Cracker Barrel Turnip Greens Recipe 2025 (Copycat & Easy Guide)
The Turnip Greens at Cracker Barrel are a classic Southern side dish served in the restaurant. They’re slow-cooked, tender, and full of smoky flavor. Many guests love them because they taste homemade and bring comfort food vibes.
Turnip Greens Recipe (Copycat Style) at Cracker Barrel
Want to make them at home? A copycat turnip greens recipe is simple:
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs fresh or canned turnip greens
- 1 smoked ham hock or 4 strips bacon
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
How to Make It:
- Start by cooking the ham hock or bacon until smoky and golden.
- Add onion and garlic, letting the aroma fill your kitchen.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring everything to a boil.
- Stir in your turnip greens, cover, and let them simmer low and slow until tender.
- Finish with a little seasoning and serve warm with cornbread on the side.
This is how Cracker Barrel’s cooks their turnip greens. Some people ask, Does Cracker Barrel use canned turnip greens? – Yes, they may use prepared greens, but the slow cooking and added seasonings give them that rich taste.
Turnip Greens Price and Value at Cracker Barrel
At most Cracker Barrel’s locations, a side of turnip greens costs around $3.39 to $6.39, depending on the restaurant. You can also order them as part of the Vegetable Plate, which usually lets you pick four sides for a bundled price.
Considering the portion size and flavor, turnip greens are one of the more budget-friendly and healthier options on the menu. They give you a filling serving without being too heavy, making them worth the price.
Nutrition and Calories in Cracker Barrel’s Turnip Greens
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 480mg
- Carbohydrate: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Calcium: 100mg
- Iron: 2mg
- Potassium: 200mg
Allergens in Turnip Greens:
Turnip greens are generally safe for most diets, but here’s what to note:
- Gluten: The greens themselves are gluten-free, but if prepared with ham hocks, bacon, or sauces, cross-contact is possible.
- Soy/Wheat: Not typically in the recipe, but may appear if extra flavorings, broths, or seasonings are added.
- Dairy & Nuts: Not included in the traditional recipe.
👉 Quick Tip: If you’re sensitive to allergens, always confirm with the restaurant since preparation methods can vary by location.
Ingredients in Cracker Barrel’s Turnip Greens
The key ingredients include:
- Turnip greens
- Pork (ham hock or bacon)
- Onion and garlic
- Salt, pepper, vinegar, and broth
That’s what gives them their smoky, tangy flavor.
Best Dishes to Serve With Turnip Greens
If you want to recreate the Cracker Barrel’s dining experience at home, turnip greens pair perfectly with these dishes:
- Meatloaf with Buttermilk Biscuits – A hearty, homestyle combo that balances the rich flavor of meatloaf with the lightness of turnip greens.
- Grilled Chicken Tenderloins – Juicy, smoky chicken works well with the greens for a protein-packed meal. Add barbecue sauce for an extra kick.
- Chicken and Dumplings – For a complete Southern meal, serve tender dumplings alongside turnip greens, biscuits, and other sides like mashed potatoes or mac ‘n cheese.
Can You Store Turnip Greens for Later?
Yes! If you have leftovers, turnip greens store well.
- Refrigerator: Up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- Freezer: 2–3 months when packed in freezer-safe containers.
- Best Method: For longer freshness, use vacuum-sealed bags before freezing.
Just make sure the greens have completely cooled before storing them, so they keep their texture and flavor.
Check our page Cracker Barrel Menu!
Customer Reviews:
People often share their reviews online, even on Reddit. Most say the greens taste authentic and comforting. Some guests love the smoky flavor, while others think they are salty.
Overall, reviews show they are one of Cracker Barrel’s most popular sides.
FAQS
Final Thought:
Cracker Barrel turnip greens are more than just a side dish – they’re comfort food that connects with Southern tradition. Whether you’re enjoying a bowl at the restaurant or trying a copycat recipe at home, they bring flavor, nutrition, and a true taste of the South.
