17 Southern Dishes That Bring Everyone to the Table

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There’s something magical about Southern cooking. It’s more than just food; it’s an experience steeped in tradition, flavor, and love. This collection of 17 soulful recipes captures the heart of Southern cuisine, from Smothered Pork Chops that melt in your mouth to Sweet Peach Iced Tea that refreshes like a summer breeze. Indulge in creamy Homemade Mac and Cheese or share crowd-pleasers like BBQ Baked Beans and buttery Key Lime Cupcakes. Whether you’re gathering the family around the table or hosting friends for a laid-back feast, these recipes promise a little taste of Southern hospitality in every bite. Dust off your apron and get ready to make something special!

Smothered Pork Chops

These smothered pork chops are tender, juicy, and coated in a rich onion and mushroom gravy. This recipe is a simple and comforting dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. Serve over mashed potatoes or rice for a complete meal the whole family will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Smothered Pork Chops

Homemade Creamy Mac and Cheese

This Homemade Creamy Mac and Cheese recipe is a one-pot wonder that’s ready in just 30 minutes! It’s the perfect comfort food that’s both quick and easy to make. With a blend of parmesan, cheddar, and gouda cheeses, this dish is sure to be a family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Creamy Mac and Cheese

Key Lime Cupcakes

Key lime cupcake with creamy frosting, topped with a lime slice and zest, in a white liner on a marble background. — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

Transport yourself to the tropics with these Key Lime Cupcakes! These delightful cupcakes are bursting with fresh key lime flavor and topped with a tangy lime cream cheese frosting. Perfect for parties, holidays, or any time you need a taste of sunshine.
Get the Recipe: Key Lime Cupcakes

Chocolate Pudding Pie

This Chocolate Pudding Pie is a simple, yet indulgent dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. You can use store-bought ingredients, homemade, or a combination of both to make this recipe. Top with whipped cream and chocolate curls for an extra touch.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Pudding Pie

Lemon Pound Cake

This Lemon Pound Cake recipe is foolproof and easy to make, resulting in a rich and buttery cake with a golden-brown crust. The addition of lemon juice and zest gives it a bright, citrusy flavor that makes it perfect for spring and summer gatherings. Slice and serve this bakery-worthy cake at your next party or potluck.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Pound Cake

Best Ever Mashed Potatoes

Mashed Potatoes in a bowl topped with butter — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

These mashed potatoes are guaranteed to be a hit at any meal! With a few simple ingredients, you’ll have fluffy, creamy potatoes ready in no time. Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or a comforting side dish.
Get the Recipe: Best Ever Mashed Potatoes

Best EVER Chicken Wings

Chicken wings on a wood block with dipping sauce in the background — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

Looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer? These chicken wings are the perfect choice! You can bake them in the oven, air fry them, or grill them for a delicious dish that everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Best EVER Chicken Wings

Homemade Potato Salad

A close up image of potato salad in a white bowl. — Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

Don’t stress about side dishes this summer! This recipe for homemade potato salad is here to save the day. With its combination of creamy potatoes, tangy pickles, and a flavorful dressing, it’s a simple yet satisfying choice for any barbecue or potluck.

Get The Recipe: Homemade Potato Salad

Coosaw Island Creamy Cold Crab Dip

A bowl of food on a plate, with Cream and Crab dip. — Photo credit: Not Entirely Average

This creamy cold crab dip will transport you to the Lowcountry of South Carolina. Made with cream cheese, sour cream, lemon juice, and lump crab meat, it’s the perfect appetizer for any occasion. Serve with crackers or veggies for a crowd-pleasing snack.
Get the Recipe: Coosaw Island Creamy Cold Crab Dip

Easy Peach Crescent Roll Dumpling Recipe

This Easy Peach Crescent Roll Dumpling Recipe combines the flakiness of crescent roll dough with juicy peaches for a dessert that’s both comforting and easy to make. A splash of spiced rum and a hint of cinnamon elevate the dish, making it a crowd-pleaser. Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.
Get the Recipe: Easy Peach Crescent Roll Dumpling Recipe

Robust Summer Squash Antipasto

a white platter, with Keto Squash Recipes and yellow squash and zucchini with salami — Photo credit: Not Entirely Average

This vibrant Summer Squash Antipasto is a must-try for keto enthusiasts! It’s packed with fresh zucchini, yellow squash, salami, and a medley of cheeses, all tossed in a tangy white wine vinaigrette. Serve this as a refreshing side dish or a light meal.
Get the Recipe: Robust Summer Squash Antipasto

Chicken and Waffle Sliders

These Chicken and Waffle Sliders are a fun twist on a classic brunch dish! Featuring Tabasco chipotle marinated, golden fried chicken nestled between fluffy cornmeal waffles and drizzled with maple-spiced butter, these sliders are a delightful combination of sweet, savory, and spicy. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a unique appetizer!
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Waffle Sliders

Sweet Peach Iced Tea

Infused with the flavor of fresh peaches, this iced tea is a sweet and refreshing beverage that’s ideal for cooling down on a sunny day.

Get The Recipe: Sweet Peach Iced Tea

Hummingbird Bread

If you love hummingbird cake but want something easier, this hummingbird bread is the perfect solution! It has all the classic flavors of banana, pineapple, and pecans in a delicious quick bread form. Perfect for a sweet treat or brunch!
Get the Recipe: Hummingbird Bread

Turkey Chops

These smothered turkey chops are coated in a rich gravy with a kick of Southern flavor! Seasoned with creole seasoning and pan fried to perfection, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Serve over rice for a comforting and delicious meal.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Chops

1-Pot BBQ Baked Beans

Pot of our gluten-free vegan BBQ Baked Beans recipe — Photo credit: Minimalist Baker

These vegan 1-Pot BBQ Baked Beans are the perfect side dish for any BBQ! They’re savory, smoky, and slightly sweet, with a hint of spice. Best of all, they’re gluten-free, oil-free, and made in one pot for easy cleanup.
Get the Recipe: 1-Pot BBQ Baked Beans

Whiskey BBQ Ketchup

This Whiskey BBQ Ketchup recipe is a savory, Southern-inspired sauce that’s quick and easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, including whiskey and apple cider vinegar, you can whip up this vegan and gluten-free condiment in under 30 minutes!
Get the Recipe: Whiskey BBQ Ketchup