Southern cooking is many things, but complicated isn’t one of them. These 35 home-cooked dishes come straight from grandma’s recipe box, which means they’re tested, trusted, and not up for debate. They don’t rely on trendy ingredients or unnecessary steps—just simple, reliable methods that never let anyone leave the table hungry. If you’re looking for a meal that tastes like a family gathering without all the small talk, this is it. Grandma wouldn’t have it any other way.
Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes
A little smoky, a little sweet, and a whole lot of fresh, Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes knows exactly what it’s doing. It balances flavors in a way that somehow feels effortless, making it a great addition to just about any meal. There’s enough going on to keep every bite interesting, but not so much that it feels complicated. It’s fresh, bright, and just different enough to make people ask for the recipe. If you weren’t a salad person before, this might change your mind.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes
Steak & Potato Soup
When it comes to comfort food, Steak & Potato Soup doesn’t play around. It’s thick, hearty, and built for those days when a regular bowl of soup just won’t cut it. Every spoonful delivers the kind of slow-cooked flavor that makes a meal feel like home. It’s simple, but in the best way—no need for fancy extras when the basics are this solid. If you’re looking for something that fills you up without trying too hard, this is it.
Get the Recipe: Steak & Potato Soup
Red Pepper & Tomato Soup
A bowl of this feels like a warm hug on a cold day. Red Pepper & Tomato Soup brings bold flavors together in a way that just works—smooth, rich, and exactly what soup is supposed to be. It’s the kind of thing that tastes slow-cooked even if it wasn’t, making it perfect for any night of the week. Whether served on its own or with something to dunk into it, it’s not going to last long. Seconds aren’t just expected—they’re guaranteed.
Get the Recipe: Red Pepper & Tomato Soup
Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy
There’s no guessing when it comes to Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy—it’s as comforting as it sounds. The chicken stays tender while the gravy does all the heavy lifting, bringing everything together with deep, rich flavor. It’s the kind of dish that makes dinner feel a little more like Sunday supper, no matter the day. One bite in, and you’ll wonder why you ever bothered with dry chicken breasts. Make extra—you’ll need it.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy
Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup
Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup is proof that simple ingredients can do big things. It’s smooth, naturally rich, and has just the right balance of sweet and savory flavors. Whether enjoyed as a starter or a full meal, it’s one of those dishes that makes cooler weather feel like less of a problem. A bowl of this isn’t just food—it’s a reason to slow down for a minute. Just don’t expect leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup
Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
If you think green beans are just a basic side, Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans are here to change your mind. Slow-cooked until they’re packed with flavor, they’re the kind of dish that quietly steals the show. They go with just about everything, but they don’t need a main dish to justify making them. These aren’t the plain, steamed green beans you ignore on your plate—these are the ones you go back for. One serving is never enough.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl
Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl is what happens when comfort food gets it exactly right. It’s thick, cheesy, and packed with flavor, all while being served in a bread bowl that makes cleanup optional. This is the kind of meal that makes cold days feel a little more manageable and regular dinners feel a little more special. It’s rich but not over the top, simple but never boring. If you’re looking for a soup that does it all, this is it.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl
Oven Roasted Tomato Soup
There’s tomato soup, and then there’s Oven Roasted Tomato Soup, which takes things up a notch. Roasting brings out deep, rich flavor, making every spoonful taste like it’s been slow-cooked for hours. It’s smooth but full of character, perfect for pairing with a sandwich or enjoying on its own. This is the kind of soup that makes canned versions feel like a bad idea. Once you’ve had it, there’s no going back.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Tomato Soup
Fried Tomatillos
Fried Tomatillos bring a crisp, tangy bite that’s just different enough to make things interesting. They’re crunchy on the outside, tart on the inside, and impossible to stop eating once you start. Whether served as a snack, a side, or something to dip into, they know how to hold their own. They bring just enough Southern charm to make them feel like an old favorite, even if you’re trying them for the first time. If you’ve never had them, now’s the time.
Get the Recipe: Fried Tomatillos
Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs
Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs take everything good about corn on the cob and make it even better. With deep, roasted flavor and a crispy edge, this is one of those side dishes that disappears before the main course even hits the table. They’re easy to eat, packed with bold flavors, and just messy enough to make them fun. Whether served as a snack or part of a full meal, they always hit the mark. Don’t be surprised if people start calling dibs on the last piece.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs
Garlic Chicken Skillet
There’s no such thing as too much flavor in Garlic Chicken Skillet, and this dish proves it. The chicken stays juicy, the garlic brings boldness, and everything comes together in one pan for an easy but unforgettable meal. It’s the kind of dish that works on busy nights but still feels like real home cooking. No complicated techniques, no unnecessary steps—just solid, reliable food that does exactly what it should. If you love a meal that comes together fast but tastes like it took hours, this one’s for you.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Chicken Skillet
Smoked Mac & Cheese
Smoked Mac & Cheese takes a classic comfort dish and gives it a bold, smoky twist. It’s creamy, rich, and packed with just the right amount of depth to make it stand out from the usual version. This isn’t the boxed stuff—it’s the kind of mac and cheese that sticks with you. Whether served as a side or the main event, it’s impossible to resist. Don’t even try to have just one serving—it’s not happening.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mac & Cheese
4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken
4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken is proof that sometimes, less is more. With just a handful of ingredients, it delivers serious flavor without any extra fuss. The slow cooker does all the work, turning simple elements into something you’ll want to make on repeat. It’s the kind of meal that works for busy days but still feels like real home cooking. If you’re looking for easy, reliable, and seriously good, this one checks every box.
Get the Recipe: 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken
Million Dollar Spaghetti
Million Dollar Spaghetti tastes like it should come with a fancy name, but it’s just good, old-fashioned comfort food. It takes everything great about a classic spaghetti dinner and makes it even better—richer, creamier, and packed with layers of flavor. It’s the kind of dish that feeds a crowd and guarantees leftovers, but only if people pace themselves. There’s no need to overcomplicate things when simple flavors can do this much heavy lifting. One bite, and you’ll get why this one has a reputation.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti
Sweet Potato Cornbread
Some side dishes don’t just sit on the plate—they steal the spotlight. Sweet Potato Cornbread does exactly that, bringing a slight sweetness and soft texture that makes every bite better. It’s rich without being heavy, moist without being dense, and holds its own against any main dish. Whether served with a spread of butter or just as it is, it’s impossible to ignore. No one will leave the table without reaching for another slice.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cornbread
Texas Corn Succotash
If side dishes had personalities, Texas Corn Succotash would be the life of the party. It’s got a little crunch, a little sweetness, and just enough kick to keep things interesting. This is one of those dishes that knows how to share the spotlight but isn’t afraid to steal the show. Whether it’s served with a full spread or eaten straight from the pan, it does exactly what a great Southern side should. One bite in, and you’ll see why this one sticks around.
Get the Recipe: Texas Corn Succotash
Sloppy Joe Casserole
Take everything you love about a classic sloppy joe and turn it into a casserole, and that’s exactly what Sloppy Joe Casserole delivers. It’s just as messy, just as satisfying, and maybe even better because you don’t have to hold it together. This dish doesn’t pretend to be fancy—it just shows up and gets the job done. It’s easy, feeds a crowd, and disappears faster than you’d expect. If you grew up on the original, this version is going to feel like home.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole
Creamed Corn
There’s a reason Creamed Corn has been a staple on Southern tables for generations—it just works. It’s rich, smooth, and brings out the best in a simple ingredient without trying too hard. Whether spooned over something or enjoyed straight from the bowl, it makes every meal a little better. It’s not flashy, and it doesn’t need to be—it’s a classic for a reason. One bite, and you’ll remember why grandma made it so often.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Corn
Roast Pork with Apples
A well-balanced meal brings savory and sweet together without trying too hard. Roast Pork with Apples does it effortlessly, with deep, slow-cooked flavor in every bite. The meat stays tender while the apples add just enough contrast to keep things interesting. It’s the kind of dish that tastes like it took all day, even if it didn’t. Whether served for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it always delivers.
Get the Recipe: Roast Pork with Apples
Smoked Beef Stew
A hearty stew should be rich, bold, and packed with layers of flavor. Smoked Beef Stew takes things up a notch with slow-smoked depth that makes every spoonful better than the last. The smoky notes blend with classic ingredients to create a dish that feels both familiar and new. It’s warm, satisfying, and exactly what a slow-cooked meal should be. If comfort had a flavor, this would be it.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Beef Stew
Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops
A slow cooker meal should be reliable, simple, and packed with flavor. Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops fit the bill perfectly, cooking low and slow until they’re fork-tender. The rich sauce pulls everything together, making it a dish that practically serves itself. It’s the kind of meal that’s waiting for you at the end of a long day, no extra effort needed. Once it’s on the plate, it’s gone before you know it.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops
Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle
Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle delivers big flavor in every bite. It’s rich, smoky, and just spicy enough to keep things interesting without being overwhelming. The shrimp add a little heartiness, while the corn brings a touch of sweetness that ties everything together. This is the kind of chowder that makes regular soups feel like they’re missing something. If you like bold flavors and a soup that doesn’t hold back, this one’s a keeper.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle
Smoked Brisket Chili
If chili could have a personality, Smoked Brisket Chili would be the one that walks into the room and owns it. Deep, smoky flavors, tender bites of brisket, and just the right level of spice make this chili a game-changer. It’s the kind of dish that simmers for hours and gets better with time, making it perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether piled high with toppings or enjoyed straight from the pot, it doesn’t disappoint. If you think all chili tastes the same, this one will change your mind.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Brisket Chili
Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken
A solid weeknight meal should be easy, full of flavor, and require minimal cleanup. Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken checks every box, roasting everything together so the flavors mix perfectly. The chicken stays juicy while the rosemary and citrus bring just the right balance of freshness. It’s the kind of dish that looks like it took more effort than it did, making it perfect for busy nights. Once it’s in the oven, dinner basically takes care of itself.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips
A restaurant-worthy meal doesn’t have to come with a restaurant bill. Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips bring rich, slow-cooked flavor without the wait, making them a go-to for hearty, comforting dinners. Tender pieces soak up every bit of bold seasoning, pairing well with just about anything on the plate. It’s the kind of dish that disappears fast, so making extra is always a good idea. When the craving hits, there’s no need for takeout.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips
Southern Ham Salad
A good spread should work just as well on a sandwich as it does straight from the spoon. Southern Ham Salad does exactly that, balancing creamy texture with a touch of saltiness in every bite. It’s a staple at picnics, potlucks, and family gatherings because it just works. Whether piled high on crackers or tucked into a fresh roll, it never sticks around for long. Classic recipes don’t need to change when they’re this good.
Get the Recipe: Southern Ham Salad
Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe
A bowl of chili should be thick, rich, and loaded with bold flavors. Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe delivers exactly that, bringing the same deep, slow-simmered taste without the wait in line. It’s got just the right amount of heat, plenty of hearty ingredients, and a flavor that keeps you coming back. Whether topped with cheese or enjoyed as is, it’s always a winner. If you love a good chili, this one is worth making.
Get the Recipe: Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe
Oven Baked Ribs
Fall-off-the-bone tenderness doesn’t have to mean standing over a grill for hours. Oven Baked Ribs bring deep, slow-cooked flavor with none of the hassle. The meat stays juicy, the seasoning does all the work, and the oven takes care of the rest. Whether for a casual dinner or a full backyard spread, they never disappoint. No grill? No problem.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ribs
Shrimp and Grits Casserole
A true Southern classic should be rich, comforting, and full of flavor. Shrimp and Grits Casserole does exactly that, combining creamy, hearty textures with bold, savory bites of shrimp. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a weekend brunch favorite but works any time of day. Whether served on its own or as part of a bigger meal, it always stands out. One bite, and you’ll see why this recipe never goes out of style.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits Casserole
Skillet Stroganoff Pie
Comfort food is at its best when it’s rich, creamy, and served up in one dish. Skillet Stroganoff Pie brings everything you love about a classic stroganoff but with a baked, golden twist. The filling is hearty, the topping is just right, and the whole thing comes together in a way that makes second helpings a sure thing. It’s the kind of meal that feels like home, no matter where you’re eating it. Once you dig in, stopping won’t be easy.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Stroganoff Pie
Southern Style Pickled Shrimp
A good appetizer should be bold, refreshing, and impossible to stop eating. Southern Style Pickled Shrimp brings a punch of flavor that only gets better with time. The balance of tangy, savory, and just the right touch of seasoning makes it a standout at any gathering. Whether served on crackers, over greens, or straight from the jar, it always disappears fast. Classic Southern flavors don’t get much better than this.
Get the Recipe: Southern Style Pickled Shrimp
Southwestern Chili
A solid chili needs to be bold, hearty, and packed with layers of spice. Southwestern Chili does all that and more, bringing smoky depth with just the right amount of heat. It’s thick enough to hold up on its own but works just as well over rice, cornbread, or even straight from the bowl. Whether made for game day or just a regular night, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Leftovers, if there are any, only get better.
Get the Recipe: Southwestern Chili
Smoked Sweet Potatoes
Some sides don’t just complement a meal—they demand attention. Smoked Sweet Potatoes bring a deep, rich flavor that takes this classic dish to another level. The natural sweetness balances perfectly with the slow-smoked depth, making them anything but ordinary. They work just as well next to a steak as they do on a holiday table. If you’ve only had them baked, it’s time to step it up.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Sweet Potatoes
Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs
A great slow-cooked meal should be effortless but still packed with flavor. Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs check all the boxes, simmering in a rich sauce until they’re tender and full of taste. The unique texture sets them apart, making them a fun twist on a classic meatball dish. Whether served over rice or eaten straight from the pot, they always hit the spot. A dish this good never lasts long.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs
Pork Chops with Tomato & Green Onion Relish
A great pork chop should be juicy, flavorful, and never boring. Pork Chops with Tomato & Green Onion Relish takes it a step further with a fresh, vibrant topping that keeps every bite interesting. The balance of rich meat with bright, savory flavors makes this dish an easy go-to. It’s just as good for a quick dinner as it is for a sit-down meal. Once you try it, plain pork chops won’t cut it anymore.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops with Tomato & Green Onion Relish