39 Southern Favorites Packed with Charm

Southern recipes are all about bringing comfort and soul to your kitchen, and these 39 dishes are a delicious tribute to Southern cooking. From crispy fried chicken and buttery biscuits to smoky barbecue and sweet pecan pie, these recipes capture the heart of Southern cuisine.

Known for their bold flavors and simple ingredients, Southern dishes create meals that feel like home. Perfect for family dinners, Sunday suppers, or casual meals, these recipes bring warmth and togetherness to your table.

Explore the richness of Southern cooking and enjoy the comforting flavors that make this cuisine so beloved.

Smothered Chicken

Smothered chicken is the essence of Southern comfort food. This dish takes juicy chicken thighs, sears them to perfection, and covers them with a rich, flavorful gravy.

Each bite brings together tender meat and creamy sauce, making it the perfect meal for cozy nights. The seasoning penetrates the chicken, infusing it with deep flavors that melt in your mouth.

It’s a recipe that invites the whole family to the table, bringing both warmth and satisfaction with every serving. When paired with rice or mashed potatoes, smothered chicken becomes a complete, comforting dish.

Shrimp and Grits

Shrimp and grits is a quintessential Lowcountry dish that brings the bold flavors of the South to life. Spiced shrimp rest on a bed of creamy, cheesy grits, with a touch of bacon adding depth and richness.

This dish combines seafood and Southern soul food in a way that’s both hearty and luxurious. The soft, buttery grits perfectly complement the smoky, spicy shrimp, making each bite irresistible.

It’s a dish that’s just as suitable for a family dinner as it is for a special occasion. Shrimp and grits will quickly become a go-to comfort food in your kitchen.

Brunswick Stew

Brunswick stew is a comforting Southern classic that brings together a variety of smoked meats and vegetables in a savory, hearty base. With a few minutes of prep, this stew slowly simmers to perfection, creating a flavorful blend of ingredients that warm the soul.

The smoky flavors from the meats infuse the vegetables, while seasonings create a deep, satisfying flavor. This dish is great for chilly nights, perfect for feeding a crowd, or for simply enjoying with your family.

It’s a true taste of Southern hospitality and tradition. A bowl of Brunswick stew brings the flavors of the South right to your table.

Biscuits and Gravy

Biscuits and gravy is a Southern breakfast favorite that’s both indulgent and comforting. Fluffy, warm biscuits are smothered in a rich, creamy sausage gravy that’s seasoned to perfection.

Every bite combines the buttery biscuit with the savory, hearty gravy, creating a satisfying meal. This dish is a staple for weekend mornings, bringing both comfort and flavor to start the day.

You won’t find a more iconic Southern breakfast to enjoy with your loved ones. Biscuits and gravy are a simple yet irresistible combination that will keep you coming back for more.

Jambalaya

Jambalaya is the perfect one-pot meal that brings the bold flavors of Creole cuisine to your table. This dish combines sausage, chicken, shrimp, and a mix of veggies in a flavorful rice base.

With every bite, you experience a balance of savory, spicy, and smoky flavors, making Jambalaya a truly comforting dish. It’s perfect for large gatherings or a weeknight dinner, offering a taste of New Orleans in each spoonful.

You can easily customize it with your favorite meats or veggies, making it versatile for any occasion. Jambalaya is more than a meal – it’s a celebration of Southern and Creole culinary traditions.

Jambalaya Soup

Jambalaya soup is a bold and flavorful dish that brings together the essence of Creole cooking. Loaded with sausage, chicken, shrimp, and vegetables, this soup is a comforting and filling meal.

The rich, spicy broth is infused with Creole seasonings, making each spoonful packed with flavor. This hearty soup combines the best parts of jambalaya in an easy-to-make soup form, perfect for a cozy dinner or a special gathering.

The savory meats and the blend of spices come together to create a satisfying dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re cooking it in a slow cooker or on the stovetop, Jambalaya soup offers a taste of the South in every bite.

Southern Cheese Grits

Southern cheese grits are a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that’s perfect as a side or a main dish. The grits are cooked to a smooth, velvety consistency and then blended with cheese for a rich, flavorful base.

Whether served with shrimp, sausage, or simply on their own, cheese grits are a Southern classic that never disappoints. The combination of the creamy grits and sharp cheese creates a comforting dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious.

It’s a versatile dish that can accompany any Southern meal or stand alone as the star of the table. Cheese grits are a must-try for anyone craving an authentic taste of the South.

Corn Casserole

Corn casserole is a beloved Southern side dish that’s both easy to make and full of comforting flavors. This five-ingredient recipe combines corn, cheese, and a creamy base, resulting in a dish that’s soft, cheesy, and irresistibly delicious.

Whether served alongside grilled meats or as part of a holiday spread, corn casserole is always a hit. The combination of sweet corn and savory ingredients creates a satisfying dish that everyone will enjoy.

It’s a dish that’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Corn casserole’s simplicity and flavor make it a go-to side that pairs well with many main courses.

Pecan Pie

Pecan pie is a beloved Southern dessert that combines a rich, buttery filling with crunchy, toasted pecans. The filling is sweet and smooth, with a touch of vanilla that enhances its depth.

Topped with a layer of pecans, this pie brings together the perfect balance of textures - soft, gooey sweetness with a satisfying crunch. The salty-sweet flavor of the pie creates a delicious contrast, making it impossible to resist.

Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or at room temperature with a cup of coffee, pecan pie is always a crowd-pleaser. Its nutty, comforting flavor is a true representation of Southern desserts.

Southern Cornbread

Southern cornbread is a beloved classic, known for its tender texture and slightly sweet flavor. Made with cornmeal, flour, and buttermilk, this cornbread has the perfect balance of richness and moisture.

Whether served alongside a hearty stew or enjoyed on its own, this cornbread never disappoints. The slight crunch on the outside gives way to a soft, fluffy interior, making each bite satisfying and comforting.

This cornbread is simple to make, yet so flavorful that it will quickly become a family favorite. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with any Southern meal.

Grillades and Grits

Grillades and grits is a Creole classic that brings tender meat and flavorful gravy together with creamy, cheesy grits. The medallions of meat are simmered in a savory tomato-based gravy, which soaks into the grits, creating a comforting, hearty meal.

The richness of the gravy perfectly complements the creamy grits, making each bite a true Southern treat. Grillades and grits is perfect for a leisurely breakfast, brunch, or dinner, offering both substance and flavor.

It’s a dish that showcases the soul of Creole cuisine and Southern hospitality. A bowl of grillades and grits will make you feel right at home, no matter where you are.

Red Beans and Rice

Red beans and rice is a New Orleans staple, combining hearty red beans with smoked sausage, vegetables, and a blend of spices. The dish has deep roots in Creole cooking, offering a comforting and satisfying experience.

The beans cook slowly, absorbing all the flavors of the sausage and spices, creating a rich, flavorful base. Paired with fluffy rice, this dish is a complete meal that is both filling and flavorful.

Whether made on a busy weekday or for a family gathering, red beans and rice is always a crowd-pleaser. The depth of flavor will have everyone coming back for seconds.

New Orleans BBQ Shrimp

New Orleans BBQ shrimp is unlike any traditional BBQ dish. This shrimp is not coated in barbecue sauce, but instead, it’s smothered in a rich, buttery sauce made with bold seasonings, garlic, and Creole spices.

The shrimp soak up all the savory goodness from the sauce, creating a flavor explosion with each bite. Served with crusty bread, this dish is perfect for soaking up every last bit of the decadent sauce.

The combination of spices and butter makes this dish both indulgent and comforting, a true representation of New Orleans’ culinary magic. New Orleans BBQ shrimp is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy the city’s rich flavors in their own kitchen.

Southern Fried Okra

Southern fried okra is a beloved Southern side dish, known for its crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior. The okra is battered and fried until golden brown, creating a satisfying crunch with every bite.

Whether served with fried chicken or as a standalone snack, fried okra is a treat that’s both comforting and flavorful. Its unique texture and taste are beloved by many, and it’s a dish that always brings a taste of the South to the table.

The batter adds a layer of flavor that complements the natural taste of the okra. Each bite offers a crispy, savory delight.

Low Country Boil (Frogmore Stew)

Low Country Boil, also known as Frogmore Stew, is a Southern seafood feast that’s both simple and satisfying. This one-pot dish combines shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes with Old Bay seasoning, creating a flavorful, hearty meal.

The ingredients cook together, soaking in all the delicious spices, resulting in a rich and tasty dish. Perfect for casual dinners or large gatherings, a Low Country Boil brings people together with its bold flavors and fun presentation.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity – all you need is one pot and a love for good food. When you serve this, you’ll enjoy a meal that captures the essence of Southern cooking.

Country Ham with Red Eye Gravy

Country ham with red eye gravy is a timeless Southern dish, bursting with savory, smoky flavors. The ham itself is tender and juicy, perfectly complemented by the rich, slightly bitter red eye gravy made from coffee and pan drippings.

This combination creates a taste experience that’s both comforting and indulgent. The gravy’s boldness adds depth to the ham’s flavor, while the slight bitterness from the coffee makes each bite more complex.

Typically served with fluffy biscuits or grits, this dish brings the best of Southern cooking to the table. The simple yet flavorful ingredients make this a meal that will linger in memory.

Hush Puppies

Hush puppies are the perfect accompaniment to a variety of Southern dishes, especially fried seafood. These golden, deep-fried cornmeal balls are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a favorite at any meal.

The slightly sweet and savory flavor of hush puppies complements the richness of fried fish or shrimp. They are incredibly versatile and can be served as a snack or side dish, making them a hit at barbecues and family dinners.

With a few simple ingredients, you can create a batch of hush puppies that everyone will enjoy. Their crispy texture and delightful flavor make them the ultimate Southern treat.

Fried Green Tomatoes

Fried green tomatoes are a classic Southern treat that brings a crispy, golden exterior with a juicy, tangy interior. These tomatoes are sliced, battered, and deep-fried to perfection, making them an irresistible appetizer or side dish.

The tanginess of the green tomatoes pairs beautifully with a light crunch from the batter, creating a satisfying contrast. This dish has been cherished for generations, with each bite offering a taste of tradition and Southern hospitality.

The flavors are simple yet bold, capturing the heart of Southern cuisine. A bite of these crispy delights will make you fall in love with Southern cooking.

Southern Fried Chicken

Southern fried chicken is a true classic, known for its crispy, golden crust and tender, juicy meat. The secret lies in the perfectly seasoned flour coating that gives each piece a satisfying crunch.

This dish is the epitome of comfort food, with flavors that are both hearty and comforting. The crispy coating locks in all the moisture of the chicken, ensuring each bite is as juicy as it is crispy.

Fried chicken is perfect for gatherings, and it pairs wonderfully with sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and cornbread. This dish is bound to become a cherished favorite at every meal.

Nashville Hot Chicken

Nashville hot chicken is a fiery and flavorful take on fried chicken that has been gaining popularity across the country. This dish features crispy fried chicken coated in a spicy, flavorful hot sauce made with cayenne pepper, paprika, and a hint of sweetness.

Typically served with slices of white bread and pickle chips, the heat of the chicken is perfectly balanced by the coolness of the bread and tang of the pickles. The bold flavors are sure to ignite your taste buds, and the crispy coating ensures a satisfying crunch with every bite.

This dish is a must-try for anyone who loves spicy and flavorful meals.

Southern Collard Greens

Southern collard greens are a flavorful and nutrient-packed side dish that’s perfect for pairing with any Southern meal. Slow-cooked with smoked meat, these greens absorb all the savory goodness from the broth, resulting in a rich, earthy flavor.

The slight bitterness of the collard greens is balanced by the smokiness of the ham or bacon, creating a comforting, savory dish. Often served with beans and cornbread, collard greens are a staple in Southern cuisine, especially during holiday meals.

They bring a heartiness and depth to any meal, making them an essential Southern side dish. Their bold flavor makes them the perfect complement to a hearty Southern spread.

Chicken and Dumplings

Chicken and dumplings is the epitome of comfort food. This cozy dish is made with tender chicken, vegetables, and fluffy dumplings, all simmered together in a rich broth.

The dumplings are light and soft, soaking up all the savory flavors from the chicken and vegetables. This one-pot meal is perfect for chilly nights, providing warmth and comfort in every spoonful.

The combination of flavors is simple, yet incredibly satisfying, making it a go-to dish for any occasion. The texture of the dumplings adds a delightful element to the creamy soup base.

Shrimp Po Boy Sandwich

The shrimp po’ boy sandwich is a beloved New Orleans classic that captures the essence of Southern seafood. Crispy, golden shrimp are nestled inside a soft, toasted bun, and topped with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and tangy remoulade sauce.

The shrimp are perfectly seasoned, providing a delightful contrast to the crunch of the bread and the coolness of the vegetables. It’s a sandwich that’s both flavorful and satisfying, offering a true taste of Louisiana.

Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch or dinner, the shrimp po’ boy brings the perfect blend of textures and flavors in every bite. This sandwich is a true taste of the Gulf Coast, sure to become a favorite in your home.

Southern Mac and Cheese

Southern mac and cheese is a dish that embodies comfort food at its finest. The combination of creamy cheese sauce, tender pasta, and a crunchy topping makes this dish irresistible.

This version of mac and cheese is rich and indulgent, with layers of flavor that are both comforting and satisfying. Whether you bake it or prepare it stovetop, the result is always the same – a creamy, cheesy experience that will please any crowd.

This dish is perfect for any occasion, from holiday meals to casual weeknight dinners. The cheesy goodness makes it hard to resist every time.

Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Mashed sweet potatoes are a comforting dish that adds a touch of warmth to any meal. The smooth texture and natural sweetness of the potatoes create a perfect base for adding flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of butter.

Whether you prefer them simply mashed or with a dash of brown sugar, this dish brings out the earthy richness of sweet potatoes. The ease of preparation makes this a go-to for busy weeknights or holiday feasts.

With a little seasoning and a creamy finish, this dish satisfies all year round. The blend of sweetness and creaminess makes each bite delightful.

Country Captain Chicken

Country Captain Chicken is a delicious fusion of Indian spices and Southern flavors. This unique dish features chicken cooked in a fragrant curry sauce, creating a blend of rich and aromatic flavors.

Served with rice, this meal becomes a complete, hearty dish that brings a taste of the Lowcountry right to your table. The combination of curry spices and Southern cooking creates a one-of-a-kind dish that is both comforting and exciting.

Easy to prepare, yet full of deep flavors, this chicken is an excellent choice for a family meal or a special dinner. Whether you’ve tried this Southern classic before or not, it’s sure to become a favorite.

Shrimp Creole

Shrimp Creole is a flavorful New Orleans classic that combines tender shrimp with a zesty tomato-based sauce. Infused with Creole seasoning, this dish delivers layers of deep, spicy flavors that are perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the shrimp.

Served over rice, Shrimp Creole offers a comforting, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug from the South. The tangy, savory sauce creates the perfect base for the shrimp, making each bite an experience of bold, satisfying flavors.

This dish is perfect for special occasions or a flavorful weeknight meal. Its combination of spices and seafood captures the soul of Creole cuisine.

Cabbage and Sausage Skillet

Cabbage and sausage skillet is a quick, one-pan dish that’s full of flavor and perfect for busy nights. The smoky sausage and tender cabbage blend together in a savory combination that satisfies both the body and the soul.

The slight sweetness of the cabbage contrasts wonderfully with the rich, smoky flavor of the sausage, making this a balanced, hearty meal. This dish is easy to make, and the best part is that it requires minimal cleanup, making it ideal for any night of the week.

With just a few ingredients, this meal packs in big flavor.

She-Crab Soup

She-crab soup is a rich, creamy dish that’s a beloved staple of the Carolina Lowcountry. Made with fresh crab meat, cream, and a touch of brandy, this soup brings a luxurious feel to the table.

The blend of crab and cream creates a velvety texture, while the brandy adds depth to the flavor profile. This dish is perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in, offering the comfort of a soup with the indulgence of seafood.

It’s a unique Southern delicacy that impresses with both its rich flavor and smooth consistency. The crab shines through beautifully in every bite.

Chicken Fried Steak with Gravy

Chicken fried steak with gravy is an iconic Southern dish that brings a crispy, golden crust and tender beef smothered in a creamy white gravy. The combination of flavors and textures creates a comforting, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug.

The beef is seasoned and breaded, then fried to perfection, while the gravy adds a smooth, rich finish that brings everything together. This dish is perfect for a Sunday dinner or any time you're craving classic comfort food.

Its hearty nature makes it filling, while the flavors are simple yet bold. The savory gravy completes every bite with richness.

Shrimp Remoulade

Shrimp remoulade is a quintessential New Orleans appetizer, combining plump shrimp with a zesty, tangy remoulade sauce. The sauce itself is a delightful mix of mustard, spices, and a hint of heat, creating a creamy base that complements the sweetness of the shrimp.

This dish is not only flavorful but also refreshingly light, making it the perfect starter for any meal. Served chilled, shrimp remoulade offers a burst of flavors that are both bold and refreshing.

Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet meal, this dish always impresses. The harmony of textures and flavors makes each bite memorable.

Fried Catfish

Fried catfish is a classic Southern dish that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The catfish fillets are coated in a cornmeal batter, fried to perfection, and served hot with a side of tangy tartar sauce.

The mild fish has a light, flaky texture, while the cornmeal coating provides a satisfying crunch. Whether served with coleslaw, hushpuppies, or fries, fried catfish is a meal that’s sure to please.

This dish captures the essence of Southern cooking, offering both comfort and flavor. If you love seafood, fried catfish is a must-try dish that never disappoints.

The Best Black-Eyed Peas Recipe

Black-eyed peas are a Southern staple, known for their comforting qualities and versatility. With a blend of ham, bacon, and collard greens, this dish brings a hearty, flavorful experience to any meal.

Traditionally served on New Year's Day for good luck, these peas are so good you’ll want to eat them all year round. The smoky flavor from the ham and bacon perfectly complements the earthiness of the peas, while the collard greens add an extra layer of texture and flavor.

It’s a dish that embodies Southern hospitality, bringing people together around the table with warmth and deliciousness. This is comfort food at its finest, perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.

Southern Braised Chicken with Black Eyed Peas

Southern braised chicken with black-eyed peas brings the warmth of the South into one hearty meal. This dish combines tender chicken with creamy black-eyed peas, simmered together in a flavorful broth.

The richness of the peas and the tenderness of the chicken make for a comforting and filling meal. It’s a dish that’s both easy to prepare and full of flavor, perfect for busy days or family dinners.

The subtle seasoning and slow braising process allow the ingredients to meld together, creating a soul-satisfying dish. When served with cornbread or rice, it becomes a complete Southern feast.

Cochon de Lait (Cajun Pulled Pork)

Cochon de Lait, or Cajun pulled pork, is a melt-in-your-mouth dish that’s as flavorful as it is tender. The slow-cooked pork is seasoned with Cajun spices, creating a deliciously spicy and smoky flavor.

Whether served with rice or in a sandwich, this pulled pork brings the taste of Louisiana to your table. The slow cooking process allows the pork to soak in the seasonings, resulting in a tender and juicy texture.

Cochon de Lait is a dish that’s perfect for gatherings, providing a hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy. If you love Cajun food, this pulled pork will quickly become a favorite.

Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel

Sweet potato casserole with pecan streusel is a Southern classic that offers a perfect blend of creamy and crunchy textures. The soft, velvety sweet potatoes are topped with a buttery, sweet pecan topping that adds the ideal contrast.

This dish is a must-have for holiday meals, but it’s so delicious that you’ll want to make it all year long. The combination of the earthy sweet potatoes and the crunchy pecans brings a balance of flavors and textures that’s simply irresistible.

The slightly sweet, slightly salty pecan streusel topping is the perfect finishing touch. A bite of this casserole is a satisfying experience that’s full of comfort and flavor.

Succotash

Succotash is a hearty and colorful Southern dish that combines corn and lima beans with a variety of other vegetables, often seasoned with bacon or corned beef. This dish is full of flavor, and the combination of tender corn and beans creates a comforting, filling side dish.

Traditionally, succotash is made in the summer when corn is fresh, but it’s a dish that can be enjoyed all year round. The sweetness of the corn complements the creaminess of the beans, making every bite both satisfying and delicious.

It’s an easy dish to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners or large family gatherings. Succotash brings together simple ingredients to create a comforting and flavorful experience.

Meatloaf

Meatloaf is a classic comfort food that brings together simple ingredients for a hearty, satisfying meal. Ground beef, breadcrumbs, and seasonings are mixed together, then baked to perfection with a glaze on top.

The result is a tender, flavorful loaf that’s perfect for serving with mashed potatoes or a side of vegetables. The ease of preparation and the rich, comforting flavors make this a go-to dish for busy families or casual dinners.

The glaze’s savory and sweet combination beautifully complements the meatloaf. A meal that provides warmth in every bite.

Southern Squash Casserole

Southern squash casserole is a dish that captures the essence of Southern comfort food. This casserole is made with tender squash, cheese, and a creamy sauce, all baked to perfection.

It’s the perfect side dish for any Southern meal, with a deliciously comforting texture that will keep everyone coming back for more. The cheese adds a savory richness, while the squash provides a mild, slightly sweet flavor that balances everything beautifully.

Simple to make, yet packed with flavor, it’s a dish that’s perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or weeknight dinners. This casserole will quickly become a family favorite in your kitchen.