17 Southern comfort food recipes that stick to your ribs and warm your soul

Nothing tests the strength of a plate like a serving of Southern classics built to fill you up and keep you warm. These aren’t the kind of meals that leave you questioning your life choices; they just remind you why eating well is always worth it. These 17 comfort food staples prove that good food doesn’t need a special occasion. If there’s one thing the South knows, it’s how to make sure nobody leaves the table hungry.

Mississippi Mud Pie

With its rich chocolatey layers, every bite of Mississippi Mud Pie feels like a comforting hug on a leisurely afternoon. This dessert is perfect for those who love a combination of gooey and crispy textures. It’s sure to become a favorite at family gatherings for its indulgent profile. Serving this pie might just become a new tradition for anyone looking to bring some Southern warmth to their table.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Pie

Chicken Roll-Ups

Imagine sitting down to a meal that feels like it’s straight from grandma’s kitchen; Chicken Roll-Ups might just take you there. These are a go-to for a wholesome weeknight dinner that wraps comfort in every bite. They’re a crowd-pleaser, ideal for when you want something hearty yet simple. Friends and family might just request this dish time and again, so be ready to pass along the tradition.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Roll-Ups

Mini Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread

For a twist on classic flavors that are both fun and familiar, Mini Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread is a standout choice. It’s great for sharing, making it a perfect pick for social gatherings or holiday parties. Every pull apart piece is a blend of creamy and tart, creating little moments of joy. This dish will likely have folks gathering around the table for just one more piece.
Get the Recipe: Mini Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread

Crockpot Slowcooker Rump Roast

When you’re in the mood for something that’ll make your whole house smell like home, Crockpot Slowcooker Rump Roast is the answer. It’s a meal that practically takes care of itself, leaving you free to relax or take care of other tasks. Once ready, it serves up tender, makes you want to take your time to enjoy every forkful. It’s not just dinner, it’s a way to wind down and indulge in a little self-care.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Slowcooker Rump Roast

Cheese Ball

When you bring out a Cheese Ball at your next event, it’s bound to become the centerpiece. It’s an appetizer that sparks conversation and compliments with its creamy goodness and variety of textures. Expect it to disappear quickly as guests come back for seconds. It’s a classic for a reason and appeals to almost everyone at the get-together.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Ball

Loaded Tater Tots

For those moments when only the ultimate comfort food will do, Loaded Tater Tots stand ready to save the day. They’re crunchy, they’re savory, and they’ve got all the toppings that make your heart sing. Perfect for game days, late nights, or whenever life calls for a little indulgence. Share them with friends, or keep them all to yourself – we’re not judging!
Get the Recipe: Loaded Tater Tots

FDL’S 75 Best Bites

Our cookbook with 75 tasty recipes will be your go-to kitchen companion for easy dinners with ad-free recipes right at your fingertips. Crafted by experienced chefs and recipe developers, this collection offers a treasure trove of tried-and-true dishes that make mealtime a breeze.
Get the Recipe: FDL’S 75 Best Bites

Southern Mash

Nothing screams comfort like a hearty scoop of Southern Mash on your plate. It’s the kind of side that turns any meal into a feast, with its homely and satisfying presence. You’ll find it pairs well with just about anything, making it a versatile addition to your cooking repertoire. It’s soulful food that reminds you of family dinners from years past.
Get the Recipe: Southern Mash

Southern Sausage Cheese Balls

Kick off your brunch with a batch of Southern Sausage Cheese Balls and watch everyone’s mood brighten. These little bites are packed with flavor and are great for feeding a crowd without a fuss. They’ll likely become a staple for morning gatherings and perhaps inspire some friendly recipe swapping. It’s a simple joy that brings together the best of Southern hospitality.
Get the Recipe: Southern Sausage Cheese Balls

Funeral Potatoes

Funeral Potatoes are a beloved dish understood by all who crave something soothing and familiar. They’re creamy, they’re hearty, and just what you need to feel a little better about the world. Often present at gatherings both somber and celebratory, they’re a testament to the power of comfort food. Y’all can count on this dish to be requested year-round, no matter the occasion.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes

Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy

You can’t beat the homestyle feel of Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy. It’s the sort of meal that makes a regular weekday feel special. Prepare to be enveloped by the aroma as it cooks, building anticipation for that first savory bite. It’s a hearty favorite that’s sure to secure its place at your dinner table often.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy

Blueberry Shortcake

Turn an ordinary day into a celebration with a slice of Blueberry Shortcake. Ideal for those who love their desserts bursting with fruit and soft cake. It’s sure to invoke memories of summer picnics and family outings. Cut yourself a piece, and it’s just like sharing joy on a plate.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Shortcake

Southern Ham Salad

Southern Ham Salad is not just a dish; it’s a versatile classic that goes beyond a simple sandwich filler. It’s a reminder of potlucks and picnics, where dishes like these are shared with smiles and laughter. Spread it on crackers or pile it high on bread; either way, it invokes a sense of nostalgia. This is a must-try for anyone looking to add a Southern twist to their lunchtime repertoire.
Get the Recipe: Southern Ham Salad

Pecan Pie Brownies

If you’re caught between craving a nutty pie and a chocolatey dessert, Pecan Pie Brownies offer you the best of both worlds. They bring the comfort of family traditions into a single, rich dessert bar. These are sure to disappear quickly from the dessert table, so you might want to snag a piece quickly. Enjoy the indulgence that combines Southern charm with classic sweetness.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Brownies

Creamy Mashed Cauliflower

Swap out your usual side dish for Creamy Mashed Cauliflower and discover a new kind of comfort. It provides that comforting creaminess you crave without weighing you down. Placing this dish on the table might just spark debates about ‘which is better’ compared to traditional mashes. Try it once, and it might just become part of your mealtime mainstays.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mashed Cauliflower

Pineapple Casserole

Add a bit of the unexpected to your menu with Pineapple Casserole. This dish blends sweet and savory in a way that’ll surprise and please the palate. Often a conversation starter, it’s a dish that stands out at potlucks and holiday dinners alike. People will be intrigued, so don’t be surprised if they come asking about it.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Casserole

Country Sausage Gravy

There’s little in life more comforting than a warm plate of biscuits and Country Sausage Gravy. This savory sauce is a staple in Southern cuisine and will likely become one in your home, too. It’s perfect for lazy weekend mornings or a diner-style dinner. Regardless, it’ll have you feeling like you’ve been transported to a cozy country kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Country Sausage Gravy

Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl

On chilly days, or when you need some cheering up, Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl is like a warm blanket for your soul. Each spoonful combines the freshness of broccoli with the richness of cheddar, hugged by a bowl you can eat. It’s a novel and comforting take on soup that brings additional joy with its edible container. This could easily become your go-to for something warm and filling.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Soup in a Sourdough Bowl