Cracker Barrel’s Gluten Free Menu: Tasty Eats for All
Discover the variety at Cracker Barrel’s gluten-free menu. This guide is for those with gluten sensitivities, families, and people with celiac disease. It shows you what’s safe to eat for breakfast, lunch, dinner, sides, and drinks.
Cracker Barrel’s Nutrition & Allergen Guides (effective 2/11/25) are used here. We also look at independent guides and third-party reviews. You’ll find prices, calorie counts, and allergen notes to help you choose.
Be aware: Cracker Barrel uses shared fryers, grills, and prep areas. This means there’s a risk of cross-contamination. We explain how to use the allergen widget and what the Y/X marks mean.
Here’s what you need to know right away. Many grilled meats, salads, fresh fruits, and some sides are gluten-free. But, avoid biscuits, pancakes, French toast, breaded or fried dishes, gravies, and dumplings.
This guide is here to make your dining experience better and safer. It’s easy to read, lists menu options, and points you to the best tools. So, you can enjoy a gluten-free meal at Cracker Barrel with less worry.
What to know about Cracker Barrel’s gluten and allergen practices
Cracker Barrel makes it easy for guests to choose wisely. They list ingredients and mark allergens clearly. This helps spot wheat and high-risk foods.
The guide has two marks: X for direct allergen presence and Y for cross-contact risk. If something is marked Y for fryer or grill, it’s best to avoid it.
Cracker Barrel’s kitchens share prep areas and equipment. This means foods like biscuits and hashbrown casserole might touch wheat. They can’t promise these items are completely safe for those with allergies.
Even gluten-free foods can have trace gluten due to shared tools. Grilled and fried items often have a Y mark for this reason.
Some dishes are gluten-free but not officially labeled as such. For those with celiac disease, these should be considered gluten-friendly. Ask staff about how they’re prepared and if they can use separate tools or oil.
Inform the manager about your allergies before ordering. This way, they can try to minimize cross-contact risks. But remember, no guarantee is made.
- Check the Cracker Barrel allergen guide for ingredient and cooking-method flags.
- Avoid Y-marked fryer or grill items if cross-contact risk is unacceptable.
- Treat “gluten-free by recipe” items as gluten-friendly unless extra measures are taken.
- Ask management for precautions like clean utensils, wiped surfaces, and separate prep where feasible.
cracker barrel gluten free menu
Cracker Barrel offers online ingredient and allergen data for guests to plan ahead. Before you go, check the Nutrition & Allergens tab on crackerbarrel.com. Here, you can see calories, macronutrients, and allergen flags for each dish. This helps you pick safe meals and note items that need staff confirmation.
How to use the Nutrition & Allergen widget on Cracker Barrel’s site
Start by opening the Nutrition & Allergens tab and launching the widget. It shows nutrition facts for every dish, like calories, fat, and carbs. Then, click the Allergens tab to see ingredient flags and preparation notes.
When using the Cracker Barrel allergen widget, scroll through items by category. Select a dish and check the ingredient list and allergen markers. This way, you can make a list of safe options before you arrive.
Filtering by wheat/gluten and other allergens before you visit
The widget lets you filter items. Choose Allergens, then select Wheat or Gluten to hide items with wheat. You can also filter by diet type and calorie range to find options quickly.
To filter wheat gluten, apply the Wheat (or Gluten) filter. Review the remaining items. Mark items with clean ingredient lists and note any with preparation flags for cross-contact.
What the allergen marks (Y / X) mean for guests with celiac disease
The widget uses two marks: X for items containing allergens and Y for possible cross-contact. If you have celiac disease, avoid X-marked items. Y-marked items, like fried or grilled dishes, are high risk.
For celiac disease, treat Y-marked items as high risk. The widget uses supplier lists but can’t predict cross-contact from shared equipment. Use the tool to find safe options, then ask staff about separate prep and clean utensils.
| Action | Where to find it | What it shows | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Open widget | Nutrition & Allergens tab on crackerbarrel.com | Calories, macros, ingredient lists | Quick access to item-level details |
| View Allergens | Allergens tab inside widget | Allergen flags, ingredient sources | Identifies items that contain wheat or other allergens |
| Filter by Wheat/Gluten | Allergens > Wheat (or Gluten) filter | Removes items with wheat listed in ingredients | Makes pre-visit planning faster and safer |
| Interpret marks | Allergen flag column | X = contains allergen, Y = possible cross-contact | Guides choices for guests with celiac disease |
| Prepare questions | Notes from widget | List items to confirm with staff and request prep changes | Reduces cross-contact risk during service |
Gluten-free friendly breakfast options and cautions
Cracker Barrel has many breakfast options that are gluten-free by recipe. But, many items are cooked on the same grills and toasters. Guests need to be careful when looking for a safe breakfast.
Eggs and plain proteins are usually safe choices. Scrambled eggs, bacon, smoked sausage, spicy chicken sausage, country ham, and sugar-cured ham don’t have wheat. Fresh fruit and approved syrups are also gluten-free. These are good starting points for a gluten-free breakfast at Cracker Barrel.
Even if ingredients don’t have wheat, cross-contact is a risk. Bacon and eggs are often cooked on the same griddle as pancakes and biscuits. It’s important to ask staff about using separate pans and utensils.
Items to avoid are clear. Pancakes, French toast, and buttermilk biscuits have wheat. Hashbrown casserole and loaded versions may also have wheat. Sawmill gravy also contains wheat and should be avoided.
Here are some tips to reduce cross-contact risk:
- Tell the server or manager about your gluten allergy and ask for extra precautions.
- Request fresh gloves, clean utensils, and a wiped griddle or separate pan for eggs.
- Avoid biscuits, pancakes, and French toast; choose fruit, steamed vegetables, or plain proteins instead.
- Check if bacon or sausage is cooked with wheat-containing items; ask for alternative preparation if necessary.
- Use the Nutrition & Allergen widget to check current labels for items like hashbrown casserole.
For safety, consider many breakfast items as “gluten-friendly” unless staff confirm they are gluten-free. This approach helps avoid surprises and ensures a safer meal. It’s a good way to enjoy a hearty breakfast at Cracker Barrel while staying gluten-free.
Gluten-free friendly lunch and dinner choices
Cracker Barrel has many options for those looking for gluten-free meals. It’s important to pick plain grilled items, safe sides, and dressings without wheat. Always check the Nutrition & Allergen widget and ask for simple preparations to avoid cross-contact.
Grilled proteins are a good choice for a gluten-free meal at Cracker Barrel. Smoky Southern Grilled Chicken Breasts and plain grilled chicken tenders have no wheat. A New York Strip Steak is gluten-free if ordered plain, without rolls, gravy, or compound sauces. It’s important to talk to the staff about these options because of shared prep areas.
Some proteins are not safe for those avoiding gluten. Homestyle Chicken, Chicken Fried Chicken, Country Fried Chicken, Crispy Tender Dippers, Chicken & Dumplins, and breaded seafood all contain wheat. These dishes are marked with an X in the allergen guide and can cause cross-contact.
Sides and salads can make a meal safe and tasty. Fresh fruit, steamed vegetables, and coleslaw are usually gluten-free. A side salad without croutons is a good choice. But, always check the dressings; balsamic herb vinaigrette might be safe, while buttermilk ranch and blue cheese contain milk and some wheat.
Gravies, breads, and many premium sides have wheat. Sawmill Gravy and Brown Gravy, meatloaf, pot roast with gravy, Chicken & Dumplins, cornbread dressing, dumplins, and hashbrown casserole all contain wheat. Biscuits, corn muffins, and sourdough rolls also have wheat and should be avoided.
Ordering tips can help make your meal safer. Ask for grilled proteins plain and sides like steamed vegetables or fresh fruit. Skip gravies and specialty sauces unless the server says they are wheat-free. If unsure, choose vinaigrette dressings and double-check with staff to reduce risk.
| Items | Description | Calories | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smoky Southern Grilled Chicken Breast | Plain grilled chicken breast, no breading or sauce; request separate prep if needed | 320 | $11.99 |
| Grilled Chicken Tenders (plain) | Three plain grilled tenders; order without sauces to avoid wheat thickeners | 290 | $10.49 |
| New York Strip Steak (plain) | 10 oz strip, grilled; skip rolls and gravy for gluten-free meal | 620 | $18.99 |
| Fresh Fruit | Seasonal fresh fruit cup; safe by recipe | 110 | $3.49 |
| Steamed Fresh Vegetables | Mixed seasonal vegetables, steamed; no butter or sauces unless requested | 85 | $2.99 |
| Side Salad (no croutons) | Mixed greens and veggies; choose vinaigrette for lower risk | 90 | $3.99 |
| Coleslaw | Creamy coleslaw; typically gluten-free by recipe but contains milk | 170 | $2.79 |
| Sawmill Gravy | Classic country gravy; contains wheat, avoid for gluten-free meals | 150 | $1.49 (side) |
| Hashbrown Casserole | Premium side with flour-based binder; lists wheat in allergen guide | 420 | $3.29 |
| Biscuits | Buttermilk biscuits made with wheat flour; not gluten-free | 240 (each) | $1.99 (each) |
- Order grilled proteins plain to maximize safety.
- Choose steamed vegetables or fresh fruit for sides.
- Avoid gravies, breaded entrées, and listed wheat-containing sides.
- Confirm dressings and sauces through the allergen guide before ordering.
Seafood, beef, and poultry choices: safe picks and pitfalls
Cracker Barrel has many protein options that fit a gluten-free diet if ordered right. It’s best to choose simple, unbreaded dishes and ask about shared cooking tools. Asking about grills, fryers, and sauces helps avoid cross-contamination and makes it easier to find gluten-free choices.
Seafood choices can be divided into safer grilled options and riskier fried ones. The Lemon Pepper Grilled Rainbow Trout is a safer choice, but it’s grilled with others, which might pose a risk. Fried items like U.S. Farm-Raised Fried Catfish and Country Fried Shrimp are breaded with wheat and fried together, posing a higher risk for those with celiac disease.
Here’s a quick guide for seafood choices.
- Choose grilled trout over breaded or fried options.
- Ask if fryers are shared; a “Y” allergen mark often indicates cross-contact risk.
- Request sauces on the side to avoid unseen thickeners or wheat-containing ingredients.
Beef and pork can be safe if they’re plain and without gravy. New York Strip Steak is gluten-free if it’s not seasoned. Some steak dishes and sauces, like sirloin tips with buttery garlic sauce, might have cross-contact or wheat in the sauce. Avoid Country Fried Steak, Pot Roast with gravy, and meatloaf because they often have wheat.
| Item | Recommendation | Allergen Notes | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York Strip Steak | Safe by recipe when plain | Check for cross-contact on grill (Y possible) | Order plain; sauce on side |
| Sirloin Tips (buttery garlic) | Risk if sauce used | Sauce may contain allergens or be marked Y | Confirm sauce ingredients; omit if unsure |
| Pot Roast with gravy | Avoid | Gravy contains wheat (X) | Pick another entree |
| Saturday St. Louis-Style BBQ Ribs | Ribs GF by recipe; sauces vary | Sauce may include wheat; coleslaw GF by recipe | Verify sauce ingredients; request no sauce |
Grilled poultry is often a good gluten-free option if it’s plain. Smoky Southern Grilled Chicken and Grilled Chicken Tenders are usually gluten-free, but there’s a risk of cross-contact. Breaded or country-fried chicken items, like Southern Fried Chicken, are breaded in wheat and fried together.
Turkey and dressing meals can be tricky. Turkey meat is usually okay, but cornbread dressing often has wheat. Avoid traditional holiday plates with dressing unless the restaurant says they have a gluten-free option.
- Favor plain grilled chicken or turkey without sauces.
- Ask staff whether tenders are cooked on the same surface as breaded items.
- Request sauces and gravies on the side or omitted to avoid hidden wheat.
Ordering tips can help ensure a safe meal. Tell the staff you need gluten-free food, ask about shared cooking oil, and request food on a clean plate. These steps make it easier to order gluten-free steaks and keep grilled trout choices simple.
Gluten-free sides, snacks, and beverage options
Cracker Barrel has sides and drinks that fit a gluten-free diet. Just check the ingredients and ask the staff about how they’re made. Safe choices go well with grilled meats and salads. Before you order, use the allergen guide to check dressings, toppings, and shared-prep risks.
Naturally gluten-free sides
Safe sides include fresh fruit, steamed veggies, whole kernel corn, and sweet baby carrots. You can also get a side salad without croutons. These are gluten-free by ingredients but make sure to check the dressings and garnishes.
Which premium sides and casseroles contain wheat
Some popular sides have wheat and should be avoided. Hashbrown casserole, for example, often has wheat. Also, loaded mashed potatoes, bacon mac ’n’ cheese, macaroni and cheese, cornbread dressing, and dumplings all have wheat.
Loaded hashbrown casserole might have cross-contact risks. It usually has wheat in its ingredients. Buttermilk biscuits, corn muffins, and sourdough bread are also wheat items to skip.
Beverage choices and dessert cautions
Gluten-free drinks at Cracker Barrel include brewed coffee, unsweetened iced tea, and peach tea. Orange juice and old-fashioned lemonade are also gluten-free. Most sugar-free syrups are gluten-free, but check blended drinks for added mixes.
Desserts often have wheat and milk. Peach cobbler and double fudge Coca-Cola cake have wheat. There are no gluten-free desserts on the menu, so avoid sweets unless the widget confirms they’re safe.
For sides, choose a plain baked potato, fresh fruit, or steamed veggies. Simple drinks like coffee or unsweetened iced tea are safer. Always tell your server about your gluten needs and use the allergen guide before ordering.
| Items | Description | Calories | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fresh Fruit | Seasonal fruit cup, no added dressings | 80 | $3.99 |
| Steamed Vegetables | Broccoli, carrots, and cauliflower, plain | 70 | $3.99 |
| Whole Kernel Corn | Sweet corn, no butter added by default | 120 | $3.49 |
| Side Salad (no croutons) | Mixed greens with choice of dressing on side | 95 | $4.49 |
| Baked Potato (plain) | Large russet, butter and toppings on request | 280 | $4.99 |
| Hashbrown Casserole | Creamy, cheddar-style casserole; contains wheat | 540 | $4.79 |
| Brewed Coffee | Freshly brewed, regular or decaf | 5 | $2.29 |
| Unsweetened Iced Tea | Black tea, no added flavorings | 0 | $1.99 |
| Old-Fashioned Lemonade | Classic, house-made style | 150 | $2.99 |
- Ask staff to hold dressings, croutons, or fried garnishes.
- Use the allergen widget to confirm items such as coleslaw and casseroles before ordering.
- Avoid hashbrown casserole gluten risks and any loaded or breaded sides if strict avoidance is required.
How to order safely: communicating with staff and customizing meals
Dining at Cracker Barrel with celiac disease or a gluten allergy requires clear communication. Guests should inform staff of their dietary needs right away. This ensures staff can check menus, consult the allergen guide, and confirm gluten-free options before cooking starts.
What to tell your server or manager before ordering
- Tell them you have celiac disease or a gluten allergy and ask to speak with a manager or cook if available.
- Point to the dishes you plan to order and ask if they contain wheat (X) or are prepared on shared equipment (Y).
- Ask about sauces, gravies, and dressings. Make sure they are wheat-free or will be left out.
Requests that can reduce cross-contact
- Ask for fresh gloves and clean utensils for your meal prep.
- Request wiped or separate pans and a clean spatula for your grilled protein to reduce cross-contact Cracker Barrel risks.
- Ask for sauces on the side and that any breaded or fried items be kept away from your order.
- If frying is unavoidable, ask whether your item is cooked in a shared fryer and opt out if it is.
When to consider skipping dining in and choosing takeout or another restaurant
- If staff cannot confirm separate prep or the item is cooked on shared equipment marked Y, consider takeout packaged separately.
- Delivery or curbside pickup can lower some exposure, though shared kitchen prep may pose risk; confirm practices at the location.
- For large or catered orders, use the Catering Allergen Guide and speak directly with catering staff to request segregation of gluten-free items.
Quick decision checklist
| Question | Safe Answer | Action | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Can kitchen confirm separate prep? | Yes, separate pans/grill and clean utensils | Order in-restaurant | Reduces cross-contact Cracker Barrel risk |
| Is item cooked in shared fryer or near breaded foods? | No | Proceed with order | Fryer and shared grills are high-risk |
| Can sauces and dressings be served separately or omitted? | Yes | Customize order | Sauces often contain wheat |
| Staff cannot confirm precautions | No confirmation | Choose takeout or another restaurant | Strict celiacs should avoid doubt |
Many guests find that clear requests let them enjoy Cracker Barrel gluten free choices with confidence. When staff accommodate simple precautions and you are comfortable, dining in can work for sensitive diners. If doubts remain, choose takeout or a restaurant with a dedicated gluten-free kitchen for greater peace of mind.
Pricing, value, and customer experience for gluten-free diners
Cracker Barrel has gluten-friendly options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Prices vary by region, and there are often specials that change prices. This section will help you understand typical prices, portion sizes, and what customers say to plan your visit.
Typical price range
Breakfast items like eggs with bacon or sausage and a fruit side cost between $7 and $12. Lunch options like grilled chicken tenders or salads are about $8 to $13. Dinner dishes with steak, grilled trout, or combos can cost $12 to $20 or more, depending on the cut and sides.
Portion sizes and perceived value
Cracker Barrel serves big portions. Main courses and combos are often very filling. Customers say these portions are worth the price, making it a good value for gluten-free meals.
| Items | Description | Calories | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breakfast Plate | Two eggs, bacon or sausage, fruit side | 520 | $7–$12 |
| Grilled Chicken Salad | Greens, grilled tenders, vinaigrette | 610 | $8–$13 |
| Lemon Pepper Trout | Grilled trout with two sides | 740 | $12–$18 |
| Sirloin Steak | Grilled steak, choice of sides | 820 | $14–$22 |
Customer impressions and service notes
Customers love the grilled chicken tenders, lemon pepper trout, and fresh fruit plates. They also appreciate the friendly staff who try to meet dietary needs.
But, there are concerns about cross-contact from shared cooking areas. Some with celiac disease have mixed experiences. They suggest calling ahead or asking for separate preparation. The lack of gluten-free pancakes or biscuits is a disappointment for some.
- Positive: Generous portions, fair prices, clear protein choices.
- Negative: Cross-contact worries, limited GF baked goods, staff uncertainty about separate prep.
- Practical tip: Call ahead for complex needs; ask servers for clean utensils and wiped surfaces to reduce cross-contact.
Offers and planning
Look for local promotions to save money. Cracker Barrel often has weekday lunch specials and seasonal deals. For groups or catering, check the Catering Nutrition & Allergen Guides to plan and request accommodations.
Conclusion
Cracker Barrel has a variety of gluten-free menu options. You can choose from plain grilled proteins, lemon pepper trout, fresh fruit, steamed vegetables, and some salads. But, items like biscuits, pancakes, and many sides contain wheat and have gluten.
Gluten-free dining at Cracker Barrel comes with a risk of cross-contact. Shared fryers and grills can expose gluten-free foods to gluten. The allergen guides suggest talking to management about these risks.
To safely enjoy gluten-free options at Cracker Barrel, take a few steps. Use the Nutrition & Allergen widget online, call ahead, or ask the manager about your needs. Also, ask for clean utensils and sauces on the side. Avoid fried or mixed items if you’re very sensitive.
This guide helps you understand Cracker Barrel’s allergen data and reviews. With careful planning and communication, you can enjoy gluten-free meals safely. This way, you can enjoy the homestyle dining Cracker Barrel offers without worry.
FAQ
What is the purpose of this Cracker Barrel gluten-free guide?
This guide helps those with gluten issues find safe food at Cracker Barrel. It lists allergens, calorie counts, and prices. It also gives tips for ordering safely.
How does Cracker Barrel label allergens and cross-contact risks?
Cracker Barrel uses a guide to show allergens and risks. They mark items with X for allergens like Wheat. Y marks items that might have cross-contact risks.
Why might an item that lacks wheat ingredients be risky?
Shared cooking spaces can spread gluten to gluten-free foods. Items marked Y have this risk. Cracker Barrel warns that their foods might not be safe for everyone.
How can I use Cracker Barrel’s Nutrition & Allergen widget before visiting?
Visit crackerbarrel.com and open the Nutrition & Allergens tab. Use the widget to see calories and allergen flags. Filter by Allergens > Wheat to find safe items.
What do the X and Y marks mean in the widget for someone with celiac disease?
X means the item has the allergen and should be avoided. Y means it’s cooked in a way that could mix with allergens. Y items are risky for celiacs.
Which breakfast items are generally gluten-free by recipe at Cracker Barrel?
Gluten-free breakfast items include plain scrambled eggs and thick-sliced bacon. Also, smoked sausage patties and fresh fruit are safe. Check the widget for Y flags.
Which breakfast items should be avoided if you are gluten-sensitive?
Avoid pancakes, French toast, and buttermilk biscuits. They have wheat. Also, hashbrown casserole and loaded versions have wheat.
What ordering steps reduce cross-contact risk at breakfast?
Tell the server about your gluten allergy. Ask for fresh gloves and clean utensils. Choose items not marked Y to avoid risk.
Which lunch and dinner proteins are usually safer by recipe?
Grilled proteins like chicken breasts and steak are usually safe. Lemon Pepper Grilled Rainbow Trout is also a good choice. Always check for Y flags.
What common entrées and sides contain wheat and should be avoided?
Avoid breaded items like Chicken & Dumplins and Country Fried Chicken. Also, meatloaf, pot roast, and dumplins have wheat. They are not safe for celiacs.
Which sides and salads are generally safe by recipe?
Fresh fruit and steamed vegetables are safe. So are whole kernel corn and side salad without croutons. Coleslaw can vary, so check the widget.
Are any desserts or beverages safe for gluten-free diners?
Most coffee, unsweetened iced tea, and fruit juices are gluten-free. But, many desserts have wheat. Always ask about desserts.
How should I communicate my needs to staff to reduce risk?
Tell staff about your gluten allergy. Ask to speak with a manager. Explain your needs and ask for precautions like clean utensils.
When is it better to skip dining in and choose takeout or another restaurant?
If unsure about safety, choose takeout or another restaurant. Call ahead to discuss your needs. This reduces risk.
What are typical price ranges for gluten-friendly meals at Cracker Barrel?
Breakfasts cost –. Lighter lunches are –. Dinner entrees are –+. Portions are generous, making it a good value.
What customer feedback do gluten-free diners report?
Many praise grilled chicken and trout. Fruit plates and helpful staff are also appreciated. But, there are concerns about cross-contamination.
Where does the allergen and pricing data in this guide come from?
This guide uses Cracker Barrel’s official guides and reports from diners. It provides up-to-date information on gluten-free options and prices.
What immediate takeaways should gluten-sensitive diners remember?
Many grilled proteins and salads are gluten-free. But, some items have wheat. Always check the widget and ask for precautions to stay safe.
