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35 Blue-Ribbon Southern Dishes That’ll Have You Cooking Like You’re Competing at the State Fair

Get ready to cook like a state fair champion with 35 blue-ribbon southern dishes that’ll have you feeling like you’ve got a blue ribbon hanging in your kitchen. These recipes are packed with the kind of flavors that make judges stop and ask for seconds, so don’t be surprised if your family starts treating you like a celebrity. From savory classics to sweet indulgences, these dishes are the real deal. Just don’t blame us if your neighbor starts showing up at dinner time every night.

Three pork chops with tomato and green onion on a white plate.
Pork Chops with Tomato & Green Onion Relish. 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.

When it comes to comforting soups, Red Pepper & Tomato Soup is a true winner. The rich, smooth texture pairs perfectly with a touch of sweetness and depth, creating a bowl of comfort with every spoonful. Whether served with grilled cheese or on its own, it’s a dish that delivers both warmth and flavor. It’s an easy choice for any time you need a quick, filling meal.
Get the Recipe: Red Pepper & Tomato Soup

Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes

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

A refreshing twist on a traditional salad, Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes brings a light and vibrant flavor to your plate. The grilled peaches add a smoky-sweet element, perfectly complementing fresh tomatoes. It’s the kind of salad that’s more than just a side dish, making a flavorful statement as the main attraction. If you love a mix of sweet and savory, this salad has you covered.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes

Steak & Potato Soup

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

This Steak & Potato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining hearty beef and tender potatoes in a rich broth. Perfect for chilly nights, it’s a filling dish that satisfies even the biggest appetites. A true crowd-pleaser, this soup brings all the warmth of a home-cooked meal straight to your bowl. If you’ve been looking for a satisfying and simple soup, this one’s your winner.
Get the Recipe: Steak & Potato 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.

You won’t believe how juicy and flavorful Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy can be. This dish brings the perfect balance of crispy skin and tender meat, all topped off with a smooth, creamy gravy. It’s the kind of meal that makes you wonder why you ever made chicken any other way. Simple, yet full of flavor, this is your go-to recipe for a satisfying dinner.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy

Million Dollar Spaghetti

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

With Million Dollar Spaghetti, you get a comforting, cheesy pasta dish that feels like it’s worth its weight in gold. Layers of pasta, cheese, and savory sauce come together to create the kind of dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. It’s a family favorite that’s guaranteed to disappear in minutes. Make this for your next get-together, and you won’t be left with any leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti

Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

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

Grab your slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you enjoy the rest of your day. Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans are the epitome of low-maintenance cooking with a big payoff. Letting them slow-cook all day lets the flavors develop, creating tender, perfectly seasoned beans. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish or making them the star, these beans are a crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Texas Corn Succotash

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

When you want a side that stands out, Texas Corn Succotash brings together a flavorful combination that will complement any meal. The mix of sweet corn, beans, and seasonings offers a satisfying crunch and taste that you’ll crave again and again. It’s a dish that’s both colorful and tasty, perfect for adding some Southern flair to your table. Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite side dish.
Get the Recipe: Texas Corn Succotash

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.

Get ready for some satisfied stomachs and a lot of second helpings. Sloppy Joe Casserole takes the classic sandwich and turns it into an easy, baked dish for a crowd. The flavors are all there, with a tangy, hearty base topped with a crispy crust that holds it all together. Perfect for weeknight dinners or feeding a hungry group, it’s comfort food at its finest.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole

Creamed Corn

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

You can’t go wrong with Creamed Corn, a dish that’s both rich and satisfying. It’s simple but packs a punch with its creamy texture and sweet corn flavor. This dish is an essential side for any southern meal, offering a balance of sweetness and creaminess that everyone will love. Serve it up at your next family dinner and watch it disappear in no time.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Corn

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.

Make them once, and they’ll quickly become a favorite at your table. Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs take corn to a whole new level with a crispy, cheesy finish. These “ribs” are perfect for snacking or as a side to any meal, with just the right amount of garlic and parmesan flavor. Whether served as an appetizer or part of the main course, these corn ribs bring a satisfying crunch.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs

Garlic Chicken Skillet

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

Serve it with your favorite side, and dinner is done in no time. Garlic Chicken Skillet is a one-pan wonder that’s both easy and bursting with flavor. The garlic infuses every bite of the chicken, making each piece extra savory. This is a no-fuss recipe that will have you looking like a pro in the kitchen while delivering big taste with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Chicken Skillet

Smoked Mac & Cheese

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

For a dish that brings a smoky, cheesy twist to the table, Smoked Mac & Cheese is a showstopper. The slow-smoking process adds an extra layer of flavor, making it a standout side or main course. Whether you’re a mac & cheese enthusiast or just looking for something new, this version takes the classic to new heights. Serve it at your next BBQ or dinner, and get ready for compliments.
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.

If you’re short on time but want a meal that tastes like you spent hours cooking, 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken is the answer. This dish is as simple as it gets, yet it packs a punch in flavor. Toss everything in your slow cooker, and let it do the work while you sit back and relax. In a few hours, you’ll have a tender, delicious chicken ready to serve.
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.

Warm up with a bowl of Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup, a smooth and comforting dish. The natural sweetness of the squash and potatoes comes through perfectly, creating a satisfying, hearty soup. It’s perfect for chilly days or when you just need something comforting to sip on. Simple to make but full of flavor, this soup will have you coming back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup

Southern Ham Salad

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

Looking for a quick yet flavorful dish? Southern Ham Salad is the perfect solution. It brings together ham and creamy elements into a snack or side that’s both easy and delicious. This dish is versatile enough to serve in sandwiches, as a dip, or on its own as a light meal. It’s a great option when you need something fast but still packed with taste.
Get the Recipe: Southern Ham Salad

Sweet Potato Cornbread

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

When you’re in the mood for a twist on a classic, Sweet Potato Cornbread has you covered. The sweet potatoes add a new layer of flavor to the cornbread, making it the perfect complement to any southern meal. It’s easy to bake, and once it’s done, you’ll have a warm, comforting side that everyone will love. Serve it alongside soups, stews, or even as a snack—this cornbread is a winner.
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.

Slice it up and serve with your favorite sides for a meal that’s sure to impress. Roast Pork with Apples is the kind of dish that makes a statement without being complicated. The combination of tender roast pork and sweet apples creates a balance of savory and sweet in every bite. It’s a meal that looks as good as it tastes, perfect for a Sunday dinner or special occasion.
Get the Recipe: Roast Pork with Apples

Smoked Beef Stew

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

Smoked Beef Stew adds a whole new layer of flavor to a classic dish with its smoky depth. The slow-smoking process makes each bite richer, and the beef becomes tender enough to melt in your mouth. It’s a filling dish that’s perfect for cool weather and hearty appetites. Serve it with crusty bread on the side, and you’ve got a meal that warms you inside and out.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Beef Stew

Oven Roasted Tomato Soup

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

For a soup that’s as simple as it is flavorful, Oven Roasted Tomato Soup is the answer. Roasting the tomatoes before blending adds a depth of flavor that takes the soup to the next level. Whether you pair it with a sandwich or enjoy it solo, this classic comfort food hits the spot every time. Its rich, hearty taste is sure to keep you coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Tomato Soup

Fried Tomatillos

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

A great alternative to traditional fried foods, they’re easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Fried Tomatillos are a crispy, tangy treat that’s a perfect snack or appetizer. The batter adds a crunchy texture while the tomatillos stay firm, giving you that satisfying bite you crave. Serve them with a dipping sauce, and you’ve got a crowd-pleaser on your hands.
Get the Recipe: Fried Tomatillos

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.

For a soup that feels like a meal in itself, Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl hits the mark. The creamy, cheesy soup served in a warm, tangy sourdough bowl makes for a comforting and filling dish. This recipe is perfect for chilly nights or as a hearty lunch. It’s a great way to turn a classic soup into something extra special that’ll fill you up and satisfy your taste buds.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl

Shrimp and Grits Casserole

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

Combining shrimp and grits into one dish makes for a satisfying, southern-inspired casserole. Shrimp and Grits Casserole brings the best of both worlds—creamy grits and tender shrimp—into a baked, easy-to-serve meal. It’s perfect for family dinners or impressing guests at a gathering. One bite, and you’ll see why this dish is a Southern favorite.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits Casserole

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.

If you’re looking for an easy, flavorful dinner, Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken is a great choice. This one-pan dish roasts the chicken to golden perfection, infused with the fresh flavors of lemon and rosemary. It’s simple, yet tastes like a special meal that took hours to prepare. Perfect for busy nights when you want a satisfying meal with minimal cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

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

If you’ve ever craved those delicious beef tips from Texas Roadhouse, this recipe lets you enjoy them at home. Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips delivers tender, flavorful beef in a savory sauce that’s hard to beat. It’s an easy dish to make but tastes like it’s straight from the restaurant. Whether for a casual dinner or a special occasion, these beef tips will impress.
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.

When you smoke sweet potatoes, they take on a flavor that’s richer and more intense. Smoked Sweet Potatoes combine the natural sweetness of the potato with a smoky edge that makes them irresistible. These potatoes are the perfect side dish for any meal, adding both flavor and substance. They’re easy to prepare and always a hit, making them a staple for any barbecue or dinner.
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.

Need a dinner that’s hearty and low-maintenance? Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs are your answer. These tender meatballs cook slowly in a savory sauce, making them the perfect meal after a busy day. They pair well with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish. The best part? You can set it and forget it while the slow cooker does the work for you.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

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.

For a chili that’s hearty, flavorful, and just the right amount of spicy, Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe is the perfect match. This recipe brings all the bold flavors of the restaurant’s classic chili right into your kitchen. Whether served on its own or as a topping for nachos or cornbread, it’s a dish that’s guaranteed to satisfy. Enjoy it as a meal or make it the star of your next gathering.
Get the Recipe: Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe

Oven Baked Ribs

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

You don’t need a grill to enjoy perfectly cooked ribs. Oven Baked Ribs turn out tender and juicy every time with a flavorful, caramelized crust. The slow-cooking process ensures that the meat falls off the bone, while the seasoning creates a savory coating you’ll love. It’s a simple recipe that delivers big flavor without the hassle of grilling.
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.

If you love stroganoff, this pie version will become your new favorite. Skillet Stroganoff Pie takes the classic flavors of stroganoff and turns them into a comforting, flaky pie. It’s perfect for when you want a twist on the traditional recipe, with a golden crust and creamy filling. This dish is easy to make and a great way to feed a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Stroganoff Pie

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.

For a tangy appetizer that’s sure to impress, Southern Style Pickled Shrimp brings a bold, refreshing flavor to your table. The shrimp are marinated in a vinegar-based brine that gives them a zesty kick. Serve them chilled with crackers, or enjoy them as part of a southern-inspired spread. It’s a quick, easy recipe that’s perfect for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Southern Style Pickled Shrimp

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.

A combination of sweet corn and smoky chipotle creates a chowder that’s as rich as it is comforting. Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle brings a bit of heat while maintaining a creamy texture that’s perfect for cool days. The shrimp add a delicious bite, making this soup a meal on its own. Whether you’re serving it as a starter or main dish, this chowder is sure to impress.
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.

For a chili with a unique smoky flavor, Smoked Brisket Chili is a game-changer. The brisket gives this chili a rich, tender texture, while the slow-cooked spices bring out deep flavors. It’s a hearty, filling meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers. The smoky undertones make this chili stand out from your average pot of beans and meat.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Brisket Chili

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.

When you need a dinner that cooks itself, Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops is the answer. The slow-cooking process makes these pork chops tender and flavorful, while the sauce infuses every bite with savory goodness. This dish is perfect for busy days when you want a delicious meal with minimal effort. Simply add your ingredients to the slow cooker and let it do all the hard work for you.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops

Southwestern Chili

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

Add a little heat to your usual chili with this flavorful twist. Southwestern Chili combines classic chili ingredients with bold, southwestern spices for a dish that’s as hearty as it is flavorful. It’s perfect for a family dinner, game day, or any occasion where you want something filling. Whether you prefer it mild or spicy, this chili can be customized to your liking.
Get the Recipe: Southwestern Chili

Pork Chops with Tomato & Green Onion Relish

Three pork chops with tomato and green onion on a white plate.
Pork Chops with Tomato & Green Onion Relish. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

The relish complements the pork perfectly, adding a touch of brightness to every bite. Pork Chops with Tomato & Green Onion Relish brings a burst of freshness to your pork chops. The relish, made with tomatoes and green onions, adds a tangy and savory contrast to the tender pork. This dish is perfect for a weeknight meal, but still special enough to serve at a gathering.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops with Tomato & Green Onion Relish

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