Southern cooking isn’t just food, it’s a full-on experience—and these 37 dishes are the highlight reel. These 37 perfect dishes will bless your heart and will have you laughing with joy between every bite, wondering how you ever got by without them. Whether you’re indulging in fried catfish or a classic biscuit, these dishes deliver the kind of flavor that makes you feel at home, no matter where you are. And don’t forget the sweet tea; it’s not a true Southern meal without it!
Steak & Potato Soup
If you’ve ever wondered how a hearty meal can be both filling and comforting, Steak & Potato Soup has the answer. It combines tender pieces of steak with perfectly cooked potatoes, creating a smooth, rich texture. This soup is like the best parts of a steak dinner all in one bowl. A meal that sticks with you in the best way possible—be ready for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Steak & Potato Soup
Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes
You might find yourself craving it more often than you’d expect. Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes offers a refreshing balance of smoky and fresh flavors. Grilled peaches bring a subtle sweetness that pairs perfectly with juicy tomatoes. This salad is light enough for a quick lunch but satisfying enough to make it a meal.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes
Red Pepper & Tomato Soup
This comforting soup is perfect for when you need something simple but satisfying. Red Pepper & Tomato Soup combines rich flavors that feel like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s the kind of dish that’s both hearty and light, making it a go-to for any season. You’ll find yourself reaching for another bowl before you even realize it.
Get the Recipe: Red Pepper & Tomato Soup
Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy
This dish has a way of making you feel right at home after just one bite. Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy brings a classic comfort meal right to your table. The crispy skin on the chicken pairs perfectly with a smooth, savory gravy. You’ll be tempted to dip anything into that gravy—it’s that good.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy
Smoked Mac & Cheese
Grab a bowl—this one is bound to disappear quickly. Smoked Mac & Cheese brings a smoky twist to the classic comfort dish we all know and love. The rich, cheesy sauce blends perfectly with the smoky flavors, making this a unique take on an old favorite. It’s indulgent enough to make any meal feel special.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mac & Cheese
Garlic Chicken Skillet
It’s fast, it’s flavorful, and it’ll have everyone asking for the recipe. Garlic Chicken Skillet delivers a flavorful, easy meal that makes you feel like a pro in the kitchen. The garlic brings a savory punch that complements the tender chicken perfectly. Whether you serve it with a side or on its own, it’s the kind of dish that always satisfies.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Chicken Skillet
Million Dollar Spaghetti
Get ready to fall in love with Million Dollar Spaghetti—a dish that takes classic pasta to new heights. It’s everything you want in a casserole: cheesy, hearty, and downright delicious. With each bite, you’ll taste why this dish is worth every penny. It’s the kind of comfort food that keeps you coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti
Texas Corn Succotash
When you want something that feels like a true Southern side dish, Texas Corn Succotash has got you covered. It’s a colorful, flavorful combo that brings sweetness and richness in every bite. This dish isn’t just a side—it’s the perfect addition to any meal that needs a bit of extra flavor. Be prepared to fill your plate a few times.
Get the Recipe: Texas Corn Succotash
Sloppy Joe Casserole
Comfort food at its finest, this one’s sure to please a crowd. Sloppy Joe Casserole takes all the best parts of a Sloppy Joe sandwich and turns it into a satisfying casserole. It’s simple to prepare, but the flavors will stick with you long after the meal is over. You’ll find yourself digging for seconds before you even realize what happened.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole
Creamed Corn
Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. Creamed Corn is one of those side dishes that turns an ordinary meal into something special. The rich, creamy texture brings comfort in every bite. It pairs well with just about anything, making it a staple at any dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Corn
Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs
Don’t be surprised if this dish quickly becomes a regular part of your meal rotation. Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs put a twist on traditional corn on the cob, offering up a crunchy, cheesy bite that’s impossible to resist. They’re a fun and tasty side dish to bring to any meal or picnic. Each bite offers a mix of rich flavors, from the garlic to the Parmesan.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Garlic Corn Ribs
Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans are the epitome of Southern comfort. The long, slow cooking process infuses the beans with rich, savory flavors that make them more than just a side. You’ll be surprised by how much flavor comes out of this simple dish. Just set it and forget it, and let the slow cooker do all the heavy lifting for you.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
Fried Tomatillos
Looking for something crunchy, crispy, and just a little bit tangy? Fried Tomatillos bring all that and more. These golden-brown bites are perfect for snacking or as a unique side dish. If you love a little extra crunch, this dish will be your new favorite. You won’t be able to stop at just one—trust us.
Get the Recipe: Fried Tomatillos
Oven Roasted Tomato Soup
For a classic comfort dish with a twist, Oven Roasted Tomato Soup is the answer. The roasting process intensifies the tomato flavor, making each spoonful richer and more satisfying. Perfect for dipping or simply enjoying on its own, this soup hits the spot every time. Pair it with a grilled cheese, and you’ve got a meal that’s tough to beat.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Tomato Soup
Sweet Potato Cornbread
One bite, and you’ll be wondering why you never tried this combo before. Sweet Potato Cornbread is an unexpected twist on a Southern classic. The subtle sweetness from the sweet potato adds a new layer of flavor to the cornbread you know and love. It’s perfect for pairing with hearty stews or soups, but it also works well as a stand-alone treat.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Cornbread
4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken
If you’re all about simplicity and flavor, 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken will become your new best friend. It’s easy to toss together, but the slow-cooked results are nothing short of delicious. You won’t believe how something so simple can taste so satisfying. It’s the kind of meal that lets you do the hard work while the slow cooker handles the rest.
Get the Recipe: 4-Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken
Smoked Sweet Potatoes
If you haven’t tried them this way before, you’re in for a treat. Smoked Sweet Potatoes give the humble sweet potato a smoky twist that will make you rethink your typical potato sides. The smoking process adds a depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of the potato. It’s an easy dish to make, but it feels like something extra special.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Sweet Potatoes
Roast Pork with Apples
Don’t be surprised if it’s the first thing gone off the table. Roast Pork with Apples combines savory and sweet in a way that makes your mouth water. The juicy, tender pork pairs perfectly with the sweet, tart apples, creating a balance of flavors that’s both satisfying and comforting. This dish is great for dinner with the family or for a weekend gathering.
Get the Recipe: Roast Pork with Apples
Smoked Beef Stew
For a beef stew that’s rich and packed with flavor, Smoked Beef Stew is the dish to try. The smoky aroma fills your kitchen and gets your appetite going before you even taste it. Tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a savory broth come together to make this stew something special. Once it’s on your plate, you’ll be scooping up every last bite.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Beef Stew
Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup
It’s like a hug in a bowl—one that’s hard to stop eating. Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup is creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor. The smooth texture and subtle sweetness make it a perfect option for cool evenings. This soup is filling enough for a meal on its own, or you can pair it with a sandwich for a lighter option.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup
Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe
Craving that perfect bowl of chili? Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe brings all the hearty, flavorful goodness of your favorite chili right to your own kitchen. It’s spicy, rich, and full of satisfying chunks of meat that make each bite a treat. You’ll find yourself coming back for seconds, maybe thirds, before you realize it. This chili is sure to impress anyone you serve it to.
Get the Recipe: Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe
Southern Ham Salad
Each bite is a reminder of why Southern comfort food is second to none. Southern Ham Salad brings together the perfect blend of savory and creamy flavors in one bite. This dish is as versatile as it is delicious, whether you serve it as a sandwich filling or a spread on crackers. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to make an impression, but also simple enough for a quick snack.
Get the Recipe: Southern Ham Salad
Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs
For a unique twist on classic meatballs, Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs bring together savory and tangy flavors with a fun, hearty texture. The slow cooking process makes these meatballs tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. It’s a perfect dish for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. One bite and you’ll be hooked—these meatballs are a must-try.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Porcupine Meatballs
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips
It’s sure to satisfy even the hungriest of appetites. Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips are a flavorful, tender dish that’s perfect for a filling meal. The beef tips are cooked until perfectly tender and full of savory goodness, just like the ones you’d find at the restaurant. This dish is a great option when you’re craving hearty comfort food that’s also easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Beef Tips
Smoked Brisket Chili
If you love chili and smoked meat, Smoked Brisket Chili will become your new favorite. The smokiness from the brisket adds a unique depth of flavor that takes chili to the next level. Hearty and filling, it’s perfect for a cold day when you need something satisfying and rich. Don’t be surprised if everyone asks for your secret recipe—it’s that good.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Brisket Chili
Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops
For a hands-off meal that still delivers big on flavor, Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops is the way to go. The slow cooking process makes the pork chops tender and juicy, while the savory sauce brings everything together. It’s the kind of dish that lets you set it and forget it while still impressing everyone at the table. You’ll find yourself making this one again and again.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Swiss Pork Chops
Southwestern Chili
One bowl might not be enough, so be prepared to make more when it’s gone. Southwestern Chili brings bold, smoky flavors with just the right amount of heat. Packed with beans and a rich, hearty broth, this chili is perfect for those who crave a little spice in their meal. It’s great for a cold day, or anytime you need a filling dish that satisfies.
Get the Recipe: Southwestern Chili
Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken
This dish will make you wonder why you didn’t start cooking this way sooner. Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken is the perfect weeknight dinner, simple to prepare and packed with flavor. The lemon and rosemary give the chicken a fresh, aromatic twist that makes each bite irresistible. It’s an easy one-pan meal that cuts down on clean-up but doesn’t skimp on taste.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Lemon-Rosemary Chicken
Skillet Stroganoff Pie
With every bite, you’ll taste why this recipe deserves a place in your regular meal rotation. Skillet Stroganoff Pie is a hearty, comforting dish that’s full of rich flavors. The savory filling and crispy, golden crust make it a crowd-pleaser every time. It’s like a warm hug in pie form, perfect for a cozy dinner or weekend meal.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Stroganoff Pie
Mississippi Mud Potatoes
Once you try them, you’ll understand why they’re called “mud potatoes”—they’re a messy, satisfying treat that’s impossible to resist. Mississippi Mud Potatoes are the perfect combination of creamy and cheesy, making them a side dish you won’t forget. This dish packs a punch with its rich, hearty flavors and makes the perfect pairing with any Southern entrée.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Potatoes
Pickled Shrimp Egg Shooters
One bite, and you’ll be hooked on this Southern classic. Pickled Shrimp Egg Shooters are a fun, bold twist on a traditional Southern favorite. The tangy shrimp paired with the creamy egg make these shooters an instant hit at any party or gathering. They’re simple to prepare, but they always impress with their unique combination of flavors.
Get the Recipe: Pickled Shrimp Egg Shooters
Broccoli Cheddar Soup In A Sourdough Bowl
For a cozy, comforting meal, Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl is a perfect choice. The creamy, cheesy soup combines perfectly with the tangy sourdough bowl, making every bite a satisfying experience. It’s the kind of dish you want to enjoy on a chilly day, with the bread soaking up every last bit of flavor. Once you try it, you’ll wonder why you never had soup this way before.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Soup In A Sourdough Bowl
Shrimp and Grits Casserole
This casserole is one of those dishes that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or for leftovers the next day. Shrimp and Grits Casserole is a Southern favorite made easy. The creamy grits and tender shrimp come together in this hearty dish that’s packed with flavor. It’s a comforting, filling meal that brings a taste of the South right to your table.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits Casserole
Oven Baked Ribs
Get ready to devour these in no time. Oven Baked Ribs are a game changer when it comes to easy, melt-in-your-mouth ribs. The slow-baking method ensures the ribs come out perfectly tender, while the seasoning brings out the best in every bite. No grill required—these ribs can be made right in your oven, and they’ll taste like they’ve been smoked for hours.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ribs
Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder With Chipotle
If you haven’t tried this combo yet, you’re missing out. Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder with Chipotle brings a smoky, spicy kick to a rich, creamy chowder that’s as comforting as it is exciting. The shrimp and corn add texture and sweetness, while the chipotle gives it that unique warmth. It’s the perfect balance of spice and creaminess, perfect for chilly nights.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Shrimp & Corn Chowder With Chipotle
Old-Fashioned Mac and Cheese
There’s nothing like a bowl of Old-Fashioned Mac and Cheese to bring back the good old days of comfort food. This dish is a timeless classic, creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that never goes out of style. Whether as a side or a main, this mac and cheese will have everyone reaching for more.
Get the Recipe: Old-Fashioned Mac and Cheese
Southern Style Pickled Shrimp
If you’re craving something different, Southern Style Pickled Shrimp is a tangy, flavorful treat that’s perfect for snacking or as an appetizer. The shrimp take on a unique texture, paired with the vinegar-based marinade that adds depth and brightness. This dish is a Southern classic that always impresses at parties or gatherings. It’s one of those dishes you can’t stop coming back to.
Get the Recipe: Southern Style Pickled Shrimp