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Cracker Barrel Dressing is one of those dishes that embodies the essence of Southern comfort food.
Often served during family gatherings, holidays, or any meal that calls for hearty, soul-warming sides, this dressing is beloved for its rich, savory flavor and satisfying texture.
What makes it so special is the balance of cornbread, vegetables, and a perfect blend of spices, all coming together in a golden, crispy topping with a soft, moist interior.
Whether you’re craving a classic Southern meal or looking for the perfect side dish to pair with your holiday feast, Cracker Barrel Dressing is sure to impress.
This recipe recreates that iconic Cracker Barrel flavor from the comfort of your own kitchen.
It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion.
Once you try it, you’ll see why this dressing has been a staple in so many homes.
Health Benefits
Cracker Barrel Dressing offers several health benefits when enjoyed in moderation:
- Rich in Fiber: Thanks to the cornbread and vegetables, this dressing provides a good amount of dietary fiber, which supports digestive health and helps maintain regularity.
- Source of Protein: The eggs and optional meat add a decent amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall body function.
- Healthy Fats: While butter adds richness, the small amount helps provide essential fats, which are important for brain health and hormone production.
- Vitamins and Minerals: The addition of vegetables like celery and onions gives a small boost of vitamins A and C, which support immune health and skin integrity.
- Bone Health: Calcium from the cornbread and eggs can help support bone health when consumed regularly.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Cracker Barrel Dressing Recipe
To make this flavorful and comforting Cracker Barrel Dressing, you’ll need a few essential ingredients.
Don’t worry—most of these are likely already in your pantry, and the ones you don’t have are easy to find at your local grocery store.
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering dish:
Cornbread (the Heart of the Dressing)
The cornerstone of Cracker Barrel Dressing is the cornbread. You can either make it from scratch or use a store-bought mix.
If you’re making it yourself, aim for a moist, slightly crumbly cornbread that can easily soak up the flavorful broth.
If you’re using a mix, choose one that gives you a slightly denser, traditional cornbread texture.
Celery and Onion (For the Savory Base)
The combination of onions and celery gives the dressing its fragrant base.
Sautéing these vegetables will bring out their natural sweetness, which helps balance the savory elements.
The onion provides a mild, aromatic undertone, while celery adds a subtle crunch and a fresh, earthy note.
Chicken or Vegetable Broth (To Bind the Dressing)
Broth is essential for bringing everything together.
It moistens the cornbread, making it easier to mix and bake into a cohesive dressing.
Chicken broth gives a rich, meaty flavor, while vegetable broth is a great option for a vegetarian version.
You’ll need enough to saturate the cornbread mixture but not too much, so the dressing remains slightly firm.
Eggs (For Binding)
Eggs help bind the cornbread and vegetables together, giving the dressing a more cohesive texture while keeping it moist.
They also contribute to the golden, slightly crispy top when baked.
Herbs and Spices (For the Signature Flavor)
The flavor profile of Cracker Barrel Dressing comes from a perfect mix of herbs and spices.
Sage is the star, giving a warm, earthy depth to the dressing.
Thyme and parsley add a fresh, herby contrast, while salt and pepper round out the seasoning.
Adjust these spices according to your preference for a more robust or subtle flavor.
Butter (For Richness)
Butter adds richness to the dressing, making it even more indulgent.
It also helps achieve a crispy top as the dressing bakes, giving it that signature texture.
Optional Add-ins (For Extra Flavor and Texture)
While not part of the original Cracker Barrel recipe, you can personalize your dressing with add-ins like cooked sausage, sautéed mushrooms, or even dried cranberries for a sweet and savory twist.
These ingredients are totally optional but can enhance the flavor and make the dish uniquely your own.
With these simple ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to recreating the delicious Cracker Barrel Dressing that’s perfect for any gathering.
How to Make Cracker Barrel Dressing: Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Cracker Barrel Dressing at home is easier than you might think.
With just a few simple steps, you can create a dish that tastes just as comforting and flavorful as the one served in the iconic restaurant.
Here’s how to make this Southern classic:
Step 1: Prepare the Cornbread
The first step in making the dressing is preparing the cornbread, which serves as the base.
You can either bake homemade cornbread or use a store-bought mix.
If you’re making it from scratch, bake it a day ahead to allow it to dry out slightly—this helps it absorb the broth more effectively without turning soggy.
Once baked, let the cornbread cool completely before breaking it into bite-sized pieces.
If using a store-bought mix, follow the instructions on the package and bake accordingly.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
While the cornbread cools, heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt a couple of tablespoons of butter.
Add the diced onions and celery to the skillet, sautéing them for about 5-7 minutes until they are soft and translucent.
This step helps to mellow out the sharpness of the onion and softens the crunch of the celery, giving the dressing its signature texture.
Stir occasionally to prevent the vegetables from browning, and ensure they’re evenly cooked.
Step 3: Mix the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, crumble the cooled cornbread into small pieces.
Add the sautéed onions and celery along with the remaining ingredients: eggs, chicken or vegetable broth, melted butter, sage, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper.
Gently stir everything together, making sure the cornbread soaks up the liquid.
The mixture should be moist but not too soupy; if it looks dry, add more broth a little at a time until you reach the right consistency.
Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as necessary.
Step 4: Bake the Dressing
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the cornbread mixture into a greased baking dish.
Spread it out evenly and use a spoon to smooth the top.
Bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
The inside should remain soft and moist, absorbing the flavors of the herbs and broth.
For an extra crispy top, you can increase the temperature to 375°F (190°C) for the last 5-10 minutes of baking, but be careful not to overcook it.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once your dressing is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
Serve it warm alongside your favorite holiday main courses like roast turkey, ham, or fried chicken.
Tips for Perfecting Your Cracker Barrel Dressing
To ensure that your Cracker Barrel Dressing comes out just like the one from the restaurant, keep these tips in mind for the perfect texture, flavor, and presentation:
Get the Right Consistency
One of the most common issues with dressing is getting the texture just right.
You want the cornbread to soak up the broth but not become too mushy.
The mixture should be moist but still hold its shape when spooned into the baking dish.
If the mixture feels too dry, add a little more broth until it reaches a slightly wet, crumbly consistency.
If it’s too wet, let it sit for a few minutes before baking so the cornbread can soak up more liquid.
Seasoning is Key
The seasoning in Cracker Barrel Dressing is what gives it that comforting, flavorful punch.
Don’t skimp on the sage—it’s the signature herb of this dish, and it adds depth and warmth.
If you’re unsure about the amount, start with 1 tablespoon of sage and taste the mixture before baking.
Adjust the seasoning to your liking, and don’t forget to add salt and pepper to bring all the flavors together.
Make-Ahead Instructions
If you’re preparing this dressing for a holiday meal or special gathering, you can save time by making it ahead.
Assemble the dressing in your baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
When you’re ready to cook, let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes to take the chill off, then bake as instructed.
For a Crispy Top
If you love a crispy topping, consider adding a few extra pats of butter on top of the dressing before baking.
This will help create a golden, crispy crust that’s irresistible.
Alternatively, you can increase the oven temperature toward the end of baking to get that perfect crunch without overcooking the inside.
Personalize the Dressing
While the traditional Cracker Barrel Dressing is delicious on its own, you can customize it with your favorite ingredients.
For a meaty version, try adding crumbled sausage or chopped bacon.
For a more decadent touch, you can stir in a bit of heavy cream along with the broth.
To add sweetness and texture, try folding in some dried cranberries or chopped apples.
These optional add-ins can elevate your dressing and make it uniquely yours.
Freezing and Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, cover the dressing with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
For longer storage, you can freeze the dressing.
Simply transfer the cooled dressing to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as usual.
How to Serve Cracker Barrel Dressing
Cracker Barrel Dressing is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes, making it the perfect addition to any meal.
Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast or as a comforting side for a weeknight dinner, here are some ideas for serving it:
Pairing with Classic Holiday Mains
Cracker Barrel Dressing is a favorite side for traditional holiday meals.
It complements roast turkey, baked ham, or even fried chicken.
The savory flavors of the dressing work wonderfully alongside rich, roasted meats, helping to balance the heaviness of the main course with its light, moist texture and aromatic herbs.
It’s especially delicious when paired with mashed potatoes and gravy, creating the ultimate comfort-food plate.
Serving with Southern Classics
For a true Southern meal, serve your Cracker Barrel Dressing alongside dishes like fried chicken, collard greens, or macaroni and cheese.
The hearty nature of the dressing makes it the perfect partner for fried chicken’s crispy exterior and tender interior, while its subtle herby flavor enhances the richness of macaroni and cheese.
Serving Family-Style or Individual Portions
Cracker Barrel Dressing is usually served family-style, with the dish placed in the center of the table for everyone to scoop from.
You can also divide it into individual servings if you’re hosting a more formal meal or want to control portions.
Either way, the rich, golden-brown crust and soft, flavorful interior will impress your guests.
Serving Suggestions for Leftovers
If you have leftovers, Cracker Barrel Dressing can be reheated the next day and served as a side dish with any meal.
It pairs perfectly with roasted meats, fried chicken, or even a simple vegetable stir-fry.
For a unique twist, you can also use the leftovers as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.
Recipe Variation
If you’re looking to personalize your Cracker Barrel Dressing, consider these delicious variations:
- Cornbread and Biscuit Combo: Combine crumbled cornbread and biscuit pieces for an even fluffier, more biscuit-like texture.
- Sausage and Mushroom Dressing: Add crumbled sausage and sautéed mushrooms for an earthy, savory touch that enhances the flavor.
- Sweet and Savory: Stir in some dried cranberries or chopped apples for a pop of sweetness that complements the savory herbs.
- Spicy Twist: For a bit of heat, add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Vegetarian Dressing: Use vegetable broth and skip the sausage, making a fully vegetarian dressing that still packs flavor.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store leftover dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the dressing in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
- Make-Ahead: You can assemble the dressing up to 24 hours in advance. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes, then bake as instructed.
Conclusion
Cracker Barrel Dressing is a timeless, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering, a family dinner, or a casual weekend meal, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
With its combination of savory cornbread, tender vegetables, and aromatic herbs, it captures the essence of Southern home-cooked goodness.
The best part is that it’s easy to prepare, with ingredients that are readily available, and it can be made ahead of time for your convenience.
As soon as you take your first bite, you’ll understand why Cracker Barrel Dressing has been a favorite for so many years.
Give this recipe a try, and bring the warmth and comfort of Cracker Barrel to your own kitchen!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make Cracker Barrel Dressing without cornbread?
While cornbread is the key to traditional Cracker Barrel Dressing, you can substitute it with other types of bread, such as white bread, sourdough, or whole wheat.
If you choose to use a different bread, be sure to adjust the amount of broth to get the right consistency, as different breads will absorb the liquid differently.
- How can I make Cracker Barrel Dressing vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of this dressing, simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth.
You can also omit any meat-based add-ins like sausage or bacon.
The rest of the ingredients will provide plenty of flavor, so it will still be rich and satisfying.
- Can I freeze Cracker Barrel Dressing?
Yes, you can freeze Cracker Barrel Dressing! Once it’s fully cooked and cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To reheat, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until it’s warmed through and the top is crispy.
- Can I use store-bought cornbread for this recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time or prefer convenience, store-bought cornbread works just as well as homemade.
Just make sure to choose a dense, moist cornbread that will absorb the broth without becoming too soggy.
- How do I know when the dressing is done baking?
Your Cracker Barrel Dressing is ready when the top is golden brown and crispy, and the inside is firm but moist.
You can test the texture by inserting a fork or knife into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs.
If the top isn’t as crispy as you’d like, you can increase the temperature for the last 5-10 minutes of baking, but be careful not to overcook it.
Cracker Barrel Dressing
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish (1 unit)
- Large Mixing Bowl – 1 unit
- Large skillet (1 unit)
- Spoon or spatula (1 unit)
- Measuring cups and spoons (1 set)
- Knife and cutting board (1 set)
Ingredients
- 1 loaf cornbread or 6 cups of crumbled cornbread
- 1/2 cup butter unsalted
- 1 medium onion diced
- 1 cup celery diced
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth or as needed
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 1 tablespoon sage dried
- 1 teaspoon thyme dried
- 1 tablespoon parsley dried or fresh
- 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper adjust to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Cornbread:
- If you're using homemade cornbread, bake it ahead of time and let it cool completely. Crumble the cornbread into small, bite-sized pieces and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are soft and translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Combine the Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, add the crumbled cornbread. Pour in the sautéed vegetables, along with the broth, beaten eggs, sage, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine until the cornbread is evenly soaked but not too soupy. If the mixture feels dry, add a bit more broth, one tablespoon at a time.
Bake the Dressing:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the cornbread mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy, and the interior is soft and moist. For a crunchier top, increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) for the last 5-10 minutes.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Let the dressing sit for a few minutes to cool before serving. Enjoy it with your favorite roasted meats, mashed potatoes, or greens for a complete Southern meal.
Notes
- Cornbread: If you’re using store-bought cornbread, be sure it’s not too sweet. A more traditional, savory cornbread will yield the best results for this dressing recipe.
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare this dressing a day ahead. Simply cover the assembled dressing with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
- Freezing: This dressing can be frozen for up to 3 months. Cool it completely, then store it in an airtight container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as usual.
- Texture Tips: If you prefer a moister dressing, add a bit more broth. For a firmer dressing, use slightly drier cornbread and reduce the amount of liquid.
