21 timeless Southern dishes you’ll love forever and ever

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Some meals just don’t argue with time, and that’s exactly what these 21 Southern classics have going for them. They’ve been passed around potlucks, scribbled on old index cards, and defended at family reunions like someone’s honor was on the line. When a dish survives decades of side-eyes and second helpings, you know it’s worth keeping around. These recipes aren’t just good—they’re practically family at this point.

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

Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese

Golden-brown pulled pork grilled cheese on a plate.
Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

If you’re looking for comfort food that hits all the right notes, look no further. Imagine biting into a crispy, golden crust filled with tender pulled pork that’s been slow-cooked to perfection, mingling flavors with melted cheese. Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese marries the classic grilled cheese experience with a hearty twist. It’s a true feast for anyone craving something filling and utterly fulfilling without any complexity.
Get the Recipe: Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese

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.

When it comes to treats that remind you of your childhood, not many can hold a candle to this. Easy to love and incredibly smooth, Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge carries with it the simplicity of the old south with a sweet, creamy texture. It doesn’t need any bells and whistles to stand out, its rich peanut butter flavor is enough. This fudge is perfect for gatherings or a quiet night in, promising a sweet end to any day.
Get the Recipe: Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Fudge

Sweet Potato Pie

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

A classic dish that brings warmth and joy to any table, especially during gatherings. This isn’t just any dessert; it’s a slice of comfort, rich with flavors that are deep and fulfilling. Sweet Potato Pie stands out for its creamy filling and flaky crust, offering a sweet treat that’s hard to pass up. It embodies the essence of southern cooking, bringing tradition and a little bit of love to every bite.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Pie

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.

Nothing says Southern comfort better than a plate of this golden, crispy treat. Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual get-together, Buttermilk Fried Chicken has a way of bringing people together. Its juicy interior and perfectly seasoned crust create an irresistible combination. It’s a testament to simple cooking done right, promising flavor in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Fluffy Sour Cream Biscuits

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

Imagine waking up to the smell of freshly baked biscuits, with a texture so light and fluffy, they practically melt in your mouth. That’s what you get with Fluffy Sour Cream Biscuits, a heavenly addition to any meal, be it breakfast or dinner. They pair well with just about anything, from gravy to jam, making them a versatile choice. These biscuits prove that sometimes, the simplest recipes are the ones that stand the test of time.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Sour Cream Biscuits

FDL’S 75 Best Bites

FDL's best bites tasty recipes.
FDL’S 75 Best Bites. Photo credit: Food Drink Life.

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

Oven Baked Ribs

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

There’s something incredibly comforting about ribs cooked to tender perfection in the oven. Oven Baked Ribs come with a promise of meat that falls off the bone, coated in a rich, flavorful sauce. They are a staple for anyone who loves to indulge in deep, savory flavors without fuss. This dish brings the taste of Southern BBQ to your table any day of the year.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ribs

Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Slow Cooker Southern green beans in a white bowl with floral napkin.
Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

For a side that compliments any main dish with a touch of Southern charm, these green beans are a go-to. Cooked slowly to absorb all the flavors of the broth and spices, Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans are tender and full of taste. They make a seemingly simple vegetable into something special. It’s an easy way to add a nutritious and delicious element to your dining experience.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Tuna Noodle Casserole

A baking dish of tuna noodle casserole topped with golden breadcrumbs, featuring creamy noodles, green peas, and a serving spoon on the side.
Tuna Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

Bringing a bit of comfort to the dinner table has never been easier with this hearty dish. Tuna Noodle Casserole combines creamy sauce, tender noodles, and flavorful tuna in a way that feels both familiar and fulfilling. It’s a casserole that fits perfectly into family dinners, offering a filling meal that everyone can enjoy. This dish proves that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated to be loved.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Noodle Casserole

Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

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

If you’re all about set-it-and-forget-it cooking, this dish is a dream come true. Packed with flavors that meld together over slow cooking, Slow Cooker Pulled Pork is both incredibly easy and delicious. Ideal for sandwiches or as a standalone main, it showcases the versatility and depth of Southern cooking. This pulled pork is a reminder of how simple ingredients can create the most memorable meals.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pulled Pork

Sloppy Joe Casserole

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

Taking a childhood favorite and turning it into a casserole? Pure genius. Sloppy Joe Casserole is a playful, hearty dish that combines the familiar savory-sweet taste of sloppy joes with the comforting feel of a baked casserole. It’s a hit with kids and adults alike, making it a perfect choice for family meals. This dish is an ode to simplicity and flavor, wrapped up in a cheesy, bubbly package.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole

Macaroni Salad

Macaroni salad garnished with parsley in a white serving dish.
Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

No potluck or picnic is complete without a bowl of this classic side dish. Macaroni Salad is creamy, refreshing, and packed with little bites of flavor that make it incredibly moreish. It balances out heavier main courses with its light, tangy taste. Whether it’s a hot day or a cool evening, this salad serves as a wonderful companion to any Southern meal.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad

Mississippi Mud Pie

Delicious Mississippi Mud Pie served with a dollop of whipped cream.
Mississippi Mud Pie. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

Dig into layers of chocolatey goodness with a dessert that’s rich, decadent, and utterly irresistible. Mississippi Mud Pie is a celebration of chocolate in all its forms, from the crumbly crust to the luscious filling. It’s a dessert that demands attention and savors every bite. Perfect for any chocolate lover, it brings a little bit of Southern indulgence to your dessert time.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Pie

Southern Sausage Cheese Balls

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

Perfect for parties or as a snappy snack, these little bites pack a punch of flavor. Southern Sausage Cheese Balls blend spicy sausage with melting cheese, creating a combination that’s hard to resist. They’re a testament to the joy of simple, hearty appetizers that get everyone talking. Plus, their bite-size nature makes them an easy favorite at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Southern Sausage Cheese Balls

Sweet Potato Casserole

Warm and comforting sweet potato casserole served in a dish.
Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

When it comes to holiday feasts or special occasions, this dish is often the star. With its creamy interior topped with a crunchy, sweet crust, Sweet Potato Casserole is a wonderful contrast of textures and tastes. It brings sweetness and warmth to the table, embodying the spirit of Southern hospitality. This casserole isn’t just food; it’s a piece of home.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole

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.

Start your New Year with a dish that’s not only flavorful but also steeped in tradition. Hoppin John is a savory blend of beans and rice, often cooked with a bit of smoked pork for added depth. It’s said to bring good luck, but beyond superstitions, it’s a genuinely delicious way to enjoy simple ingredients. This dish is a reminder of the South’s rich culinary heritage, offering good food and good fortune in every spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Hoppin John

Pecan Bacon Cheeseball

A pecan bacon cheeseball sits on a white plate surrounded by round crackers.
Pecan Bacon Cheeseball. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

Imagine the perfect blend of flavors and textures in one appetizing package. Pecan Bacon Cheeseball combines the crunchiness of pecans, the savoriness of bacon, and the creaminess of cheese into one irresistible appetizer. It’s the sort of dish that makes you look forward to social gatherings, promising a delicious start to any event. This cheeseball is a crowd-pleaser, ensuring there’s a little something for everyone.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Bacon Cheeseball

Blueberry Shortcake

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

For those who love their desserts with a touch of fruit, this dish is a dream. Blueberry Shortcake is sweet, light, and bursting with the fresh taste of blueberries, layered between soft, fluffy shortcakes. It’s a refreshing end to any meal, offering a balance of sweetness that’s just right. This dessert captures the essence of Southern summers without being overly heavy or sweet.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Shortcake

Loaded Tater Tots

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

Who can resist the allure of crispy tater tots topped with all the best fixings? Loaded Tater Tots are a fun, customizable dish that turns a simple snack into a mouthwatering treat. Whether topped with cheese, bacon, sour cream, or all of the above, they’re a hit at casual dinners or gatherings. It’s comfort food that encourages you to play with your food, in the best way possible.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Tater Tots

Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham

A ham covered in a shiny brown sugar glaze surrounded by pineapple slices.
Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham. Photo credit: Southern Supper Club.

A centerpiece at many holiday meals, this dish offers a sweet and savory flavor that’s hard to forget. Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham is a glorious combination of juicy ham with a sticky, sweet glaze that creates a perfect balance of flavors. It’s a showstopper that brings warmth and joy to any table it graces. This ham is a testament to the magic that happens when you mix simple ingredients with a little love.
Get the Recipe: Brown Sugar Pineapple Ham

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.

For anyone who’s ever wished they could have dessert for breakfast, this pie is your answer. Cracker Barrel Cinnamon Roll Pie combines the gooey, sweet essence of cinnamon rolls with the hearty, fulfilling structure of a pie. It’s a unique treat that bridges the gap between breakfast and dessert, making it perfect for any time of day. This pie is for those who love a little sweetness in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Cinnamon Roll Pie

Southern Crack Chicken Casserole

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

Sometimes, all you need is a hearty, comforting casserole to make everything feel right in the world. Southern Crack Chicken Casserole is packed with flavors that meld together in the oven, creating a dish that’s both rich and comforting. It’s a versatile dish that can serve as the highlight of a family dinner or a hearty side at a potluck.
Get the Recipe: Southern Crack Chicken Casserole

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