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35 Big-Flavored Southern Dishes That’ll Have You Feeling Like You’re at a Family Reunion

There’s nothing quiet about these 35 Southern dishes. They come packed with big, bold flavor and the kind of comfort that turns a regular Tuesday into something worth talking about. Whether it’s fried, slow-cooked, smothered, or baked until it’s barely holding together, these recipes are the real deal. One bite and you’ll understand why someone’s always yelling “who made this?” at a family cookout.

Steak & Potato Soup in a black bowl.
Steak & Potato Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Red Pepper & Tomato Soup

A bowl of red pepper and tomato soup next to a plate of bread and a spoon.
Red Pepper & Tomato Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Red Pepper & Tomato Soup brings the flavors you love in a simple, easy-to-make dish. Roasting the peppers intensifies the flavor, giving this soup a rich, sweet undertone that will keep you coming back for more. It’s the kind of soup that makes you feel like you’re getting a big hug from the inside. A must-have when you need something both light and comforting.
Get the Recipe: Red Pepper & Tomato Soup

Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy

Oven Baked Chicken Thighs on a platter.
Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy turns a basic chicken dish into something you’ll want to make again and again. The crispy chicken thighs are complemented by a creamy, flavorful onion gravy that soaks right into the meat. It’s hearty, comforting, and the gravy takes it over the top. Perfect for any day you need a filling, flavorful meal.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy

Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes

A plate with Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes.
Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes is a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky. The grilled peaches bring out a natural sweetness, while the tomatoes add a juicy pop. It’s fresh, vibrant, and something different that’ll make you look at salads in a whole new way. If you’re looking to serve something a little unique, this one’s for you.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes

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Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs

Corn on the cob with garlic parmesan on a black plate.
Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs take the familiar corn on the cob and turn it into something a little more exciting. With crispy edges and a garlicky punch, this dish feels like a treat at every bite. It’s easy to make, but it looks like something you’d order at a restaurant. Perfect for those nights when you want something different but familiar.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs

Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Green beans with pork on a black plate.
Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Let the Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans do their thing while you go about your day. These beans cook low and slow, soaking up all the flavor until they’re tender and savory. It’s the perfect side dish that requires no babysitting and delivers maximum flavor. If you’ve got a crowd, you can’t go wrong with this one.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl

Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl with spoon on a round brown plate.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl brings all the warmth and creaminess you crave, served in the most delicious bowl possible. The bread soaks up the soup and becomes part of the meal, making this more of an experience than just lunch. It’s hearty, filling, and exactly what you want when you need comfort. Who needs a spoon when the bowl does the work?
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl

Fried Tomatillos

Fried Tomatillos in a black cast iron pan.
Fried Tomatillos. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Fried Tomatillos are a Southern favorite that will make you rethink everything you thought you knew about fried food. Fried Tomatillos deliver that crispy, golden crunch with a tangy twist you didn’t know you needed. These are the kind of snacks that keep you coming back for more, no guilt. Don’t expect leftovers, because these never last long. Ideal for anyone who loves a bit of crunch with their flavor.
Get the Recipe: Fried Tomatillos

Creamed Corn

Smoked Creamed Corn in a black skillet.
Creamed Corn. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Creamed Corn takes the classic side dish and turns it into the star of the table. With a silky texture and just the right amount of richness, this dish can stand alone or complement just about anything. It’s simple, it’s hearty, and it brings the flavor every time. If you’ve never tried it, you’re in for a treat.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Corn

Garlic Chicken Skillet

Garlic Chicken Skillet with peppers and asparagus on a white plate.
Garlic Chicken Skillet. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you want big flavor in a small amount of time, Garlic Chicken Skillet is your answer. This recipe combines juicy chicken with a punch of garlic that’ll make everyone ask for the recipe. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but flavorful enough to serve for company. Grab a skillet and get ready for something that hits all the right notes.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Chicken Skillet

Oven Roasted Tomato Soup

A bowl of oven-roasted tomato soup with two spoons.
Oven Roasted Tomato Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This soup is rich, comforting, and always a crowd-pleaser. Oven Roasted Tomato Soup is your go-to comfort food when you want something that’s both warm and satisfying. Roasting the tomatoes brings out a depth of flavor that you didn’t know you were missing. Perfect for a chilly day or when you just need a quick meal that feels homemade.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Tomato Soup

Smoked Beef Stew

A white bowl filled with smoked beef stew.
Smoked Beef Stew. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Serve it with crusty bread, and you’re all set. Smoked Beef Stew adds a whole new layer of flavor to the classic stew. The smokiness in this dish gives it depth and richness that will make it stand out from the usual beef stew recipes. It’s filling, hearty, and perfect for those days when you need something to stick to your ribs.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Beef Stew

Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops

Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops on a baby blue serving dish.
Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops offer a simple yet satisfying meal that requires little effort but delivers big results. The pork chops cook until they’re tender and juicy, with a flavor profile that’s both savory and comforting. Just throw everything in the slow cooker, and let the magic happen. Perfect for busy days when you want something hearty without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops

Southern Ham Salad

A bowl of Southern ham salad and croissants on a wooden table.
Southern Ham Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Southern Ham Salad is a dish that feels like home. It’s the kind of salad you’d find at a family gathering, simple but full of flavor. With a rich, creamy base, it’s perfect as a side or a spread. Whether served on crackers or as a sandwich filling, this salad brings all the comfort with none of the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Southern Ham Salad

Texas Corn Succotash

Texas Corn Succotash in a black bowl with spoon.
Texas Corn Succotash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This dish can hold its own at a family gathering or be the perfect complement to any meal. Texas Corn Succotash is the perfect side dish when you need something that’s both filling and packed with flavor. The corn is the star, but every other ingredient adds just the right amount of flavor to make it unforgettable. It’s simple to prepare, but it feels special.
Get the Recipe: Texas Corn Succotash

Smoked Mac & Cheese

A skillet filled with Smoked Mac & Cheese.
Smoked Mac & Cheese. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When it comes to comfort food, Smoked Mac & Cheese doesn’t mess around. The smokiness adds a whole new layer of flavor to this classic dish, taking it from good to great. It’s rich, creamy, and has that perfect smoky edge that will make you crave it all year long. Whether it’s a cookout or a cozy dinner, this mac and cheese is always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mac & Cheese

4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken

4 ingredient slow cooker chicken on a black platter.
4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Don’t let the simplicity of 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken fool you—it’s big on flavor. This dish takes minimal effort and transforms into a meal that’s both tender and full of flavor. Throw everything in the slow cooker and let it do its thing; no need to worry about complicated steps. A true set-it-and-forget-it recipe that delivers great results every time.
Get the Recipe: 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken

Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup

Two bowls of cream of butternut squash and sweet potato soup on a wooden table.
Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Serve it with your favorite sides and let this dish steal the show. Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup is the perfect cozy dish to warm you up when it gets chilly. This smooth, creamy soup is sweet but balanced, offering a comforting meal with every spoonful. It’s like a hug in a bowl, simple yet satisfying, and perfect for a quiet night in. x
Get the Recipe: Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup

Sloppy Joe Casserole

A serving of Sloppy Joe Casserole pasta with meat on a plate with a fork.
Sloppy Joe Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you love a Sloppy Joe, you’ll absolutely love Sloppy Joe Casserole. It takes everything you adore about this classic and turns it into a layered, easy-to-serve dish that everyone can dive into. This casserole is as comforting as the original, with that same rich, savory flavor but without the mess. You’ll be grabbing seconds before you even realize it.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips on a white plate.
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Serve it with your favorite sides and let this dish steal the show. Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips bring the restaurant experience straight to your table without leaving home. These tender beef tips are smothered in a savory sauce that has just the right amount of richness. Perfect for a dinner with family or friends, they’ll be begging for the recipe before the night’s over.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

Smoked Sweet Potatoes

Smoked Sweet Potatoes with Chipotle Butter on a round white plate.
Smoked Sweet Potatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Their smoky flavor and natural sweetness pair perfectly with just about anything. Smoked Sweet Potatoes take the humble sweet potato and give it a smoky, caramelized twist. When you smoke them, the sweetness deepens, making every bite extra satisfying. These potatoes are a perfect side dish for any barbecue or a hearty meal all on their own.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Sweet Potatoes

Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

A white rectangular plate with several meatballs covered in tomato sauce, garnished with chopped basil.
Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Throw everything into the slow cooker and let Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs work their magic. These meatballs are packed with flavor and tenderized as they cook, soaking up all the rich broth. It’s an easy, no-fuss dish that delivers big flavor without requiring you to babysit. Ideal for a busy day, this dish is a family favorite that takes minimal effort to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

Shrimp and Grits Casserole

A casserole dish with chicken and vegetables in it.
Shrimp and Grits Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

You won’t miss the stovetop version once you try this one. Shrimp and Grits Casserole takes the Southern classic and makes it even easier to love. The shrimp and grits come together in one dish, combining the best of both worlds into a comforting casserole. It’s everything you love about the classic dish, but in a way that’s easier to serve to a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits Casserole

Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle

A white bowl of creamy shrimp & corn chowder on a white plate.
Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

This chowder is a must for anyone who loves bold flavors. Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle combines sweet corn, shrimp, and a smoky kick from chipotle to create a soup that’s rich, creamy, and full of depth. The balance of flavors makes it both comforting and exciting with every spoonful. It’s hearty enough to stand alone or pair perfectly with your favorite bread.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle

Smoked Brisket Chili

Two bowls of smoked brisket chili, tomatoes, and bread.
Smoked Brisket Chili. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Whether you’re watching the game or hosting a casual get-together, this chili will be the star of the show. Smoked Brisket Chili adds a smoky twist to your typical chili. The brisket brings an extra layer of depth that elevates the dish beyond the usual chili experience. It’s filling, rich, and perfect for a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Brisket Chili

Million Dollar Spaghetti

Spaghetti with meat and cheese in a baking dish.
Million Dollar Spaghetti. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

You don’t need a big budget to impress—just this delicious pasta dish. Million Dollar Spaghetti is the kind of dish that will make you feel like you’ve got a million bucks. This casserole-style pasta is hearty, flavorful, and cheesy in all the right ways. It’s a simple meal that feels special, making it perfect for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti

Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken

A platter of sheet pan lemon-rosemary chicken with lemon slices, herbs, and garnished with cherry tomatoes.
Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

It’s a simple, no-fuss dish that’s ideal for a busy weeknight. Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken takes all the flavors you love about a roast chicken and makes it as easy as a one-pan meal. The chicken cooks to crispy perfection while the rosemary and lemon infuse it with a fragrant, savory flavor. Serve it with roasted vegetables for a complete meal that’s satisfying and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken

Southern Style Pickled Shrimp

Close-up Southern Style Pickled Shrimp with lemon slices and dill on a jar.
Southern Style Pickled Shrimp. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Serve it with crackers or on its own for a snack that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Southern Style Pickled Shrimp offer a zesty, tangy bite that’s perfect for a picnic or a light appetizer. The shrimp soak in a flavorful brine that gives them a bite you’ll want again and again. It’s a simple dish, but it packs a punch, with a perfect balance of acidity and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Southern Style Pickled Shrimp

Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe

A bowl of Texas roadhouse chili with jalapenos and beans.
Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you love the chili from Texas Roadhouse, you’re in for a treat with this Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe. It brings all the bold, hearty flavors you crave in a chili, with just the right amount of heat. Whether it’s game day or a cold night, this chili is the kind of meal you’ll want to make in big batches. It’s simple to make but packed with flavor that will satisfy every time.
Get the Recipe: Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe

Southwestern Chili

Two white bowls of Southwestern chili topped with sour cream are on a table.
Southwestern Chili. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

You’ll find yourself serving it again and again for its perfect balance of flavors. Southwestern Chili adds a bold, smoky flair to the classic chili dish. Packed with deep, rich flavors, it’s perfect for when you want something filling but with a little more kick. This chili brings the heat without overpowering the taste, making it the perfect dish for a chilly evening.
Get the Recipe: Southwestern Chili

Slow Cooker Mississippi Chicken

A black bowl containing egg noodles topped with Slow Cooker Mississippi Chicken and garnished with parsley, accompanied by a pickled pepper.
Slow Cooker Mississippi Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A go-to meal for days when you need minimal effort but big results. Slow Cooker Mississippi Chicken is a flavorful, hands-off dish that’s ideal for a busy day. Just throw everything in the slow cooker, and in hours, you’ll have a tender, juicy chicken that’s rich with flavor. It’s the perfect set-it-and-forget-it recipe for when you want something easy, hearty, and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Mississippi Chicken

Oven Baked Ribs

Pieces of oven bake ribs on a black slate plate.
Oven Baked Ribs. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Perfect for anyone who loves ribs but doesn’t always want to fire up the grill. Oven Baked Ribs offer the kind of tenderness and flavor usually reserved for the grill, but without the hassle. These ribs cook low and slow in the oven, absorbing all the seasonings until they practically fall off the bone. You get all the flavor you want with none of the time-consuming work.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ribs

Skillet Stroganoff Pie

A Skillet Stroganoff Pie with a small missing portion.
Skillet Stroganoff Pie. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A dish you won’t want to miss if you’re craving something a little different. Skillet Stroganoff Pie is a unique spin on the classic beef stroganoff, baked up in a crispy, flaky pie. It’s hearty, creamy, and everything you love about the original dish, all wrapped up in a warm pie crust. This is comfort food with a twist that’s perfect for dinner or even a cozy weekend meal.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Stroganoff Pie

Sweet Potato Cornbread

A piece of cornbread on a plate next to a few potatoes.
Sweet Potato Cornbread. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

It’s sweet, savory, and just the right texture. Sweet Potato Cornbread gives you the best of both worlds: the fluffiness of cornbread with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes. This cornbread is rich, moist, and holds its own as a side dish or as a meal on its own. Serve it with chili, barbecue, or any Southern classic, and it’ll quickly become a must-have at the table.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cornbread

Roast Pork with Apples

A plate of Pork Roast with Apples on a table.
Roast Pork with Apples. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

It’s the kind of meal that makes any dinner feel special, without requiring too much effort. Roast Pork with Apples combines savory and sweet in the most satisfying way. The pork roasts to perfection, while the apples bring a juicy, slightly tart contrast that elevates the whole dish. Serve it with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a dinner that tastes like it came straight from grandma’s kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Roast Pork with Apples

Steak & Potato Soup

Steak & Potato Soup in a black bowl.
Steak & Potato Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

You won’t need much else once you’ve got this one on your plate. Steak & Potato Soup is like having dinner and comfort all in one bowl. With tender chunks of steak and perfectly cooked potatoes, this dish is hearty and satisfying. It’s the kind of soup that warms you up from the inside out and keeps you full for hours.
Get the Recipe: Steak & Potato Soup

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