After trying these 17 Southern dishes, you won’t want to go back to your old meals. They bring all the flavors and comfort that make Southern food so special. From the first bite, you’ll know that no other cuisine can quite compare. Once you’ve tasted these meals, everything else will just seem bland. Get ready for a whole new level of comfort food that’ll have you hooked from the start.
Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese
Imagine biting into a sandwich that brings together slow-cooked, tender pork and gooey cheese between perfectly toasted bread. That’s Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese for you. It’s a game changer for those who love a good twist on classic favorites. Every bite offers a mix of textures and flavors that just works. Who said comfort food couldn’t get any better?
Get the Recipe: Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese
Sloppy Joe Casserole
Sloppy Joe Casserole takes the messiness of your beloved sloppy Joes and turns it into a hearty, oven-baked delight. It’s like someone looked at the original and said, “Let’s add a crunchy topping and make it fork-friendly.” Perfect for feeding a hungry crowd without the fuss of individual servings. Plus, it reheats like a dream, making leftovers something to look forward to.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole
Air Fryer Shrimp
Looking for a quick and easy way to get dinner on the table? Air Fryer Shrimp is your answer. This method locks in flavor while keeping things healthy. It’s a crisp, tender, and speedy alternative to traditional frying methods, getting you from prep to plate in no time. Not to mention, the cleanup is a breeze, leaving you more time to enjoy your meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Shrimp
Hot Crab and Pimento Cheese Dip
Imagine a dip that’s the life of every party. Hot Crab and Pimento Cheese Dip combines creamy, cheesy goodness with the luxurious taste of crab. It’s a combo that spells indulgence and sophistication without being overly complicated. A perfect starter for gatherings, it invites everyone to dig in and enjoy the rich flavors. Keeping it warm ensures every scoop is as delicious as the first.
Get the Recipe: Hot Crab and Pimento Cheese Dip
Macaroni Salad
Sometimes, you crave something simple yet satisfying. Macaroni Salad is that dish that brings a smile to everyone’s face. It’s cool, creamy, and has just the right mix of flavors to complement any Southern feast. Ideal for picnics, potlucks, or a sunny day side dish, it’s hard to go wrong with this classic. The best part? It’s even better the next day, making it a great make-ahead option.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad
Crockpot Slow Cooker Taco Soup
Who doesn’t love the idea of throwing ingredients into a pot and coming back to a meal that’s ready to enjoy? Crockpot Slow Cooker Taco Soup is the epitome of set-it-and-forget-it cooking. This hearty soup is a crowd-pleaser with its bold flavors and tender meat. It’s like your favorite tacos in a bowl, complete with all the toppings you love. Plus, it’s great for meal prep, saving you time on busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Slow Cooker Taco Soup
Hoppin’ John
There’s something special about dishes that bring a bit of tradition to the table. Hoppin’ John is one of those dishes, steeped in Southern tradition and packed with flavor. It’s a comforting bowl of seasoned rice, beans, and pork that promises good luck and prosperity. Often enjoyed on New Year’s Day, it’s a dish that holds fond memories for many. And hey, who couldn’t use a little extra luck?
Get the Recipe: Hoppin’ John
Air Fryer BBQ Chicken
Getting that barbecue flavor without the grill is easier than you might think. Air Fryer BBQ Chicken offers a smoky sweetness that’s hard to resist, all with the convenience of indoor cooking. It’s a juicy, tender alternative for when you’re craving BBQ regardless of the weather. This dish is a testament to the air fryer’s versatility, making it a favorite for quick weeknight dinners. Cleanup’s a breeze too!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer BBQ Chicken
Pineapple Casserole
Bet you’ve never thought fruit could play a starring role in a casserole. Pineapple Casserole breaks all the rules, combining sweet pineapples with a rich, cheesy topping in a way that’s unexpectedly harmonious. It’s a side dish that stands out, offering a sweet counterpoint to the tasty staples of Southern cuisine. Surprising to some, it quickly becomes a must-have on any dinner table it graces.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Casserole
Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy
When you need a hearty meal that feels like a warm hug, Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy has got you covered. This dish serves up perfectly seasoned chicken in a rich and creamy gravy that’s to die for. It’s all about those home-cooked flavors that make you feel cozy inside. Ideal for a comforting meal after a long day, it pairs wonderfully with rice or bread to soak up all that delicious gravy.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy
3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Ever find yourself in need of a side dish that doesn’t take a culinary degree to make? 3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole has your back. It’s straightforward, involving minimal ingredients but delivering maximum taste. This dish is a testament to the power of simplicity, proving that you don’t need a long list of components to make something mouthwateringly good. It’s a hit with both kids and adults, making it a go-to for family dinners.
Get the Recipe: 3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Southern Ham Salad
For those days when you’re looking for something light yet fulfilling, Southern Ham Salad steps up. It’s a blend of smoky ham, crisp vegetables, and a creamy dressing that ties it all together. Great as a sandwich filling or on its own, it’s a versatile dish that has picnic written all over it. It’s the kind of meal that makes you appreciate the simple pleasures. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover ham!
Get the Recipe: Southern Ham Salad
Air Fryer Pork Chops
Craving something that’s traditionally fried but without the guilt? Air Fryer Pork Chops are here to save the day. They come out so juicy inside with a crisp exterior, you’ll wonder why you ever bothered with oil. This dish proves that healthy can indeed taste incredible. And with the air fryer doing most of the work, it’s as easy as can be. Perfect for a no-fuss dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pork Chops
Southern Crack Chicken Casserole
Sometimes, you stumble upon a dish that’s so addictive, it’s hard to have just one serving. Southern Crack Chicken Casserole is exactly that. It’s a creamy, cheesy, and hearty casserole that commands attention at the dinner table. Great for potlucks or family dinners, it’s comfort food at its best. And the name? Well, it says it all – it’s hard to resist coming back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Southern Crack Chicken Casserole
Funeral Potatoes
Don’t let the name fool you; Funeral Potatoes are a celebration of flavor that’s welcome at any gathering, not just after services. This dish is all about creamy potatoes topped with a crunchy crust, offering the ultimate comfort food experience. It’s a beloved classic for a reason – it brings people together over a shared love of something undeniably delicious. Whether it’s a holiday, potluck, or a regular weekday, it fits right in.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes
Shrimp and Grits Casserole
If you’re looking to combine two Southern staples into one unforgettable dish, Shrimp and Grits Casserole is the way to go. It upgrades the humble grits to a whole new level with the addition of succulent shrimp and a generous helping of cheese. This dish embodies comfort and sophistication, making it a favorite for brunch or dinner. It’s a warm, inviting plate that proves some combinations are just meant to be.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits Casserole
Southern-Style Broccoli Salad
On the hunt for a side dish that brings a bit of crunch and a lot of flavors? Southern-Style Broccoli Salad takes the stage with its fresh bite and tasty dressing. It’s a colorful addition to any meal, offering a pleasant texture contrast that’s hard to ignore. Not just another salad, it has a way of stealing the spotlight with its blend of tastes. It’s a refreshing change of pace from the usual sides, sure to win over any crowd.
Get the Recipe: Southern-Style Broccoli Salad
