9 Southern Slow Cooked Favorites That Make People Ask What’s Cooking

Choosing what to make can be much simpler when you have slow-cooked ideas at hand. There are 9 Southern favorites in this set, giving you plenty to choose from whenever you want something different. These collections work well no matter how much time you have or what kind of mood you’re in. One of these might end up being the dish you use to bring a little comfort to your table.

A pot of creamy vegetable chowder with broccoli, carrots, and potatoes, served with a ladle and a side of shredded cheddar cheese. — Vegetable Chowder. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos

Close-up of three soft tacos filled with shredded chicken, topped with shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, and served with lime wedges and cilantro on the side. — Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

Long weekends at home feel warmer when these Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos are around. Slow simmering gives them that juicy, crowd-pleasing vibe everyone talks about, yet there’s something fresh and unexpected the first time you try them. I like to set out plenty of toppings for a fun twist. Each bite can be a surprise with a mix of flavors and textures.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken Tacos

Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice

One pot meals often surprise me, because dishes like this Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice make everything easier. Without much effort, you get something comforting and memorable that keeps you coming back. It feels special to have a simple meal create that little moment of calm in the evening. Catch yourself scooping a second helping before you realize it.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice

Sausage & Kale Soup

From the first spoonful, the smoky taste in this Sausage & Kale Soup stands out. The slow cooking process lets all the flavors blend, making it especially inviting on a cool day. I notice how each bowl brings together hearty and leafy elements for a perfect balance. Swapping soups can never match the warmth this soup offers.
Get the Recipe: Sausage & Kale Soup

Crockpot Slow Cooker Taco Soup

A hearty bowl of taco soup garnished with sour cream and shredded cheese. — Crockpot Slow Cooker Taco Soup. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

Hearty soups like this Crockpot Slow Cooker Taco Soup become instant favorites for those who want easy comfort food. There’s just something about the rich, flavorful broth that fits almost any mood. The blend of classic taco flavors with stew style makes dinner feel like a little celebration. Try adding your favorite toppings for a fun table adventure.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Slow Cooker Taco Soup

Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Tender pulled pork in a bowl. — Slow Cooker Pulled Pork. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

Slow roasting draws out incredible tenderness in this Slow Cooker Pulled Pork. The aroma fills the kitchen with anticipation while you wait, promising something special long before you take your first bite. I always notice how this dish brings everyone together at the table in the best way. Leftovers, if there are any, taste just as good the next day.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Honey Garlic Meatballs

Bringing a batch of these Honey Garlic Meatballs to the table always gets a smile. Thick sauce clings to each meatball, creating a sweet and savory harmony. It’s hard to believe something so flavorful started so simply in the slow cooker. These are perfect when you want something both comforting and a little different.
Get the Recipe: Honey Garlic Meatballs

Vegetable Chowder

Brothy soups only go so far, while this Vegetable Chowder fills the bowl with creamy, hearty goodness. I find the mix of soft vegetables and rich broth makes cold evenings feel extra comfortable. There’s no reason to miss meat when flavors come together this well. Each ingredient blends so beautifully, you might wonder why you didn’t try chowder sooner.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Chowder

Borscht

Ruby-red hues swirl in this Borscht, bringing a vibrant look and a flavor that can surprise first-timers. Tart and earthiness blend, keeping you coming back to see how the flavors deepen with each taste. I enjoy serving this because it brightens up any spread, and its history always leads to good conversation. One bowl is rarely enough, since the complexity in each spoonful asks you to slow down and enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Borscht

Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl

A hearty serving of creamy broccoli cheddar soup in a rustic sourdough bread bowl, with a spoon dipping into the soup, placed on a terracotta plate over a light linen cloth. — Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

Crunchy crust and creamy soup make this Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl a true treat. There's something so fun about scraping the bowl to get every last bit of rich, cheesy goodness mixed with the soft bread. I usually look forward to this one when I want a meal that feels just a little special. Sharing the bowls at the table always leads to extra smiles.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl