Cracker Barrel’s loaded sweet potato is a comforting twist on a classic favorite. This dish combines the natural sweetness of tender baked sweet potatoes with savory toppings like melted cheese, crispy bacon, and a dollop of sour cream. It’s the perfect balance of flavors that makes it a standout side or even a hearty main.
We love how easy it is to recreate this restaurant favorite right in our own kitchen. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe brings that cozy, homestyle vibe to your table. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser that everyone will ask for again.
Ingredients
To recreate the Cracker Barrel Loaded Sweet Potato at home, we need fresh and flavorful ingredients that bring out the perfect balance of sweet and savory. Below, you’ll find everything required for the sweet potatoes, toppings, and some optional add-ons to elevate the dish even further.
For the Sweet Potatoes
We start with large sweet potatoes that will serve as the hearty base for this loaded dish. Choose firm, unblemished potatoes for the best texture and flavor.
- 4 large sweet potatoes (about 10-12 ounces each), washed and dried
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (to coat skins)
- Pinch of salt (for seasoning the skins)
For the Toppings
The signature loaded aspect shines with a mix of rich, savory, and creamy toppings that contrast beautifully with the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shredded sharp cheddar cheese | 1½ cups | Use full-fat for best melt |
| Cooked bacon | 6 slices | Crisp and crumbled |
| Sour cream | ½ cup | For dolloping |
| Green onions | 2 stalks | Thinly sliced for garnish |
| Ground black pepper | To taste | Freshly cracked preferred |
Optional Add-Ons
To customize our loaded sweet potato just like at Cracker Barrel and to cater to different tastes, consider these extras that add unique flavors and textures:
- Chopped fresh chives – Adds a mild oniony freshness
- Butter – For extra creaminess when mashing the flesh
- Garlic powder – Light dusting to enhance the savory notes
- Crumbled feta or goat cheese – For tangy variation
- Hot sauce – If you like a spicy kick
These ingredients allow us to balance the classic flavors or personalize the dish according to our preferences perfectly.
Equipment Needed
To perfectly prepare the Cracker Barrel Loaded Sweet Potato, gathering the right equipment is essential. Each tool helps ensure our sweet potatoes bake evenly and toppings melt beautifully, delivering that signature flavor balance.
Here is a detailed list of the required equipment with descriptions of their use:
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Baking Sheet | Holds the sweet potatoes while baking in the oven |
| Aluminum Foil | Optional: wraps potatoes for even cooking and moisture retention |
| Sharp Knife | Cuts open the sweet potatoes before loading toppings |
| Cutting Board | Provides a safe surface to prepare toppings and potatoes |
| Mixing Bowl | Mixes optional seasoning or combines toppings like cheese, bacon, and sour cream |
| Spoon | Scoops sweet potato flesh or portions toppings evenly |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Ensures precise quantities for toppings and seasoning |
| Oven Mitts | Safely handles hot baking sheet and potatoes |
| Grater (optional) | Grates sharp cheddar cheese for a perfect melt |
Additional Considerations
- Use a convection oven setting if available to crisp the potato skin nicely.
- For crisper bacon, pan-fry before assembling toppings.
- Consider a wire rack on the baking sheet to allow hot air circulation around the potatoes for uniform baking.
Prep Work
Before diving into assembling our Cracker Barrel Loaded Sweet Potato, mastering the prep work is essential. This ensures each element shines and the flavors meld perfectly.
Preparing the Sweet Potatoes
- Select large sweet potatoes. Choose firm, evenly shaped ones for consistent baking.
- Wash and scrub each potato thoroughly to remove dirt and debris.
- Dry completely using a clean kitchen towel.
- Pierce the skin: Using a sharp knife or fork, poke holes all over each sweet potato to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Coat the sweet potatoes with a light brush of olive oil or melted butter to help crisp the skin and add richness.
- Season skin generously with a sprinkle of salt to enhance flavor and texture.
- Wrap in aluminum foil loosely or place directly on a wire rack over a baking sheet for evenly baked skin.
- Bake at 400°F (204°C) for 45-60 minutes depending on size, until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
Preparing the Toppings
| Topping | Preparation Tips | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Sharp cheddar cheese | Shred finely for even melting | 1 ½ cups, shredded |
| Bacon | Cook in a skillet over medium heat until crispy | 6-8 slices |
| Sour cream | Use chilled for the best contrast | ½ cup |
| Green onions | Slice thinly on a bias for a fresh crunchy bite | 2 stalks |
| Optional add-ons | Chop chives finely, measure garlic powder, prepare hot sauce | To taste |
- Cook bacon slices in a skillet until crisp. Drain on paper towels and crumble once cooled.
- Shred the sharp cheddar cheese if not pre-shredded.
- Slice green onions thinly to accentuate freshness and mild sharpness.
- Gather sour cream and optional seasonings like garlic powder or hot sauce ready to add customization.
- Set toppings aside in separate bowls to streamline assembly after baking.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these step-by-step directions to perfectly prepare our Cracker Barrel Loaded Sweet Potato recipe. Each stage ensures tender sweet potatoes with flavorful, crispy toppings.
Baking the Sweet Potatoes
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). For extra crispy skin, select the convection setting if available.
- Prepare the sweet potatoes:
- Wash and dry 4 large sweet potatoes completely.
- Pierce each potato 5-6 times with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Coat potatoes with olive oil or melted butter:
- Use about 1 tablespoon per potato to evenly coat the skins.
- Sprinkle kosher salt over the skin to enhance flavor and crispness.
- Place potatoes directly on a wire rack on the middle oven rack, ensuring even heat circulation. Use a baking sheet below to catch drips for easy cleanup.
- Bake for 45 to 60 minutes until tender when pierced with a fork.
Tip: Test doneness by gently squeezing the potato with an oven mitt or poking the center with a skewer — it should slide in easily.
| Step | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preheat oven | 400°F (204°C) | — | Use convection for crispier skin |
| Bake sweet potatoes | 400°F (204°C) | 45-60 min | Check tenderness starting at 45 minutes |
| Potato preparation | — | — | Pierce and coat with oil/butter |
Cooking the Bacon and Other Toppings
- Cook the bacon strips:
- Use 6 to 8 slices of bacon for this recipe.
- Pan-fry over medium heat until crispy for maximum flavor and crunch. Remove and drain on paper towels to eliminate excess grease.
- Prepare cheese and green onions:
- Finely shred 1 to 1½ cups of sharp cheddar cheese to ensure smooth and even melting over the sweet potato.
- Thinly slice 2 green onions, separating white and green parts if desired for texture contrast.
- Optional toppings:
- Chop fresh chives or parsley for garnish.
- Mix a pinch of garlic powder into sour cream for a subtle kick.
- Set out hot sauce for guests who enjoy extra spice.
Tip: Arrange all toppings in separate bowls near the baked potatoes for easy assembly.
| Topping | Quantity | Preparation | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bacon | 6-8 slices | Pan-fried until crispy | Drain on paper towels |
| Cheddar cheese | 1-1½ cups | Finely shredded | For even melting |
| Green onions | 2 | Thinly sliced | Use whites and greens |
| Sour cream | ½ cup | Optional garlic powder mix | Adds creaminess and flavor |
| Optional garnishes | To taste | Chopped chives, parsley | For fresh herbal notes |
| Hot sauce | To taste | Serve on the side | For personalized heat |
Assembling the Cracker Barrel Loaded Sweet Potato
Now that our sweet potatoes are perfectly baked and all our toppings are prepped, it’s time to bring everything together. We will walk through the process of assembling the loaded sweet potatoes to capture that authentic Cracker Barrel flavor and texture balance.
Adding the Toppings
Start by slicing each baked sweet potato carefully down the center without cutting all the way through. Gently press the ends to slightly open the potato, creating space for the toppings.
Follow these layering steps precisely:
| Step | Topping | Purpose | Quantity per Potato |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Butter or olive oil | Adds richness and flavor | 1 tablespoon |
| 2 | Sharp cheddar cheese | Adds sharpness and melty texture | 1/4 cup shredded |
| 3 | Crispy bacon | Provides smoky crunch | 2 strips, crumbled |
| 4 | Sour cream | Adds creamy tanginess | 2 tablespoons |
| 5 | Green onions | Offers fresh bite and color | 1 tablespoon thinly sliced |
We recommend layering the butter or olive oil inside the potato first to help melt the cheese evenly. Follow by sprinkling the shredded sharp cheddar so it can start melting over the warm flesh. Then add the crispy bacon bits for that savory crunch. Top generously with sour cream to balance the smokiness and finish with fresh green onions for zest and vibrant presentation.
Final Touches
To perfect the Cracker Barrel Loaded Sweet Potato, finalize the dish with these essential touches:
- Optional Seasoning: Sprinkle a tiny pinch of garlic powder or black pepper over the sour cream to enhance depth.
- Heat It Up: Add a dash of hot sauce or a few crushed red pepper flakes on top if you prefer a spicy kick.
- Presentation Tip: Place the loaded sweet potatoes on a serving platter and garnish with chopped chives or extra green onions.
We sometimes place the assembled potatoes under the oven broiler for 1-2 minutes. This melts the cheese further and crisps the edges slightly but watch closely to avoid burning.
By carefully layering and finishing these toppings, we recreate that perfect harmony of sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy textures — the hallmark of an authentic Cracker Barrel Loaded Sweet Potato.
Serving Suggestions
To truly experience the authentic Cracker Barrel Loaded Sweet Potato flavor, presentation and pairing play key roles. Here are our top serving suggestions to elevate this dish for any occasion.
Plating for Impact
- Place the loaded sweet potato on a rustic plate to complement its hearty appeal.
- Use a garnish of finely chopped green onions or fresh chives sprinkled over the top for vibrant color contrast.
- Add a small dollop of sour cream on the side or directly on the potato for visual richness.
Perfect Pairings
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or slow-cooked pork to balance the natural sweetness with savory protein.
- For a vegetarian option, pair with a crisp mixed green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette.
- Complement with warm cornbread or a buttery dinner roll for a classic Southern-inspired meal.
Beverage Suggestions
- A chilled, slightly sweet white wine like Riesling pairs wonderfully, matching the dish’s sweetness.
- For non-alcoholic options, serve with a tall glass of iced tea or sparkling water with lemon to refresh the palate.
Enhancing Texture and Flavor
- For an extra crispy finish, consider broiling the assembled sweet potato for 1-2 minutes before serving.
- Sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce if you like a spicy kick that contrasts the creamy toppings.
| Serving Element | Recommendation | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Green onions/chives | Finely chopped, sprinkled on top | Adds freshness and color |
| Protein pairing | Grilled chicken or slow-cooked pork | Balances sweetness with savoriness |
| Bread | Cornbread or dinner roll | Complements and rounds out meal |
| Beverage | Riesling or iced tea | Enhances flavor and refreshes |
| Broiling time | 1-2 minutes | Adds crispness to toppings |
| Spices | Smoked paprika or hot sauce | Adds depth or heat |
By focusing on thoughtful plating, pairing, and finishing touches, we bring the Cracker Barrel favorite from kitchen to table with confidence and style. This approach ensures every bite delivers a perfect balance of sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy delights.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To ensure our Cracker Barrel Loaded Sweet Potato stays delicious and ready for any mealtime, we follow these foolproof make-ahead and storage strategies:
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Bake the sweet potatoes fully according to the recipe instructions. Allow them to cool completely at room temperature.
- Prepare the toppings separately in airtight containers. For example, keep shredded sharp cheddar cheese, cooked bacon, sour cream, and sliced green onions stored individually.
- When ready to serve, reheat the baked sweet potatoes in an oven preheated to 350°F (177°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Add cold toppings like sour cream and green onions after reheating to maintain their fresh texture.
- If preferred, assemble the loaded sweet potato before reheating, then bake for an additional 10 minutes at 350°F (177°C) to melt the cheese evenly.
Storage Guidelines
| Item | Storage Method | Refrigerator Duration | Freezer Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baked sweet potatoes | Wrap individually in foil | Up to 4 days | Up to 3 months | Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating |
| Cooked bacon | Airtight container | Up to 5 days | Up to 1 month | Re-crisp in oven if desired |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | Airtight container or resealable bag | Up to 7 days | Up to 6 months | Keep dry to avoid clumping |
| Sour cream | Sealed container | Up to 1 week | Not recommended | Add fresh when assembling |
| Green onions | Wrapped in paper towel, sealed bag | 5-7 days | Not recommended | Chop before storing for convenience |
Reheating Tips
To restore the ideal texture and flavor of our loaded sweet potato:
- For the sweet potato, avoid microwaving as it can lead to soggy skin. Instead, warm in a 350°F (177°C) oven wrapped in foil.
- Reheat bacon in a single layer on a baking sheet in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to regain crispness.
- Melt cheese evenly by covering the assembled potato loosely with foil and baking for 8-10 minutes.
- Always add cold or delicate toppings like sour cream and green onions after reheating to preserve their freshness and vibrant flavor.
“Proper storage and reheating help us enjoy the same rich balance of sweet and savory flavors in every bite of our Cracker Barrel Loaded Sweet Potato, even when prepared ahead.”
By following these tips, we guarantee that our loaded sweet potatoes remain as satisfying and flavorful as when freshly made.
Conclusion
Making the Cracker Barrel Loaded Sweet Potato at home is a rewarding way to enjoy a comforting and flavorful dish anytime. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, we can recreate that perfect blend of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors that everyone loves.
Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe offers versatility and deliciousness that’s sure to impress. By following the tips and tricks we’ve shared, we’ll have a dish that’s both satisfying and memorable every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Cracker Barrel’s loaded sweet potato special?
Cracker Barrel’s loaded sweet potato combines sweet baked potatoes with savory toppings like sharp cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, sour cream, and green onions, creating a delicious balance of sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy flavors.
Can I make Cracker Barrel loaded sweet potatoes at home?
Yes, you can easily recreate the dish at home using fresh sweet potatoes, basic kitchen tools, and toppings such as shredded cheddar, bacon, sour cream, and green onions.
What ingredients are needed to make this loaded sweet potato?
You need large sweet potatoes, olive oil or melted butter, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, cooked bacon, sour cream, and green onions. Optional extras include chives, garlic powder, and hot sauce.
What equipment do I need to prepare this dish?
Essential tools include a baking sheet, aluminum foil, sharp knife, cutting board, mixing bowl, spoon, measuring cups/spoons, oven mitts, and optionally, a cheese grater.
How do I bake the sweet potatoes perfectly?
Bake sweet potatoes at 400°F (204°C) for 45-60 minutes after washing, piercing, coating with oil or butter, and seasoning with salt. Using a convection oven and a wire rack can help achieve crispier skin and even cooking.
How should I prepare the toppings for the loaded sweet potato?
Cook bacon until crispy, shred cheddar cheese finely, and slice green onions thinly. Keep toppings in separate bowls for easy assembly and better flavor balance.
What is the best way to assemble the loaded sweet potato?
Slice the baked sweet potato open, add butter or olive oil, layer shredded cheddar, bacon, sour cream, and green onions, then optionally broil briefly for a crispy finish and enhanced flavors.
How should I serve Cracker Barrel loaded sweet potatoes?
Serve on a rustic plate garnished with green onions or chives, with optional sour cream. Pair with grilled chicken, slow-cooked pork, or a green salad. Riesling or iced tea complements it well.
Can I prepare loaded sweet potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, bake the sweet potatoes ahead, cool completely, and store toppings separately in airtight containers. Reheat potatoes in the oven and add cold toppings fresh before serving.
How do I store leftovers of loaded sweet potatoes?
Store baked sweet potatoes in the fridge for up to 4 days. Keep cooked bacon, shredded cheese, sour cream, and green onions separate in airtight containers for freshness. Reheat sweet potatoes undisturbed to retain texture.