With these 37 southern dishes, every meal feels like a celebration—of flavor, tradition, and stretchy pants. It’s a lineup of meals that make you wonder if grandma has some competition. Southern cooking is equal parts hearty and unapologetically rich, with classics like jambalaya and red beans and rice stealing the spotlight. It’s food that insists you go for seconds, no excuses needed.
Red Pepper & Tomato Soup
Bold and inviting, Red Pepper & Tomato Soup takes comfort food up a notch with its rich, layered flavors. This isn’t just any soup—it’s a bowl full of Southern charm. Creamy yet light, it’s the perfect partner for a slice of bread or a stand-alone meal when the craving strikes. Its balance of smoky and sweet flavors is what sets it apart. Whether for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this soup brings a cozy warmth to any table.
Get the Recipe: Red Pepper & Tomato Soup
Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy
For a hearty, comforting meal, Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy checks all the boxes. The dish combines tender, juicy chicken with a savory sauce that’s hard to resist. It’s a perfect centerpiece for any southern-inspired meal and works equally well for busy weeknights or special gatherings. The creamy onion gravy adds just the right balance of richness without overwhelming the flavors. It’s a dish you’ll want to add to your rotation again and again.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy
Steak & Potato Soup
Rich and comforting, Steak & Potato Soup is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day. It blends hearty tradition with a touch of indulgence. This soup is packed with satisfying flavors that make every bite feel like a treat. Whether enjoyed as a main course or a starter, it’s the kind of dish that turns simple ingredients into something unforgettable. Perfect for sharing or savoring solo, this one’s a keeper.
Get the Recipe: Steak & Potato Soup
Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes
Balancing smoky and sweet, Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes offers a refreshing spin on classic southern flavors. The peaches bring subtle char, while the tomatoes keep it grounded in tradition. This salad delivers a vibrant mix of textures, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious. Perfect as a side or centerpiece, it’s a southern take on salads that doesn’t hold back. A dish this versatile makes it easy to serve year-round.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes
Texas Corn Succotash
A celebration of bold southern flavors, Texas Corn Succotash is vibrant and full of character. This dish combines a medley of textures that keeps every bite exciting. It’s a versatile side that pairs effortlessly with a variety of mains or stands strong on its own. Packed with tradition and just the right balance of heartiness, this recipe feels like it’s straight off a Texas family table. It’s a must-try for anyone who loves simple ingredients turned into something extraordinary.
Get the Recipe: Texas Corn Succotash
Sloppy Joe Casserole
The ultimate comfort food remix, Sloppy Joe Casserole takes a classic and makes it even better. This dish blends the nostalgic flavors of childhood with the convenience of a one-pan meal. Perfect for feeding a crowd or keeping things simple on a busy night, it’s hearty and satisfying without being complicated. Every bite feels like a little slice of southern-style tradition, making it a great option for any occasion. It’s messy, sure, but that’s half the fun.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole
Creamed Corn
Smooth and hearty, Creamed Corn is Southern simplicity done right. This side dish combines rich textures with a natural sweetness that feels perfectly balanced. Whether paired with fried chicken or served at a holiday feast, it’s a recipe that always delivers. It’s easy to see why this dish has been a staple for generations—it’s comfort food at its finest. Serve it once, and it might just earn a permanent spot on your menu rotation.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Corn
Smoked Mac & Cheese
Smoky, cheesy, and downright irresistible, Smoked Mac & Cheese turns a classic comfort dish into a Southern masterpiece. It’s the kind of dish that works as a side or steals the show as the main event. The creamy texture paired with a hint of smoky depth keeps you coming back for more. Perfect for potlucks, BBQs, or a cozy night in, this version of mac and cheese feels both nostalgic and elevated. It’s a little indulgence worth every bite.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mac & Cheese
Garlic Chicken Skillet
Simple yet satisfying, Garlic Chicken Skillet is a one-pan wonder that brings southern comfort straight to the table. The chicken is packed with flavor, while the garlic takes it to the next level. It’s a versatile dish that works well for family dinners or entertaining guests with ease. The skillet preparation means less cleanup without compromising on taste. With minimal effort and maximum payoff, this dish quickly becomes a go-to favorite for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Chicken Skillet
Million Dollar Spaghetti
Perfect for leftovers (if there are any), it’s a recipe you’ll revisit often. Million Dollar Spaghetti is where Southern comfort meets rich, creamy indulgence. This baked pasta dish layers flavors and textures in a way that feels over-the-top in the best way possible. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or feeding a hungry family, it’s a crowd-pleaser that hits all the right notes. The name isn’t an exaggeration—it’s a dish that delivers satisfaction worth every penny.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti
Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs
This recipe is a great example of how to upgrade a simple vegetable into something special. Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs bring the perfect balance of crispy and tender. It’s a fun twist on traditional corn on the cob, with each rib being coated in garlic and parmesan for a flavor-packed bite. The char from the grill adds a nice depth, making it the ideal side to complement any main dish. Whether served at a BBQ or as a weeknight snack, it’s sure to be a crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs
4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken
When you’re short on time but still want a satisfying meal, 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken comes to the rescue. It’s ridiculously simple, yet the flavors meld together perfectly, making for a dish that’s both easy and tasty. Let the slow cooker do all the work while you focus on other things. This dish is versatile enough to pair with any side or serve as the star of the show. It’s a great option when you need something fuss-free but flavorful.
Get the Recipe: 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken
Smoked Sweet Potatoes
Smoky, tender, and naturally sweet, Smoked Sweet Potatoes offer a unique twist on the traditional baked version. The smoke infuses the potatoes with a deep, rich flavor that’s hard to beat. Whether you serve them as a side or top them with your favorite toppings, these potatoes make a great addition to any meal. Smoking brings out the natural sweetness, creating a contrast of flavors you won’t get from just baking them. It’s a game-changer for your potato game.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Sweet Potatoes
Roast Pork with Apples
A perfect choice for anyone looking to try something new with pork. Roast Pork with Apples brings a classic flavor combination to the table, where savory meets sweet in the most satisfying way. The pork roasts to perfection, while the apples caramelize, adding a depth of sweetness that balances out the richness. This dish feels like a hearty, comforting meal perfect for a family dinner or a holiday gathering. It’s simple, yet the combination of flavors makes it feel like a real treat.
Get the Recipe: Roast Pork with Apples
Smoked Beef Stew
There’s something special about a smoky beef stew, and Smoked Beef Stew takes it to the next level. The slow cooking process breaks down the beef into tender, melt-in-your-mouth pieces, while the smoky flavor adds depth. This stew is perfect for a cold evening, as it’s hearty, filling, and packed with rich flavors. Whether served with crusty bread or eaten on its own, this stew is a guaranteed hit. It’s comfort food with a smoky twist that makes it feel extra special.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Beef Stew
Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
If you’re looking for a southern side that practically cooks itself, Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans is the answer. These green beans cook low and slow, soaking up all the rich flavors of the broth and seasonings. With little hands-on time required, it’s a dish that lets the slow cooker do the heavy lifting while you focus on the main course. Tender, savory, and full of flavor, this side pairs well with almost anything. It’s a time-saver and a crowd-pleaser all in one.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
Fried Tomatillos
Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, Fried Tomatillos offer a perfect balance of tart and savory. The crispy coating gives way to the juicy, tangy fruit inside, making for a unique twist on traditional fried foods. These make a great appetizer or side dish, adding a bit of excitement to any meal. Their flavor stands up to a variety of dipping sauces, making them versatile enough to serve with anything from BBQ to southern classics. It’s a crispy, flavorful treat you won’t forget.
Get the Recipe: Fried Tomatillos
Oven Roasted Tomato Soup
Comfort food doesn’t get better than Oven Roasted Tomato Soup. Roasting the tomatoes intensifies their natural sweetness, creating a deep, rich base for this hearty soup. Served with a slice of warm, crusty bread, it’s the kind of meal that satisfies the soul. Whether you’re curling up on a cold day or looking for a comforting dinner, this soup hits all the right notes. It’s the kind of dish that makes you wonder why you didn’t roast tomatoes more often.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Tomato Soup
Sweet Potato Cornbread
With a touch of sweetness and a hearty texture, Sweet Potato Cornbread is a must-try twist on the classic southern cornbread. The sweet potatoes add richness, while the cornbread keeps its signature crumbly goodness. This dish pairs perfectly with stews, soups, or a simple pot of beans. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it a welcome addition to any meal. Give it a try, and you may just discover your new favorite bread.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cornbread
Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup
Creamy and comforting, Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup brings the flavors of fall to your table any time of the year. The sweetness of the squash and sweet potato is balanced by a creamy base, making this soup rich and satisfying without being heavy. It’s perfect for chilly nights when you need something warm and filling. A little sweet, a little savory, and a lot of comfort, this soup is a seasonal favorite you can enjoy year-round.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup
Smoked Brisket Chili
A bold twist on a classic, Smoked Brisket Chili infuses smoky brisket into a hearty, flavorful chili that’s perfect for any chili lover. The combination of tender beef, spices, and slow-cooked flavor makes this chili something special. Ideal for a gathering or a casual dinner, it’s a dish that keeps everyone coming back for more. Whether served with cornbread or over rice, this chili will add a southern touch to your next meal. It’s a chili that goes above and beyond expectations.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Brisket Chili
Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops
It’s simple, but it feels like comfort food royalty. Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops turns an everyday cut of pork into a melt-in-your-mouth meal with minimal effort. These pork chops cook low and slow, allowing all the flavors to blend together into a rich, savory dish. It’s the perfect set-it-and-forget-it meal, ideal for busy days when you want to come home to a satisfying dinner. Whether paired with mashed potatoes or a side of veggies, these pork chops will quickly become a family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops
Southwestern Chili
Bold and hearty, Southwestern Chili is a flavorful twist on traditional chili. Packed with spices and a hint of heat, this chili is a perfect balance of savory and spicy. Whether you’re serving it for game day, a family dinner, or just because, it’s a recipe that’s guaranteed to satisfy. The southwestern flair brings something extra to the table, making this chili stand out from the crowd. It’s a dish that’s as versatile as it is flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Southwestern Chili
Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe
If you love the chili at Texas Roadhouse, Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe brings that same bold flavor right to your home. Packed with a hearty mix of ingredients, this chili is everything you want in a bowl—filling, flavorful, and a little spicy. Perfect for game day, a casual dinner, or a cold night, it’s the kind of dish that everyone loves. With this recipe, you can bring a bit of the Texas Roadhouse experience into your kitchen. Trust us, it’ll be gone in no time.
Get the Recipe: Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe
Southern Ham Salad
A classic recipe that has stood the test of time, this ham salad is always a welcome addition to any spread. Southern Ham Salad is a southern staple that’s both simple and satisfying. It combines the perfect balance of savory ham and creamy dressing, making it the ideal side or sandwich filling. Whether served on crackers or piled on bread, it’s a dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious. It’s a quick, easy, and crowd-pleasing dish every time.
Get the Recipe: Southern Ham Salad
Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs
For a meal that’s both comforting and fun to make, Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs is a recipe you’ll want to try. These meatballs simmer in the slow cooker, creating a savory, flavorful dish that gets better with time. The rice inside creates a unique texture, making each meatball a little surprise. Perfect for a busy weeknight, these meatballs are a set-it-and-forget-it kind of meal that’s sure to satisfy. They might even become a new family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips
You won’t want to miss it. Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips brings the restaurant favorite to your home with all the rich, tender goodness you crave. The beef is cooked to perfection, soaking up the savory sauce that makes these tips so irresistible. It’s the kind of dish that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or a side salad, making it a go-to option for any occasion. If you’re missing that Texas Roadhouse experience, this recipe brings it straight to your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips
Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken
If you’re looking for a simple yet flavorful chicken dish, Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken is the answer. This dish combines juicy chicken with the bright, fresh flavors of lemon and rosemary, all roasted on a single pan. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the ease of cleanup afterward. It’s a meal that comes together effortlessly and looks impressive on the table. Perfect for busy nights when you want something quick, yet delicious.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken
Skillet Stroganoff Pie
For a meal that’s both comforting and filling, Skillet Stroganoff Pie takes the classic stroganoff and turns it into a savory, flaky pie. The creamy filling, combined with the golden crust, makes for a dish that’s both rich and satisfying. This is the kind of recipe that makes you want to curl up with a fork and dig in. Whether served for dinner or as a special occasion meal, this pie will quickly become a favorite. It’s a great way to reinvent a classic.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Stroganoff Pie
Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder With Chipotle
Spicy, creamy, and comforting, Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder With Chipotle brings the heat while keeping things satisfying. The chipotle adds a smoky kick, perfectly complementing the sweet shrimp and corn. It’s a chowder that combines bold flavors with a creamy base, creating a soup that’s hearty enough to be a meal on its own. Perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion, this dish never fails to impress. A comforting twist on a classic chowder.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder With Chipotle
Old-Fashioned Mac and Cheese
Old-Fashioned Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that never goes out of style. Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly baked, this dish combines nostalgia with a satisfying richness. Whether served as a side or the main event, it’s a dish everyone can agree on. The crispy, golden top, and smooth, creamy middle make it impossible to resist. This classic recipe is always a crowd-pleaser, and it’s sure to be a hit at your next dinner. Simple, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious.
Get the Recipe: Old-Fashioned Mac and Cheese
Southern Style Pickled Shrimp
Bold, flavorful, and always a crowd favorite. Southern Style Pickled Shrimp offers a tangy, briny bite that’s full of Southern flavor. The shrimp soak up the brine, creating a zesty, refreshing appetizer that works well for any occasion. It’s a dish that’s perfect for sharing, making it ideal for gatherings or as a starter to a southern feast. Whether served on its own or paired with other appetizers, this recipe is a great way to add variety to your menu.
Get the Recipe: Southern Style Pickled Shrimp
Mississippi Mud Potatoes
You might even want to make extra because it’ll disappear fast. Mississippi Mud Potatoes combine creamy, cheesy, and savory into a single dish that’s irresistible. The potatoes are roasted to perfection, and then covered in a savory sauce that’s both rich and satisfying. This dish pairs perfectly with almost any meal, adding a touch of comfort to your plate. Whether you’re serving it at a BBQ or for a cozy dinner at home, it’s a side that delivers every time.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Potatoes
Pickled Shrimp Egg Shooters
Unique and flavorful, Pickled Shrimp Egg Shooters offer a fun, zesty twist on traditional appetizers. The shrimp are perfectly pickled, giving them a tangy bite that pairs well with the creamy egg. These shooters make an exciting starter for any gathering, adding a bit of Southern flair to the table. It’s an appetizer that’s sure to surprise and impress your guests with its bold, fresh flavors. A fun, unexpected dish you won’t want to miss.
Get the Recipe: Pickled Shrimp Egg Shooters
Broccoli Cheddar Soup In A Sourdough Bowl
Whether you’re making it for lunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Broccoli Cheddar Soup In A Sourdough Bowl combines creamy, cheesy goodness with the tangy flavor of sourdough. This soup is perfect for a cozy meal, especially when served in its own edible bowl. It’s a hearty, satisfying dish that’s filling enough to be a main course. The sourdough adds a nice contrast to the rich, creamy soup, making every bite exciting.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Soup In A Sourdough Bowl
Oven Baked Ribs
They’re the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Oven Baked Ribs offer tender, juicy meat with a crispy exterior that will make you forget all about grilling. Slow-baked to perfection, these ribs become so tender they practically fall off the bone. With minimal effort required, it’s an easy way to serve up some mouthwatering barbecue flavors without the hassle. Whether you’re preparing them for a family meal or a weekend feast, these ribs deliver on flavor and texture every time.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ribs
Shrimp and Grits Casserole
A simple, flavorful dish that feels like a special treat. Shrimp and Grits Casserole brings together two southern favorites in a way that’s both comforting and satisfying. The creamy grits blend beautifully with the shrimp, making every bite a perfect balance of flavors. It’s an ideal dish for feeding a crowd or serving at a family dinner. This casserole puts a unique twist on a Southern classic, making it easy to enjoy without compromising on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits Casserole