19 Southern dishes guaranteed to make your kitchen smell like pure happiness

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Southern meals have a way of creating an experience beyond just eating, starting with the wonderful smells from the kitchen. These recipes are a testament to the care and tradition that go into making something truly satisfying. Whether for a quiet night or a full house, they bring warmth and happiness to the heart of the home.

A bowl of Hoppin' John, featuring black-eyed peas, rice, and diced ham, garnished with chopped green onions.
Hoppin John. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

Sloppy Joe Casserole

Baked sloppy joe casserole topped with melted cheese.
Sloppy Joe Casserole. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

Imagine your kitchen filled with the comforting aroma of baked Sloppy Joe Casserole. This hearty dish combines the classic flavors of a familiar favorite in a new, easy-to-serve way. Every bite brings a sense of warmth, perfect for chilly evenings when comfort food is the order of the day. Gather the family around for a serving of homestyle goodness that’s as filling as it is heartwarming.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole

Chicken Roll-Ups

Chicken roll-ups with greens and cheese, served on a white dish.
Chicken Roll-Ups. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

With Chicken Roll-Ups, a cozy and inviting scent wafts through the home, signaling a meal that’s both homey and elegant. These roll-ups are simple to prepare and bring a touch of Southern charm to any dinner table. As you slice into the tender rolls, the steam and aroma promise a meal that’s as nurturing as it is delicious. It’s the perfect entree for a night in when you’re looking for something to warm you up from the inside out.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Roll-Ups

Hoppin John

A bowl of Hoppin' John, featuring black-eyed peas, rice, and diced ham, garnished with chopped green onions.
Hoppin John. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

On a brisk day, a pot of Hoppin John simmering on the stove guarantees a welcoming and joyful atmosphere in your kitchen. This time-honored dish is a staple in southern cuisine, known for its simple yet rich flavors. Serve up this warming meal for a comforting and fulfilling dinner that brings family and friends together. It’s a festive dish that’s sure to become a cherished part of your winter meal rotation.
Get the Recipe: Hoppin John

Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge

A stack of creamy old-fashioned peanut butter fudge cut into small squares, placed on parchment paper, with one piece partially bitten and an unwrapped piece in the foreground.
Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

As you stir a batch of Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge, the kitchen becomes a sweet haven of aromatic bliss. This classic confection is not only a nod to nostalgia but also a tribute to simpler times. Share squares of this fudge with loved ones as a sweet finale to any meal, or wrap it up for a heartwarming gift. It’s a simple pleasure that’s as much a joy to make as it is to eat.
Get the Recipe: Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge

Buttermilk Fried Chicken

A close-up of crispy buttermilk fried chicken being held in hand, with a small bowl of dipping sauce and garnished parsley in the background.
Buttermilk Fried Chicken. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

The unmistakable smell of Buttermilk Fried Chicken tells you there’s something special cooking. Its golden crust and juicy interior make it an irresistible centerpiece for any southern feast. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a more festive gathering, this dish brings a sense of occasion. End your day with the comfort of this classic, certain to warm bodies and spirits alike.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Sweet Potato Pie

Freshly baked sweet potato pie ready to serve.
Sweet Potato Pie. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

A slice of Sweet Potato Pie is like a slice of Southern hospitality itself. This dessert fills your home with a scent that beckons everyone to the kitchen in anticipation. Enjoy the rich, smooth texture of this pie as a delicious ending to any meal. It’s a tradition that invites you to slow down, enjoy the moment, and enjoy the company of loved ones.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Pie

Fluffy Sour Cream Biscuits

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

Baking a batch of Fluffy Sour Cream Biscuits is like sending out an invitation for everyone to gather in the kitchen. Their tender, flaky layers are impossible to resist, especially when they’re fresh from the oven. Perfect for sopping up gravies and stews, they’re an essential side that no Southern table should be without. Share these biscuits and enjoy the warmth they bring to your meal and your home.
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.

The inviting aroma of a bubbling Southern Crack Chicken Casserole is the heart of a cozy winter meal. This comforting classic is a crowd-pleaser that’s bound to become a household favorite. Its hearty nature offers a satisfying meal that’s ideal for sharing with loved ones on a cold evening. Enjoy the simple pleasure of good food and good company with this beloved casserole.
Get the Recipe: Southern Crack Chicken Casserole

Lemon Loaf Cake

A freshly baked lemon loaf cake, served on a plate and topped with lemon slices.
Lemon Loaf Cake. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

A freshly baked Lemon Loaf Cake provides a burst of brightness on a dreary winter’s day. Its inviting aroma is matched only by the cheery yellow hue, suggesting a bit of sunshine on your plate. Enjoy a slice as an afternoon treat or a sweet end to your evening—one bite and you’re sure to feel a little lighter. This cake is a testament to the simple joys that can be found in the kitchen and beyond.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Loaf Cake

Southern-Style Broccoli Salad

A healthy Southern-style broccoli salad with a mix of broccoli, cheese, bacon, and blueberries.
Southern-Style Broccoli Salad. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

A crisp, fresh Southern-Style Broccoli Salad brings a vibrant touch to the heavier winter fare. It’s a dish that offers a delicious crunch and a refreshing break from the usual comfort foods. Serve it alongside your main dishes to add balance to your meal and a bit of nutritional bounty. Its wholesome taste and feel-good factor are an invitation to enjoy the lighter side of winter eating.
Get the Recipe: Southern-Style Broccoli Salad

Shrimp and Grits Casserole

Close-up of shrimp and grits casserole with colorful veggies and spices.
Shrimp and Grits Casserole. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

Bringing together two southern staples, Shrimp and Grits Casserole, is like a warm culinary hug on a cold evening. This dish is perfect for when you need something comforting yet undeniably festive. It’s a one-dish wonder that’s easy to make and sure to please any hungry crowd. Let the good times roll with each spoonful of this sumptuous casserole, a true representation of Southern hospitality.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits Casserole

Creamy Mashed Cauliflower

A bowl filled with creamy mashed cauliflower.
Creamy Mashed Cauliflower. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

Creamy Mashed Cauliflower offers all the comforts of mashed potatoes but with a heartwarming twist. This dish is a testament to the creativity and versatility of southern cooking. It’s a perfect side for those who want to enjoy the richness of a classic side dish but with a fresh perspective. Cozy up to a bowl of this smooth, velvety cauliflower mash that will complement any winter meal beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mashed Cauliflower

Crockpot Slow Cooker Rump Roast

A Crockpot full of savory rump roast with vegetables, ready to be served for dinner.
Crockpot Slow Cooker Rump Roast. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

There’s nothing quite like coming home to the savory aroma of a Crockpot Slow Cooker Rump Roast. This dish transforms an ordinary day into an occasion, with its promise of a succulent and flavorful meal waiting for you. It’s the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it dish that makes dinnertime seamless and incredibly rewarding. Share this roast with your nearest and dearest for a memorable meal that’s both effortless and extraordinary.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Slow Cooker Rump Roast

Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars

A festive display of peppermint sugar cookie bars surrounded by Christmas decorations.
Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

When you take out a tray of Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars from the oven, you don’t just bake a dessert; you create a festive atmosphere. Each bite offers a crisp, sweet treat with just a hint of peppermint to remind you of the season’s joys. These bars are the perfect conclusion to your gathering or a sweet pick-me-up during a busy winter’s day. They capture the essence of holiday cheer in every delectable square.
Get the Recipe: Peppermint Sugar Cookie Bars

Creamed Corn

A close-up of smooth creamed corn with a creamy texture.
Creamed Corn. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

Stirring a pot of Creamed Corn fills your home with an aroma that’s as comforting as the dish itself. This side is a testament to the power of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. It’s the perfect companion to fried chicken or ribs, rounding out your meal with its creamy goodness. Relish the warmth it adds to your table and the rich, velvety texture in every spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Corn

Peppermint Fluff

Bowl of peppermint fluff topped with red sprinkles and wafer cookies.
Peppermint Fluff. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

With a bowl of Peppermint Fluff ready to serve, you infuse a playful spirit into your winter dessert spread. This whimsical treat is light as air and offers a refreshing peppermint taste that contrasts beautifully with the season’s typically rich desserts. It’s a joyous addition to any meal or a fun, casual sweet treat to enjoy anytime. Let its lighthearted nature bring a smile to your face and warmth to your gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Peppermint Fluff

Southern Spiced Brownies

Southern Spiced Brownies in a plate.
Southern Spiced Brownies. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

A tray of Southern Spiced Brownies coming out of the oven is sure to draw everyone to the kitchen with its irresistible scent. These brownies bring a unique twist to a classic favorite, with a hint of spice that complements the rich chocolate. Cut them into squares for an easy-to-serve dessert that provides a cozy end to any meal. These brownies are not just a treat but a celebration of the warmth and spice of life.
Get the Recipe: Southern Spiced Brownies

Oven Baked Ribs

A stack of oven-baked ribs, garnished with fresh herbs.
Oven Baked Ribs. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

As Oven Baked Ribs slowly cook, the anticipation builds for a meal that’s sure to be a highlight of your day. The low and slow baking process ensures that each rib is cooked to tender perfection. Ideal for when you have more time to let the oven do the work, this dish promises a rewarding, hearty experience. Serve up these ribs and watch as they become the star of your winter feast.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ribs

Southern Sausage Cheese Balls

Southern sausage cheese balls in a plate.
Southern Sausage Cheese Balls. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

Provide a delicious start to any meal, with an aroma that beckons you to the table with Southern Sausage Cheese Balls. These bite-sized morsels are a perfect appetizer or snack, packing a savory punch that’s incredibly moreish. They’re the ideal accompaniment to a relaxed evening at home or a casual get-together with friends. Warm and inviting, they’re the quintessential treat for enjoying the simple pleasures of home-cooked food.
Get the Recipe: Southern Sausage Cheese Balls

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