Some recipes overcomplicate things, but Southern cooking is all about keeping it simple and letting the flavors do the work. These dishes come from years of tradition, which means they’ve stood the test of time and never go out of style. Whether you’re looking to cook for a big gathering or just want something different for dinner, these 19 recipes make it easy to bring a little Southern comfort to any table.
Creamy Mashed Cauliflower
If you’re looking for a way to swap out something classic without losing the comforting feel, Creamy Mashed Cauliflower is the way to go. It brings that same rich and smooth texture without making you feel like you’re missing anything. You’ll still get that warm, hearty side dish that fits right in with a Southern meal. Nobody will even question it once they take a bite.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mashed Cauliflower
Pecan Bacon Cheeseball
Any gathering instantly feels more Southern when a Pecan Bacon Cheeseball is sitting on the table. It’s got a mix of smoky and nutty flavors that make it impossible to ignore. Whether you’re spreading it on crackers or just going straight in with a spoon, there’s no wrong way to enjoy it. Good luck getting through the night without someone asking for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Bacon Cheeseball
Sloppy Joe Casserole
There’s something about a messy, saucy, and hearty meal that just screams comfort, and Sloppy Joe Casserole delivers exactly that. It takes everything you love about the classic sandwich and turns it into a warm, bubbly dish you can scoop straight from the pan. You don’t need a bun, but you’ll still get all that sweet and savory goodness. It’s one of those meals that disappears from the table before you even realize how much you’ve eaten.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole
Collard Dip
You don’t have to wait for a special occasion to bring out Collard Dip because once you taste it, it becomes an everyday thing. It’s packed with that unmistakable Southern flavor and goes with just about anything you can dip into it. Whether you’re spreading it on toast or scooping it up with chips, it never disappoints. This is the kind of snack that turns into dinner if you’re not careful.
Get the Recipe: Collard Dip
Sweet Potato Pie
Some desserts just belong in a Southern kitchen, and Sweet Potato Pie is one of them. It has that perfect mix of sweetness and warmth that makes every bite feel like home. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday dinner or just because you felt like baking, it never lasts long. A dollop of something creamy on top never hurts, but honestly, it holds its own just fine.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Pie
Fluffy Sour Cream Biscuits
A proper Southern meal isn’t complete without a side of Fluffy Sour Cream Biscuits that practically melt in your mouth. They’re soft, buttery, and just waiting to be smothered in something good. Whether you’re pairing them with gravy or just enjoying one fresh out of the oven, they never disappoint. There’s a reason nobody ever makes just a small batch.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Sour Cream Biscuits
Cheese Ball
Every Southern gathering has that one dish that disappears in minutes, and it’s usually a Cheese Ball. It’s creamy, full of flavor, and basically demands to be spread on everything in sight. Whether you serve it at a party or just keep one in the fridge for snacking, you’ll never regret having it around. Just be prepared for people to hover around it like it’s the main course.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Ball
Shrimp And Grits Casserole
A Southern favorite gets a twist with Shrimp And Grits Casserole, and it’s as comforting as it sounds. All the rich, creamy goodness of the classic dish is baked together for a hearty meal that works for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It’s warm, filling, and exactly what you need when you’re craving something that feels homemade. If you haven’t tried it yet, you’re missing out.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp And Grits Casserole
Southern-Style Broccoli Salad
You might not think of broccoli as a go-to Southern dish, but Southern-Style Broccoli Salad will change your mind. It’s got just the right mix of crunch, creaminess, and flavor that makes you forget you’re even eating vegetables. It works as a side dish, but honestly, it’s good enough to eat straight from the bowl. If you bring this to a potluck, don’t expect to take any home.
Get the Recipe: Southern-Style Broccoli Salad
Mississippi Mud Pie
Some desserts are good, and then there’s Mississippi Mud Pie, which exists on a whole different level. It’s rich, chocolatey, and so good that you’ll have to fight for the last piece. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or just sneaking a slice for yourself, it never disappoints. If you think you can stop at one bite, you’re lying to yourself.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Pie
Mini Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread
There’s something about warm, gooey bread that makes everything better, and Mini Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread is proof. It’s got the perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it impossible to eat just one piece. Whether it’s on the holiday table or just a random Wednesday, it always feels like a treat. Don’t expect leftovers—this one vanishes fast.
Get the Recipe: Mini Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread
Southern Mash
A plate of comfort isn’t complete without a big scoop of Southern Mash right in the middle. It’s creamy, smooth, and works with just about everything on your plate. Whether you’re piling it high with gravy or just enjoying it on its own, it never lets you down. If you’re looking for a side dish that steals the show, this is it.
Get the Recipe: Southern Mash
Creamed Corn
If there’s one side dish that belongs at every Southern meal, it’s Creamed Corn. It’s sweet, creamy, and works just as well with a weeknight dinner as it does with a holiday spread. Whether you’re serving it up in a bowl or mixing it into something else, it always finds a way to stand out. Just don’t be surprised when people go back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Corn
Crockpot Slow Cooker Taco Soup
Southern comfort meets convenience with Crockpot Slow Cooker Taco Soup, and it’s as easy as it is flavorful. It’s one of those meals you can throw together and let the slow cooker do all the work while your kitchen smells amazing. Every bowl is packed with hearty goodness that warms you up from the inside out. This is the kind of meal that makes you wish for leftovers—but there probably won’t be any.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Slow Cooker Taco Soup
Lemon Loaf Cake
If you’re in the mood for something sweet but not too heavy, Lemon Loaf Cake is a perfect choice. It’s got just the right amount of brightness and softness, making it impossible to stop at one slice. Whether it’s a mid-afternoon snack or a breakfast treat, it always hits the spot. Just don’t be surprised if it disappears faster than expected.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Loaf Cake
Southern Ham Salad
A good Southern meal doesn’t always have to be hot, and Southern Ham Salad proves it. It’s creamy, full of flavor, and perfect for spreading on crackers or piling onto a sandwich. Whether you’re making it for a party or just keeping some in the fridge for quick lunches, it never disappoints. Once you try it, you’ll wonder why you didn’t start making it sooner.
Get the Recipe: Southern Ham Salad
Pineapple Casserole
Some combinations might sound unusual at first, but Pineapple Casserole is the kind of dish that wins you over in one bite. It’s sweet, a little savory, and somehow works perfectly as both a side dish and a dessert. Whether you’re serving it at a potluck or just making it for yourself, it’s one of those recipes people always ask about. Trust the process—this one’s a keeper.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Casserole
Country Sausage Gravy
No Southern breakfast is complete without a big helping of Country Sausage Gravy poured over something warm and fluffy. It’s rich, hearty, and exactly what you need to start the day off right. Whether you’re drizzling it over biscuits or just spooning it straight from the pan, it never disappoints. If you haven’t had this for breakfast yet, you’re missing out.
Get the Recipe: Country Sausage Gravy
Southern Crack Chicken Casserole
When you need something warm, cheesy, and downright addictive, Southern Crack Chicken Casserole is the answer. It’s packed with flavor and comes together in a way that makes you keep going back for more. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a dish for a gathering, this one never sticks around for long. You might as well go ahead and make extra.
Get the Recipe: Southern Crack Chicken Casserole
