When it comes to feeding a crowd, Southern food always has your back. These 17 dishes are the real MVPs of any gathering, making sure there’s something for everyone, from picky eaters to big appetites. Forget about trying to impress with fancy stuff—just stick with these dishes, and you’ll win every time. They’re hearty, simple, and packed with flavor, exactly what you want when you’ve got a hungry crowd to please.
Creamed Corn
When it’s about bringing simple yet delicious sides to the table, not much beats the creamy, comforting vibe of this dish. It’s all about transforming something basic into a dish that often steals the show without trying too hard. Creamed Corn is that side that makes you feel at home, no matter where you are. It pairs beautifully with just about anything, making it a versatile addition to any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Corn
Southern Ham Salad
Ever thought a salad could be the talk of the gathering? Well, think again. Southern Ham Salad breaks all the typical salad stereotypes by turning leftover ham into the star of the show. It blends perfectly with a mix that’s both refreshing and hearty, making it a go-to for any casual lunch or picnic. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to make sure nothing goes to waste, and let’s be real, it’s always a hit when it comes to feeding a crowd who appreciates a good dish.
Get the Recipe: Southern Ham Salad
Mississippi Mud Pie
Now, for a slice of heaven that’s rich, indulgent, and absolutely impossible to say no to. Mississippi Mud Pie is what dessert dreams are made of, with layers that combine to deliver a sweet experience that’s second to none. This pie isn’t just a treat; it’s an experience, something to linger over and enjoy to the last crumb. Perfect for those who love their desserts with a bit of intensity and a whole lot of chocolate, it’s a showstopper at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Pie
Crockpot Slowcooker Rump Roast
The magic of set it and forget it! Crockpot Slowcooker Rump Roast takes the guesswork out of making a tender, juicy roast that falls apart with just a fork. It’s ideal for those busy days when you want a comforting meal but don’t have the time to babysit the oven. This dish not only fills your home with an inviting aroma but also promises a meal that’s both satisfying and heartwarming. Gather around the table for this one.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Slowcooker Rump Roast
Pecan Pie Brownies
Imagine a world where your two favorite desserts collide to create something unbelievably good. Pecan Pie Brownies do just that by marrying the nutty, caramel-like flavor of pecan pie with the dense, chocolaty goodness of brownies. This fusion results in a dessert that’s hard to put down and even harder to forget. Ideal for those who can’t decide between pie and brownies, it offers the best of both worlds.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Brownies
Funeral Potatoes
Ever heard of a dish so good, it becomes a must-have at every significant gathering? Funeral Potatoes have earned their place at the table for being downright comforting and incredibly tasty. This casserole dish, with its creamy interior and crunchy top, bridges the gap between side dish and main attraction. It’s the kind of dish that you make once, and it instantly becomes a tradition, requested time and time again.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes
Loaded Tater Tots
Loaded Tater Tots throw that notion right out the window by offering bite-sized bursts of flavor that are impossible to resist. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for mingling and sharing, making everyone feel right at home. It’s casual, it’s fun, and most importantly, it’s downright delicious. Whether you’re hosting a casual game day or a more formal gathering, these will disappear before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Tater Tots
Pineapple Casserole
Now, here’s something that might sound a bit unconventional, yet it’s a total game-changer. Pineapple Casserole turns what you thought you knew about casseroles on its head with a sweet and tasty flavor profile that surprises and delights. It’s that perfect side dish that actually gets people excited about finding out it’s on the menu. This dish is a conversation starter, often sparking debates about whether it’s a side or a dessert.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Casserole
Southern-Style Broccoli Salad
Forget everything you thought you knew about boring broccoli salads. Southern-Style Broccoli Salad comes through with a crunch and flavor combo that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds. This isn’t just another side dish; it’s the one that unexpectedly steals the show with its fresh and tangy taste. It’s a refreshing counterpoint to the more decadent mains and a surefire way to sneak some greens onto the plate in the most delicious way possible.
Get the Recipe: Southern-Style Broccoli Salad
Cheese Ball
In need of a party starter? Look no further. The Cheese Ball is here to save the day with its creamy, tangy, and utterly addictive presence. This dish is more than just a snack; it’s a focal point, a conversation piece, and a way to bring people together, one cracker at a time. It’s easy to make, even easier to enjoy, and it’s the kind of appetizer that sets the tone for a fantastic gathering full of fun, laughter, and good eats.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Ball
Southern Crack Chicken Casserole
Here’s a dish that lives up to its name, offering a comfort food experience that’s as addictive as it is gratifying. Southern Crack Chicken Casserole has a certain “can’t stop, won’t stop” eating quality to it, thanks to its creamy, tasty, and cheesy goodness. This casserole is a hearty meal that does more than fill you up; it wraps you in a warm hug. It’s perfect for those chilly nights when all you want is some good old comfort on a plate.
Get the Recipe: Southern Crack Chicken Casserole
Oven Baked Ribs
Is there anything more gratifying than ribs that fall right off the bone? Oven Baked Ribs make a compelling case with their tender meat and mouthwatering aroma that fills your entire home. This dish is a testament to the magic of slow cooking, allowing flavors to deepen and meld together in the most delicious way. Sure to be the star of any barbecue or casual dinner, they’re a hands-down favorite for meat lovers.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ribs
Chicken Roll-Ups
Sometimes, the best meals are the ones that come in their own neat little package. Chicken Roll-Ups offer just that – a complete flavor-packed experience in every bite. They’re versatile, making them a perfect fit for any meal, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a more upscale gathering. Not only do they look impressive, but they also promise a juicy and delicious payoff. It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone think you’ve spent hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Roll-Ups
Shrimp and Grits Casserole
For a southern twist that brings the sea and land together, Shrimp and Grits Casserole is a comforting choice that feels like a warm southern hug. This dish takes a classic and gives it a casserole makeover, making it easier to share with everyone. It’s the perfect blend of creamy and tasty, with a bit of that oceanic charm that shrimp lovers can’t get enough of. It’s southern comfort in a dish, no questions asked.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits Casserole
Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Whoever said comfort food couldn’t be crispy, clearly never had a good piece of Buttermilk Fried Chicken. This dish is all about that irresistible crunch on the outside and juicy tenderness on the inside. It’s a classic that never fails to please, whether it’s the main star at a backyard barbecue or making a casual weeknight dinner feel special. Plus, it’s the sort of meal that brings everyone to the table in eager anticipation. Fried chicken done right is a reason to gather.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Sweet Potato Pie
Closing out any gathering on a sweet note should be a given, and what better way to do that than with a slice of Sweet Potato Pie? This dessert is soul-warming, with a sweetness and spice blend that feels like a hug in pie form. It’s a southern classic for a reason, offering a perfect ending to any meal that feels both indulgent and homely. Not to mention, it’s a great conversation piece as everyone compares it to their own family recipes.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Pie
Creamy Mashed Cauliflower
Creamy Mashed Cauliflower is here to challenge the status quo with a lighter, yet equally satisfying alternative. This dish is creamy, fluffy, and packed with flavor, making it a fantastic side that won’t weigh you down. It’s perfect for those looking to enjoy the comfort of mashed potatoes without the heaviness. Plus, it’s a great way to get everyone, even the pickiest of eaters, to enjoy their veggies.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mashed Cauliflower
