If you really want to impress, forget the store-bought stuff. 19 Southern American recipes made from scratch will have your guests feeling right at home. These dishes are crafted with care and are ready to bring everyone together around the table. No shortcuts, no frozen meals—just real, comforting flavors that make your guests feel like family. It’s the best way to show your hospitality and make them feel welcome from the moment they arrive.
Buttermilk Fried Chicken
In the heart of Southern cuisine, Buttermilk Fried Chicken stands as a timeless favorite. It’s all about that crisp exterior met with tender, juicy meat inside. Fans appreciate how it transforms a simple meal into something memorable. The process of soaking ensures flavors are deep and pervasive. It’s often the star of family gatherings, making everyone feel at home.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Lemon Loaf Cake
If you’re in the mood for something sweet, the bright flavor of Lemon Loaf Cake will surely hit the spot. This dessert pairs well with your afternoon tea or coffee. Its moist texture and refreshing citrus taste make it a popular choice. Enjoying a slice feels like a small celebration of simplicity and joy. People often turn to this cake for a comforting treat that’s both simple and sophisticated.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Loaf Cake
Oven Baked Ribs
Nothing quite matches the slow-cooked delight of Oven Baked Ribs. These are known for their fall-off-the-bone tenderness. Each bite is packed with flavors that are robust and satisfying. They’re perfect for when you want to impress guests or just treat your family. Plus, it’s a dish that asks for seconds, even when you’re already full!
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ribs
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
For a dish that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor, Slow Cooker Pulled Pork is an excellent choice. It cooks while you go about your day, filling the home with enticing aromas. This dish is incredibly versatile, serving as the perfect filling for sandwiches or tacos. It’s a hit at casual dinners and potlucks alike. The simplicity and deliciousness it offers make it a staple in many households.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pulled Pork
Creamed Corn
Creamed Corn is a side dish that brings creamy texture and subtly sweet flavor to the table. It’s a great addition to any meal, enhancing the overall dining experience. This dish is surprisingly comforting, often reminding folks of their childhood meals. It pairs beautifully with both meat and vegetarian main courses. It’s simple, but its ability to complement a wide range of dishes is unparalleled.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Corn
Southern Spiced Brownies
Who can resist the deep chocolate and unique spice blend in Southern Spiced Brownies? These aren’t your ordinary brownies; they bring a kick that wakes up the palate. Ideal for dessert or a special treat, they’re frequently a topic of conversation. You can count on them to disappear quickly at any gathering. It’s a fun twist on a classic favorite.
Get the Recipe: Southern Spiced Brownies
Tuna Noodle Casserole
When you’re looking for comfort in a dish, Tuna Noodle Casserole answers the call. It’s hearty, filling, and wrapped in a creamy texture. This casserole is a go-to for weeknight dinners when you need something reliable and satisfying. It’s particularly popular among those who want a no-fuss yet delicious meal. Families appreciate its nostalgic appeal and comforting presence on the dining table.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Noodle Casserole
Macaroni Salad
Macaroni Salad is a classic that’s always welcome at picnics and cookouts. It strikes a perfect balance between creamy and refreshing. The salad is often customized with various additions, making it versatile. It’s a cold dish that works well as a side or a light main during hot days. People love it for its ability to be both simple and a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad
Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge
For a sweet treat that recalls days gone by, Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge is unmatched. This rich and creamy dessert promises a melt-in-your-mouth experience. It’s often associated with holiday gatherings and family reunions. Each batch is a token of tradition and homely craft. It’s a reminder of the simple pleasures that homemade sweets can bring.
Get the Recipe: Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge
Hoppin John
Known for being a good luck charm, this hearty dish is rich in both flavor and history. Hoppin John combines simplicity with depth, offering a tasty experience. It’s often enjoyed with a side of collard greens for a full Southern meal. The combination is believed to bring prosperity and comfort. It is a staple that represents the fusion of cultures and flavors.
Get the Recipe: Hoppin John
Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
The dish is a favorite for its ease and the comforting essence it carries. For those who appreciate the flavors of the garden, Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans bring a touch of homestyle cooking to any meal. Cooking them slowly enhances their natural flavors and allows for a tender finish. They’re a pleasant addition to both festive and everyday meals. It complements a wide variety of main dishes, making it very adaptable.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
It’s a festive dish that effortlessly brings a sense of occasion. If you’re aiming to wow your guests, Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham provides a sweet twist to the traditional tasty ham. The balance of sweetness and saltiness creates a flavor profile that’s both intriguing and delicious. It’s often the centerpiece at major celebrations and gatherings. A slice of this ham assures a flood of compliments from your dinner guests.
Get the Recipe: Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham
Southern-Style Broccoli Salad
Southern-Style Broccoli Salad is a refreshing change from typical salad options. It mixes crisp textures with a rich dressing. This salad is a beloved choice for family barbecues and potlucks. It’s a way to sneak some greens into your diet without compromising on flavor. People enjoy its crunch and the distinctive taste it adds to a meal.
Get the Recipe: Southern-Style Broccoli Salad
Cracker Barrel Cinnamon Roll Pie
When dessert time rolls around, Cracker Barrel Cinnamon Roll Pie takes center stage. This dish combines the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls with the hearty texture of pie. It’s a unique blend that’s both filling and aromatic. Often chosen for special occasions, it serves as a comforting finale to any meal. The aroma alone is enough to gather everyone around the table.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Cinnamon Roll Pie
Pecan Bacon Cheeseball
Imagine a dish that brings together nuts, bacon, and cheese in one divine scoop — that’s Pecan Bacon Cheeseball. It’s a hit at parties and family gatherings for its bold flavors and unique texture. Not only does it pair well with a variety of crackers and breads, but it also stands out as a centerpiece. It’s always fun to see guests’ reactions to this unexpected yet delicious combination. A favorite for those who enjoy a bit of creativity on their culinary plate.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Bacon Cheeseball
Sweet Potato Casserole
Sweet Potato Casserole is the epitome of comfort food with its rich, creamy base and a crunchy top layer. This dish is especially popular during gatherings, where it’s enjoyed by kids and adults alike. It’s a great way to introduce vegetables in a flavorful way. Often it becomes the topic of conversation due to its comforting quality. This casserole is a heartwarming addition to any family dinner.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole
Collard Dip
Taking a leafy green and turning it into a delicious dip is what makes Collard Dip a standout. This dish is a creative twist on traditional dips and offers a deep, tasty flavor profile. It’s perfect for spreading on crackers or dipping with bread. At gatherings, it’s often admired for its unique use of collards. It’s a dish that brings something different to the table, offering a taste of Southern hospitality.
Get the Recipe: Collard Dip
Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl
When comfort meets convenience, you get Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl. This dish not only delights with its creamy soup but also impresses with its edible bowl. Each spoonful brings out the best of broccoli and cheddar. It’s a favorite for chilly days or when you need a warm, comforting meal. The combination of soup and bread in one dish makes it a pleasing choice for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl
Shrimp and Grits Casserole
If you’re craving a seafood twist, Shrimp and Grits Casserole is a gratifying choice. This dish combines creamy grits with flavorful shrimp in a hearty baked casserole. It’s perfect for brunch or a fancy dinner affair. Guests often marvel at its rich flavor and comforting texture. It’s a Southern twist that brings smiles and warmth to the dining table.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits Casserole
