Cracker Barrel Healthy Menu: Nutritious Options You’ll Love
Cracker Barrel offers a way to enjoy comfort food while making smarter choices. Their menu includes Build Your Own Homestyle Breakfast and Good Morning Breakfast. They also have lighter options like Grilled Chicken Tenders and Lemon Pepper Grilled Rainbow Trout. Each dish comes with calorie information, making it easy to choose what fits your diet.
At breakfast, you can customize your meal to cut calories. You can swap items like egg whites, multigrain toast, and fresh fruit. The Egg Sandwich, for example, pairs two eggs with seared bread. Sides range from Fresh Fruit (about 60 calories) to Thick-Sliced Bacon (about 190 calories).
Lunch and dinner have many options under 600 calories, marked with a carrot icon. You can find dishes like Chicken n’ Dumplins, grilled catfish, and grilled chicken salads. Sides like Steamed Broccoli (≈35–40 cal) and Fresh Seasonal Fruit (≈50–60 cal) help you create a filling meal without too many calories.
Starters and salads come with detailed dressing and calorie information. For example, a House Salad has about 160 calories without dressing. Dressings range from 210 to 280 calories. The Chicken n’ Dumplin Soup has around 130 calories for a cup and near 260 for a bowl, making it easy to control your portion size.
Cracker Barrel offers light dishes and low-calorie meals across different categories. You can find nutrition details and a downloadable guide online. This helps busy families and food lovers make quick, informed choices when dining in or ordering takeout.
Overview of Cracker Barrel’s approach to wholesome, homestyle food
Cracker Barrel mixes homestyle taste with clear nutrition. They offer a wide range of healthy menu options. These include grilled proteins, fresh fruit, and steamed veggies for balanced meals.
Their goal is to serve quality food that families love. They use real ingredients and portion sizes that fit everyone. Dietitians suggest adding veggies and choosing low-sodium sides for better meals.
Cracker Barrel’s goal for family-friendly, quality food
Cracker Barrel wants to offer familiar tastes with clear nutrition facts. Menus have five sections for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This makes it easy for families to find both favorite and lighter options.
Staff can explain ingredients and portion sizes. Online resources provide nutrition and allergen info. This helps you make informed choices before ordering.
Wholesome Fixin’s and the under-600-calorie carrot icon
Wholesome Fixin’s mark lighter meals across the menu. These dishes offer comfort with fewer calories and fats. Look for the carrot icon for meals under 600 calories and less than 15 g fat.
Menu items under 200 calories are also available. This helps build a full plate that’s lighter. It’s a great way to enjoy tasty meals without overdoing it.
How to use the nutrition guide and online resources
The online nutrition guide is detailed and easy to search. It lets you filter by calories, fat, carbs, protein, and sodium. The allergen PDF lists shared-kitchen risks and clear ingredient callouts for common allergens.
Order planning through the website or app makes takeout simple. Use the nutrition tool to mix items and check totals. This helps you build meals from the healthy menu or choose wholesome fixin’s.
cracker barrel healthy menu
Cracker Barrel offers lighter choices for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This way, you can enjoy homestyle flavors without extra calories. The menu features grilled proteins, vegetable dishes, salads, soups, and customizable breakfasts.
Look for carrot-marked Wholesome Fixin’s, items from Bites n’ Sides, and nutrition facts. These help you plan meals that fit your dietary goals.
What the healthy menu includes across breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Breakfast options include the Build Your Own Homestyle Breakfast and egg sandwiches. You can choose egg whites, multigrain toast, or Impossible™ Sausage. Breakfast is available all day, making it easy to pick lighter dishes anytime.
Lunch and dinner feature grilled entrees like Grilled Chicken Tenders and Lemon Pepper Grilled Rainbow Trout. Salads and soups are great starters. The Country Vegetable Plate lets you pick four sides for a balanced meal.
Menu sections relevant to health-conscious diners
The menu is organized into Breakfast; Lunch n’ Dinner; Vegetables; Sides n’ Such; Desserts; Kids; Beverages. This makes it easy to find low-calorie meals and compare options.
Vegetable dishes and side salads have the lowest calories. Bites n’ Sides and Wholesome Fixin’s offer quick swaps for lighter meals.
How to customize orders using available nutrition information
The online nutrition guide lists calories, fat, and allergens for each item. Use it to add up combo totals, choose a cup instead of a bowl, or substitute steamed broccoli for fried sides. You can ask for grilled cooking, skip buttery toppings, and choose vinaigrette over creamy dressings.
Nutrition PDFs help you calculate precise totals. This way, you can make targeted swaps for those tracking their intake. Clear labeling makes quick decisions easier when ordering in the dining room or for takeout.
| Items | Description | Calories | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Build Your Own Homestyle Breakfast | Choose eggs (egg whites available), toast, fruit or grits, and protein like turkey sausage or Impossible™ Sausage | 250–600 (varies by choices) | $6.99–$10.49 |
| Egg Sandwich | Egg on multigrain or biscuit; swap egg whites and fruit for a lighter plate | 320–520 | $5.49–$7.29 |
| Grilled Chicken Tenders | Seasoned, grilled chicken served with two sides | 420 | $11.99 |
| Lemon Pepper Grilled Rainbow Trout | Lightly seasoned trout with vegetable side choices | 540 | $13.49 |
| Homestyle Grilled Chicken Salad | Mixed greens, grilled chicken, vegetables; dressing on the side | 380 (with vinaigrette) | $10.99 |
| Country Vegetable Plate | Pick four sides: steamed broccoli, fresh fruit, carrots, green beans | 220–520 (depends on sides) | $9.49 |
| House Salad | Mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers; choose Balsamic Herb Vinaigrette | 90–250 (with dressing) | $4.99 |
| Chicken n’ Dumplin Soup (Cup) | Classic broth-based cup portion to control portions | 150 | $3.99 |
Best breakfast choices for lighter starts
Morning meals set the tone for the day. Cracker Barrel offers smart swaps and clear nutrition info to help you choose lighter options without losing homestyle flavor. This short guide highlights build your own homestyle breakfast ideas, the Good Morning Breakfast, and egg sandwich choices that keep calories in check.
Build Your Own Homestyle Breakfast
Start by picking egg whites, multigrain toast, and fresh fruit. A sample combo—egg whites + multigrain toast + fresh fruit + sliced tomato—lands near 330 calories with about 3 g fat. Swap in Impossible™ sausage and the total rises to roughly 470 calories and 17 g fat. Choosing these components helps diners follow the cracker barrel healthy menu while controlling portions.
Good Morning Breakfast — nutrition highlights
The Good Morning Breakfast features two scrambled egg whites, grits, fresh fruit, sliced tomatoes, and turkey sausage. It totals about 300 calories, 8 g fat, 27 g protein, and 830 mg sodium. This premade breakfast ranks among the lower-calorie choices and gives steady protein with modest sugars, making it practical for busy mornings.
Egg Sandwich and side selection
The egg sandwich is two eggs on seared bread with tomato and mayo. To keep calories lower, replace regular bread with multigrain if available, skip or reduce mayo, and pair the sandwich with Fresh Fruit (about 60 cal) instead of Thick-Sliced Bacon (about 190 cal).
| Item | Description | Calories | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Egg Whites + Multigrain Toast + Fruit + Tomato | Egg whites, multigrain toast, fresh fruit cup, sliced tomato | ~330 cal | $6.99 |
| Egg Whites + Multigrain + Impossible™ Sausage + Tomato | Egg whites, multigrain toast, Impossible™ Sausage, sliced tomato | ~470 cal | $8.49 |
| Good Morning Breakfast | Two scrambled egg whites, grits, fruit, tomatoes, turkey sausage | 300 cal | $7.29 |
| Egg Sandwich + Fresh Fruit | Two eggs on seared bread, tomato, light mayo; fresh fruit side | ~420 cal | $7.99 |
| Egg Sandwich + Thick-Sliced Bacon | Same sandwich paired with bacon side | ~550 cal | $8.89 |
Choose lower-fat proteins, favor fruit or tomato sides, and ask for egg whites to keep meals under 600 calories. These swaps reflect cracker barrel light dishes while letting you customize a satisfying plate that fits daily goals.
Nutritious lunch and dinner entrees with calories under 600
Cracker Barrel offers satisfying entrées that are good for your diet. They have lean, grilled proteins and homestyle dishes with the right portion sizes. If you’re looking for healthy options, they have many choices under 600 calories.
The menu features grilled proteins with lots of flavor but fewer calories. Grilled Catfish is a great choice for its protein and low calories. Knowing the grilled catfish calories helps you pick meals that are good for your health and weight.
Here are some lean entrees to try:
- Grilled Catfish — around 260 calories with about 38 g protein and moderate sodium.
- Grilled Chicken Tenders — roughly 320 calories when served as an entrée; lighter third-party sources list a 270–320 cal range depending on sides.
- Lemon Pepper Grilled Rainbow Trout — near 330–410 calories depending on portion and preparation.
Try the Homestyle Grilled Chicken Salad for a veggie-packed meal with protein. It has about 440 calories, making it a great choice for those who want veggies and protein together.
Comfort soups can be part of a lighter meal when picked wisely. Chicken n’ Dumplin Soup is a good choice under 600 calories, often around 450 calories for a full bowl. Opt for a cup portion or pair it with a low-calorie side to keep calories in check.
To eat less fat and sodium, choose Wholesome Fixin’s items. These dishes are grilled, broiled, or served with veggies instead of fried or heavy gravies. Swapping mashed potatoes and gravy for steamed broccoli or fresh fruit cuts calories and sodium.
| Items | Description | Calories | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grilled Catfish | U.S. farm‑raised, spicy grilled fillet with lemon | 260 | $12.99 |
| Grilled Chicken Tenders | Seasoned tenders grilled, served with two sides | 320 | $11.49 |
| Lemon Pepper Grilled Rainbow Trout | Lightly seasoned trout with lemon and herbs | 330 | $13.29 |
| Homestyle Grilled Chicken Salad | Grilled chicken over mixed greens, veggies, vinaigrette option | 440 | $10.99 |
| Chicken n’ Dumplins (Bowl) | Classic homestyle soup with tender chicken and dumplings | 450 | $7.99 |
Making small changes can make a big difference. Ask for vinaigrette, skip buttery sides, and choose steamed veggies or fruit. These tweaks turn popular dishes into healthier options without losing flavor.
Use calorie markers and nutrition guides when ordering. Paying attention to grilled catfish calories and similar metrics helps keep your choices in line with your daily goals. These small steps add up to steady progress when dining out.
Salads, soups, and starters that help you eat lighter
The menu offers simple swaps that lower calories without losing flavor. Diners aiming for the cracker barrel healthy menu can pair fresh veggies, light dressings, and sensible portions to stay on track. Small changes add up and keep meals satisfying.
The house salad is a smart start. Plain greens with tomatoes, cucumbers, and carrots run about 160 calories without dressing. Knowing house salad calories helps when choosing a dressing or pairing the salad with an entrée.
Pick balsamic herb vinaigrette over creamy dressings to save calories. The vinaigrette has roughly 210 calories per serving. Blue cheese is about 280 calories, buttermilk ranch runs near 200 calories, and honey mustard sits around 250 calories. Ask for dressing on the side and use half to cut calories further.
Soups make flexible sides or light mains. A cup of Chicken n’ Dumplin Soup ranges near 130 calories. A bowl can reach about 260 calories, so choose cup vs bowl based on hunger and your daily goals. Tracking chicken n’ dumplin soup calories helps diners decide whether to order soup alone or with a small salad.
Vegetable soup is another low-calorie pick. A bowl of vegetable soup clocks near 170 calories, with about 2 g fat, 720 mg sodium, and 5 g fiber. Choosing a cup portion and skipping crackers lowers calories and sodium even more.
Simple tactics keep salads lighter and more meal-friendly. Skip croutons and crunchy toppings. Use vinaigrette instead of creamy dressings. Add a lean protein like grilled chicken to make a salad a full meal without excess fat.
| Item | Description | Calories | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| House Salad | Mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots; dressing on side | 160 (no dressing) | $4.99 |
| Balsamic Herb Vinaigrette | Light vinaigrette, herbs | 210 per serving | $0.75 (side) |
| Buttermilk Ranch | Creamy, tangy | 200 per serving | $0.75 (side) |
| Blue Cheese Dressing | Rich and creamy | 280 per serving | $0.75 (side) |
| Honey Mustard | Sweet and tangy | 250 per serving | $0.75 (side) |
| Chicken n’ Dumplin Soup (Cup) | Broth, shredded chicken, dumplings | 130 | $3.49 |
| Chicken n’ Dumplin Soup (Bowl) | Hearty portion of soup | 260 | $5.99 |
| Vegetable Soup (Bowl) | Mixed vegetables in savory broth | 170 | $4.29 |
- Order a cup of soup as a side to control portions and sodium.
- Choose vinaigrette and ask for half the dressing to trim calories.
- Skip croutons and fried toppings to reduce fat and added salt.
Healthy side dishes to pair with entrees
Choosing the right sides can make a meal balanced and satisfying. The Cracker Barrel healthy menu has many small-plate options. These options keep calories and sodium low. Use sides to control portions, add fiber, and complement grilled or baked entrees for a lighter meal.
Steamed Broccoli, Fresh Seasonal Fruit, and Sweet Whole Baby Carrots calorie details
Steamed broccoli has about 35–40 calories per serving. It has roughly 4 g of fiber and little sodium when plain. Fresh seasonal fruit has 50–60 calories and is full of vitamins without fat. Sweet whole baby carrots are 90–110 calories and are crunchy and full of nutrients.
Country Vegetable Plate — choose four low-calorie sides to build a balanced meal
The Country Vegetable Plate lets you pick four sides for a meal that fits your goals. Choose steamed broccoli, fresh fruit, turnip greens, and pinto beans. This mix keeps calories low while adding fiber and nutrients.
| Items | Description | Calories | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steamed Broccoli | Plain-steamed florets, fat-free | 40 | $2.99 |
| Fresh Seasonal Fruit | Mixed fruit cup, no syrup | 60 | $2.49 |
| Sweet Whole Baby Carrots | Lightly steamed or chilled | 110 | $2.29 |
| Coarse Ground Grits | Plain, single serving | 70 | $1.99 |
| Pinto Beans | Seasoned, modest sodium | 140 | $2.79 |
| Turnip Greens | Stewed, leafy side | 100 | $2.69 |
Sides to avoid or limit
Some sides add many calories or sodium. A loaded baked potato can have about 520 calories and high sodium. Fried okra has 250 calories, high sodium, and added fat. Hashbrown and sweet potato casseroles are tasty but high in calories if you’re aiming for low-calorie meals.
To keep calories in check, choose steamed or fresh sides. Use the Country Vegetable Plate to mix four lower-calorie choices. This way, you can enjoy balanced meals on the Cracker Barrel healthy menu while keeping flavor and portion control.
Meal-building ideas and sample under-600-calorie combos
Cracker Barrel focuses on simple swaps and portion control. This keeps meals tasty and low in calories. They recommend pairing lean proteins with veggies and fruit for balanced meals.
Use the nutrition guide to mix carrot-icon entrees with Bites n’ Sides under 200 calories. This creates reliable under-600-calorie combos.
Breakfast sample builds using egg whites, multigrain toast, fruit, and plant-based Impossible™ Sausage
Breakfast Meal #1: Egg whites, multigrain toast, fresh fruit, and tomato add up to about 330 calories. It has just 3 g fat. This mix keeps protein high and saturated fat low.
Breakfast Meal #2: Swap one fruit portion for Impossible™ Sausage. Keep egg whites and toast for roughly 470 calories and 17 g fat. This choice offers a meat-like flavor while staying under many calorie goals.
Lunch and dinner combos that stay light
Grilled Catfish with steamed broccoli and fresh fruit totals about 360 calories. Lemon Pepper Trout with green beans and carrots lands near 470 calories. These combinations show how grilled proteins plus two vegetable or fruit sides create satisfying under-600-calorie combos.
How to mix and match sides and entrées to meet calorie and fat goals
Choose one lean entrée, one vegetable side, and one fruit or small starch to stay under 600 calories. Ask for cup portions of soups, skip buttery sauces, and replace hashbrowns or bacon with tomato slices or fresh fruit.
Smaller portions and vegetable-forward plates help parents and busy diners make quick healthy choices. Cracker Barrel healthy menu guidance makes it simple to customize without losing the homestyle taste.
| Items | Description | Calories | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Egg Whites + Multigrain Toast + Fruit + Tomato | Egg whites cooked to order, whole-grain toast, seasonal fruit cup, fresh tomato slices | 330 | $6.99 |
| Egg Whites + Multigrain Toast + Impossible™ Sausage + Tomato | Plant-based sausage patty with egg whites and toast, tomato on the side | 470 | $8.49 |
| Grilled Catfish + Steamed Broccoli + Fresh Fruit | Grilled catfish filet with lemon, steamed broccoli, mixed fruit cup | 360 | $11.99 |
| Lemon Pepper Rainbow Trout + Green Beans + Carrots | Lightly seasoned trout with steamed green beans and baby carrots | 470 | $13.49 |
| Chicken n’ Dumplin Soup (cup) + House Salad (vinaigrette) | Cup portion of comfort soup plus a side house salad with balsamic herb vinaigrette | 290 | $7.49 |
| Country Vegetable Plate (3 low-cal sides) | Choose steamed broccoli, fresh fruit, whole baby carrots to build a veggie-forward plate | 220 | $8.29 |
| Grilled Chicken Tenders + Green Beans + Applesauce | Three grilled tenders with steamed green beans and unsweetened applesauce | 420 | $10.49 |
Use these sample builds for quick decisions at the host stand or when ordering takeout. Simple swaps and side choices make the cracker barrel healthy menu approachable for families, parents, and busy diners seeking tasty under-600-calorie combos.
Special diets: gluten-free, low-carb, vegetarian, vegan, and diabetes-friendly options
Cracker Barrel has options for many special diets. You can find low-carb, vegetarian, and diabetes-friendly meals with careful choices. But, remember that the kitchen handles breads and shared utensils, which can be risky.
Gluten considerations and safer menu picks
For gluten-free options, choose items that don’t have gluten naturally. Fresh fruit, vegetable plates, and plain eggs are good choices. The House Salad without croutons and grilled proteins are also safe, but ask about how they’re prepared.
A Loaded Baked Potato might seem gluten-free, but it could be made with shared equipment.
Low-carb and diabetes-friendly choices
For low-carb diets, try grilled sirloin steak with steamed broccoli and turnip greens. Spicy Grilled Catfish with veggies is another good option. Diabetic-friendly meals include lean proteins, non-starchy sides, and small portions.
Choose cup-sized soups and avoid sugary sauces. Be careful with sodium in soups and cured meats.
Vegetarian and vegan possibilities and kitchen limitations
Vegetarian diners can enjoy eggs, salads, baked potatoes, and many vegetable sides. Vegan options are limited and need careful checking. Fresh fruit, apple slices, and steamed broccoli can be vegan if no butter or dairy is used.
But, shared fryers and meat-seasoned vegetables can be risky for cross-contact and seasoning.
| Diet | Sample Picks | Notes | Best Questions to Ask |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gluten-free options | Fresh Seasonal Fruit; House Salad (no croutons); Grilled Chicken | Generally safe but verify prep and dressings | “Is this fried or shared with breaded items?” |
| Low-carb | Grilled Sirloin; Spicy Grilled Catfish; Steamed Broccoli | Low carb, watch sauces and sides | “Can I have steamed veggies instead of fries?” |
| Diabetic friendly choices | Grilled proteins; Vegetable Plate; Cup of Chicken n’ Dumplin Soup | Focus on portion control and lower sugar | “What are the carb counts and sodium?” |
| Vegan options | Fresh Fruit; Apple Slices; Multigrain Toast; Steamed Broccoli | Limited; confirm no butter, margarine, or broth with animal ingredients | “Is this prepared with butter or meat stock?” |
Ask for ingredient lists and the allergen PDF when you can. Small changes like skipping buttery sides and choosing vinaigrette instead of creamy dressing can help. Talking clearly with staff helps match the menu to your needs and reduces cross-contact risk.
Sodium, fat, and allergen guidance for health-conscious choices
Eating at Cracker Barrel can be both comforting and healthy. The menu has options for those watching their diet. Knowing how to make smart swaps can help you enjoy your meal without too much sodium or fat.
High-sodium pitfalls to watch for
Big sandwiches and fried foods are high in sodium. The Barrel Cheeseburger has about 1,070 mg. The Homestyle Chicken BLT can have up to 2,560 mg.
Southern Fried Chicken has even more sodium, near 4,730 mg. Some sides and baked items also have a lot of salt. A Loaded Baked Potato has about 2,470 mg of sodium.
Creamy soups and dressings add sodium and calories fast. Choosing smaller portions and skipping crackers can help a lot.
Strategies to reduce fat and sodium
Ask for steamed veggies instead of buttery sides. Get sauces and dressings on the side to control how much you use. Choose vinaigrettes over creamy dressings to cut down on fat and calories.
Ordering smaller portions is a good idea. Go for cup portions of soup or share an entree. Swap fried for grilled and ask for no butter on bread or veggies to cut fat without losing flavor.
Allergen info and cross-contact risk
Cracker Barrel has a detailed allergen PDF. It lists fish, soy, milk, eggs, gluten, shellfish, peanuts, and tree nuts. Tell your server about any allergies before you order.
Shared prep areas mean there’s a risk of cross-contact. If you have a severe allergy, ask to speak with a manager or kitchen staff. Looking at the allergen info before you go helps make safer choices.
Here’s a quick guide for making healthier choices at Cracker Barrel. It includes common swaps, sodium ranges, and allergen flags.
| Item or Swap | Why it helps | Approx. Sodium Range | Common Allergens |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grilled Catfish instead of Fried Catfish | Less fat from frying; preserves protein and flavor | 400–800 mg | Fish, may contain soy in seasoning |
| Steamed Broccoli vs. Buttered Broccoli | Cuts added fat and calories; keeps fiber | 20–80 mg | None typical, check cross-contact |
| Cup of Soup + House Salad (vinaigrette) | Controls portion size and lowers sodium | 300–900 mg | Eggs, milk may appear in dressings |
| Skip crackers and request sauces on side | Reduces hidden sodium and added fats | Varies widely; avoids extra 200–500 mg | Depends on sauce ingredients |
| Multigrain toast, no butter | Lower saturated fat and simpler carbs | 150–300 mg | Gluten, may contain soy |
| Choose vinaigrette, ask for half portion | Less fat than creamy dressings | 80–250 mg | Eggs or dairy sometimes in dressings |
Use the allergen info before ordering and tell your server about allergies. Follow the sodium guidance and make small swaps to reduce fat at Cracker Barrel. This way, you can enjoy your meal without losing flavor or making it less family-friendly.
Ordering tips, customization strategies, and beverage choices
For healthier choices at Cracker Barrel, make simple swaps. Use the online menu to see nutrition info. Choose grilled proteins and swap fried sides for steamed broccoli or fresh fruit. Ask for multigrain toast instead of white.
Request sauces and dressings on the side. This helps control portions and avoid hidden calories.
Ask for modifications, choose cup portions, and share large plates
Ask staff to grill catfish or chicken tenders instead of frying. Opt for cup-size soups to save calories and sodium. Split large entrees with a partner or box half to avoid overeating.
Best beverage picks for low calories: water and unsweetened iced tea
Water and unsweetened iced tea are great low calorie drinks. They let you enjoy your meal without extra calories. Avoid Old-Fashioned Lemonade and specialty lattes or hot chocolate, which have 200–400 calories.
When to order takeout/delivery and how to keep meals healthy off-premises
Order takeout online to control portions at home. When delivery, ask for sauces separately and split entrées before reheating. Reheat grilled items without butter and pair with Bites n’ Sides under 200 calories.
| Strategy | Example | Calories Saved | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Swap fried for grilled | Grilled Chicken Tenders vs. Fried | ~150–250 | Choose steamed side to maximize savings |
| Portion control | Order cup soup, box half entrée | ~200+ | Reduces sodium and total intake |
| Side swap | Fresh Fruit or Steamed Broccoli | ~100–200 | Pick carrot-icon sides when possible |
| Beverage choice | Unsweetened Iced Tea / Water | 0–5 | Avoid lemonade and specialty coffees |
- Customize meals from carrot-icon entrees plus Bites n’ Sides under 200 calories.
- For kids, choose grilled chicken tenderloins with broccoli and apple slices for a balanced plate under 300 calories.
- Keep dressings and sauces on the side and use a fork to dab, not drench, to limit added fat.
Conclusion
Cracker Barrel makes healthy eating easy with choices that fit busy lives. They offer grilled proteins, salads, and vegetable sides. This way, diners can enjoy tasty meals without too many calories.
The nutrition guide and online resources help you compare and plan meals. This way, you can meet your dietary goals. Wholesome Fixin’s and carrot-icon items help find under-600-calorie plates.
Using the nutrition PDF helps spot high-sodium or high-fat options. You can ask for swaps like cup portions or fruit instead of fried sides. This keeps your meals balanced and under 600 calories.
Cracker Barrel has clear labeling and allergen details for safe choices. They offer healthy options like Grilled Chicken Tenders and Steamed Broccoli. Always check nutrition facts and tell staff about allergies.
Online ordering and the nutrition guide make quick decisions easy. With a few swaps and attention to portions, you can enjoy homestyle flavor and nutrition. This makes it simple to pick a meal that meets your goals.
FAQ
What counts as a healthy choice on the Cracker Barrel menu?
Healthy choices include grilled proteins, vegetable sides, and fresh fruit. Look for Wholesome Fixin’s entries and the carrot icon. These mark dishes under 600 calories and 15 g fat. Use the online nutrition guide to compare calories, fat, and sodium before ordering.
How can I build a lower-calorie breakfast at Cracker Barrel?
Choose the Build Your Own Homestyle Breakfast. Pick egg whites, multigrain toast, fresh fruit, and tomato slices. A sample build is egg whites + multigrain toast + fruit + tomato, which is about 330 calories and 3 g fat. Swap bacon or hashbrowns for fruit or grits to keep calories low.
Which premade breakfast is one of the lowest-calorie options?
The Good Morning Breakfast is a low-calorie choice. It has two scrambled egg whites, grits, fresh fruit, sliced tomatoes, and turkey sausage. It’s about 300 calories, 8 g fat, and 27 g protein.
What entrees are under 600 calories and good for health-conscious diners?
Carrot-icon entrees and Wholesome Fixin’s are good choices. U.S. farm‑raised Grilled Catfish is about 260 calories. Grilled Chicken Tenders range from 270–320 calories. Lemon Pepper Grilled Rainbow Trout is 330–410 calories. Chicken n’ Dumplin’ has cup or entree options of 130–450 calories. Pair these with low-calorie sides to stay under 600 calories.
How can soups and salads be ordered to reduce calories and sodium?
Order soups in cup portions instead of bowls. Chicken n’ Dumplin’ cup is about 130 calories; bowl is 260 calories. Start with the House Salad, which is about 160 calories without dressing. Choose a vinaigrette like Balsamic Herb. Skip croutons and ask for dressing on the side.
Which side dishes are the best low-calorie picks?
Steamed Broccoli, Fresh Seasonal Fruit, and Sweet Whole Baby Carrots are good choices. They are low in calories. Use the Country Vegetable Plate to pick four low-calorie sides. Many start around 35–60 calories each.
What sides should I avoid if I’m watching calories, fat, or sodium?
Avoid Loaded Baked Potato, Fried Okra, Hashbrown Casserole, and many fried or creamy sides. Large sandwich platters and some desserts also have high calories and sodium.
Are there vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options available?
Vegetarian options include eggs, salads, multigrain toast, and many vegetable sides. Vegan choices are limited to fruit and some plain sides. Gluten-free options include fresh fruit, steamed vegetables, and some grilled proteins. But, shared prep areas pose cross-contact risk. Consult the allergen PDF and inform staff.
How high is the sodium in Cracker Barrel meals and how can I reduce it?
Sodium is high in fried items, large sandwiches, and loaded sides. Reduce sodium by choosing steamed veggies, grilled proteins, cup-sized soups, and vinaigrette on the side. Also, request no added butter or sauces.
What are smart beverage choices to keep calories low?
Water and unsweetened iced tea are good choices. They have 0 calories. Limit sweetened drinks and high-cal specialty coffees or lemonades. Many range from 200–400 calories.
Can I get nutrition and allergen details before I order?
Yes. Cracker Barrel posts a downloadable nutrition guide and an allergen PDF online. These list calories, fat, carbs, protein, and sodium for menu items. Because of shared kitchen prep, cross-contact is possible—always notify staff of allergies.
Any tips for ordering takeout or delivery and keeping meals healthy?
Order carrot-icon entrees or Wholesome Fixin’s, pick low-calorie sides, and ask for sauces and dressings on the side. Portion large entrees into meal-sized portions before reheating. Online ordering allows easier customization to control calories and sodium for takeout or delivery.
What are popular lighter picks diners recommend?
Popular nutritious picks include Grilled Catfish, Grilled Chicken Tenders, Lemon Pepper Grilled Rainbow Trout, Homestyle Grilled Chicken Salad (with vinaigrette), and Bites n’ Sides like Steamed Broccoli and Fresh Seasonal Fruit. These combine lean protein and vegetables while keeping calories and fat relatively low.
