Some meals just can’t be contained in a single plate, and these 13 Southern dishes are perfect examples. They’re hearty, filling, and meant to be shared. From family dinners to big gatherings, these meals are guaranteed to make an impression. You’ll want to go back for seconds—or thirds—because they’re just that good. If you’ve got a crowd to feed, these recipes won’t disappoint.
Shrimp and Grits Casserole
If you’re looking for a comforting dish that brings a taste of the coast inland, this one will do the trick. Combining creamy, soft grits with juicy shrimp in a casserole form means every scoop is full of flavor and texture. Perfect for a big gathering, Shrimp and Grits Casserole often steals the show with its ability to nurture and fill you up. This is one of those meals that feels like a warm hug from the inside.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits Casserole
Southern Sausage Cheese Balls
Ever at a party where the food is the main attraction? That’s usually the case when Southern Sausage Cheese Balls are on the menu. These bite-sized morsels pack a punch, with rich flavors that keep you coming back for more. Ideal for anyone who loves a little cheesy goodness in their life, this dish is both filling and moreish. They’re typically gone before you know it, underlining their crowd-pleasing reputation.
Get the Recipe: Southern Sausage Cheese Balls
Chicken Roll-Ups
Imagine biting into a perfectly cooked roll-up stuffed with tender chicken. That’s what you get with Chicken Roll-Ups, a southern favorite that turns ordinary chicken into a mouthwatering meal. They’re a fantastic option when you want something a bit more sophisticated but still hearty. Best enjoyed with a side of veggies or your favorite dip, these rolls are a testament to simple ingredients coming together to create something deliciously complex.=
Get the Recipe: Chicken Roll-Ups
Lemon Loaf Cake
Anyone with a sweet tooth will tell you that a slice of Lemon Loaf Cake can brighten any day. This cake offers a vibrant, tangy flavor that contrasts beautifully with its dense, moist texture. It’s a popular choice at both casual and special gatherings, proving its versatility. Lemon Loaf Cake shines as a dessert or a companion to a hot cup of tea or coffee. It’s always a hit, ensuring there are rarely leftovers!
Get the Recipe: Lemon Loaf Cake
Sloppy Joe Casserole
When you merge the classic flavors of a sloppy joe with the hearty structure of a casserole, you get Sloppy Joe Casserole. This dish is an all-American hero, perfect for those chilly nights when comfort food is not just wanted but needed. It’s easy to serve a crowd with this one, giving you all the flavors of your childhood favorite in a scoopable form. Families love it, and it’s often requested at potlucks and family gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole
Crockpot Slowcooker Rump Roast
The ease of a Crockpot Slowcooker Rump Roast cannot be overstated; just set it and forget it until dinner time. This meal is a winner for anyone wanting to come home to a delicious, ready-to-serve dinner. The slow cooking process makes the rump roast incredibly tender, almost melting in your mouth. It’s often served with juices over mashed potatoes or rice, absorbing every bit of flavor. This is a meal that truly makes your day easier.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Slowcooker Rump Roast
Sweet Potato Pie
Sweet Potato Pie is a classic Southern dessert known for its smooth, sweet filling and satisfying crust. It’s the kind of pie that invites a moment of silence with each bite, appreciated for its rich depth of flavor. A staple at many holiday tables, this pie captures the essence of southern cooking. It’s not rare to see folks claim it as their favorite, often enjoying a slice well beyond the holiday season. It embodies the warmth of Southern hospitality.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Pie
Tuna Noodle Casserole
The humble Tuna Noodle Casserole offers a taste of nostalgia for many, bringing back memories of family dinners. This dish is revered for its creamy texture and comforting nature, often making it onto weekly dinner rotations. It’s particularly favorable because it’s both economical and hearty, making it a smart choice for large families. Kids and adults alike can’t seem to get enough of its simple yet satisfying nature.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Noodle Casserole
Southern-Style Broccoli Salad
Southern-Style Broccoli Salad mixes crunchy textures with a creamy dressing, creating a side dish that often outshines the main. It’s packed with different flavors that blend surprisingly well, offering a burst of freshness with every bite. This salad is a popular choice at potlucks and picnics, where it offers a refreshing contrast to heavier meals. Anyone looking for a dish that’s both healthy and enticing would do well to consider this salad.
Get the Recipe: Southern-Style Broccoli Salad
Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
A dish that truly celebrates festive eating, Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham is often the centerpiece at gatherings. This meal combines the sweetness of pineapple with the richness of ham, creating layers of flavor that are both unexpected and delicious. It’s a bold choice for anyone looking to impress guests with something a bit out of the ordinary. Often baked to a perfect glaze, each slice is a treat that’s eagerly anticipated.
Get the Recipe: Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
Southern Crack Chicken Casserole
There’s nothing quite like the comforting appeal of Southern Crack Chicken Casserole, known for its irresistibly creamy and hearty layers. This dish is a frequent choice for meal preppers and those in need of a gratifying, all-in-one dinner option. It tends to fill the kitchen with aromas that draw everyone near, making it a true family favorite. Perfect for serving a hungry crowd, this casserole ensures no one leaves the table hungry.
Get the Recipe: Southern Crack Chicken Casserole
Cracker Barrel Cinnamon Roll Pie
The sweet allure of Cracker Barrel Cinnamon Roll Pie is undeniable, offering a twist on traditional cinnamon rolls. The pie form takes the goodness of cinnamon rolls and upgrades it, making every slice rich and decadent. It’s a perfect blend of soft, sweet, and spicy, and it’s usually served warm to highlight its best features. Ideal for an after-dinner treat or a special brunch, this pie is a conversation starter.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Cinnamon Roll Pie
Pineapple Casserole
A unique blend of sweet and tasty, Pineapple Casserole challenges your taste expectations and wins every time. This dish combines fruits with a cheesy topping, offering a surprising mix that works wonderfully well. It’s a side dish that often gets people talking, curious and excited by the unconventional combination. Perfect for those who like to mix things up, this casserole is a delicious twist on traditional flavors.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Casserole
