Food in the South isn’t just about eating—it’s about sharing, and 21 tried-and-true dishes prove it every time. When a plate is passed around, it comes with a side of stories, debates about the best way to make it, and at least one relative who insists theirs is the best. These meals aren’t just about what’s on the plate but who’s around the table. And if you weren’t hungry before, just wait until someone starts talking about the leftovers.
Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese
Who doesn’t love a good twist on a classic grilled cheese? Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese combines rich, tender pulled pork with melted cheese between toasted bread. Every bite pulls a mix of textures and hearty flavors that make it more than just your typical sandwich. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a casual dinner.
Get the Recipe: Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese
Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
There’s something special about a side dish that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans are a standout example, slowly simmered to perfection and ready to complement any main course. Ideal for busy days or when your stovetop is full, this dish frees up your time while still being a hit on the dinner table. Guests will revel in the tender green beans that have soaked up hours of delicious seasoning.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
Macaroni Salad
For those sunny picnics or family barbecues, nothing beats a classic. Macaroni Salad is the go-to side that everyone looks forward to, with its creamy texture and comforting taste. It pairs well with almost any main dish and can feed a crowd without much hassle. Plus, it’s a nostalgic dish that often brings back fond memories of gatherings and celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad
Fudgy Chocolate Brownie Cookies
When you need a chocolate fix that’s both indulgent and easy to share, look no further. Fudgy Chocolate Brownie Cookies combine the chewiness of brownies with the convenience of cookies, making them a hit for any occasion. Indulge in the richness with friends, or treat yourself on a quiet night in. Either way, these cookies are sure to be a conversation starter.
Get the Recipe: Fudgy Chocolate Brownie Cookies
Pineapple Casserole
Often surprising for first-timers, Pineapple Casserole is a unique blend of sweet pineapple and savory cheese topping. It stands out as a side dish and often sparks conversation at the table. Serve this at your next potluck and watch it become the topic of the evening. It’s a true Southern mix of unexpected flavors.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Casserole
Air Fryer Twisted Bacon
Who knew that giving bacon a new shape could make it even more appealing? Air Fryer Twisted Bacon is not only fun to make but also adds a playful twist to your breakfast spread or as a garnish. These crispy delights are ready in a fraction of the usual time, thanks to the air fryer. Watch as they become the center of conversation among your fellow diners.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Twisted Bacon
Southern Ham Salad
Southern Ham Salad is a flavorful way to use up leftover ham. It combines chopped ham with a creamy dressing and crisp ingredients, making it perfect for sandwiches or as a dip. Serve it at your next gathering to complement crackers or hearty bread. It’s a versatile dish that’s both filling and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Southern Ham Salad
Hoppin John
Bring some good fortune to your table with a dish steeped in tradition. Hoppin John is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of cultural heritage and shared stories. Rich with history, every bite is like a page from a Southern cookbook. Friends and family will enjoy its hearty warmth and the sense of community it brings to any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Hoppin John
Smoked Trout Dip
Level up your appetizer game with a spread that’s both refined and rustic. Smoked Trout Dip pairs beautifully with a variety of crackers and vegetables, providing a fancy yet approachable option for your guests. It’s a conversation starter due to its enticing smoky flavor and the creamy texture that begs to be dipped into again and again. Serve this and watch it disappear before the main course is even served.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Trout Dip
Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl
There’s nothing quite like enjoying a warm soup served in an edible bowl. Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl creates an experience that’s both wholesome and convenient. No need for extra dishes – just eat your way through, starting with the flavorful soup and ending with the crusty sourdough. This dish is an all-in-one wonder that delights everyone who tries it.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl
Collard Dip
In search of a dip that stands out from the rest and brings a touch of Southern charm? Look no further than the Collard Dip. It’s a creamy concoction that turns a beloved green into a sharing sensation. Perfect for pairing with your favorite chips or veggies, it’s a staple at any event where good food is part of the fun.
Get the Recipe: Collard Dip
Cracker Barrel Cinnamon Roll Pie
For those with a sweet tooth, there’s a dessert that combines two favorites in one. Cracker Barrel Cinnamon Roll Pie is where the gooey goodness of cinnamon rolls meets the flakiness of pie crust. It’s a dessert that commands attention at the end of a meal. Everyone will be eager for a slice, accompanied by the sweet aroma that lingers in the air.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Cinnamon Roll Pie
Pecan Bacon Cheeseball
At your next party, be sure to have a centerpiece that everyone will flock to. Pecan Bacon Cheeseball is that crowd-pleaser, covered in crunchy pecans, bringing together the flavors of bacon and cheese in one indulgent bite. This appetizer is not just delicious but also incredibly moreish. Watch as it quickly becomes the star of the snack table.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Bacon Cheeseball
Crockpot Slow Cooker Taco Soup
There’s no need to spend hours in the kitchen to make a flavorful and hearty soup. Crockpot Slow Cooker Taco Soup is your best friend on busy days, allowing you to come home to a meal that’s ready to serve. It’s a hassle-free option that doesn’t skimp on taste. Share it with loved ones and enjoy the ease it brings to mealtime.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Slow Cooker Taco Soup
Air Fryer Shrimp
For a quick and healthy option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor, turn to your trusty air fryer. Air Fryer Shrimp is crispy on the outside, succulent inside, and ready in minutes. It’s perfect as a main dish or as an addition to salads and pastas. This dish proves that delicious can also be convenient and is sure to be appreciated by all.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Shrimp
Country Sausage Gravy
Pour a generous helping of southern comfort over biscuits, potatoes, or meats – whatever your heart desires – with Country Sausage Gravy. This rich gravy is a staple that turns a simple meal into a feasting experience. It brings warmth to the table and fills up your home with its inviting aroma, making mealtime something to look forward to.
Get the Recipe: Country Sausage Gravy
3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Sometimes simple is best, and 3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole proves it. With minimal ingredients, this casserole is easy to assemble yet full of comforting flavors. It’s perfect for those who are short on time but want a tasty side dish. Serve it hot and watch it disappear from plates at your next family meal.
Get the Recipe: 3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Hot Crab and Pimento Cheese Dip
Hot Crab and Pimento Cheese Dip is a decadent mix that’s perfect for dipping during any social event. Rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, this dip combines seafood and cheese in a way that keeps people coming back for more. It’s ideal served warm with a batch of fresh bread or crackers. Hosting a party? Make sure this dip is on your menu!
Get the Recipe: Hot Crab and Pimento Cheese Dip
Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
When a dish combines sweet and savory to create a perfect harmony, it’s something special. Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham is that dish, offering a balance that’s hard to resist. Ideal for holidays or Sunday dinners, this main course is a guaranteed conversation starter. The glistening glaze and juicy slices will call to everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
Air Fryer Steak Bites
If you’re in for a meaty treat that’s quick and delivers on taste, this is where it’s at. Air Fryer Steak Bites provide the rich flavor of steak in bite-sized pieces that are quick to share and devour. They’re ideal for an impromptu get-together or a no-fuss family dinner. Just pop them in, and in no time, you’ll have a dish that satisfies the most carnivorous cravings.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Steak Bites
Sweet Potato Casserole
Combining the natural sweetness of potatoes with a touch of nostalgia, this dish brings comfort as it graces the table. Sweet Potato Casserole is a warm, inviting dish that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory. It’s commonly found at festive occasions but is welcome any day you desire something familiar and fulfilling. Friends and family alike will be drawn to its homely charm.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole
