There’s a reason some Southern favorites have been passed down from one generation to the next without a single nod to low-fat trends. Among these 33 recipes, you’ll find the kind of dishes that would politely ignore the yogurt section in the grocery store. These are the crowd-pleasers known for bringing everyone to the table and sending them home full.

Fried Green Tomatoes

Anyone looking for a taste of Southern tradition will appreciate Fried Green Tomatoes. Crisp exterior and tangy filling combine for a memorable bite that never skimps on flavor or richness, true to classic Southern cooking. Preparations involve dredging tomato slices in buttermilk and seasoned cornmeal before frying them until golden. This comforting appetizer brings a substantial and flavorful element to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Fried Green Tomatoes

Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder With Chipotle

There are few soups as hearty as Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder With Chipotle, packed with corn, plump shrimp, and smoky chipotle peppers. A generous helping of full-fat cream forms the base, ensuring depth and a pleasing texture. Aromatic vegetables and flavorful broth round out this Southern-inspired chowder, offering a bit of heat and plenty of seafood goodness. Those seeking the true taste of the South find this dish unapologetically rich.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder With Chipotle

Easy Patty Melt

Every bite of Easy Patty Melt delivers irresistible flavor, thanks to juicy beef, caramelized onions, and melted cheese layered between slices of buttery bread. Cooked in a skillet instead of a grill, this sandwich achieves the ideal texture and richness through classic ingredients. Ample portions of cheese and meat ensure an authentic taste true to its Southern roots. This diner staple makes a filling centerpiece for lunch or dinner gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Easy Patty Melt

Oven Baked Ribs

Fans of Southern barbecue recognize Oven Baked Ribs for its tender meat and full-flavored sauce. Generously marinated ribs bake slowly, absorbing every ounce of the deeply seasoned coating. Finger-licking goodness is guaranteed, as this recipe relies fully on robust ingredients and never shies away from fat. A hearty slab of ribs from this dish can easily be the star attraction at any get-together.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ribs

Rice and White Bean Soup

A nourishing bowl of Rice and White Bean Soup combines creamy beans, fluffy rice, and a flavorful broth crafted with real, full-fat ingredients. This traditional staple delivers stick-to-your-ribs satisfaction and is a favorite for feeding a crowd. Ham hock or bacon often adds smoky depth, raising the comfort quotient. Each spoonful demonstrates how authentic Southern cooking embraces richness in every step.
Get the Recipe: Rice and White Bean Soup

Cucumber and Onion Salad

With its crisp cucumbers and sharp onions, Cucumber and Onion Salad blends fresh vegetables with a homemade, full-bodied dressing that uses real ingredients for authentic taste. Mayo or sour cream forms the creamy base, binding the flavors and adding indulgence that only classic recipes provide. Bright herbs and a touch of sweet vinegar bring balance while preserving traditional richness. This refreshing side is never watered down and maintains its Southern character.
Get the Recipe: Cucumber and Onion Salad

Sloppy Joe Casserole

Skillet-cooked beef, tangy sauce, and layers of cheese make Sloppy Joe Casserole a true Southern comfort food. A biscuit topping soaks up the rich filling, creating a tasty blend of flavors and textures. Full-fat cheese and a hearty meat base ensure this recipe delivers bold, fulfilling taste without compromise. This family favorite offers a robust alternative to classic sandwich versions.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole

Classic Hoppin’ John

Rice, black-eyed peas, and smoky pork create the memorable foundation for Classic Hoppin’ John. This dish is celebrated across the South for its deeply flavorful broth and generous use of real fat. Well-seasoned and true to tradition, it brings everyone together around the table. People appreciate how each ingredient is used to its fullest for maximum taste.
Get the Recipe: Classic Hoppin’ John

Texas Corn Succotash

A hearty helping of sweet corn, peppers, and creamy butter marks Texas Corn Succotash as a beloved side dish with roots in Southern kitchens. Bacon and full-fat dairy boost the flavor and texture, proving that authentic recipes never cut corners on taste. Stirred together in a skillet, these ingredients blend into a colorful, well-rounded dish. Families often rely on this succotash to accompany homestyle mains.
Get the Recipe: Texas Corn Succotash

Apple Cinnamon Crumb Muffins

Moist, fragrant, and full of apple pieces, Apple Cinnamon Crumb Muffins bring Southern sweetness to the breakfast table. Real butter and rich batter provide a tender crumb that is miles away from low-fat versions. A crunchy cinnamon topping adds irresistible texture and robust flavor. Enjoying these muffins with a hot drink is a simple pleasure that many cherish.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cinnamon Crumb Muffins

Shrimp and Grits Casserole

Grits, creamy cheese, and perfectly seasoned shrimp blend together in Shrimp and Grits Casserole, showcasing Southern comfort food at its finest. Full-fat dairy and generous butter give the casserole a smooth, indulgent texture recognized by fans of classic cooking. Large shrimp deliver a burst of seafood flavor that holds its own against the richness. Bringing this casserole to the table guarantees a hearty meal everyone remembers.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits Casserole

Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

Garlic, Parmesan, and fluffy potatoes are the stars in Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes, which achieve crisp perfection with plenty of butter and rich cheese. Mashed gently and baked, the potatoes form a golden crust that sets them apart from lighter versions. Roasted garlic permeates each bite, enhancing this traditional side dish. Table guests often request seconds of this enjoyable offering.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

Pork Chops with Tomato & Green Onion Relish

Thick, juicy pork chops serve as the centerpiece in Pork Chops with Tomato & Green Onion Relish, paired with a vibrant relish that balances fatty richness and fresh tartness. Every element, from the well-marbled chops to the tangy relish, is combined in line with classic Southern practice. Reserved pan juices create a mouthwatering sauce that completes the plate. Those who appreciate hearty meat dishes welcome this recipe.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops with Tomato & Green Onion Relish

Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Tender cabbage and crispy bacon mingle in Fried Cabbage with Bacon, a no-nonsense side that packs real flavor and substantial satisfaction. Bacon fat infuses every leaf, guaranteeing depth that can’t be achieved with substitutes. Simple seasoning and careful technique turn everyday ingredients into a dish that belongs on any Southern table. This recipe serves well both as a side or main, depending on preference.
Get the Recipe: Fried Cabbage with Bacon

Easy Ham & Cheese Puffs

Generous portions of shaved ham and melting cheese fill each Easy Ham & Cheese Puffs, offering comfort wrapped in flaky, buttery pastry. The puff itself boasts a rich texture that doesn’t hold back on fat or flavor. Quick to bake and popular with crowds, these puffs are perfect for snacking or breakfast. Using classic ingredients, the recipe delivers authentic Southern indulgence.
Get the Recipe: Easy Ham & Cheese Puffs

Smothered Pork Chops

Bone-in chops seared and simmered in onion gravy make Smothered Pork Chops a staple of Southern tables. Plenty of butter, full-fat sour cream, and pan drippings are combined for a rich, flavorful sauce. Long cooking ensures both tenderness and depth that lighter recipes cannot match. This meaty entree is both memorable and truly filling, leaving everyone satisfied.
Get the Recipe: Smothered Pork Chops

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

There’s no holding back on richness for Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips, featuring chunks of beef cooked until tender in a flavorful, full-bodied gravy. Mushrooms and onions bring tangy notes, often complemented by creamy mashed potatoes on the side. Generous seasoning and pan drippings are vital for authenticity. The recipe reflects the bold spirit of Southern steakhouse cooking.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

Old-Fashioned Mac and Cheese

Real butter, sharp cheddar, and plenty of whole milk combine in Old-Fashioned Mac and Cheese to create a creamy, dense side that Southern families treasure. Rich sauce coats every noodle, making it a standout among comfort foods. Baking ensures a golden crust that complements the luscious interior. This recipe is often requested at gatherings for its classic satisfaction.
Get the Recipe: Old-Fashioned Mac and Cheese

Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken

Whole pieces of chicken are roasted with lemon, rosemary, and full-fat olive oil in Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken, resulting in juicy meat and delicious, fragrant pan juices. Potatoes, carrots, and onions absorb the flavors and become tender companions to the chicken. Roasting everything together brings convenience while maintaining the substance that Southern meals are known for. This recipe delivers both ease of preparation and abundance of taste.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken

Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Layers of creamy potatoes, crispy bacon, and cheese await in Mississippi Mud Potatoes, a hearty casserole beloved for its rich texture and robust taste. Sour cream and butter blend with melted cheese throughout, emphasizing classic Southern comfort. Baking until golden and bubbly finishes things off for maximum enjoyment. Those at the table always find themselves going back for a second helping.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Southern Style Pickled Shrimp

Plump shrimp marinate in a tangy, herb-infused brine for Southern Style Pickled Shrimp, a classic appetizer that brings crowd-pleasing bites to the table. Real olive oil and copious seasoning add robust notes and characteristic mouthfeel to each portion. Bold flavors meet chilled freshness, perfect for gatherings. Every taste captures the essence of Southern seafood traditions.
Get the Recipe: Southern Style Pickled Shrimp

Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuits

Tender chicken in gravy, joined with fluffy, buttery biscuits, makes Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuits a standout dish for those who enjoy Southern comfort food. The gravy is made rich and flavorful through careful use of full-fat ingredients. Light, herbed biscuits add a unique texture that sets this recipe apart from ordinary cobblers. Hearty and crowd-pleasing, the dish is well-suited for family meals.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuits

Texas BLT

Thick bacon, ripe tomato, and crisp lettuce are layered on hearty white bread in a Texas BLT, which stands out due to the use of real mayonnaise and no skimping on the filling. Southern tradition calls for generous servings and top-quality ingredients, leading to a sandwich that is both vibrant and rich. Toasted bread adds crunch and contrasts with the creamy textures. This BLT delivers lasting satisfaction and is perfect for any lunch occasion.
Get the Recipe: Texas BLT

Classic Corn Pudding Casserole

Rich cream and whole milk blend with sweet corn in Classic Corn Pudding Casserole, producing a dense, custardy side warmly received at Southern tables. Eggs and butter form the backbone, ensuring every spoonful provides a little indulgence. Baking transforms the pudding into a golden, set casserole that’s both firm and velvety. This staple side pairs well with a wide array of main dishes.
Get the Recipe: Classic Corn Pudding Casserole

Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

Ground beef, rice, and robust tomato sauce slow-cook together for Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs, offering convenience alongside deep flavors. Meatballs turn tender and are generously coated in a thick, flavorful gravy packed with full-fat ingredients. Rice gives each meatball structure and extra heartiness. This filling recipe is ideal when feeding hungry guests.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

Squash Casserole

Fresh squash teams up with cheese, eggs, and creamy sauce in Squash Casserole, a classic Southern side that highlights favorite garden vegetables without holding back on richness. Baked together, these ingredients produce a cohesive dish with a lovely texture. Real butter and full-fat dairy bring depth you won’t find in lighter variations. Many families request this recipe at gatherings and holidays alike.
Get the Recipe: Squash Casserole

Broccoli Cheddar Soup In A Sourdough Bowl

Lush cheddar melts into a creamy soup base for Broccoli Cheddar Soup In A Sourdough Bowl, making this classic dish a standout. In this version, broccoli is simmered in full-fat milk and seasoned with real butter, producing a hearty and flavorful soup. A sourdough bread bowl adds extra richness and provides the perfect vessel for soaking up the cheesy goodness. Guests appreciate both the taste and visual appeal.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Soup In A Sourdough Bowl

Southern Tomato Pie

Buttermilk and mayo help form the creamy filling in Southern Tomato Pie, which is layered with sliced ripe tomatoes beneath a crisp pastry crust. Deep flavors come from full-fat cheese and seasoning, pairing well with fresh homegrown tomatoes. This pie is beloved for its ability to meld tangy notes with slightly sweet produce. Such recipes demonstrate how classic Southern foods make the most of real ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Southern Tomato Pie

Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy

Chicken thighs roasted to golden perfection are topped with thick onion gravy in Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy, a staple of Southern kitchens. Full-fat sour cream and butter help craft a luscious sauce, soaking up the meats’ natural juices. Cooking thighs with skin on locks in flavor and keeps the dish moist. Uncompromising techniques yield a meal that satisfies any appetite.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy

Grandma’s Twice-Baked Potato Casserole

Fluffy mashed potatoes, creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and sour cream combine in Grandma’s Twice-Baked Potato Casserole, a showstopper at large gatherings. After baking once, the potatoes are whipped with indulgent ingredients and baked again for a golden, bubbly finish. The result is a casserole that is both decadent and comforting. Classic flavors and generous textures bring back memories of family meals.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Twice-Baked Potato Casserole

Southern Ham Salad

Cubes of smoky ham, rich mayonnaise, and sweet relish form the foundation of Southern Ham Salad. This spread is perfect for sandwiches or crackers and doesn’t compromise on fullness and flavor. Diced eggs and celery add subtle crunch, while the creamy dressing unites everything with Southern flair. When served at events, it quickly becomes a crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Southern Ham Salad

Tini’s Mac & Cheese with a Twist

Elbow macaroni and sharp cheddar form the base for Tini’s Mac & Cheese with a Twist, which introduces unique flavors while remaining true to Southern roots. Creamy sauce and real butter ensure every bite is fulfilling and substantial. A hint of spice or added mix-ins boosts the texture and appearance. This version provides comfort and creativity on one plate.
Get the Recipe: Tini’s Mac & Cheese with a Twist

Easiest Slow Cooker Rump Roast

Tender beef slow cooks in its own juices and a deeply flavorful gravy for Easiest Slow Cooker Rump Roast, allowing for hands-off preparation and maximum taste. Classic seasoning and full-fat bases bring honesty and abundance to every serving. Potatoes and carrots added to the pot round out the meal for a complete Southern feast. Each plate offers warmth and comfort, without sacrificing tradition.
Get the Recipe: Easiest Slow Cooker Rump Roast