As the season of Lent begins, Cracker Barrel is ready to serve folks looking for delicious fish, seafood, and vegetarian options. If you’re looking for a place that offers hearty, flavorful meals that fit the Lenten guidelines, Cracker Barrel has a variety of options to suit your needs including new Spring dishes and classic favorites. Whether you’re looking for seafood, vegetarian options, or simply a light meal during this sacred time, there’s something for everyone – and all at a great value.
And to bring even more value to the table this Lent Season, Cracker Barrel Rewards Members earn double pegs on all seafood meals every Friday now through Easter weekend.*
Here’s a breakdown of some of the best Lenten meal options available at Cracker Barrel:
1. Friday Fish Fry
A classic Lenten option, Cracker Barrel serves up crispy, golden fried Cod fillets and hand-dipped in a homemade batter. Friday Fish Fry features four Cod fillets, fried to perfection, and served tartar sauce, a lemon wedge, and choice of two country sides like coleslaw, steak fries, fried okra, and more. This meal is perfect for anyone who loves fried fish and is looking for a filling yet satisfying option.
2. NEW Louisiana-Style Shrimp Skillet
Craving something new and light? Try Cracker Barrel’s new Louisiana-Style Shrimp Skillet. Grilled shrimp with a zesty creole sauce, served with grilled parmesan bread for dipping. Served with your choice of two country sides, like Seasoned Rice and Broccoli to balance the meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.
3. Catfish
For a classic country comfort meal, Cracker Barrel serves up U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish that’s available either fried or spicy grilled. This flavorful fish is a popular choice for Lenten meals and can be paired with classic sides like fries, coleslaw, or a garden salad. Two catfish fillets come cornmeal crusted and fried crispy with tartar sauce and hushpuppies, or spicy grilled for a flavorful, lighter alternative. Don’t forget the biscuits and cornbread!
4. Country Fried Shrimp
Another seafood option is Cracker Barrel’s Country Fried Shrimp. These crispy shrimp are lightly breaded and fried until golden. Served with a side of cocktail sauce, hushpuppies, and your choice of two country sides, this dish offers a satisfying, seafood-packed meal perfect for Lent.
5. Lemon Pepper Grilled Rainbow Trout
For an extra special treat, enjoy Cracker Barrel’s Lemon Pepper Grilled Rainbow Trout. Two lightly seasoned boneless spring water trout fillets are grilled until they’re fork tender. Served with a lemon wedge, enjoy this dish with your choice of two country sides plus fresh biscuits or cornbread muffins.
6. Vegetarian Options
Cracker Barrel also has a variety of vegetarian options for those who prefer to avoid meat and seafood during Lent. Some of the best options include:
• Country Vegetable Plate: This dish allows you to choose from several vegetable sides like mac and cheese, whole baby carrots, mashed potatoes, and more, creating a delicious and satisfying vegetarian meal.
• House Salad: A fresh and healthy option that can be paired with any of the seafood or vegetarian dishes, providing a light and refreshing complement to the meal.
• Weekday Lunch Specials: Pick 2 Country Combos featuring House Salad, Loaded Baked Potato, or Soup.
• Baked Potato: A savory side dish that pairs well with any meal. It’s a great option for vegetarians or those looking for a lighter side during Lent.
7. Breakfast Options for Lent
Cracker Barrel is known for all-day breakfast, and that’s no different during Lent. There are many breakfast items on the menu that can also be Lenten-friendly. Consider choosing from:
• Pancakes: Buttermilk pancakes served any way you want. Stuffed with cheesecake filling and strawberries. Or loaded with chocolate chips, topped with 100% Pure Natural syrup. Or topped with Cinnamon Apples or Country Peaches. Or don’t forget the blueberry pancakes with delicious blueberry syrup.
• NEW Fresh Strawberry French Toast Bake: Thick-cut country bread soaked in vanilla custard, topped with cheesecake filling, fresh strawberries and powdered sugar.
• Eggs with Fresh Fruit: A simple and nutritious choice, offering eggs cooked to your preference paired with fresh fruit.
8. Serving a Crowd? Lent Options for the Family and More
Cracker Barrel’s Country Fried Shrimp Family Meal is a great way to feed the fam during Lent. Whether it’s a convenient and delicious weeknight meal, or a fun dinner with friends on the weekend, Family Meals are an easy choice. Served hot, breaded fried shrimp and hushpuppies plus family-sized sides of your choice. And of course, buttermilk biscuits. Serves five (plus leftovers!).
Have a bigger crowd? Check out the Country Fried Shrimp Buffet Style option, that serves 10 and offers the choice of two or three large sides and choice of bread.
Whether you’re craving a fried fish meal, something grilled, or a vegetarian-friendly option, Cracker Barrel offers a variety of dishes that cater to those observing Lent. Diners can still enjoy hearty, flavorful meals while adhering to their Lenten practices.
So, if you’re in need of a Lent-friendly meal, head to Cracker Barrel or visit crackerbarrel.com to enjoy delicious options. And don’t forget to join Cracker Barrel Rewards to earn Double Pegs on Fish and Seafood dishes every Friday during Lent!
*For qualifying Seafood entrée orders placed in store, or made online, and picked up on Fridays, between 3/07/25 to 4/18/25. Each award subject to 500-Peg balance limit on date awarded. Must be a Member to participate. Full terms.
