15 must-try Southern recipes that will wow your guests

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Southern food doesn’t just feed people—it gathers them. These 15 recipes know how to hold attention without being complicated or overly fancy. They’re built for full tables, casual seconds, and quiet compliments that usually start mid-bite. If you’re looking to serve something that actually gets remembered, this list handles that without turning the kitchen into a mess.

Seasoned and crispy air-fried shrimp served on a plate, garnished with fresh herbs and accompanied by lemon slices.
Air Fryer Shrimp. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

Raspberry Crescent Ring

freshly baked raspberry crescent ring with cream cheese filling, resting on parchment paper.
Raspberry Crescent Ring. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

If you’re looking for a striking centerpiece for your breakfast or brunch table, Raspberry Crescent Ring is a fantastic choice. This recipe combines light, buttery crescent dough with the sweet and vibrant flavors of raspberries to create a dish that is visually appealing and delicious. It’s easy to prepare and makes an impression every time you serve it.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Crescent Ring

Air Fryer Pork Chops

A close-up image of a golden-brown, seasoned pork chop garnished with fresh parsley on a white plate.
Air Fryer Pork Chops. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

For a quick and convenient way to serve juicy, flavorful meat, Air Fryer Pork Chops are something you must try. These chops come out golden brown and perfectly cooked, with minimal effort and cleanup required. The air fryer ensures they remain tender inside while achieving a nice crisp outside. They make a great main dish for everything from weeknight dinners to hosting friends.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pork Chops

Southern Ham Salad

Creamy Southern ham salad with a side of croissants.
Southern Ham Salad. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

A classic dish that brings people together, Southern Ham Salad is perfect for casual lunches or sharing with guests. It has a rich texture and is ideal for spreading on crackers or piling onto sandwiches. Preparing it is simple, and its versatility makes it a favorite in Southern households. Offering a familiar taste that everyone enjoys, this recipe is a great addition to any food table.
Get the Recipe: Southern Ham Salad

Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

A close-up of a plate filled with cheesy broccoli rice casserole, featuring tender broccoli, creamy cheese sauce, and rice.
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

If comfort food is what your table is missing, Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole delivers just that with warm, lovely bites every time. This dish blends hearty rice, broccoli, and cheese to create a layered and fulfilling side dish or main course. Its consistency makes it a staple during gatherings or family dinners. You’ll find it’s a dish that keeps people coming back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole

Quick and Easy Fried Rice

A close-up of a pan filled with homemade fried rice, featuring fluffy rice mixed with diced vegetables, small pieces of meat, and soy sauce.
Quick and Easy Fried Rice. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

Providing a versatile and practical option for busy days, Quick and Easy Fried Rice is exactly as its name suggests. This dish gives you flavorful satisfaction in a short amount of time and pairs well with just about anything. It’s ideal for clearing out your fridge while still serving something delicious. The simplicity and flexibility of this recipe make it a go-to for spur-of-the-moment plans.
Get the Recipe: Quick and Easy Fried Rice

Fluffy Sour Cream Biscuits

Fluffy Sour Cream Biscuits in a plate.
Fluffy Sour Cream Biscuits. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

For bread lovers looking for the perfect side, Fluffy Sour Cream Biscuits are an incredible addition to the meal. They rise beautifully and pair wonderfully with spreads or savory dishes. Preparing these biscuits is easy, but their light and airy texture feels special each time. These biscuits are a simple way to add charm to both casual meals and celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Sour Cream Biscuits

Southern Crack Chicken Casserole

Southern crack chicken casserole on a black plate.
Southern Crack Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

Known for its rich flavor and heartiness, Southern Crack Chicken Casserole is the kind of dish people rave about. This casserole combines layers of satisfying ingredients that make it a much-loved option for gatherings or dinners with loved ones. It’s easy to serve and reheat, making it practical for anyone who prefers leftovers that taste as good as the first round. With a recipe like this, your guests will always be impressed.
Get the Recipe: Southern Crack Chicken Casserole

Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Tender pulled pork in a bowl.
Slow Cooker Pulled Pork. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

For those who love dishes that can be prepared ahead of time, Slow Cooker Pulled Pork is a recipe worth bookmarking. It’s slow-cooked to tender perfection and delivers flavor-packed servings that everyone can enjoy. Pulled pork works beautifully in sandwiches, sliders, or plated over sides like coleslaw. Whether for casual dining or entertaining, this dish fits right into your plans.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Cracker Barrel Cinnamon Roll Pie

A close-up image of a slice of Cracker Barrel Cinnamon Roll Pie, showing soft, swirled cinnamon roll layers inside a flaky pie crust, topped with a thick, creamy white icing, served on a white plate.
Cracker Barrel Cinnamon Roll Pie. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

Blending the nostalgic joy of cinnamon rolls with a dessert pie twist, Cracker Barrel Cinnamon Roll Pie is bound to be a new favorite. Its gratifying texture and warming spice make it a unique dessert choice worth trying. This dish feels special no matter the occasion and is easy to serve after meals. It offers a sweet finale to your gatherings or celebrations that everyone will remember.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Cinnamon Roll Pie

Loaded Tater Tots

Freshly baked loaded tater tots in a cast iron skillet.
Loaded Tater Tots. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

When you need a snack that’s both fun and delicious, Loaded Tater Tots are hard to beat. They’re perfect for casual occasions or a playful addition to appetizer menus. With a topping that makes each bite exciting, this recipe turns a classic side into something crowd-worthy. It’s easy to make and always earns compliments when served.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Tater Tots

Chicken Spaghetti

A cast-iron skillet filled with creamy chicken spaghetti, topped with melted cheddar cheese. A hand is lifting a portion with a fork, showing the cheesy, stringy texture.
Chicken Spaghetti. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

Bringing together comfort and simplicity, Chicken Spaghetti should be high on your list of recipes to try. This dish combines tender chicken with spaghetti in a way that’s flavorful and filling. It’s a fantastic option for family-style dining or casual get-togethers. If you want a recipe that’s both reliable and appealing, this one is hard to go wrong with.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Spaghetti

Country Sausage Gravy

Country sausage gravy in a pot.
Country Sausage Gravy. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

A breakfast staple in Southern kitchens, Country Sausage Gravy is a recipe that’s always worth making. Its rich texture is perfect for pouring over biscuits or pairing with your favorite breakfast sides. The recipe is straightforward, but the result tastes hearty and comforting. Whether serving breakfast to guests or enjoying a slower morning, this dish always hits the mark.
Get the Recipe: Country Sausage Gravy

Blueberry Shortcake

Blueberry shortcake served with a garnish of mint leaves.
Blueberry Shortcake. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

Turning dessert into an experience, Blueberry Shortcake offers sweet bursts of flavor and satisfying layers. It’s an excellent way to showcase fresh ingredients in a simple yet impressive dessert. The balance of fruit and cake makes it light enough to enjoy after a filling meal. Perfect for evenings with guests or simply treating yourself, this dish always delivers a warm touch to the end of a meal.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Shortcake

Peanut Butter and Date Chocolate Bark

A close-up of a homemade chocolate bark topped with smooth melted dark chocolate, sprinkled with sea salt.
Peanut Butter and Date Chocolate Bark. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

For a creative and shareable dessert, Peanut Butter and Date Chocolate Bark combines simplicity with bold flavors. This recipe offers a wonderful mix of textures that makes it a standout treat. It’s a great option to prepare ahead of time for dessert tables or friendly gatherings. The easy preparation and vibrant bites make it worth your time for something special.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter and Date Chocolate Bark

Air Fryer Shrimp

Seasoned and crispy air-fried shrimp served on a plate, garnished with fresh herbs and accompanied by lemon slices.
Air Fryer Shrimp. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

Impress your guests with quick and flavorful seafood by serving Air Fryer Shrimp at your next gathering. The air fryer creates a crisp coating while keeping the shrimp juicy inside, delivering results you can easily recreate. They make a great appetizer or a lighter main dish, depending on the occasion. Their versatility and ease of preparation make them a recipe you’ll want to keep repeating.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Shrimp

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