There’s a reason people swear by these Southern favorites—once you’ve had them, there’s simply no going back to anything ordinary. They bring the kind of warmth and fullness that can turn even the worst day into one that feels a little bit brighter. Whether you’re feeding a crowd that doesn’t believe in small portions or just treating yourself to a meal that makes every bite worth it, these dishes make sure no plate goes empty.
Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
There’s something about a pot of slow-cooked comfort that feels like home, and this dish delivers exactly that. Smoky, savory, and full of flavor, Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans turn an ordinary side into something worth talking about. It’s the kind of dish that makes you wonder why anyone would ever settle for the canned version. Let it simmer low and slow, and what you get is pure Southern goodness on a plate.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
Buttermilk Fried Chicken
A good crispy bite is one thing, but the crunch from Buttermilk Fried Chicken is on a whole different level. It’s golden, juicy, and the kind of thing that makes you forget about everything else on your plate. Whether eaten hot or sneaked cold straight from the fridge, it never disappoints. You could try to improve it, but honestly, why mess with perfection?
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Macaroni Salad
A cookout isn’t complete without something creamy, tangy, and packed with all the right textures. That’s where Macaroni Salad steps in, balancing out all the heavy, smoky dishes with its cool, comforting bite. It’s the kind of thing that keeps disappearing from the bowl faster than expected. A little scoop is never enough, and by the time you realize it, you’re on your third helping.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad
Oven Baked Chicken Thighs With Creamy Onion Gravy
Sometimes, all you need is something rich, cozy, and straight-up rewarding. That’s exactly what Oven Baked Chicken Thighs With Creamy Onion Gravy delivers, bringing together tender chicken and a sauce that begs to be poured over everything. It’s a dish that makes any dinner table feel a little more special. Just be prepared to guard your plate because once the gravy starts flowing, it’s every person for themselves.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Chicken Thighs With Creamy Onion Gravy
Tuna Noodle Casserole
A dish that’s warm, creamy, and straight from the heart, this classic makes you wonder why more people don’t talk about it. Tuna Noodle Casserole brings back memories of family dinners where the biggest concern was who got the last scoop. It’s simple, filling, and the kind of thing that always hits just right. If comfort had a smell, it would be whatever’s coming out of the oven when this is baking.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Noodle Casserole
Funeral Potatoes
With a name like this, you already know it’s serious business. Funeral Potatoes don’t just show up at gatherings—they steal the show with their creamy, cheesy, crispy-topped magic. No one ever just takes a polite spoonful; they pile it high and go back for more. If you haven’t tried it yet, you’re missing out on one of the greatest comfort dishes of all time.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Long, slow cooking is the secret to something so juicy and flavorful that it practically melts in your mouth. That’s why Slow Cooker Pulled Pork is a Southern staple, perfect for piling onto sandwiches or eating straight from the plate. The smoky aroma alone is enough to make people gather in the kitchen, waiting for it to be done. When the slow cooker is working its magic, patience is the hardest part.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Loaded Tater Tots
Tater tots on their own are already good, but piling them high with all the right toppings takes them to another level. That’s exactly what happens with Loaded Tater Tots, where crispy, golden bites meet layers of flavor in the best way possible. It’s the kind of dish that disappears faster than you can say, “I’ll just have a few.” Let’s be honest—no one ever stops at just a few.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Tater Tots
Hoppin John
A dish with history, flavor, and a whole lot of Southern charm, this one brings a little luck to every bite. Hoppin John is hearty, comforting, and packed with just the right amount of spice to keep things interesting. Whether it’s for New Year’s or just a regular weeknight, it always finds a way to hit the spot. One bowl never feels like enough, so don’t be surprised when you’re reaching for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Hoppin John
Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
There’s something about a perfectly glazed ham that makes any meal feel like a special occasion. That’s exactly what Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham brings to the table, with a sweet, caramelized exterior that makes every slice irresistible. The balance of flavors is just right, creating a dish that practically demands to be the centerpiece. If leftovers exist, they won’t last long.
Get the Recipe: Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
Sweet Potato Casserole
A dish so good that it feels like dessert but still somehow counts as a side. Sweet Potato Casserole is smooth, rich, and topped with just enough crunch to keep things interesting. It’s the kind of thing that makes even the most skeptical eaters go back for another spoonful. Whether it’s a holiday or just a regular dinner, it always finds a way to steal the spotlight.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole
Cracker Barrel Cinnamon Roll Pie
Dessert doesn’t get much better than layers of soft, gooey, cinnamon-swirled goodness wrapped in a perfect crust. That’s what makes Cracker Barrel Cinnamon Roll Pie a must-try for anyone who loves a little extra sweetness in their life. Every bite feels like a warm hug, and stopping at one slice is nearly impossible. If you’ve never had pie and cinnamon rolls combined before, prepare to question why you waited so long.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Cinnamon Roll Pie
Oven Baked Ribs
Fall-off-the-bone tenderness with just the right amount of smoky, saucy goodness—that’s what makes Oven Baked Ribs so legendary. No grill? No problem, because the oven does all the hard work while you sit back and enjoy the aroma. It’s messy in the best way, and no one’s judging if you go in with your hands. Just be sure to grab extra napkins because things are about to get sticky.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ribs
Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge
Sometimes, simple is best, and that’s exactly what makes this classic so unforgettable. Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge is smooth, creamy, and packed with that deep, nutty flavor that keeps you reaching for another piece. It’s the kind of treat that brings back childhood memories with just one bite. Just don’t leave a plate unattended—this stuff disappears fast.
Get the Recipe: Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge
Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese
Take everything great about comfort food and smash it between two crispy, buttery slices of bread, and you get this masterpiece. Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese is melty, savory, and the kind of sandwich that makes lunch feel like a special occasion. It’s got the perfect balance of crunch and gooey goodness in every bite. Honestly, there’s no way to eat this neatly, but that’s part of the fun.
Get the Recipe: Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese
