When Southern cooking is involved, it’s never just about eating—it’s about making a meal feel like an event. Plates get fuller, conversations get louder, and somehow, no matter how much food is made, it always disappears faster than expected. Throw 21 beloved Southern dishes into the equation, and suddenly, it’s not just a meal—it’s an experience. Just don’t expect anyone to leave without loosening their belt or planning their next visit.
Funeral Potatoes
Have you ever had a dish that everyone rallies around at gatherings, making it a must-have? Funeral Potatoes are just that. It’s comfort food at its finest, turning any meal into a heartwarming experience. It balances creaminess and crunchiness, creating a blend that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s versatile enough to match with various main dishes, making it a star at any event.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes
Pecan Pie Brownies
Imagine taking two beloved desserts and combining them into one unforgettable treat. Pecan Pie Brownies do just that, layering rich, fudgy brownies with the classic, sweet filling of a pecan pie. This dessert becomes the star of any meal, offering a unique twist on familiar flavors. It’s an indulgent way to finish a meal, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Brownies
Loaded Tater Tots
Who says appetizers can’t steal the show? Loaded Tater Tots are here to challenge that notion, bringing crispy potatoes topped with all the fixings right to your plate. This dish is all about fun and flavor, making it a favorite among guests of all ages. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive party, these tots promise to be a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Tater Tots
Southern Mash
In the heart of comfort food territory, Southern Mash stands out as a creamy, dreamy side that pairs well with just about anything. It’s a testament to the simple pleasures of well-prepared potatoes, enriched with flavors that make it more than just an accompaniment. This dish has a way of rounding out a meal, offering both substance and a touch of southern hospitality. It’s a staple that reassures with every spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Southern Mash
Fluffy Sour Cream Biscuits
Breakfast or dinner, these biscuits are a game-changer. Fluffy Sour Cream Biscuits bring a tender, moist texture to the table, proving that a few quality ingredients can create something spectacular. They’re ideal for sopping up gravy or enjoying with a slather of butter. This recipe transforms the ordinary biscuit into something extraordinary, making any meal feel like a special occasion.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Sour Cream Biscuits
Oven Baked Ribs
There’s something about Oven Baked Ribs that screams comfort and indulgence. This dish offers tender, fall-off-the-bone meat slathered in a rich, flavorful sauce. It’s a hassle-free way to enjoy the deep, smoky flavors typically associated with grilling, right from your oven. For a main that promises to be both hearty and delicious, look no further.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ribs
Southern-Style Broccoli Salad
Sometimes, you just need a dish that adds a fresh crunch to your meal, and Southern-Style Broccoli Salad is just that. It’s a vibrant, colorful addition that combines tender broccoli with a mix of textures and flavors that’s hard to resist. This salad brings a light, refreshing contrast to heavier southern dishes, proving that balance on your plate is achievable and delicious. It’s the side dish that might just steal the spotlight.
Get the Recipe: Southern-Style Broccoli Salad
Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy
Nothing says soul food quite like Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy. These chicken thighs are juicy and tender, drenched in a gravy that’s rich in flavors. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug, perfect for colder nights or when you need a bit of comfort. Pair it with your favorite sides for a meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy
Southern Ham Salad
For those days when you crave something savory, Southern Ham Salad offers a delicious solution. It’s a versatile dish that can be spread on crackers, stuffed in sandwiches, or enjoyed on its own. With a perfect balance of flavors and textures, it’s a refreshing take on traditional salad recipes. This recipe showcases the charm of southern cuisine, bringing something uniquely flavorful and satisfying to your table.
Get the Recipe: Southern Ham Salad
Mississippi Mud Pie
Craving something sinfully sweet? Mississippi Mud Pie won’t disappoint. This dessert is deeply chocolatey, with layers that add different textures and flavors. It’s a showstopper that’s ideal for capping off a great meal or celebrating special occasions. Every bite feels like an indulgence, making it a favorite for those with a serious sweet tooth.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Pie
Creamy Mashed Cauliflower
If you’re looking for a lighter side that doesn’t compromise on taste, Creamy Mashed Cauliflower is the way to go. This dish offers all the comfort of traditional mashed potatoes but with a twist that’s both nutritious and delicious. It’s a testament to how versatile cauliflower can be, effortlessly becoming the star of the dinner table. With its smooth texture and rich flavor, it’s a side dish that leaves everyone asking for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mashed Cauliflower
Country Sausage Gravy
Imagine drizzling a sauce over your breakfast that transforms the entire meal. Country Sausage Gravy does exactly that. It’s rich, creamy, and chock-full of flavor, making it the perfect companion to biscuits. This gravy turns breakfast or brunch into an event, promising to fill you up and leave you satisfied.
Get the Recipe: Country Sausage Gravy
Sweet Potato Pie
Sweet Potato Pie is a slice of heaven that effortlessly combines sweet and spicy flavors. This dessert is a southern classic, beloved for its smooth, creamy filling and flaky crust. It’s an essential part of any gathering, providing a sweet end to meals with a hint of nostalgia. For many, it’s not just a pie; it’s a cherished tradition that brings back warm memories.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Pie
Southern Crack Chicken Casserole
When you’re in the mood for something irresistibly creamy and comforting, Southern Crack Chicken Casserole answers the call. This dish layers chicken, cheese, and a signature sauce, creating a hearty casserole that’s hard to stop eating. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table, eager for a taste. This casserole exemplifies the joy of shared meals and the simplicity of good ingredients coming together.
Get the Recipe: Southern Crack Chicken Casserole
Cheese Ball
Nothing kicks off a gathering quite like a Cheese Ball, a festive, flavorful centerpiece that guests can’t help but circle around. It’s a versatile appetizer, adaptable to various tastes and serving styles. With its rich and creamy texture, it pairs perfectly with crackers, veggies, or nearly anything you choose to dip. This recipe is a testament to the joy of snacking, elevating the humble cheese to a party favorite.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Ball
Southern Spiced Brownies
For those who like a little kick with their sweet, Southern Spiced Brownies deliver. These aren’t your ordinary brownies; they’re infused with spices that add a warm depth to the rich chocolate. This dessert is perfect for those looking to bring a little excitement to the dessert table, offering a twist on the classic brownie. It’s a bold choice that proves dessert can be both familiar and thrilling.
Get the Recipe: Southern Spiced Brownies
Sloppy Joe Casserole
Transforming a classic sandwich into a hearty casserole, Sloppy Joe Casserole is comfort food at its best. This dish layers savory meat sauce and cheese under a blanket of dough, creating a satisfying meal that’s perfect for cozy nights in. It’s a modern twist on a childhood favorite, bringing a nostalgic dish into the realm of easy-to-share comfort food. With its blend of flavors and textures, it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole
Creamed Corn
Sometimes, the best flavors are the ones that bring nostalgia, and Creamed Corn does just that. It’s sweet, creamy, and has just the right texture, making it a favorite side dish. Whether it’s a part of a holiday spread or a simple family dinner, it brings a sense of comfort. This dish proves that sometimes, the simplest ingredients can create the most memorable flavors.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Corn
Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
Want a side dish that’s both easy and flavorful? Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans are your answer. These green beans soak up flavors over hours, resulting in a side that’s tender and packed with taste. They’re perfect for when you want to add a vegetable to your meal without any fuss. Their ease and deliciousness make them a go-to for any Southern-inspired meal.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
Shrimp and Grits Casserole
Combining two southern staples into one dish, Shrimp and Grits Casserole is a fusion of creamy, cheesy grits with succulent shrimp. This casserole takes the beloved flavors of shrimp and grits and makes them easier to share, perfect for family dinners or special occasions. It’s a dish that offers both comfort and a touch of elegance, showcasing how Southern cuisine can walk that line with grace.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits Casserole
Southern Sausage Cheese Balls
Ready for a bite-sized treat that packs a punch? Southern Sausage Cheese Balls are small but mighty. These flavorful bites combine sausage and cheese in a way that’s irresistible. They make for perfect appetizers or party snacks, proving that great things indeed come in small packages. Everyone loves these for their bold flavor and ease of eating.
Get the Recipe: Southern Sausage Cheese Balls
