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33 Southern Favorites That Taste Like They Were Pulled From Handwritten Recipe Cards

There’s real magic in dishes that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a porch gathering on a slow afternoon. That’s the kind of warmth packed into 33 Southern Favorites, where each recipe feels like it could’ve been written in someone’s best handwriting from decades ago. They remind people that simple meals can bring out big smiles and good laughs.

Close-up Southern Style Pickled Shrimp with lemon slices and dill on a jar.
Southern Style Pickled Shrimp. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Cast Iron Smothered Pork Chops

Plate with Cast Iron Smothered Pork Chops served alongside mashed potatoes and vine tomatoes.
Cast Iron Smothered Pork Chops. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Pork chops get an upgrade with this cast iron dish that keeps them tender and full of flavor. Cast Iron Smothered Pork Chops are cooked to keep all the juices locked in, while a rich gravy pulls everything together. It’s the kind of meal that works any night and keeps everyone coming back for more. Comfort food doesn’t get much better than this timeless favorite.
Get the Recipe: Cast Iron Smothered Pork Chops

Easy Ham & Cheese Puffs

Overhead close-up of a white plate filled with small, golden-brown Ham & Cheese Puffs.
Easy Ham & Cheese Puffs. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

A flaky handheld option perfect for snacking or quick meals, these puffs are deceptively simple yet satisfying. Easy Ham & Cheese Puffs make for a versatile option that is just the right size. They offer a perfect balance between buttery layers and a hearty center. It’s an easy way to impress without a lot of effort.
Get the Recipe: Easy Ham & Cheese Puffs

31 of Chef Jenn's FAVE Casseroles!

Recipes for Comfort-Filled Family Meals

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Steak & Potato Soup

Steak & Potato Soup in a black bowl.
Steak & Potato Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Comfort food hits a high when hearty chunks of potatoes and tender pieces of steak take center stage. Steak & Potato Soup brings that thick, hearty quality that feels like a meal in itself. Served with a side of bread, this dish is full of richness and brings out bold flavors. Perfect for warming up or simply enjoying something hearty and filling.
Get the Recipe: Steak & Potato Soup

Pork Belly Burnt Ends

A plate of smoked pork belly burnt ends with tomatoes and pickles.
Pork Belly Burnt Ends. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

These bites of barbecue goodness pack a lot of flavor in a small amount of space. Pork Belly Burnt Ends are slow-cooked to get tender on the inside while boasting a sticky, caramelized outside. They’re a favorite for backyard cookouts in the South. Whether as a main feature or a shareable snack, they’re tough to put down.
Get the Recipe: Pork Belly Burnt Ends

Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

A white rectangular plate with slow cooker porcupine meatballs, garnished with fresh herbs.
Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

A throwback dish that holds onto its charm, these meatballs offer a unique texture thanks to their preparation. Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs combine filling ingredients with a classic approach for a hands-off, hearty dinner. They simmer until perfectly tender and flavorful. This dish is ideal for a busy weeknight meal or a casual weekend option.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

Oven Baked Ribs

Oven-baked ribs with onion and garlic on top served on a white rectangular plate.
Oven Baked Ribs. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Ribs get a tender treatment in the oven with this simple approach to enjoying them without a grill. Oven Baked Ribs deliver flavor-packed into every bite, with meat falling off the bone. There’s no mess and no complicated steps, making them ideal for stress-free meals. All you need is a knife and a fork to wrap up dinner.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ribs

Chicken & Corn Chowder

Chicken & Corn Chowder in a black bowl, topped with bacon, scallions, and red pepper flakes.
Chicken & Corn Chowder. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Great for when you’re craving soups with bold flavor, this chowder brings chicken and corn together in a creamy dish. Featuring a velvety broth, Chicken & Corn Chowder hits the spot when something hearty and balanced is needed. It’s filling without being too heavy, and each bowl warms from the inside out. A reliable option every time it’s served.
Get the Recipe: Chicken & Corn Chowder

Apple Cinnamon Crumb Muffins

Six Apple Cinnamon Crumb Muffins sit on a wooden board and serving utensil, with baking tools and an apple in the background.
Apple Cinnamon Crumb Muffins. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Sweet and spiced, these muffins make an excellent choice for breakfast or snacks. Apple Cinnamon Crumb Muffins deliver a balance of soft, crumbly texture with a little crunch on top. They sweeten a quiet morning or bring a homemade feel to dessert tables. Perfect for any time you’re craving a touch of fruit with your baked goods.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cinnamon Crumb Muffins

Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole

Top-down shot of Tuna Noodle Casserole on a dish with a small portion on a black plate.
Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Everyone loves a pasta bake, and this recipe blends tradition with comfort. Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole combines rich blends of textures, making it great for casual family meals. It’s filling without being overwhelming, giving you a simple yet flavorful dish. Easily shareable, this casserole works for intimate dinners or larger groups.
Get the Recipe: Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole

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.

Tomato slices shine in this comforting dish that’s a perfect blend of fresh and filling. Southern Tomato Pie balances its ingredients with a flavorful crust, giving it a standout appeal. It’s a clever way to highlight seasonal produce while adding a traditional Southern twist. Great as a side or even a main, it’s unmistakably memorable.
Get the Recipe: Southern Tomato Pie

Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder With Chipotle

A white bowl of creamy shrimp & corn chowder on a white plate.
Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder With Chipotle. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Layers of flavor blend well in every creamy spoonful, giving you a solid mix of heat and richness. Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder With Chipotle takes this comforting dish to a whole new place with its balanced spice. It’s hearty yet with enough smooth elements to keep it interesting. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with bread, it’s a worthwhile pick.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder With Chipotle

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.

A simple twist makes all the difference in this combination of ingredients. Fried Cabbage with Bacon highlights that smoky, savory aspect we all love about bacon, paired perfectly with tender greens. A great side for hearty meals, it’s filling without taking the spotlight too much. Versatile and quick, this is a no-fuss option for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Chicken Bog

A black plate with a serving of Chicken Bog.
Chicken Bog. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

This comforting mix of chicken, sausage, and rice is a Southern staple that many rely on. Chicken Bog is known for its simplicity and the way it brings ingredients together in one pot. It’s great for feeding a crowd without much fuss. Each plate feels like a reminder of how good straightforward dinners can be.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bog

Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy

Oven Baked Chicken Thighs on a platter.
Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Perfectly cooked chicken paired with a flavorful gravy makes this dish stand out in any meal. Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy ensures the chicken stays moist while the creamy gravy ties everything together. It’s an easy recipe for a dinner that feels special without overcomplicating things. No extras needed; just hearty food done well.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy

Summer Tomato Flight

Six pieces of tomatoes with different toppings on a black slate plate.
Summer Tomato Flight. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Multiple types of tomatoes pair beautifully, celebrating their diverse looks and tastes. Summer Tomato Flight brings out natural, subtle variation in each kind while keeping everything light and shareable. This is perfect for showcasing season-specific ingredients. Easy to adapt, this dish shines for anyone who loves fresh and simple plates.
Get the Recipe: Summer Tomato Flight

Baked Bean Casserole

A wooden spoon holds a serving of Baked Bean Casserole above a pot filled with more bean casserole.
Baked Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

A staple at gatherings or potlucks, this casserole has a rich mix of flavors everyone can enjoy. Baked Bean Casserole goes beyond simple beans and adds extra layers to create a more complete side dish. It’s great for pairing with BBQ or serving on its own. While simple, it leaves a lasting impression at the table.
Get the Recipe: Baked Bean Casserole

Oven Roasted Tomato Soup

Two bowls of oven-roasted tomato soup with cream swirls.
Oven Roasted Tomato Soup. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Warm and smooth, Oven Roasted Tomato Soup feels like cozy comfort in a bowl. The roasting process brings out deep flavors, making every spoonful a treat. This soup is great for a light lunch or a starter before dinner. It’s simple to make and incredibly flavorful, ensuring it’s enjoyed by everyone around your table.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Tomato Soup

Grandma’s Twice-Baked Potato Casserole

Grandma’s Twice-Baked Potato Casserole topped with chopped green onions and bacon, surrounded by fresh green onions.
Grandma’s Twice-Baked Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

When potato dishes need a bit of a twist, this classic casserole delivers big on texture and flavor. Grandma’s Twice-Baked Potato Casserole blends everything you love about baked potatoes into a creamy, layered dish. It’s great for dinner parties or as a hearty side at weeknight meals. Every bite feels like comfort at the table.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Twice-Baked Potato Casserole

Cucumber and Onion Salad

A bowl of cucumber salad with red onions and fresh dill, placed on a wooden plate with a fork, surrounded by ingredients on a marble surface.
Cucumber and Onion Salad. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Refreshingly crisp and easy to whip up, this dish balances simple ingredients perfectly. Cucumber and Onion Salad offers a light, tangy option that’s great alongside heavier meals or as a quick snack. It doesn’t need much to shine, making it a go-to for when you want something bright on your plate. Perfect for any table, big or small.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber and Onion Salad

Broccoli Cheddar Soup In A Sourdough Bowl

Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl with spoon on a round brown plate.
Broccoli Cheddar Soup In A Sourdough Bowl. Photo credit: Gimme Soup.

Classic comfort food takes a fun twist when served in a crusty bread bowl. Broccoli Cheddar Soup In A Sourdough Bowl combines creamy, cheesy goodness with the boldness of fresh additions, all packed into an edible container. It’s filling without too much effort involved. The balance of textures makes this a standout option for lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Soup In A Sourdough Bowl

Creamed Corn

Smoked Creamed Corn in a black skillet.
Creamed Corn. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smooth, rich, and full of flavor, this dish proves why it’s been on so many dinner plates for years. Creamed Corn takes a simple ingredient and transforms it into something that works with almost anything. It’s creamy yet balanced, never overwhelming but always noticeable. A timeless side that everyone seems to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Corn

Pork Chops with Tomato & Green Onion Relish

Three pork chops with tomato and green onion on a white plate.
Pork Chops with Tomato & Green Onion Relish. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A bright, fresh topping transforms this familiar favorite into something unexpected. Pork Chops with Tomato & Green Onion Relish brings a mix of sweet and tangy flavors to the rich, tender chops. Perfect for nights when you want a little extra flair without overcomplicating your meal. This dish works as a standalone success or alongside a variety of sides.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops with Tomato & Green Onion Relish

Texas BLT

Two Texas BLT on a black slate plate.
Texas BLT. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

When a classic sandwich gets a twist, you get Texas BLT. Bigger, bolder, and full of flavor, this rendition of the BLT is perfect for hearty appetites. Each bite is packed with deliciousness, making it a standout choice for lunches or casual dinners. It’s simple but satisfying, turning a regular sandwich into something extraordinary.
Get the Recipe: Texas BLT

Shrimp and Grits Casserole

Shrimp and Grits Casserole in a black dish.
Shrimp and Grits Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bringing together Southern staples, Shrimp and Grits Casserole combines creamy grits and juicy shrimp in one dish. It’s rich and comforting, perfect for those who love traditional flavors. This casserole is easy to share and always enjoyed by a crowd. From family dinners to special occasions, it’s a go-to recipe that never fails to impress.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits Casserole

Blueberry Dump Cake

A serving of blueberry dump cake topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprig of mint on a white plate.
Blueberry Dump Cake. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

This dessert is as simple as it is delicious, letting you enjoy something sweet without much hassle. Blueberry Dump Cake pairs fruity flavors with a crumbly topping that’s hard to resist. Every spoonful offers a mix of textures that feel balanced in sweetness. It’s perfect for when you’re craving dessert without a lot of fuss.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Dump Cake

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.

Comfort food at its best, Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuits combines rich filling and flaky biscuits in one dish. The flavors meld together beautifully, making it a standout choice for meals that need a little extra something. Ideal for family dinners or potlucks, this dish never fails to please. Every bite is a mix of hearty and comforting textures.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuits

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.

Take a sandwich to the next level with Easy Patty Melt. It’s crispy, flavorful, and incredibly fulfilling, perfect for a quick meal. This melt combines grilled bread with a savory patty, creating a taste that’s both familiar and unique. Simple to prepare, it’s great for lunch or dinner when you want something tasty and filling.
Get the Recipe: Easy Patty Melt

Mississippi Chicken – Slow Cooker

Mississippi Chicken - Slow Cooker with herbs and two yellow peppers on a white rectangular plate.
Mississippi Chicken – Slow Cooker. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Mississippi Chicken – Slow Cooker brings tender, flavorful chicken without much effort. The slow cooker does all the work, making it a perfect choice for busy days. Each piece is infused with lovely flavors, creating a dish that’s both simple and fulfilling. Perfect for dinner, it’s a reliable recipe that fits into any meal plan seamlessly.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Chicken – Slow Cooker

Corn Fritters

Corn fritters in a black cast iron pan.
Corn Fritters. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Crispy on the outside while soft and flavorful on the inside, these make a great snack or side. Corn Fritters add a fun texture and mild sweetness to any meal. Whether served as an appetizer or alongside mains, they’re incredibly versatile. These fritters are quick to whip up and are always a solid option for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Corn Fritters

Sloppy Joe Casserole

A serving of Sloppy Joe Casserole pasta with meat on a plate with a fork.
Sloppy Joe Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

All the classic flavors of this favorite sandwich are baked together for a twist on a familiar meal. Sloppy Joe Casserole puts melted layers on top while capturing the heartiness you expect from the original. This is perfect for feeding bigger groups or keeping things fun at dinnertime. It’s a casual, crowd-friendly option that’s easy to handle.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips with mushroom gravy over mashed potatoes, garnished with chives on a white plate.
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Tender beef bites cooked in a flavorful sauce bring a restaurant favorite right to your table. Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips offer a hearty option that works well with mashed sides or breads. This meal recreates bold and homey flavors without much effort. It’s a great way to improve dinner while keeping things easy.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

Smoked Mac & Cheese

A skillet filled with Smoked Mac & Cheese.
Smoked Mac & Cheese. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoky richness meets classic comfort in Smoked Mac & Cheese. This dish takes the beloved mac and cheese to another level with its deep, smoky flavor. Perfect for those who love bold tastes, it’s ideal for any gathering or dinner. With every bite, you get the best of cozy and sophisticated taste combined.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mac & Cheese

Texas Corn Succotash

Texas Corn Succotash in a black bowl with spoon.
Texas Corn Succotash. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Texas Corn Succotash brings corn, beans, and peppers together in one flavorful side dish. It’s vibrant and filling, making it an excellent addition to any meal. Simple yet fulfilling, this dish celebrates fresh produce and hearty textures. Ideal for casual dinners, potlucks, or barbecues, it’s always enjoyed by everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Texas Corn Succotash

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