Cracker Barrel Turnip Greens Recipe

If you’ve had the turnip greens at Cracker Barrel, you know they don’t mess around with seasoning.

This recipe brings out that same smoky, slow-cooked Southern edge right at home.

The key here is using a smoked ham hock—it’s not optional if you want that depth of body in the pot liquor.

One of the reasons I stick with this recipe is because it hits that balance between hearty and easy to build on.

I always rinse the greens at least three times—grit loves to hide in the stems, and it ruins the pot if you skip it.

A little dash of apple cider vinegar near the end brightens the whole thing and rounds out the richness!

How to Make Cracker Barrel’s Turnip Greens

Ingredients

• 2 bunches Turnip Greens
• 1 Smoked Ham Hock
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 cup Onion (diced)
• 1 tsp Salt
• 0.5 tsp Black Pepper
• 1 cup Chicken Broth
• 2 cloves Garlic (chopped)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Rinse the turnip greens thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit.

Chop them into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2:

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onion until it’s soft.

Add the chopped garlic and stir for another minute.

Step 3:

Add the turnip greens to the pot in batches, stirring them to wilt slightly before adding more.

Season with salt and black pepper.

Step 4:

Once all greens are added, place the smoked ham hock into the pot.

Pour in the chicken broth.

Step 5:

Cover the pot and simmer on low for about two hours, until the greens are tender and the flavors have melded.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Thorough Washing

Make sure to wash the greens thoroughly, as they can hide grit and dirt between the leaves.

I usually do this with multiple rinses in a large basin or under running water.

Meat Options

Feel free to substitute the ham hock for smoked turkey wings or necks if you prefer poultry.

They add a similar, delicious smoky flavor.

Flavor Adjustments

Taste the greens before serving and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Sometimes adding a splash of vinegar perks up the final dish, providing a nice balance to the richness.

Cooking Time

Check the texture of the greens occasionally during cooking, as some people like them more tender than others.

You can cook them a little longer if you like them softer.

Spice it Up

If you love a bit of heat like I do, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

It adds a subtle warmth without overpowering the dish.

What to Serve with Cracker Barrel Turnip Greens

Classic Southern Fried Chicken

When you think of southern dishes, fried chicken naturally comes to mind.

It’s a trusty companion for turnip greens, offering a crispy, savory contrast to the tender greens.

The combination is both traditional and satisfying for any meal.

Succulent Grilled Rainbow Trout

Turnip greens pair wonderfully with seafood, and grilled rainbow trout is a great option.

The light and tasty fish enhances the flavors of the greens, creating a harmonized dish.

Together, they make for a refreshing and nutritious meal.

Hearty Meatloaf

Another classic pairing is serving turnip greens with meatloaf.

The savory meatloaf, with its rich and flavorful profile, complements the earthy taste of the greens.

It’s a comforting combination that feels homely and filling.

Unexpected Couscous and Roasted Vegetables

If you’re in the mood to mix it up, couscous with roasted vegetables can be a refreshing choice.

The lightness of couscous mingles with the depth of the greens, while roasted veggies add color and crunch.

It’s a vibrant and unexpected pairing that just works.

Creamy Polenta

For something a bit different, serve your turnip greens with creamy polenta.

The texture and mild flavor of polenta balance the robust taste of the greens perfectly.

It’s a rich and comforting side that adds a touch of elegance to the meal.

Variations and Substitutions

Meat Alternatives

If you prefer using something other than smoked ham or bacon, try smoked turkey necks or wings.

These options provide a rich, smoky flavor while keeping things interesting.

Green Substitutes

You can swap out turnip greens with collard or mustard greens to add a different texture and flavor to the dish.

Each type of green brings its own unique character, so give them a try!

Oil Options

Trade out olive oil with any vegetable oil for a slightly different taste.

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider trying avocado oil for its subtle, nutty finish.

Seasoning Twist

For a tangy flavor, add some apple cider vinegar to your greens.

The acidity can balance out the richness of the meat and offer a fresh taste.

Aromatic Enhancements

Switching up the onion variety can make a difference.

Choose white or red onions to tweak the overall flavor profile of your greens!

How to Store Leftover Cracker Barrel Turnip Greens

Refrigerator Storage

First things first, letting your leftover turnip greens cool completely before storing them is key.

Once cooled, place them in an airtight container or a sealable plastic bag to maintain freshness.

Store the container in the refrigerator, and they should stay tasty for about four to five days.

Freezer Storage

If you want to keep your turnip greens longer, freezing them is a great option.

First, allow the greens to cool, then transfer them into a freezer-safe container or bag.

They can be kept in the freezer for up to four months, ready to accompany future meals.

Extra Tip

If you have leftover salad greens, placing a paper towel in the package can greatly increase shelf life.

This simple trick helps absorb excess moisture and keeps your greens fresh longer.

You’ll be amazed at how long they last with this quick little tip.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Washing Thoroughly

You might think you’ve cleaned your greens, but it’s so easy to miss bits of dirt!

Make sure to rinse every leaf in cold water to keep your dish grit-free.

I always pay extra attention to this step to avoid any unwelcome crunch!

Using Tough Greens

You’ve got to select the freshest and youngest greens for tenderness.

Older greens can be too tough and spoil the texture.

Young greens or those touched by frost often have a more tender quality you’ll love.

Overcooking the Greens

It’s tempting to leave the greens simmering too long, but this can lead to a mushy outcome.

You want your greens tender yet slightly firm, keeping a bit of their vibrant, leafy character.

A careful watch on cooking time does wonders for the final dish!