These 21 Southern recipes are the kind of meals that get people talking—so much so, your neighbors might knock just to say hey. Whether it’s the smell drifting through the air or the irresistible look of the dish, these meals make you the unofficial house everyone wants to visit. With food this good, no one can resist stopping by for a taste. Don’t be surprised when the doorbell rings and someone’s asking for a plate.
Southern Sausage Cheese Balls
Perfect for a quick snack or a party starter, these bites are filled with a warm, cheesy center and a perfectly crispy outside. As soon as you bring them out, expect everyone to gather around the plate. These Southern Sausage Cheese Balls have a way of starting conversations and are a must have at gatherings. Always a hit, their mix of rich and tasty flavors makes them hard to resist. They are straightforward to prepare and even easier to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Southern Sausage Cheese Balls
Creamy Mashed Cauliflower
Forget everything you thought you knew about side dishes; here, a low-carb favorite takes the spotlight. Rich and buttery without any actual butter, this dish is a creamy miracle. Creamy Mashed Cauliflower pairs seamlessly with almost any main dish, enhancing your meal without overpowering it. You’ll be surprised at how satisfying it feels to eat something this good that’s also good for you. Plus, it’s a brilliant way to include more veggies in your diet.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mashed Cauliflower
Lemon Loaf Cake
There’s nothing like slicing into a moist loaf infused with a vibrant citrus flavor. Each slice hits the perfect balance between sweet and tart, making it a refreshing end to any meal. Lemon Loaf Cake can turn a simple coffee break into a special moment. It comes out beautifully golden every time, tempting you with its aromatic allure before you even taste it. Pair it with a touch of whipped cream or enjoy it as is for a true treat.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Loaf Cake
Funeral Potatoes
Having a name that piques curiosity, this dish is a staple comfort food in many communities. The creamy, cheesy goodness is what makes Funeral Potatoes deeply satisfying. It’s a versatile side that stands out at potlucks, Sunday dinners, and, yes, even memorials. You’ll find that its crispy topping contrasts perfectly with the soft and flavorful interior. Everyone will want to know how you made it so delicious.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes
Crockpot Slowcooker Rump Roast
Imagine coming home to the aroma of a perfectly cooked roast that’s been slowly simmering all day. This Crockpot Slowcooker Rump Roast is ideal for busy days when you want a hearty meal without the fuss. Just set it up in the morning, and by dinner, you have a tender, juicy feast ready to serve. Pair it with some potatoes or your favorite vegetables, and it’s a meal that fills the belly and warms the heart.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Slowcooker Rump Roast
Sweet Potato Pie
If you’ve not been introduced to this classic Southern dessert, you’re in for a real treat. Captivating with its smooth, creamy filling and a crust that crumbles just right, Sweet Potato Pie is a favorite during gatherings for a good reason. It’s a dessert that comforts as much as it satisfies, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma as it bakes. Often enjoyed with a dollop of whipped cream, each bite is a blend of sweetness and spices that’s hard to beat.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Pie
Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy
Who can resist the allure of juicy chicken thighs covered in a rich, tasty gravy? This dish guarantees a delicious meal that’s as easy to make as it is gratifying to eat. Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy become the centerpiece of any dinner, promising a mouth-watering experience. It’s a foolproof way to turn a simple chicken meal into something extraordinary. Serve it over rice or mashed potatoes to turn its flavor into a full feast.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy
Sloppy Joe Casserole
Take everything you love about sloppy Joes and imagine it baked into a hearty casserole. That’s what you get with Sloppy Joe Casserole, a dish that melds deliciously tangy and sweet flavors with comforting layers. This meal is perfect for feeding a crowd or just having leftovers for the week. It’s simple, filling, and packs a punch of flavor that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds. You might want to make an extra batch just in case.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole
Fluffy Sour Cream Biscuits
There’s something irresistible about pulling apart a warm, fluffy biscuit. With just the right touch of richness, Fluffy Sour Cream Biscuits upgrade any dining experience, be it breakfast or dinner. These biscuits are so light and airy, they almost melt in your mouth. They pair beautifully with anything from jams to gravies. So whether you’re setting them on the breakfast table or serving them with dinner, expect them to disappear quickly!
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Sour Cream Biscuits
Creamed Corn
Creamed Corn mixes sweet corn kernels with a velvety sauce that’s hard to say no to. It’s a comforting side dish that goes great with just about everything. This version brings out the natural sweetness of corn, making it a favorite for both kids and adults. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or need something quick for a potluck, it’s a reliable and delicious choice. Plus, it’s effortless to whip up, making your dinner prep a breeze.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Corn
Oven Baked Ribs
Imagine ribs that fall off the bone, each bite bursting with flavor from hours of slow baking. Oven Baked Ribs offer that. They turn any ordinary dinner into a special occasion. Whether you prefer them slathered in barbecue sauce or seasoned with a dry rub, the result is always deliciously gratifying. This dish has a way of bringing everyone to the table as soon as it comes out of the oven.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ribs
Southern-Style Broccoli Salad
With a unique mix of textures and flavors, Southern-Style Broccoli Salad is a fresh take on your average vegetable dish. It’s crunchy, creamy, and packed with a variety of flavors that blend beautifully. This salad can stand alone as a light lunch or accompany your main dish perfectly. It’s a side that adds both color and a punch of flavor to any meal table. People often compliment it for both its taste and its health benefits.
Get the Recipe: Southern-Style Broccoli Salad
Chicken Roll-Ups
When you need a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, turn to Chicken Roll-Ups. Stuffed with surprises inside, each roll is a discovery of flavors. This dish makes dinner playful and is a hit especially with kids. Great for weeknights when you need something both gratifying and entertaining. They’re a crowd-pleaser that’s also easy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Roll-Ups
Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge
There’s nothing quite like the rich, creamy texture of homemade fudge, and when it’s Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge, it’s even better. Each square is a dense, peanut buttery slice of heaven. This fudge doesn’t just satisfy your sweet tooth—it completely makes your day. It’s perfect for gifts, holiday gatherings, or a quiet night in. You might find yourself hiding a piece or two just for yourself.
Get the Recipe: Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge
Tuna Noodle Casserole
Sometimes, you just need a dish that brings back all the cozy feelings of home, and Tuna Noodle Casserole does just that. It’s creamy, hearty, and filled with flavors that remind you of your childhood kitchen. This casserole is a go-to for a hassle-free weeknight dinner that everyone enjoys. It’s as nourishing as it is comforting. Leftovers, if you have any, are just as delicious the next day.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Noodle Casserole
Southern Spiced Brownies
Infused with a kick that only the South can bring, Southern Spiced Brownies are not your typical dessert. These brownies come with a twist that delights those who dare to try something different. They’re rich, chocolatey, and just spicy enough to make each bite interesting. Whether it’s for a party or just a special treat for the family, these brownies add a bit of excitement to any dessert table. It’s a chocolate treat with a spicy personality.
Get the Recipe: Southern Spiced Brownies
Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Everyone craves crispy fried chicken, but when it’s marinated in buttermilk, it becomes something extraordinary. Buttermilk Fried Chicken is the kind of meal that no one can turn down. It’s crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, and packed with flavors that only this marinade can bring. Whether you serve it at a family reunion or a simple Sunday lunch, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Loaded with flavors that develop and deepen as they cook, Slow Cooker Pulled Pork is a testament to the magic of slow cooking. This pork is so tender and flavorful, it practically melts in your mouth. It’s perfect piled high on sandwiches or enjoyed on its own. The best part about it is how it fills your home with an enticing aroma as it cooks. It’s a foolproof way to win over hearts and appetites at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Southern Crack Chicken Casserole
If you’re looking for something incredibly addictive, look no further than Southern Crack Chicken Casserole. This dish brings together creamy, cheesy goodness in a way that’s hard to put down. It’s perfect for those dishes that bring the family rushing to the dinner table. Often topped with crispy bacon, it’s a rich dish that serves up comfort in every spoonful. Expect it to become a regular request once you introduce it at mealtime.
Get the Recipe: Southern Crack Chicken Casserole
Macaroni Salad
This salad is one of those classics that everyone seems to love. For a side dish that’s as simple as it is essential at any Southern gathering, Macaroni Salad is a top pick. It’s creamy, tangy, and mixes well with a variety of flavors. Whether it’s part of a barbecue spread or just alongside a simple sandwich, it holds its own. It’s also incredibly easy to whip up, which is always a plus.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad
Shrimp and Grits Casserole
Shrimp and Grits Casserole takes two Southern favorites and combines them into one irresistible dish. It’s tasty, comforting, and filled with flavors that remind you of the South’s rich culinary traditions. This casserole is a hearty meal that welcomes you with open arms, making you feel at ease with every spoonful. Great for any time of day, it’s a versatile dish that brings a taste of Southern hospitality to your table.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits Casserole
