There’s a reason homemade Southern cooking has a reputation, and it’s not because people like washing extra dishes. The flavors hit differently when they come from a kitchen where the only secret ingredient is someone’s stubborn refusal to follow a written recipe. These 17 dishes prove that making it from scratch beats anything that comes from a can, box, or drive-thru window.
Sloppy Joe Casserole
There’s something about a warm, hearty dish that just feels like home. That’s exactly why Sloppy Joe Casserole is a go-to when you want a filling meal with big flavor. It takes everything people love about the classic sandwich and layers it into a dish that’s easy to serve up for a crowd. One bite, and you’ll see why homemade beats anything out of a box.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole
Macaroni Salad
Some dishes belong at every gathering, and this one is a staple for a reason. Macaroni Salad brings a creamy, slightly tangy bite that pairs with just about anything on the table. Whether it’s a backyard cookout or a family dinner, this dish makes sure no plate goes unfinished. You might think you made enough, but somehow, it always disappears faster than expected.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad
Sweet Potato Pie
There’s dessert, and then there’s a slice of pure comfort on a plate. Sweet Potato Pie has been winning over hearts for generations with its smooth texture and just the right touch of sweetness. It’s the kind of pie that doesn’t need anything fancy—just a fork and maybe a second helping. No store-bought version comes close to the homemade goodness of this classic.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Pie
3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Simple, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this dish is proof that good food doesn’t have to be complicated. 3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole comes together quickly but tastes like something that took way more effort. It’s the kind of side that people pretend to take “just a little” of, only to come back for a full plate later. If you ever need a dish to make veggies irresistible, this one does the job.
Get the Recipe: 3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Fluffy Sour Cream Biscuits
No Southern meal is complete without something warm and buttery straight from the oven. Fluffy Sour Cream Biscuits bring the perfect balance of softness and a slight crisp on the edges, making them hard to resist. They’re just right for slathering with butter, honey, or anything else that makes them even better. Once you taste these homemade biscuits, you’ll wonder why you ever settled for store-bought.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Sour Cream Biscuits
Southern Crack Chicken Casserole
When a dish has a name like this, you already know it’s going to be good. Southern Crack Chicken Casserole is loaded with flavor and just the right amount of indulgence to make it a household favorite. It’s the kind of meal that turns a regular night into something special. Don’t be surprised if you’re scraping the dish for every last bite.
Get the Recipe: Southern Crack Chicken Casserole
Hoppin John
Some dishes are packed with history, and this one is as Southern as it gets. Hoppin John is the kind of meal that brings comfort with every bite, loaded with rich flavors that only get better the longer it sits. It’s a must-have anytime and it deserves a spot on the table all year long. If you need a meal that sticks with you, this one never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Hoppin John
Sweet Potato Casserole
There are side dishes, and then there are the ones that steal the whole meal. Sweet Potato Casserole walks the line between dinner and dessert, and no one’s mad about it. It’s sweet, smooth, and has that little extra something on top that makes it impossible to resist. One scoop is never enough, and that’s just a fact.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole
Southern-Style Broccoli Salad
Some salads are just there to make the plate look healthy, but this one actually gets people excited. Southern-Style Broccoli Salad has the right mix of crunch, creaminess, and flavor to keep everyone coming back for more. It’s the kind of side that somehow works for summer cookouts and holiday dinners alike. Don’t expect leftovers—this one goes fast.
Get the Recipe: Southern-Style Broccoli Salad
Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
This dish is proof that a little sweetness goes a long way. Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham takes an already good cut of meat and turns it into something people can’t stop talking about. The combination of flavors makes it perfect for holidays, but honestly, it’s too good to save for special occasions. Once you make it homemade, you’ll never go back to anything pre-made.
Get the Recipe: Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese
Some sandwiches are just on another level, and this one is in a league of its own. Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese combines smoky, slow-cooked goodness with melted cheese and crispy bread for the ultimate bite. It’s the kind of meal that makes you pause for a second just to appreciate how good it is. If you’ve never tried it, you’re seriously missing out.
Get the Recipe: Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese
Cracker Barrel Cinnamon Roll Pie
Two classic desserts coming together means twice the reason to grab a fork. Cracker Barrel Cinnamon Roll Pie takes the best parts of warm, gooey cinnamon rolls and combines them with a flaky, buttery crust. It’s rich, sweet, and the perfect excuse to have dessert for breakfast. Just be warned—once you bring this to a gathering, you’ll be expected to make it every time.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Cinnamon Roll Pie
Air Fryer Steak Bites
Sometimes, you just need something quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Air Fryer Steak Bites deliver that perfect balance of a crispy outside and a tender inside, all without making a mess. They’re great for a snack, a meal, or even just something to grab straight from the basket before they hit the plate. If you didn’t think the air fryer could handle steak, this will prove you wrong.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Steak Bites
Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
There’s a difference between just making a vegetable and actually making it taste good. Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans take their time soaking up flavor, turning into something far from the plain steamed version. They’re the kind of side dish that people scoop up without hesitation. Homemade makes all the difference, and once you’ve had them this way, there’s no going back.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
Shrimp and Grits Casserole
Classic flavors come together in one dish that’s as comforting as it is rewarding. Shrimp and Grits Casserole takes everything people love about this Southern favorite and makes it easy to serve. It’s creamy, savory, and packed with flavor that hits just right. If you ever need a dish that proves homemade is best, this one does the job.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits Casserole
Creamed Corn
Some sides are simple but bring a whole lot to the table. Creamed Corn is the perfect example of a dish that turns something basic into something unforgettable. It’s rich, smooth, and pairs well with just about anything. Once you have it homemade, you’ll never settle for anything from a can again.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Corn
Lemon Loaf Cake
Sometimes, you just need a dessert that’s light, fresh, and easy to love. Lemon Loaf Cake brings just enough sweetness with a little citrus to keep things interesting. It’s the kind of treat that works for breakfast, dessert, or just a snack when you need something good. One slice turns into two before you even realize it.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Loaf Cake
