35 Southern Recipes That Keep the Tradition Alive, One Butter-Loaded Bite at a Time

There’s a reason Southern food never goes out of style—it’s dependable, crowd-pleasing, and knows how to use butter like it has a PhD in it. These 35 Southern recipes keep the tradition alive with the kind of comfort food that doesn’t need a menu explanation. Whether it’s fried, smothered, or slow-cooked, these dishes know how to show up. If you’re looking for subtlety, this isn’t it—this is food that talks back and asks if you’re finished with that biscuit.

Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy

If you’re craving something hearty but don’t want to spend all day in the kitchen, look no further. Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy combines crispy, juicy chicken thighs with a rich, savory gravy that you’ll want to pour over everything. It’s a meal that feels like a comforting classic with just the right amount of indulgence. Pair it with mashed potatoes for a filling, satisfying dinner.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy

Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes

Sweet, juicy peaches pair perfectly with the burst of fresh tomatoes in this refreshing salad. Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes offers a unique balance of flavors with a smoky touch from the grilled fruit. It’s the perfect side dish to serve alongside grilled meats or to enjoy on its own. Light, fresh, and full of flavor, this salad is a great way to enjoy summer produce.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes

Red Pepper & Tomato Soup

A smooth, comforting blend that brings together the sweetness of ripe tomatoes and the smoky depth of red peppers. Red Pepper & Tomato Soup is perfect for those cozy nights when you want something simple yet flavorful. This soup is a little tangy, a little smoky, and packed with flavor in every spoonful. It’s a classic that’s guaranteed to warm you up and satisfy your hunger without being too heavy.
Get the Recipe: Red Pepper & Tomato Soup

Southern Ham Salad

This Southern classic is a savory and creamy dish that’s perfect as a spread or a side. Southern Ham Salad takes ham and blends it with the perfect amount of seasoning to create a dish that’s full of flavor and easy to serve. It’s great on crackers, bread, or as a dip for veggies. Light yet filling, it’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make for any casual get-together.
Get the Recipe: Southern Ham Salad

Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle

A smooth, creamy chowder that combines shrimp, corn, and a smoky kick from chipotle. Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle is the kind of dish that’s perfect for when you want something rich yet light at the same time. The heat from the chipotle balances out the sweetness of the corn, creating a soup that’s both comforting and flavorful. It’s the perfect choice for a cozy meal that’ll leave you wanting more.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle

Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops

When you want a meal that practically makes itself, Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops delivers. These tender pork chops are slow-cooked to perfection, allowing all the flavors to meld together for a rich, satisfying dish. Serve with mashed potatoes or veggies, and you have a meal that feels like a Sunday dinner without all the fuss. It’s easy, flavorful, and the kind of dish you can make ahead.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops

Smoked Mac & Cheese

When you want comfort food with a smoky twist, Smoked Mac & Cheese is the dish to reach for. The creamy cheese sauce gets a rich depth of flavor from the smoker, taking this classic dish to a whole new level. It’s creamy, cheesy, and perfectly smoky, making it the ultimate side for BBQs or family dinners. The best part? It’s super easy to make and totally irresistible.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mac & Cheese

Fried Tomatillos

These crispy, tangy bites make the perfect snack or appetizer to bring something different to your next meal. Fried Tomatillos are lightly battered and fried to golden perfection, giving them that satisfying crunch. They’re great on their own or paired with a dipping sauce to balance the acidity. If you’re looking to try something new with a Southern twist, this is the dish to try.
Get the Recipe: Fried Tomatillos

Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl

If you’re a fan of creamy soups, Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl is a must-try. The rich, cheesy soup is served inside a warm, soft sourdough bowl, making it as fun to eat as it is delicious. Every spoonful offers a satisfying bite of broccoli, cheddar, and that perfect sourdough crunch. This dish takes comfort food to a whole new level, perfect for any chilly day.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl

Smoked Brisket Chili

Smoky, rich, and filled with tender brisket, this chili brings a Southern twist to a classic comfort food. Smoked Brisket Chili is the kind of dish that’s perfect for a hearty, satisfying meal on a cold night. The smoky flavor from the brisket adds a depth that you won’t get from your regular chili recipe. Pair it with cornbread for a truly Southern experience that will fill you up and keep you warm.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Brisket Chili

4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken

When you need a no-fuss meal that still delivers big flavor, 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken is your go-to. This dish is all about simplicity, with just a few ingredients that cook up perfectly in your slow cooker. The chicken comes out tender and juicy, and it’s ready to serve with any sides you like. It’s an easy, flavorful dish that works for busy nights or a laid-back weekend meal.
Get the Recipe: 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken

Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

For a side that’s easy and flavorful, Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans is a must-have. These beans cook low and slow, soaking up all the savory flavors until they’re tender and satisfying. It’s a simple dish that brings a lot of taste without a lot of effort. Serve it alongside any Southern meal, and it’ll be the perfect complement to your plate.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Oven Baked Ribs

Looking for tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs without firing up the grill? Oven Baked Ribs has you covered. These ribs are slow-cooked in the oven until they’re perfectly tender and covered in a delicious sauce. Whether you’re serving them for a casual dinner or a weekend BBQ, they’ll always steal the show. Easy to make and packed with flavor, this is a foolproof way to enjoy ribs any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ribs

Sweet Potato Cornbread

A Southern staple with a sweet twist, Sweet Potato Cornbread is a must-try. This cornbread is moist, slightly sweet, and has a perfect crumb that makes it irresistible. It’s great as a side for soups, stews, or even fried chicken. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a holiday meal, it’s a dish that will always be a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cornbread

Oven Roasted Tomato Soup

For a classic soup that’s anything but boring, Oven Roasted Tomato Soup is the answer. The roasted tomatoes bring out a deep, rich flavor that’s perfect for pairing with a grilled cheese or just enjoying on its own. This soup is simple, yet packed with flavor in every spoonful. It’s the kind of dish that reminds you of home, no matter where you are.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Tomato Soup

Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs

A fun, unique twist on corn, Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs is sure to be a crowd favorite. The corn is cut into ribs and roasted with a crispy, garlicky parmesan crust that adds crunch and flavor. It’s a side dish that’s easy to make yet brings something special to the table. Perfect for BBQs, picnics, or a weeknight dinner, it’s a simple way to make corn feel new again.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs

Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup

A rich, smooth soup that combines the sweetness of butternut squash and sweet potatoes, Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup is the perfect comfort food. It’s creamy and warming, making it the ideal dish for fall or a chilly evening. This soup is simple to make but full of flavor, making it a perfect starter or light meal. It’s like a hug in a bowl, with every bite feeling a little bit more comforting than the last.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup

Creamed Corn

Creamed Corn is a Southern classic that’s always a crowd-pleaser. It’s rich, creamy, and just the right amount of sweet, making it a perfect side dish for any meal. Whether you’re serving it alongside fried chicken or BBQ, it’s guaranteed to be the perfect addition to the table. Simple but flavorful, it’s the kind of dish that everyone will reach for.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Corn

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

Get the full Texas Roadhouse experience at home with Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips. These tender beef tips are cooked to perfection, smothered in a savory sauce that’s packed with flavor. It’s a meal that feels indulgent yet is easy to whip up in your own kitchen. Whether you’re serving it with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad, this dish will definitely hit the spot.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips

Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

If you’re after comfort food with a fun twist, Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs is just what you need. These tender meatballs are slow-cooked in a savory sauce, with rice tucked inside to give them that unique texture. It’s a dish that’s easy to prepare, but full of flavor, making it great for busy days or family dinners. Plus, it’s one of those meals that gets better with each bite.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs

Million Dollar Spaghetti

Need a dinner that will please everyone at the table? Million Dollar Spaghetti is a cheesy, creamy, and satisfying casserole that’s guaranteed to be a hit. It’s a rich, decadent dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd without spending all day in the kitchen. This baked spaghetti is the kind of meal that everyone will want to come back for, and it’s so easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti

Texas Corn Succotash

Texas Corn Succotash is the kind of side dish that makes you rethink your usual veggie options. It’s a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings together corn and a mix of fresh veggies for a simple yet satisfying bite. Perfect for summer BBQs or just as a hearty side to any meal, this dish is easy to make but always impressive. It’s one of those sides that gets gobbled up fast.
Get the Recipe: Texas Corn Succotash

Garlic Chicken Skillet

When you want a quick yet flavorful meal, Garlic Chicken Skillet is the answer. The chicken is cooked to golden perfection, infused with savory garlic and herbs, and served hot from the skillet. It’s simple, fast, and packed with flavors that everyone will love. With a minimal ingredient list, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a simple Sunday dinner. Pair it with your favorite side for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Chicken Skillet

Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe

If you love the bold flavors of Texas Roadhouse’s chili, you’ll want to try this Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe. It’s hearty, rich, and packed with the perfect balance of spice and savory goodness. This recipe brings the famous chili right to your home without the wait. Serve it with cornbread or a side of cheese for the ultimate comfort meal that tastes just like the real deal.
Get the Recipe: Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe

Skillet Stroganoff Pie

Skillet Stroganoff Pie brings the classic creamy stroganoff flavors into a savory pie form, all cooked in one pan. It’s a comforting, filling dish that combines rich, creamy textures with a flaky, buttery crust. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or when you want something a little more indulgent. The best part? You only need one skillet, so cleanup is a breeze.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Stroganoff Pie

Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken

Simple, flavorful, and perfect for busy nights, Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken is the ideal one-pan meal. The chicken comes out juicy and tender, with the lemon and rosemary giving it a fragrant, savory flavor. It’s a no-fuss dish that pairs perfectly with roasted veggies or potatoes. Clean-up is a breeze, and you get a meal that’s both easy and full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken

Smoked Sweet Potatoes

If you’ve never tried sweet potatoes smoked to perfection, Smoked Sweet Potatoes is the dish to make. Smoking these sweet potatoes brings out their natural sweetness while adding a smoky depth that’s irresistible. This is a great side dish for BBQs, or you can even enjoy them on their own with a little butter and seasoning. They’re easy to make and the perfect twist on a Southern favorite.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Sweet Potatoes

Southwestern Chili

Looking for a chili that’s a little more adventurous? Southwestern Chili brings bold, smoky, and spicy flavors to your dinner table. It’s the perfect balance of heat and heartiness, with a deep, rich broth that’s packed with flavor. Perfect for cooler nights or a weekend gathering, this chili is sure to be a hit. It’s comforting, filling, and a little bit daring.
Get the Recipe: Southwestern Chili

Smoked Beef Stew

Smoked Beef Stew adds a smoky depth to the classic stew, giving it a unique flavor that’ll have you coming back for more. The slow-cooked beef and vegetables meld together in a rich broth that’s perfect for colder months or any time you need a hearty meal. This stew brings comfort and bold flavor in every spoonful, making it the ideal dish for a cozy night in.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Beef Stew

Roast Pork with Apples

For a dish that feels like a Sunday dinner without the effort, Roast Pork with Apples is a perfect choice. The tender pork is roasted alongside sweet apples and savory herbs, creating a balance of flavors that’s both comforting and delicious. The natural sweetness of the apples complements the richness of the pork, making this meal a simple yet elegant option for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Roast Pork with Apples

Southern Style Pickled Shrimp

For a tangy, refreshing treat that’s perfect for a Southern-inspired meal, Southern Style Pickled Shrimp is a must-try. These shrimp are marinated in a blend of vinegar, spices, and herbs, creating a bright, zesty dish that’s full of flavor. Serve them as an appetizer or a light main course, and enjoy the unique, bold flavors that are perfect for any occasion. It’s a dish that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Southern Style Pickled Shrimp

Shrimp and Grits Casserole

For a Southern-inspired dish with a twist, Shrimp and Grits Casserole hits all the right notes. This casserole combines the creamy richness of grits with tender shrimp in a flavorful, cheesy base. It’s a dish that’s hearty enough for a main meal, yet still light and comforting. Perfect for brunch or dinner, this dish delivers on both flavor and texture, making it a new favorite in your recipe rotation.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits Casserole

Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuits

If you love the classic comfort of chicken pot pie, but want a twist, Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuits is the answer. Tender chicken is baked with veggies and topped with buttery, flaky biscuits that are as comforting as they are delicious. This dish is an easy way to create a satisfying meal that feels special, with a nod to the popular Red Lobster biscuit flavor. It’s the perfect mix of cozy and indulgent.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuits

Sloppy Joe Casserole

Sloppy Joe Casserole takes the messy classic and turns it into a family-friendly casserole. The savory beef, tangy sauce, and cheesy topping make this dish the perfect comfort food, with all the flavors you love in a much more convenient format. It’s quick, easy, and satisfying, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Plus, it’s even better when served with cornbread on the side.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole

Steak & Potato Soup

This rich, hearty soup brings together tender chunks of steak and potatoes in a savory broth that’s full of flavor. Steak & Potato Soup is the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. With every spoonful, you get a balanced bite that’s both satisfying and filling. It’s the perfect option when you want a soup that’s more than just a starter—it’s a meal.
Get the Recipe: Steak & Potato Soup