quality and prices, Cracker Barrel stands out in family dining. It’s clear why many love eating here.
Diner Testimonials: What Customers Love
Customers love dining at Cracker Barrel, as reviews show. They often talk about the warm ambiance and tasty homestyle meals. The Old Timer’s Breakfast, at $10.49, is a favorite. It offers two eggs, grits, biscuits and gravy with bacon or sausage. Diners love its great value and filling portions.
The Southern Fried Chicken meal is another highlight. Priced at $14.98, it includes four pieces of chicken, mac and cheese, and pancakes for $2 more. The huge pancakes impress many customers.
Many enjoy the Chicken n’ Dumplings for $12.19, served with two sides. You can choose an additional side. Mashed potatoes and fried apples are highly praised.
The themed country store at each location adds to the experience. Though we don’t have store sales data, its charm leaves a strong impression.
| Review Rating | Percentage | Common Praise |
|---|---|---|
| 5-star reviews | 12% | Quality of homestyle meals, cozy ambiance |
| 4-star reviews | 3% | Value for money, generous portions |
| 3-star reviews | 6% | Good side dishes, unique store experience |
| 2-star reviews | 16% | Long wait times, service issues |
| 1-star reviews | 63% | Food complaints, management issues |
Despite some complaints, Cracker Barrel is still loved by many. Positive reviews highlight the quality dining experience. Fans of the restaurant keep coming back for their favorite dishes.
Conclusion
The Cracker Barrel Early Dinner Menu is an excellent choice for early evening meals. It offers a wide range of homestyle dishes, satisfying various tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for homestyle chicken or meatloaf, you’ll find something great. Dinner starts at 11:00 AM and goes until 10:00 PM on most days, but it lasts until 11:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays. This schedule makes it easy for customers to eat their favorite meals at a convenient time.
Cracker Barrel’s early dinner options are known for their affordability. With daily dinners under $10 and classics beginning at just $7.99, eating well without spending much is easy. The menu features dishes like Southern fried chicken for $10.99 and chicken and dumplings for $9.99. These options are not only tasty but also offer good value with portions that leave diners satisfied. Plus, they keep health in mind, with meals ranging from 450 to 820 calories.
Cracker Barrel values providing good deals and variety. They offer special promotions and deals during the week. Items like the homestyle meatloaf for $9.79 and deals for the whole family show this commitment. They also have healthier choices like grilled chicken and salads for those looking for nutritious meals. Drink prices from $2.59 to $2.99 and the use of seasonal ingredients highlight Cracker Barrel’s appeal. It’s a top choice for many, making their dining experience enjoyable and memorable.
FAQ
What are the Cracker Barrel Early Dinner Deals and when are they available?
The Cracker Barrel offers deals from Monday to Friday, 4 PM to 6 PM. Enjoy popular dishes like Homestyle Chicken and Meatloaf at a discount.
Which dishes are included in the Cracker Barrel Early Dinner Menu?
Favorites like U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish and Country Fried Steak are on the Early Dinner Menu. They come at reduced prices for an affordable dinner.
Are these Early Dinner Deals available for takeout or delivery?
These deals are for dine-in only. It promotes a cozy dining experience, true to Cracker Barrel’s style.
How does Cracker Barrel ensure the quality and taste of their early dinner options?
Cracker Barrel uses quality ingredients and traditional recipes. This ensures meals like Homestyle Chicken and Meatloaf are comforting and satisfying.
Are there any special offers or rewards for frequent diners?
Yes, the rewards program offers exclusive promotions. Earn double pegs on new items and discounts during the week.
How does Cracker Barrel’s Early Dinner Menu compare to other restaurants’ early bird specials?
It offers a mix of quality, affordability, and comfort. This makes it stand out among early dining options.
What do customers appreciate most about Cracker Barrel’s Early Dinner Deals?
Customers love the cozy atmosphere, quality meals, and great prices. This leads to high satisfaction and repeat visits.