If you’ve been searching for the ultimate Southern comfort food guide, these 35 deep South comfort food recipes that do it right are your answer. No fancy tricks, just simple, hearty meals that’ll satisfy every craving. Think gumbo, jambalaya, and all the sides that make you feel like you’re at a family gathering—complete with the laughter and, of course, the leftovers. Ready to take your cooking skills to the next level? These recipes will have you mastering Southern classics like a true local.
Steak & Potato Soup
Comfort in a bowl, Steak & Potato Soup is hearty and filling, perfect for a cozy night in. The rich broth pairs perfectly with tender chunks of steak and soft potatoes, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to love. You’ll find yourself coming back for more, especially with that slight kick from the seasoning. It’s the type of soup that’s best enjoyed with a slice of crusty bread to dip into that flavorful broth.
Get the Recipe: Steak & Potato Soup
Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes
Looking to add some fresh flavors to your plate? Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes is just what you need. It’s simple, yet the grilled peaches bring a warm, smoky sweetness that perfectly complements the juicy tomatoes. With every bite, you’ll enjoy a satisfying balance of textures, making it a great side dish for almost any meal. This salad proves that light and healthy doesn’t have to be boring—expect seconds, and maybe even thirds.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes
Red Pepper & Tomato Soup
The perfect comfort food on a chilly day, Red Pepper & Tomato Soup brings a rich, bold flavor without any fuss. This recipe is all about balance, where the red pepper adds a sweet kick, and the tomato base keeps it smooth. It’s the kind of soup you can dip a grilled cheese in for extra comfort. Whether served as an appetizer or the main event, this dish will have everyone coming back for more, especially when paired with fresh, crunchy bread.
Get the Recipe: Red Pepper & Tomato Soup
Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
If you’re in need of a hearty, no-fuss side dish, Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans is perfect for you. The slow cooker ensures the beans are tender and full of flavor, while the seasoning brings out their natural taste. This recipe is a great way to serve a large crowd, and you can set it and forget it. It pairs well with almost any main dish, making it an easy addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
Texas Corn Succotash
This dish is easy to make and adds a burst of flavor to whatever you’re serving it with. Texas Corn Succotash is a colorful, flavorful side dish that brings something special to the table. It combines sweet corn with just the right amount of seasoning, creating a perfect complement to any Southern meal. Whether paired with chicken, pork, or beef, you’ll find that this succotash is always a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Texas Corn Succotash
4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken
Whether served with rice, potatoes, or veggies, this chicken will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation.4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken is the ultimate easy meal when you’re short on time. All it takes is four ingredients and a slow cooker, and you’re set for a flavorful meal that practically cooks itself. This dish is perfect for busy nights when you want something comforting without a lot of prep work.
Get the Recipe: 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken
Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs
Who knew corn could be so creative? Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs takes your regular corn on the cob and transforms it into a fun, easy-to-eat side dish. The garlic and Parmesan bring the flavor to a whole new level, making it the perfect complement to any Southern meal. Plus, it’s a great way to switch up your usual corn routine. Everyone will be impressed when you serve this unique and flavorful twist on an old favorite.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs
Smoked Mac & Cheese
If you think mac & cheese couldn’t get any better, think again. Smoked Mac & Cheese takes the classic comfort food and adds a smoky twist that will keep you coming back for more. The creamy cheese sauce combined with the rich, smoky flavor creates a balance that’s impossible to resist. This dish is perfect for a family gathering or any time you want to add a little extra excitement to a cozy meal. Trust us, no one will be able to resist this creamy, smoky goodness.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mac & Cheese
Smoked Sweet Potatoes
Want to add some smoky depth to your sweet potatoes? Smoked Sweet Potatoes is the perfect side dish to try. The smoky flavor enhances the natural sweetness of the potatoes, creating a unique twist on a classic favorite. This recipe is an easy way to transform a simple vegetable into something truly special. It pairs well with almost anything and is guaranteed to stand out on the table.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Sweet Potatoes
Oven Roasted Tomato Soup
When you want a classic with a twist, Oven Roasted Tomato Soup is the way to go. Roasting the tomatoes beforehand intensifies their flavor, giving the soup a rich, deep taste that’ll warm you from the inside out. This soup is simple, yet perfect for any season, and pairs well with grilled cheese or a fresh baguette. Plus, it’s easy to make, so it’s an ideal weeknight meal that delivers both comfort and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Tomato Soup
Sweet Potato Cornbread
You won’t find a better side dish to complement a hearty dinner than this one. Sweet Potato Cornbread is a warm, comforting twist on the classic. It’s got that perfect balance of savory and sweet, making it an ideal addition to any Southern meal. Whether served alongside chili or enjoyed on its own, this cornbread is sure to please. The sweetness of the sweet potatoes creates a soft texture that’s different from the usual cornbread.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cornbread
Smoked Brisket Chili
Chili gets a whole new flavor profile with Smoked Brisket Chili. The smoky, tender brisket adds a rich depth that you won’t find in traditional chili recipes. It’s the perfect hearty dish for any cold night, full of flavor with just the right amount of heat. This chili is perfect for feeding a crowd, and the leftovers are even better the next day, making it a meal you can enjoy more than once.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Brisket Chili
Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops
If you love tender, melt-in-your-mouth pork chops, Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops will be your new go-to. Let the slow cooker work its magic, and you’ll have a meal that’s both flavorful and easy to prepare. The Swiss cheese adds a creamy richness that pairs perfectly with the pork. This recipe takes no effort but delivers a satisfying meal that’s full of comforting flavors. You’ll have your family asking for seconds before they even finish their first plate.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops
Southwestern Chili
The perfect combination of smoky, savory, and spicy, it’s the kind of dish that makes you feel right at home on a chilly evening. Southwestern Chili brings all the bold flavors you expect from chili, with a Southwestern twist. This dish is packed with flavors that will have everyone at the table reaching for their spoons. Whether you like it mild or with a bit more heat, this chili has something for everyone.
Get the Recipe: Southwestern Chili
Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe
If you’ve been to Texas Roadhouse and loved their chili, Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe brings that same rich flavor right to your kitchen. It’s a hearty, satisfying bowl that’s perfect for a casual dinner. The combination of spices and slow-cooked meat creates a chili that’s both filling and full of flavor. You’ll be making this recipe time and time again—it’s just that good.
Get the Recipe: Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe
Roast Pork with Apples
Whether served for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this roast will be a hit with everyone. Roast Pork with Apples is a simple, yet elegant dish that blends savory and sweet in all the right ways. The tender roast pork is complemented by the natural sweetness of the apples, making each bite a balanced experience. This dish is easy to prepare but tastes like something you’d get at a fancy dinner party.
Get the Recipe: Roast Pork with Apples
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips
When it comes to a satisfying, tender meal, nothing beats a plate of juicy beef tips. Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips brings that familiar, rich flavor right to your kitchen. The beef is cooked until tender and paired with a savory sauce that gives it the perfect balance of taste. Whether served over rice, mashed potatoes or with a side of veggies, this dish will become your new go-to for a hearty meal.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips
Million Dollar Spaghetti
Looking for a dish that combines cheesy, saucy goodness with a little extra kick? Million Dollar Spaghetti is the answer. This recipe takes a traditional spaghetti dish and gives it a richer, creamier twist that everyone will love. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to come back for seconds (or thirds). Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this dish is sure to satisfy every time.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti
Smoked Beef Stew
When you’re craving something hearty and comforting, Smoked Beef Stew delivers all the right flavors. The beef is slow-cooked until tender and smoky, while the vegetables soak up all the rich broth. This stew is perfect for those cold nights when you need something filling and warming. Serve it with a slice of fresh bread, and you’ve got yourself a meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Beef Stew
Oven Baked Ribs
When it comes to ribs, Oven Baked Ribs are a no-fuss option that delivers big flavor. The ribs cook slowly in the oven, becoming fall-off-the-bone tender, with a perfectly caramelized glaze on the outside. You can enjoy this dish all year round, even when grilling isn’t an option. Serve with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a meal that’s guaranteed to please everyone.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ribs
Skillet Stroganoff Pie
For a new twist on an old favorite, Skillet Stroganoff Pie brings creamy beef stroganoff into a golden, flaky crust. The rich sauce and tender beef create a satisfying filling, while the crust adds the perfect crunch. It’s a comforting meal that’s both hearty and delicious. This is the kind of dish that will have everyone gathered around the table, excited to dig in.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Stroganoff Pie
Garlic Chicken Skillet
If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful dish, a garlic chicken skillet is the answer. Garlic Chicken Skillet takes chicken to the next level with a savory garlic sauce that’s rich without being overpowering. It’s a one-pan meal that’s easy to clean up and packed with flavor. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner when you want something both tasty and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Chicken Skillet
Creamed Corn
A comforting side dish, Creamed Corn adds a touch of sweetness to any meal. The creamy, rich texture brings out the corn’s natural flavor and creates the perfect complement to a hearty main dish. It’s easy to prepare, making it a great option for a busy weeknight. Whether served with chicken, steak, or BBQ, this dish will be the first thing to disappear from the table.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Corn
Sloppy Joe Casserole
Sometimes, you just need a dish that combines comfort and convenience. Sloppy Joe Casserole gives you all the flavors of a classic Sloppy Joe, but in casserole form. The meat is mixed with a savory sauce and baked into a cheesy, hearty dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Serve it up with a side salad, and you’ve got a complete meal everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole
Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle
For a cozy, flavorful dish, Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle has all the right ingredients. The smoky chipotle adds just enough heat to balance the sweet corn and tender shrimp. Creamy and satisfying, this chowder is a perfect dish for cooler weather. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, making it the ultimate comforting meal for a weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle
Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs
If you’re short on time but want something hearty, Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs are your answer. These meatballs cook slowly in a savory sauce, becoming tender and full of flavor. With little prep required, you can just set it and forget it while the slow cooker does all the work. It’s a meal that gets better as it simmers, perfect for busy nights or whenever you’re craving comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs
Pickled Shrimp Egg Shooters
Serve them up, and watch your guests enjoy these bite-sized treats. Pickled Shrimp Egg Shooters are a fun, unique way to enjoy shrimp and eggs. The tangy shrimp paired with the smooth egg creates a flavor combination that’s as surprising as it is delicious. These shooters make the perfect appetizer for a party or any gathering where you want something different.
Get the Recipe: Pickled Shrimp Egg Shooters
Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl
The sourdough bowl soaks up all the delicious soup, leaving you with the best part of the meal. Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl is the ultimate comforting dish, combining creamy cheese soup with a hearty sourdough bowl. The rich, cheesy broth pairs perfectly with the slightly tangy sourdough, making each bite satisfying. This soup is a great way to enjoy a classic that feels a bit more special.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl
Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuits
If you’re craving something hearty and satisfying, Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuits is a great choice. The chicken is cooked in a savory sauce and topped with buttery, flaky biscuits that bake to golden perfection. It’s an easy dish that feels indulgent and comforting all at once. This dish will quickly become a family favorite, perfect for dinner or special occasions.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuits
Mississippi Mud Potatoes
An easy dish to make that will complement almost any meal, from steak to chicken. Mississippi Mud Potatoes are a perfect side dish for anyone craving something indulgent. The creamy, cheesy coating brings out the natural flavor of the potatoes, making each bite irresistible. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or a casual gathering, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Potatoes
Fried Tomatillos
If you’re looking for a unique and flavorful snack, Fried Tomatillos are the perfect choice. Crispy on the outside with a tangy, tart interior, these fried tomatillos bring a fresh twist to your plate. They’re easy to make and even easier to devour, making them a great appetizer or side dish. Serve them with a dip, and you’ve got a snack that will impress any crowd.
Get the Recipe: Fried Tomatillos
Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup
A light salad or crusty bread pairs perfectly with this hearty soup. Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup is a rich, creamy bowl of comfort that’s perfect for the cooler months. The sweetness of the squash and sweet potato creates a smooth base, while the creamy texture makes each spoonful satisfying. It’s easy to make and a great way to warm up after a chilly day.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup
Southern Style Pickled Shrimp
For a tangy, flavorful bite, Southern Style Pickled Shrimp is a must-try. The shrimp are marinated in a zesty brine that brings out their natural sweetness and adds a bit of spice. This dish is perfect for an appetizer or served with crackers as a snack. It’s a great way to enjoy shrimp in a unique and flavorful way that will have everyone coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Southern Style Pickled Shrimp
Southern Ham Salad
If you’re looking for a light yet satisfying dish, Southern Ham Salad is just what you need. The ham is finely chopped and mixed with creamy dressing for a smooth, flavorful spread. This salad is perfect for serving on crackers or as a sandwich filling. Whether for a picnic or a casual lunch, it’s an easy dish that’s full of flavor and sure to satisfy.
Get the Recipe: Southern Ham Salad
Shrimp and Grits Casserole
The perfect combination of Southern comfort and flavor that will have everyone at the table asking for more. Shrimp and Grits Casserole brings together two Southern favorites in one dish. The shrimp is cooked to perfection and paired with cheesy, creamy grits for a hearty, satisfying casserole. This dish is easy to prepare and makes a great option for a family dinner or a special occasion.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits Casserole