When it comes to meals that keep you full and happy, these 17 Southern recipes do the job—and then some. These dishes are made for those who don’t want to leave the table hungry. Big portions, hearty flavors, and the kind of comfort food that makes you forget about counting calories. With these recipes, there’s no such thing as a small serving. Fill your plate, and don’t be surprised if you’re going for a little extra.
Crockpot Slowcooker Rump Roast
Crockpot Slowcooker Rump Roast is one of those set-it-and-forget-it meals that rewards your patience with fork-tender goodness. Have you ever walked into a room and the aroma just makes you instantly hungry? That’s what happens when you’ve got a rump roast simmering in a crockpot. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a hearty meal waiting for you at home.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Slowcooker Rump Roast
Macaroni Salad
Remember those family picnics where there was always one dish that stood out? Well, Macaroni Salad is that dish. It’s creamy, it’s cool, and it absolutely belongs on your picnic table. Mixing it up is as easy as pie, and it’s a surefire hit with crowds of any size. Plus, it stores well, making it a great option for leftovers—if there are any!
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad
Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese
Honestly, this dish is like a hug for your stomach on a rough day. Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese does just that. Ever thought of combining two comfort food favorites into one? It’s the crunchy, melty, meaty sandwich of your dreams. Each bite packs a punch of flavor, and it’s a great way to use up any pulled pork leftovers. Who knew simple ingredients could be so transformative?
Get the Recipe: Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese
Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
Sometimes, it’s the side dishes that steal the show. Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans simmer away in the background, soaking up a ton of flavor and becoming irresistibly tender. They’re the hero of the dinner table, complementing just about any main dish you can think of. Plus, using a slow cooker means less time hovering over the stove. It’s a win-win for flavor and convenience.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
Air Fryer Steak Bites
If you’re all about that crispy outside and juicy inside, Air Fryer Steak Bites are calling your name. They’re quick, they’re easy, and they bring a little bit of steakhouse luxury to your weekday dinner table. This method is a game changer for steak lovers—it keeps things simple but delivers on flavor big time. Seriously, once you try them, you might never want your steak any other way.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Steak Bites
Hoppin John
Looking for a dish that feels like tradition and home? Hoppin John is a classic that packs not only flavor but also a sense of history and good luck. It’s simple, hearty, and fills you up without needing anything fancy. Perfect for those who love recipes with a story, it’s a dish you come back to again and again. And really, who doesn’t need a bit of good fortune with their meal?
Get the Recipe: Hoppin John
Sweet Potato Casserole
Get ready to meet the side dish that often outshines the main—Sweet Potato Casserole. This dish brings sweetness, crunch, and creamy all rolled into one, making it a standout on any table, especially during gatherings. It’s not just food; it’s an experience that brings people together. Each spoonful is like a mini celebration of flavors. Plus, it’s one of those dishes that has everyone asking for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole
Oven Baked Ribs
Who says you need a grill to achieve fall-off-the-bone ribs? Oven Baked Ribs are here to prove that oven magic is real. Coated with your favorite sauce and slow-cooked to perfection, they’re a testament to the power of low and slow cooking. These ribs make any meal feel like a special occasion. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love getting a little messy with a plate of ribs in front of them?
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ribs
Air Fryer Twisted Bacon
Air Fryer Twisted Bacon is not just tasty—it’s fun, too. It’s crispy, it’s twisty, and it’s everything you love about bacon but with a playful edge. This recipe makes mornings or anytime you crave bacon just a bit more exciting. And the best part? It’s made with less mess than traditional methods, leaving you more time to enjoy your bacon-y creation.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Twisted Bacon
Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge
Sometimes, you just need a little sweetness in your life, and Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge is here to deliver. It’s creamy, it’s dreamy, and it brings back all those nostalgic feelings of childhood treats. Perfect for sharing (or not), this fudge is a hit at gatherings or as a special treat just for you. It’s the kind of recipe that keeps family traditions alive and well. And seriously, who can resist peanut butter?
Get the Recipe: Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge
3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole
This dish is proof that you don’t need a long list of ingredients to make something delicious. When you’re short on time but crave something cozy, 3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a no-brainer. It’s as simple as it sounds but delivers comfort food vibes that are hard to beat. It’s a hit with both kids and adults, making it a versatile side dish for any meal. Plus, it’s a sneaky way to get everyone eating their greens.
Get the Recipe: 3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Craving that crispy, crunchy exterior with tender, juicy meat inside? Buttermilk Fried Chicken is where it’s at. This is soul food at its finest, perfect for gatherings or just a family dinner that feels like a celebration. It’s the kind of meal that reminds you of Sunday dinners at grandma’s house. And let’s face it, fried chicken is the ultimate comfort food. It’s the dish everyone can agree on and leaves no room for disappointment.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Air Fryer Shrimp
For a quick and easy dish that feels a little fancy, Air Fryer Shrimp is your go-to. These shrimp come out perfectly cooked and ready to be the star of your dinner. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy seafood without the fuss, and it pairs well with just about anything. Whether you’re throwing together a quick meal or entertaining guests, this recipe fits the bill flawlessly. Plus, it’s a healthier option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Shrimp
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Imagine coming home to the smell of Slow Cooker Pulled Pork wafting through your house. It’s juicy, it’s flavorful, and it’s incredibly versatile. Whether you’re loading it on a bun or serving it alongside your favorite sides, it’s a crowd-pleaser. This is the kind of meal that keeps on giving with leftovers that might be even better the next day. It’s a low-effort, high-reward kind of deal that makes everyone at the table happy.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Southern Sausage Cheese Balls
For those times when you’re in charge of appetizers and want to bring the wow factor, Southern Sausage Cheese Balls have got you covered. They’re bite-sized, packed with flavor, and absolutely addictive. This recipe is perfect for parties, potlucks, or whenever you need a tasty snack. Everyone loves these little guys, and they tend to disappear fast. They’re a comforting reminder that sometimes, the best things come in small packages.
Get the Recipe: Southern Sausage Cheese Balls
Tuna Noodle Casserole
This dish is a classic for a reason—it’s easy to make, and it always feels like a warm hug. On chilly nights when you want something hearty and comforting, Tuna Noodle Casserole steps up to the plate. It’s creamy, it’s satisfying, and it hits all the right notes for a comforting meal. Perfect for a no-fuss dinner that still feels special. Plus, it’s a great way to make something extraordinary out of simple pantry staples.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Noodle Casserole
Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
When you’re looking to impress or simply treat yourself, Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham does not disappoint. It’s sweet, it’s tasty, and it’s a feast for the eyes as much as it is for the palate. Glazed to perfection, this ham is the centerpiece of any table it graces. It’s the sort of dish that inspires family traditions and makes any occasion feel festive. Plus, there’s something about the combination of pineapple and ham that just works so well together.
Get the Recipe: Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
