A big gathering needs food that can keep up, and 19 Southern staples do it effortlessly. These meals have everyone sneaking back for seconds, hoping there’s still more left in the pot. Plates get piled high, and nobody cares if they have to eat with a plate on their knee. When the food’s this good, seating charts don’t matter—only how soon they can get another serving.
Macaroni Salad
Sometimes, simple is just perfect, especially when you’re looking at bringing a dish that complements a variety of main courses. This classic side is a go-to for its creamy texture and universal appeal, making it a staple for large gatherings. Macaroni Salad brings nostalgia and comfort to every bite, guaranteeing it won’t be overlooked at your next big gathering. Easy to prepare in large quantities, it’s a practical choice for feeding a crowd without compromising flavor.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad
Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl
Imagine dipping into a rich, cheesy soup right from a crispy sourdough bowl. Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl offers a unique eating experience where the container is just as appealing as the meal. This dish invites guests to enjoy a hearty, comforting bowl perfect for chilly evenings or appetizer rounds.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl
Collard Dip
Who said dips couldn’t be the star of the show? Move over, traditional starters, because there’s a new favorite in town. Collard Dip is a spicy, hearty, and irresistibly creamy addition to any party table. It pairs beautifully with crackers, bread, or vegetables, making it a versatile choice that ensures everyone finds something to love.
Get the Recipe: Collard Dip
Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese
If you thought grilled cheese couldn’t get any better, think again. Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese is here to turn a simple comfort food into a gourmet experience. Imagine tender, juicy pulled pork sandwiched between slices of golden-brown bread, all held together by melty cheese—it’s a combination that’s hard to beat. Ideal for a casual yet fulfilling meal, this sandwich promises to be a standout at any large gathering.
Get the Recipe: Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese
Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
Let’s talk about side dishes that command attention. Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans are a dream come true for the host looking for convenience without sacrificing taste. Cooking them slowly ensures they absorb every bit of flavor, making them a far cry from your ordinary green bean dish. It’s the kind of side that might just steal the spotlight from the main course.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
Hoppin John
Seeking a dish that brings good luck? Look no further. Hoppin John is a Southern gem loaded with flavors and tradition, promising not just a tasty meal but also a touch of fortune to your gathering. It’s a conversation starter, often sparking discussions about its origins and the superstition that surrounds it, making it more than just a meal.
Get the Recipe: Hoppin John
Lemon Loaf Cake
Every big gathering needs a sweet finish, and what better way to round off the meal than with a refreshing, citrusy delight? Lemon Loaf Cake is simple yet sophisticated, offering a balance of sweet and tangy that cleanses the palate beautifully. Its moist, dense texture pairs perfectly with coffee or tea, making it an ideal dessert or afternoon snack for your guests.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Loaf Cake
Southern Crack Chicken Casserole
Sometimes, you need a dish that’s as fun to say as it is to eat. Southern Crack Chicken Casserole is the talk of the table, combining indulgent ingredients into a creamy, cheesy casserole that’s hard to resist. It’s the perfect comfort food that brings warmth and smiles, proving casseroles still have a place in the modern-day gathering.
Get the Recipe: Southern Crack Chicken Casserole
Smoked Trout Dip
For those who like to venture into the more gourmet realm with their appetizers, here’s a winner. Smoked Trout Dip combines the robust flavors of smoked fish with the creaminess of a dip, creating a sophisticated blend that’s sure to impress. It’s an elegant starter that pairs excellently with a variety of dippables, setting a high standard for the dishes that follow.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Trout Dip
Air Fryer Steak Bites
Gone are the days of slaving over a hot grill to get that perfect bite of steak. Air Fryer Steak Bites offer a quick, hassle-free method to deliver juicy, flavorful pieces of meat that are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s a modern twist on a beloved classic, allowing you to enjoy more time with guests rather than being stuck cooking.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Steak Bites
Shrimp and Grits Casserole
Merging two Southern favorites into one dish is a surefire way to capture the hearts and stomachs of your guests. Shrimp and Grits Casserole is a hearty, comforting blend that serves as a complete meal on its own. It brings a savory richness that’s hard to beat, making it a robust choice for any large gathering.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits Casserole
Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
If you’re aiming for a centerpiece that commands attention both visually and flavor-wise, this dish doesn’t disappoint. Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory, producing a succulent meat that melts in your mouth. It’s a festive choice that suits any big occasion, promising to be as memorable as the event itself.
Get the Recipe: Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
Cracker Barrel Cinnamon Roll Pie
Bringing the essence of breakfast and the decadence of dessert together, this pie is a game changer. Cracker Barrel Cinnamon Roll Pie tastes like a dream, offering the comforting flavors of cinnamon and sweetness in a creamy, delicious slice. It’s bound to become a favorite, making a strong case for dessert any time of the day.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Cinnamon Roll Pie
Pecan Bacon Cheeseball
Who knew that rolling some of the best flavors into a ball could result in an appetizer this tempting? Pecan Bacon Cheeseball is the perfect blend of nuts, meat, and cheese, making for a delectable spread that goes well with crackers and vegetables alike. It’s a festive and fun way to kick off any gathering, ensuring nobody walks past it without taking a bite.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Bacon Cheeseball
Hot Crab and Pimento Cheese Dip
It’s time to spice things up a bit with a dip that’s as bold in flavor as it is in appearance. Hot Crab and Pimento Cheese Dip is a cheesy, crabby concoction that brings a bit of heat to the table. It’s a fantastic choice for those looking to offer something a little different, encouraging guests to dip into something new and exciting.
Get the Recipe: Hot Crab and Pimento Cheese Dip
Crockpot Slow Cooker Taco Soup
Embrace the ease and comfort of a dish that virtually cooks itself, yet delivers on flavor as if you’d spent hours in the kitchen. Crockpot Slow Cooker Taco Soup is a hearty, flavorful soup that can easily be customized to suit any palate, making it a versatile option for gatherings. With minimal effort, you get a warm, welcoming bowl that’s perfect for any casual get-together.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Slow Cooker Taco Soup
3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole
When simplicity meets flavor, you get a dish that’s both easy to make and a hit at any table. 3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole utilizes just a few components to create a creamy, cheesy side that perfectly complements any main dish. It’s proof that you don’t need a long list of ingredients to make something absolutely delicious.
Get the Recipe: 3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Southern-Style Broccoli Salad
Sometimes, a refreshing salad is what you need to balance out a meal, especially when it’s filled with rich, hearty dishes. Southern-Style Broccoli Salad offers a crisp, vibrant addition to your table, bringing together a variety of textures and flavors in one bowl. It’s a side that not only provides a healthy option but also adds color and freshness to your spread.
Get the Recipe: Southern-Style Broccoli Salad
Sweet Potato Casserole
For many, it’s not a gathering without this beloved classic gracing the table. Sweet Potato Casserole combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a crunchy topping, creating a dish that blurs the lines between side and dessert. It’s a heartwarming choice that compliments any meal, making it a staple at celebrations and casual dinners alike.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole
