These 17 Southern recipes have been around long enough to earn their place at any family table. For generations, they’ve been more than just food; they’ve been part of family history. You can’t go wrong with these dishes, because they’ve already stood the test of time. If your family hasn’t been enjoying them for years, now’s the time to start. They’re simple, reliable, and exactly what everyone needs when they sit down to eat.
Sweet Potato Casserole
When holidays roll around, there’s always one dish you can expect on the table, steeped in tradition and comforting memories. It’s sweet, topped with a layer that adds just the right crunch, making it a crowd-pleaser year after year. Sweet Potato Casserole isn’t just food; it’s a slice of home in every bite. It bridges the gap between tasty and sweet, creating a harmony that lights up the dining room.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole
Creamy Mashed Cauliflower
Ever thought about switching things up with your veggie sides? Here’s where a simple yet surprising dish comes into play. Creamy Mashed Cauliflower is a smooth, rich alternative to the usual suspects, proving that sometimes, the underdog can steal the show. It pairs brilliantly with just about anything, making it a versatile side dish for dinners. Plus, it’s a hit for those looking to keep things light without sacrificing the creamy texture and depth of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mashed Cauliflower
Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy
Picture coming home to a dish that wraps you up in its comfort, with rich flavors that conjure images of family dinners and laughter. This is what Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy brings to your table. It’s a testament to simple ingredients coming together in the most delicious way. The tasty gravy complements the chicken perfectly, making every mouthful a delicious experience.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy
Cheese Ball
Look no further than a classic that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Got a gathering on your radar and in need of a standout appetizer? Cheese Ball is your go-to, combining flavors and textures into one spherical masterpiece that’s sure to kick any party up a notch. It’s the type of snack that gathers a crowd, encouraging dips and laughs in equal measure. Plus, it’s proof that sometimes, the best things come in simple, yet incredibly tasty, packages.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Ball
Sloppy Joe Casserole
Who doesn’t love the nostalgia of classic flavors wrapped up in a new twist? That’s exactly what Sloppy Joe Casserole does; it revisits the joy of a childhood favorite and packs it into a hearty, comforting bake. This dish takes the familiar and beloved and upgrades it into something that feels new yet equally welcoming. It’s perfect for those nights when you want to serve up warmth and satisfaction in equal measure.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole
Creamed Corn
Sometimes, it’s the simplest dishes that make a meal truly shine, and here’s a perfect example. Creamed Corn brings sweetness and creaminess to your plate with an ease that’s hard to beat. This side dish has a way of complementing any meal, making it richer and more fulfilling. It’s a reminder of summer flavors and family picnics, all year round. Families cherish this recipe because it stands as a testament to the power of simple, yet profoundly delicious, food.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Corn
Funeral Potatoes
In moments of gathering, whether in joy or sorrow, there’s a dish known for its comforting embrace. Funeral Potatoes carry a legacy of community and care, showing up when people come together to share memories. While its name references a specific occasion, this dish transcends, becoming a beloved addition to many family tables. It’s creamy, crispy, and utterly satisfying, making it clear why this dish is a favorite at gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes
Shrimp and Grits Casserole
For anyone looking to capture the essence of Southern comfort in a dish, here’s a contender. Shrimp and Grits Casserole melds the beloved aspects of a classic Southern breakfast with the convenience of a casserole. This dish brings the sea and the land together in a harmony that’s both surprising and deliciously familiar. It’s a hearty feast that offers a nod to tradition while being perfectly suited for a modern table.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits Casserole
Country Sausage Gravy
Imagine waking up to a dish that promises a day starting on the right note. Country Sausage Gravy does just that, with its rich, comforting flavor that coats your favorite breakfast fare. It’s a staple that finds its way onto Southern tables, bringing folks together over fluffy biscuits and shared stories. This gravy is a reminder of the slow, easy mornings and the joy of a homemade meal. It’s more than just a dish; it’s a warm welcome to any day.
Get the Recipe: Country Sausage Gravy
Buttermilk Fried Chicken
There’s something about biting into perfectly prepared comfort food that just feels right. Buttermilk Fried Chicken is a classic that never disappoints, offering a crunchy exterior and juicy interior with every bite. This dish is a labor of love, often prepared for family gatherings where it’s celebrated and devoured quickly. It speaks to the heart of Southern cooking, where flavor and texture are king. Every piece tells a story of tradition.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Southern Mash
When you’re aiming to bring a bit of soulful warmth to your meal, a side dish like this one rises to the occasion. Southern Mash takes the humble potato and transforms it into something truly extraordinary. This dish is all about comfort, creating a smooth, velvety texture that pairs well with just about anything. It’s a staple at special dinners, lending an earthy, gratifying element to the spread.
Get the Recipe: Southern Mash
Chicken Roll-Ups
Here’s a fun little twist on dinner that involves tender chicken and a surprising element that makes every bite interesting. Chicken Roll-Ups are not your average meal; they’re little bundles of joy that bring excitement to the table. Perfect for when you want to shake things up, this dish is both delicious to look at and to eat. It combines familiar ingredients in an inventive way, proving that dinner doesn’t have to be dull.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Roll-Ups
Tuna Noodle Casserole
There’s a world where comfort meets convenience, and it’s embodied in this heartwarming dish. Tuna Noodle Casserole brings together simple elements to create something that feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s the kind of meal that reminds you of childhood, where every spoonful brings a smile. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re in need of a little comfort, this dish is as gratifying as it is easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Noodle Casserole
Macaroni Salad
Take a step back in time with a dish that’s been a picnic staple for as long as anyone can remember. Macaroni Salad is the ultimate side dish that brings a bit of brightness to any table. This dish is synonymous with laid-back summer days and family gatherings, where it’s served up by the spoonful. Beyond its taste, this salad is cherished for the memories it evokes of sunny days spent with loved ones.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Let’s talk about a dish that practically cooks itself, filling your home with an aroma that beckons family members to the table. Slow Cooker Pulled Pork is the epitome of set-it-and-forget-it, resulting in tender, flavorful meat that’s perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or just about anything. It’s a foolproof way to bring a taste of the South into your kitchen, with minimal effort. This dish is a weekend warrior’s best friend.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Southern Ham Salad
Who says salads need to be green to be good? Southern Ham Salad turns the idea of a salad on its head, offering a tasty, sweet, and tangy experience. This dish is a brilliant way to use up leftover ham, transforming it into something that feels entirely new. It’s a favorite for casual lunches or as a part of a larger spread, proving that creativity in the kitchen always rewards. Plus, it’s a nod to the resourcefulness that Southern cooking is known for.
Get the Recipe: Southern Ham Salad
Hoppin John
On a quest for good luck or just looking for a hearty, flavorful meal? Hoppin John is steeped in tradition, often eaten for luck in the New Year, combining simple ingredients that pack a punch. This dish is more than just food; it’s part of a heritage, bringing together families with each spoonful. It signifies hope and prosperity, making every bite meaningful. Besides, it’s a delicious way to bring a piece of Southern history to your table, any day of the year.
Get the Recipe: Hoppin John
