As soon as Southern dishes are mentioned, everyone seems ready with a suggestion. When you have 31 beloved recipes floating around, the hardest part is picking just one to start with. It’s like asking for one song at a jukebox and getting the whole playlist. Any family gathering or backyard barbecue is proof that good food always gets people talking, often before anyone grabs a fork.

A square slice of Graham Cracker Cake on a white plate, with a cake server, blue cloth, and mini marshmallows nearby. — Graham Cracker Cake. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Southern Tomato Pie

A slice of tomato pie being lifted with a serving utensil from a white fluted dish. A whole tomato pie is visible in the dish, garnished with tomato slices and basil. — Southern Tomato Pie. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Everyone who loves Southern cooking should try Southern Tomato Pie at least once. Between its creamy mayo topping and juicy tomatoes nestled in a flaky crust, you get a comforting combination people keep recommending. Layers of cheese tie everything together, while a touch of fresh basil brightens each bite. This dish brings people together at the table, making it a go-to whenever classic Southern flavors are wanted.
Get the Recipe: Southern Tomato Pie

Oven Baked Ribs

For true BBQ fans, Oven Baked Ribs always earn a spot on any must-try list. With meat that becomes fork-tender after slow roasting, these ribs feature a sweet, smoky glaze that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Homemade spice rubs and rich sauces give every batch a signature touch many people love. Easy to prepare and full of tradition, this meal is often recommended for its unforgettable flavor.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ribs

31 of Chef Jenn's FAVE Casseroles!

Recipes for Comfort-Filled Family Meals

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Fried Cabbage with Bacon

A white bowl filled with fried cabbage with pieces of bacon sits on a white surface with a blue cloth nearby. — Fried Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Families often recommend Fried Cabbage with Bacon when discussing Southern classics for good reason. Sautéed cabbage blends with crisp bacon to create a comforting mix that’s both simple and memorable. The smoky bacon flavor infuses each bite, while onions and a splash of vinegar add extra depth. It’s a straightforward dish that keeps people coming back every time it’s served.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Southwestern Chili

Whenever people discuss Southern favorites, Southwestern Chili pops up for its bold flavor profile and lovely texture. Ground beef and beans combine with a tomato base, making each spoonful hearty. Warm spices like cumin and chili powder offer a gentle kick that’s balanced by toppings such as shredded cheese or sour cream. This dish is always recommended for its easy prep and one-pot convenience.
Get the Recipe: Southwestern Chili

Butternut Squash Mash with Parmesan

A comforting side people always suggest is Butternut Squash Mash with Parmesan for its creamy consistency and cheesy finish. Roasted butternut squash is mashed and blended with nutty parmesan, creating a unique alternative to traditional potatoes. The taste is naturally sweet, while the cheese adds a tasty touch that goes with almost any meal. This crowd-pleaser earns its place on Southern must-try lists.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Mash with Parmesan

Easiest Slow Cooker Rump Roast

A plate of slow cooker rump roast with potatoes, carrots, onions, and a sprig of rosemary on a white dish. — Easiest Slow Cooker Rump Roast. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Among time-saving Southern dinners, Easiest Slow Cooker Rump Roast stands out because it’s packed with flavor and requires little effort. A boneless beef roast cooks slowly with vegetables and broth, creating tender slices every time. Rich juices become the perfect gravy for potatoes or rice, making cleanup simple. People recommend this for busy nights when comfort and convenience matter.
Get the Recipe: Easiest Slow Cooker Rump Roast

Squash Casserole

Home cooks frequently champion Squash Casserole as one of their favorite Southern recipes to recommend. Yellow squash, onions, and creamy sauce topped with breadcrumbs deliver a combination of softness and slight crunch. Melted cheese holds everything together and boosts familiar ingredients to a beloved family dish. Served alongside almost any main, it’s a regular at gatherings and potlucks.
Get the Recipe: Squash Casserole

Chicken Bog

Many Southern gatherings feature Chicken Bog as a centerpiece for its hearty and comforting nature. This rice-centric dish uses flavorful chicken, smoked sausage, and seasonings cooked together until every grain soaks up the flavorful broth. It’s simple but feels special, especially since people often customize it to their liking. Family stories and memories often include this well-loved recommendation.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bog

Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Everyone seems to have a story about Mississippi Mud Potatoes when discussing which Southern foods to try. Diced potatoes are mixed with bacon, cheese, and sour cream, baked until bubbly and golden. This creamy, cheesy side brings a crowd-pleasing richness that works beautifully next to barbecued meats or roasted chicken. Its ease and flavor make it a staple in recommended collections.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Potatoes

4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken

Busy weeknights often call for something simple like 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken that still feels special. Juicy chicken cooks low and slow with just a couple of pantry staples—cream of chicken soup, ranch mix, and a handful of cheese. Set it and forget it while the flavors meld perfectly, creating a meal everyone will appreciate. It’s a beginner-friendly choice many recommend for good reason.
Get the Recipe: 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken

Biscuit & Gravy Bake

A wooden spoon holds a serving of biscuits and gravy with sausage, over a baking dish filled with the same dish, garnished with chopped herbs. — Biscuit & Gravy Bake. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

When it comes to a crowd-pleasing breakfast, Biscuit & Gravy Bake makes every “must-try” Southern list. Fluffy biscuits are baked with creamy sausage gravy poured right on top, allowing every layer to soak up the flavors. Each serving feels like home, as the classic duo is already combined in one dish. People enjoy how easily it feeds a group without much fuss.
Get the Recipe: Biscuit & Gravy Bake

Oven Roasted Tomato Soup

Homemade soups get a spotlight with Oven Roasted Tomato Soup, a dish people love to recommend for its traditional Southern taste. Tomatoes roasted until sweet and caramelized blend with garlic and onions to create a silky texture. With a little cream stirred in at the end, the soup becomes extra comforting. It’s an easy favorite, paired with a crusty slice of bread or classic grilled cheese.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Tomato Soup

Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuits

A casserole dish of Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuit. — Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuits. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

What makes Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuits so appealing is its mix of flaky biscuit topping and creamy chicken filling. Chunks of chicken and vegetables bake together, finished with seasoned biscuit dough that turns golden and tender. This recipe is great for using leftovers and sharing something unique with friends. It garners lots of recommendations for ease and family-friendly comfort.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuits

Southern Succotash

Many love to share Southern Succotash on recommendation lists, thanks to its bright blend of corn, lima beans, and sometimes okra. Sautéed with butter and a touch of bacon or ham, this vegetable medley gets its memorable taste from time spent together in one skillet. Each serving adds a vibrant splash of color to any meal. People say it’s one of the best ways to make vegetables appealing.
Get the Recipe: Southern Succotash

3-Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole

People continue to share 3-Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole for its speed and simplicity when craving something hearty. Broccoli, cheese, and condensed soup combine in just one dish, melting together in the oven. It’s great for busy nights when you need something that delivers familiar flavors fast. This reliable side pairs well with roasted or fried main courses and always gets mentioned as a go-to.
Get the Recipe: 3-Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Cream of Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

Two bowls of cream of butternut squash & sweet potato soup garnished with herbs on a wooden table. — Cream of Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Blending two favorite ingredients, Cream of Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup, always stands out in discussions about classic dishes. Roasted squash and sweet potatoes get puréed with cream, turning into a silky soup. Aromatic spices like nutmeg and cinnamon round out the flavor, while a dollop of sour cream adds an extra touch. Everyone agrees it’s a cozy addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

Easy Cheesy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

A serving of Cheesy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole sits on a white plate next to a fork. — Easy Cheesy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

People often highlight Easy Cheesy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole for its comforting blend of textures and flavors. Tender chunks of chicken mix with creamy sauce, topped with buttery, crunchy Ritz cracker crumbs and a generous layer of melted cheese. Each bite brings together familiarity and a tasty combination that even picky eaters tend to enjoy. Busy cooks love how quickly this dish comes together with common ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cheesy Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole

Classic Hoppin’ John

When recommending Southern recipes, many include Classic Hoppin’ John for its hearty combination of rice, black-eyed peas, and smoked sausage. Traditionally seasoned with onion and a touch of spice, it’s often served as a symbol of good luck and togetherness. The blend of ingredients creates a meal that is both filling and steeped in history. People continue to prepare it for casual suppers as well as festive occasions.
Get the Recipe: Classic Hoppin’ John

Southern Ground Beef & Baked Bean Casserole

Those who crave big flavors should look to Southern Ground Beef & Baked Bean Casserole when picking recommended recipes. Tasty beef, baked beans, and sweet barbecue sauce are layered, then baked until the top is slightly caramelized. Each scoop delivers a combination that people remember, making it suitable for gatherings or quick dinners. Easy steps and pantry ingredients make this dish a popular pick.
Get the Recipe: Southern Ground Beef & Baked Bean Casserole

Easy Chicken Tetrazzini

A plate of Chicken Tetrazzini topped with melted cheese and sprinkled with chopped herbs, with a fork and napkin beside it. — Easy Chicken Tetrazzini. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Weeknight meals become easier with Easy Chicken Tetrazzini, a noodle casserole that people often suggest. Chunks of chicken and spaghetti mingle with a creamy sauce and a sprinkle of parmesan. Everything is baked until bubbly, so the edges get a bonus crispiness that adds to the experience. Even picky eaters are drawn to this blend that comes together in just a few steps.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Tetrazzini

Texas BLT

For anyone who loves a sandwich, Texas BLT brings a Southern twist to a classic by using thick toast, crispy bacon, and fresh, juicy tomatoes. A little mayonnaise ties the textures together, making each bite rich and tasty. People give this sandwich high marks and recommend it for simple lunches. The hearty layers mean you won’t go hungry, and you can always add extras to make it your own.
Get the Recipe: Texas BLT

Biscuit-Topped Chicken Pot Pie

Recommended for its homey appeal, Biscuit-Topped Chicken Pot Pie layers tasty chicken, gravy, and vegetables under fluffy baked biscuits. Each bite picks up herbal notes from the filling, while the biscuits provide an irresistible golden top. Friends and family often ask for seconds, making it a staple at the dinner table. This recipe is a no-fuss way to feed a crowd with pure comfort.
Get the Recipe: Biscuit-Topped Chicken Pot Pie

Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots

Large gatherings often call for Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots, with their soft texture and mild sweetness. These carrots simmer in butter, sugar, and a hint of salt, closely resembling the famous restaurant version. The simple preparation ensures the natural flavor stands out. It’s a recommended choice for anyone who wants a quick, crowd-pleasing side.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots

Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

A baking sheet with several smashed roasted potatoes, garnished with herbs and grated cheese, arranged in rows. — Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

When it comes to side dishes, Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are a common Southern favorite. Boiled potatoes are gently smashed, then roasted with garlic, olive oil, and parmesan for a crunchy finish. The process yields a texture that mixes soft insides with crispy edges. This easy recipe finds its way onto lists because everyone goes back for more.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

Classic Corn Pudding Casserole

A square slice of corn pudding casserole with eggs, red bell pepper, and chives sits on a white plate with a serving spoon underneath. — Classic Corn Pudding Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Every list of must-try Southern sides includes Classic Corn Pudding Casserole for its fluffy texture and comforting taste. Corn, eggs, and a touch of cream bake together until a sweet and custardy dish forms. People often see it served next to entrees at holidays and gatherings, but it’s easy enough for weeknight meals, too. It’s this blend of dependable, sweet, and creamy that secures its popularity.
Get the Recipe: Classic Corn Pudding Casserole

Apple Cinnamon Crumb Muffins

Breakfast spreads brighten up with Apple Cinnamon Crumb Muffins that often make it onto recommendations for their sweet, spiced flavor. Chunks of fresh apple mix into a soft muffin base, while a streusel crumb topping offers additional sweetness. People love packing them for lunches or enjoying them warm alongside a mug of coffee. Each batch is quick to make but impossible to keep in stock for long.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cinnamon Crumb Muffins

Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

Anyone needing an easy dinner should try Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs, highly recommended for convenience. Ground beef mixed with rice and flavorful seasonings is rolled into meatballs, then simmered in a tomato sauce until tender. The rice gives every bite a special texture, and slow cooking lets the flavors blend perfectly. Serve with mashed potatoes or noodles for a comforting meal.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

Buttermilk Fried Chicken

A plate with pieces of fried chicken garnished with parsley, with a bowl of sauce and a striped cloth in the background. — Buttermilk Fried Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Taking a beloved spot among favorites, Buttermilk Fried Chicken is known for its crispy coating and juicy interior. Each piece is soaked in buttermilk, then dredged with seasoned flour before frying to a lovely crunch. The reliable outcome is a golden piece of chicken enjoyed by most who try it. Many say it’s impossible to skip when sharing must-try Southern foods.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Sheet Pan Roasted Butternut Squash, Brussels Sprouts, & Potatoes

A plate of roasted vegetables including potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and squash, garnished with fresh herbs, with a serving spoon on a white plate. — Sheet Pan Roasted Butternut Squash, Brussels Sprouts, & Potatoes. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Recommended as a colorful side, Sheet Pan Roasted Butternut Squash, Brussels Sprouts, & Potatoes combines hearty vegetables in one tray. Pieces of squash, sprouts, and potatoes roast together with a sprinkle of herbs and olive oil. This recipe requires little effort but delivers results that work with a wide range of main courses. Its versatility and vibrant look keep it popular at dinner tables.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Roasted Butternut Squash, Brussels Sprouts, & Potatoes

Smothered Pork Chops

For comforting home-cooked meals, Smothered Pork Chops are a staple among recommendations. Seared pork chops simmer in onion and mushroom gravy, turning each piece juicy, tender, and packed with flavor. The creamy sauce makes an excellent topping for mashed potatoes or rice. This dish’s reputation for reliable results makes it a go-to in many Southern kitchens.
Get the Recipe: Smothered Pork Chops

Easy Patty Melt

A stack of two patty melt sandwiches with caramelized onions and melted cheese on toasted bread, placed on parchment paper atop a wooden board. — Easy Patty Melt. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Sandwich fans will often mention Easy Patty Melt for its mix of ground beef, melted cheese, and caramelized onions between slices of griddled bread. Each element comes together to offer a rustic, filling meal that’s simple yet comforting. Quickly prepared with basic ingredients, it captures the essence of a diner’s favorite. People usually recommend it as a quick dinner or hearty lunch option.
Get the Recipe: Easy Patty Melt