Some recipes are about balance. These are about making food that people actually want to eat. With 35 Southern classics, this lineup covers everything from the crispy to the creamy, with no apologies for the butter count. These are the dishes that bring people together, spark debates over whose version is best, and make every meal feel like home. If it doesn’t require a nap afterward, was it even real Southern cooking?
Steak & Potato Soup
If steak and potatoes are a classic duo, then Steak & Potato Soup is their best work yet. It’s hearty, filling, and packed with the kind of slow-cooked goodness that turns a simple bowl of soup into a full meal. Every spoonful delivers rich, meaty flavor with just the right amount of creaminess to keep things smooth. Whether you’re warming up on a cold day or just in the mood for something that sticks to your ribs, this one does the job with no extra fuss.
Get the Recipe: Steak & Potato Soup
Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy
Some meals make you feel like a Southern grandma made them, and Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy is one of them. Juicy, tender, and covered in a rich, savory sauce, this dish is the kind that fills up the whole house with the smell of something good. It’s the perfect balance of crispy and creamy, making it hard not to go back for more.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy
Red Pepper & Tomato Soup
Some soups are just a meal, but this one feels like a warm hug. Red Pepper & Tomato Soup brings together a deep, rich flavor that’s as good with grilled cheese as it is straight from the spoon. It’s smooth, a little bold, and just the right balance of sweetness and depth. Perfect for chilly days or when comfort food is the only answer, this bowl of goodness makes any meal feel homemade, even if the rest of dinner is takeout.
Get the Recipe: Red Pepper & Tomato Soup
Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes
There’s something about grilling that takes a simple ingredient and turns it into something bigger. Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes brings together smoky, juicy, and fresh flavors in a way that makes salads less of a side and more of a conversation starter. It’s got crunch, sweetness, and a little tang that works at a summer cookout or next to a holiday roast.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes
Smoked Mac & Cheese
Mac and cheese has always been a crowd favorite, but Smoked Mac & Cheese takes it to another level. This dish adds a smoky flavor that brings out the creaminess and richness of the cheese in a way that makes it hard to stop eating. Whether it’s served at a family BBQ or as a comforting side to a weeknight dinner, this dish proves that sometimes, a little smoke can make all the difference.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mac & Cheese
4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken
Sometimes simple is best, and 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken proves that point. With just a few ingredients, you can create a meal that’s full of flavor and practically cooks itself. It’s juicy, tender, and packed with the kind of savory goodness that makes you want to go back for seconds. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a hands-off dinner that still feels like something special.
Get the Recipe: 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken
Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup
When it’s time for a comforting bowl of soup, Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup is here to deliver. This creamy, hearty soup brings together the natural sweetness of squash and sweet potatoes in a smooth, velvety base that feels like a warm hug. Simple, filling, and packed with flavor, this soup proves that sometimes the most comforting meals are the ones that let the ingredients speak for themselves.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup
Million Dollar Spaghetti
Some dishes taste like they cost a fortune, but Million Dollar Spaghetti just feels that way. This baked pasta dish layers up all the best flavors into something that’s rich, cheesy, and hard to stop eating. It’s got the kind of texture that makes every bite feel like comfort food at its finest. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or feeding a crowd, this one disappears fast, and someone’s always scraping the edges for the crispy bits.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti
Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
Green beans aren’t always the star of the show, but Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans makes a strong case for why they should be. Slow-cooked until they’re packed with flavor, these beans take on a deep, smoky, and savory richness that turns a simple vegetable into a side worth talking about. They go with everything, steal a little attention from the main dish, and make you wonder why anyone ever just steamed green beans.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs
When corn on the cob isn’t exciting enough, Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs bring a crispy, cheesy twist that makes things interesting. These little corn strips are roasted until golden, with just the right amount of crunch and a burst of bold flavor in every bite. They’re snackable, shareable, and disappear faster than expected at any table. Whether served as a side or just something to munch on, they’re proof that corn doesn’t have to be boring.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs
Garlic Chicken Skillet
When you need a meal that’s quick, satisfying, and full of flavor, Garlic Chicken Skillet is your answer. It’s the kind of dish that delivers a crispy, golden crust on the chicken while keeping everything juicy inside. Packed with savory, garlicky goodness, this skillet meal can be whipped up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Chicken Skillet
Southern Ham Salad
There’s a special place for Southern Ham Salad at any table, especially when you need something quick, flavorful, and easy to serve. It’s got the kind of hearty, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with crackers, bread, or just eaten on its own. Whether it’s a spread for sandwiches or a dish to serve at a family gathering, this salad is guaranteed to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Southern Ham Salad
Oven Roasted Tomato Soup
Tomato soup is a classic, but Oven Roasted Tomato Soup takes things up a notch. Roasting the tomatoes before blending them brings out their natural sweetness and depth, making the soup taste like something straight from grandma’s kitchen. This soup is perfect for when you want something comforting but with a little extra something—like homemade, no-fuss goodness that just hits the spot.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Tomato Soup
Fried Tomatillos
Think of fried green tomatoes, but with a twist—Fried Tomatillos bring a crispy, tangy bite to your plate that’s perfect for snacking or as a side. They’re crunchy on the outside, tender inside, and pack a flavor punch that’s hard to resist. Whether served with dipping sauces or eaten on their own, they’re a fun, flavorful dish that’s sure to stand out at your next meal. These fried treats are as delicious as they are easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Fried Tomatillos
Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl
If you love cheesy, creamy goodness, this one’s a must-try. Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl is one of those dishes that turns a simple soup into something worth raving about. The creamy, cheesy soup is served inside a warm, fresh sourdough bowl, which adds a whole new layer of flavor. Each bite is a perfect combination of rich soup and soft, tangy bread.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl
Sweet Potato Cornbread
If you thought cornbread couldn’t get any better, Sweet Potato Cornbread is here to change your mind. With a touch of sweetness and just the right amount of texture, it’s a perfect balance of savory and sweet. Whether served as a side or enjoyed on its own, this cornbread brings something extra to the table that keeps people coming back for more. It’s moist, flavorful, and easy to make, making it the kind of dish that becomes a regular at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cornbread
Roast Pork with Apples
There’s nothing quite like the combination of savory pork and sweet apples, and Roast Pork with Apples shows why this pairing works so well. The pork roasts up tender and juicy, while the apples bring a touch of sweetness that balances everything out perfectly. It’s the kind of dish that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to pull together. Whether it’s a holiday meal or just a Sunday dinner, this dish delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Roast Pork with Apples
Smoked Beef Stew
Beef stew is good on its own, but Smoked Beef Stew adds a whole new layer of flavor. The smoky richness adds depth to the tender beef and vegetables, making every bite a little more exciting than the last. It’s the kind of stew that gets better with time, making it perfect for leftovers. Whether it’s a chilly night or a family gathering, this stew warms you up and satisfies in the best possible way.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Beef Stew
Smoked Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are already great but Smoked Sweet Potatoes make them something truly special. The smoky flavor adds depth and richness that takes these potatoes to a new level. Whether you’re serving them as a side or making them the main event, these sweet potatoes have a unique flavor that’s sure to impress. They’re easy, delicious, and a fun twist on a classic that you’ll want to make every time you fire up the smoker.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Sweet Potatoes
Texas Corn Succotash
Some sides sit quietly on the plate, but Texas Corn Succotash demands attention. It’s colorful, packed with crunch, and loaded with smoky, savory flavors that make every bite feel like something special. Whether you’re piling it next to barbecue, spooning it over rice, or just eating it straight from the bowl, it’s the kind of dish that keeps things interesting.
Get the Recipe: Texas Corn Succotash
Sloppy Joe Casserole
Some meals are just meant to be messy, and Sloppy Joe Casserole is the best kind of chaos. It takes everything you love about the classic sandwich and bakes it into a dish that’s easy to serve and even easier to eat. It’s got layers of bold, saucy goodness balanced with just the right amount of crunch. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a potluck favorite, this one disappears fast, and someone’s always asking for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole
Creamed Corn
Some sides are just there to fill a plate, but Creamed Corn brings the kind of rich, buttery goodness that makes you forget about the main dish. It’s smooth, slightly sweet, and packed with enough flavor to make you wonder why anyone eats corn any other way. Whether it’s scooped onto a holiday spread or spooned straight from the pot, it’s one of those dishes that’s always worth making extra.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Corn
Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs
Perfect for busy days or when you want a warm, satisfying dish with a little extra something inside, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs are the kind of dish that practically cooks itself. These meatballs simmer in a savory sauce until they’re tender and flavorful, with rice inside to make them hearty and filling. The slow cooker does all the work, and you get a delicious, comforting meal.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs
Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe
For chili lovers who can’t get enough of the Texas Roadhouse version, Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe brings that bold, hearty flavor right to your kitchen. This chili is thick, meaty, and loaded with all the flavors that make chili a comfort food favorite. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly night or at your next game-day gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe
Shrimp and Grits Casserole
When you want all the flavors of classic shrimp and grits but in a no-fuss casserole, Shrimp and Grits Casserole is the way to go. This dish combines creamy, cheesy grits with succulent shrimp in a casserole format that’s easy to serve and always a crowd-pleaser. It’s rich, comforting, and flavorful without too much work. Perfect for dinner parties or a cozy meal at home.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits Casserole
Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken
This dish makes weeknight dinners a breeze without sacrificing flavor. Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken proves that easy doesn’t have to mean bland. With a few simple ingredients and a sheet pan, this dish delivers juicy chicken with a fresh, zesty flavor that’s perfectly complemented by the aromatic rosemary. It’s an easy cleanup, one-pan meal that still feels like a treat.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips
If you’ve ever been to Texas Roadhouse and thought their beef tips were the best thing on the menu, then Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips will become your new go-to recipe. Tender beef cooked in a savory sauce, this dish brings the bold flavors of the restaurant right into your kitchen. It’s perfect over rice, mashed potatoes, or even by itself when you want something hearty and filling.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips
Smoked Brisket Chili
Whether it’s served on its own or with a side of cornbread, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Smoked Brisket Chili is the kind of chili that gets better the longer it simmers. The smoked brisket adds a rich, deep flavor to the dish that makes every bite a little bit better than the last. This chili is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for when you want something that sticks to your ribs.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Brisket Chili
Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops
When you want a simple but flavorful meal, Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops is the way to go. These pork chops cook up tender and juicy in the slow cooker, with a creamy sauce that makes every bite satisfying. It’s one of those meals that practically makes itself, with minimal prep and maximum flavor. Serve it over mashed potatoes or rice, and you’ve got a dinner that feels like a special occasion, even on a busy weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops
Southwestern Chili
Whether it’s for a casual dinner or a game day feast, this chili is always a hit with anyone who loves a little spice with their comfort food. Southwestern Chili brings bold, spicy flavors that make chili night anything but ordinary. With a perfect balance of heat and savory goodness, this chili is full of the flavors you love—smoky, spicy, and hearty. It’s the kind of dish that’s perfect for a crowd, served with cornbread or tortilla chips for dipping.
Get the Recipe: Southwestern Chili
Oven Baked Ribs
When you want fall-off-the-bone ribs without all the hassle, Oven Baked Ribs have you covered. These ribs are slow-cooked in the oven to get that tender, juicy texture everyone loves, with a crispy exterior that seals in all the flavor. It’s a no-grill, no-fuss recipe that’s perfect for busy days or when you want to serve something impressive without the work.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ribs
Southern Style Pickled Shrimp
If you’re looking for a flavorful appetizer that’s full of Southern charm, Southern Style Pickled Shrimp should be on your list. These shrimp are marinated in a tangy, spicy brine that gives them a bold flavor and a perfect balance of heat and acidity. Serve them chilled for a refreshing bite that’s perfect for any gathering or as a special treat for yourself. This dish is as easy as it is flavorful, making it the perfect addition to any spread.
Get the Recipe: Southern Style Pickled Shrimp
Skillet Stroganoff Pie
Perfect combination of comfort food and easy-to-make dinner that everyone will love. Skillet Stroganoff Pie takes all the rich, comforting flavors of beef stroganoff and turns it into a savory pie that’s perfect for dinner. This dish is made in a skillet, with a golden, flaky crust surrounding a creamy beef and mushroom filling that’s packed with flavor. It’s hearty, filling, and has that homey feeling you want after a long day.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Stroganoff Pie
Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle
When you want something creamy, flavorful, and a little spicy, Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle has got you covered. This soup is rich and hearty, with the sweet corn and shrimp adding depth while the chipotle gives it just the right amount of heat. It’s the perfect balance of creamy comfort and bold flavor, making it a great choice for a cozy meal. Whether served on its own or with crusty bread, this chowder is sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle
Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuits
For a twist on classic chicken and biscuits, Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuits combines the creamy goodness of chicken cobbler with the buttery, cheesy biscuits you crave. It’s comfort food at its finest—hearty, creamy, and topped with biscuits that add the perfect crunch. This dish is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for when you need a meal that satisfies everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuits