19 Southern Inspired Recipes That Taste Like Comfort

This site runs ads and generates income from affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy.

Southern cooking is all about comfort, flavor, and tradition — the kind of meals that bring people together around the table. This roundup of 19 southern inspired recipes covers the full spectrum, from crispy fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and smothered pork chops to classic biscuits with sausage gravy and one pot sausage and rice. On the sweeter side, you’ll find banana cream pie, pralines, strawberry shortcake bundt cake, and even cherries jubilee. Whether you’re after a hearty skillet meal, a cozy casserole, or a timeless dessert, these recipes channel southern charm in every bite.

Smothered Pork Chops

A plate with a pork chop crowned with sliced mushrooms and gravy, garnished with herbs. Served alongside creamy mashed potatoes and broccoli, this family favorite is sure to be one of those incredible recipes you'll want to make again. A fork and knife are placed beside the steak. — Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

These pork chops, topped with cheese and cooked in a rich onion and mushroom gravy, make for an easy and comforting weeknight dinner.

Get The Recipe: Smothered Pork Chops

Flaming Cherries Jubilee

A close-up of cherries simmering in a sauce with visible orange flames, this vibrant scene captures a festive flambé—perfect for adding flair to your Memorial Day Recipes. — Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

Cherries Jubilee is the ultimate dessert showstopper—a warm, syrupy mix of boozy cherries bursting with deep, fruity flavor and rich caramel sweetness. Flamed to perfection for a touch of drama and served over creamy vanilla ice cream, it’s a bold, unforgettable treat that’s as exciting as it is delicious!

Get The Recipe: Flaming Cherries Jubilee

Southern Pralines Candy

Seven pecan pralines with a creamy, caramel-colored coating are grouped together on a white surface. These classic 1980s desserts have a rough, chunky texture with visible pecan pieces throughout. — Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

Indulge in these irresistible pralines, a symphony of sweet, buttery perfection. Each bite delivers a melt-in-your-mouth experience, where luxurious caramel swirls around crunchy pecans, creating an unforgettable treat.

Get The Recipe: Southern Pralines Candy

One Pot Sausage and Rice

A vibrant one pot recipe, this sausage and rice is a feast for the senses, boasting sliced sausage, rice, diced tomatoes, bell peppers, and chopped green onions. The dish is presented in a white pot with a ladle ready to serve up deliciousness. — Image Credit: Erren’s Kitchen

This one-pot Sausage and Rice is a delicious symphony of flavors! Smoky, savory sausage pairs perfectly with sweet, vibrant bell peppers and tender, fluffy rice, all brought to life with a bold blend of spices that pack just the right kick of heat.

Get The Recipe: One Pot Sausage and Rice

Johnny Cakes {Cornbread Pancakes}

A pile of johnny cakes with butter and syrup. — Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

Skip the box mix! These Johnny Cakes are homemade cornbread pancakes that are easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. Enjoy a delightful combination of crisp edges and a fluffy, cornbread-like center – perfect for a delicious and satisfying breakfast.

Get The Recipe: Johnny Cakes {Cornbread Pancakes}

Smothered Chicken

This smothered chicken recipe is super easy to make, whether you use the stove or a slow cooker. It’s all about those tender chicken thighs swimming in a tasty gravy that’s just right for comfort food lovers!

Get The Recipe: Smothered Chicken

Panko Breaded Pork Chops

Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

This recipe takes your weeknight dinners to the next level with amazingly crispy panko-breaded pork chops. Packed with flavor and ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the perfect way to satisfy the whole family without the fuss.

Get The Recipe: Panko Breaded Pork Chops

Banana Cream Pie

This Banana Cream Pie is dessert heaven! Think layers of sweet bananas, creamy pastry filling, and fluffy whipped topping, all on a buttery homemade crust. It’s the perfect cool, creamy treat that’s equal parts nostalgic and delicious.

Get The Recipe: Banana Cream Pie

Super Crispy Pan Fried Fish

Golden-brown pan fried fish fillets are neatly arranged on a white plate, showcasing their crispy texture. A wedge of lemon is placed beside them, adding a splash of color to the dish. — Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

Indulge in the ease of whipping up this incredible weeknight dinner featuring incredibly crispy pan-fried fish, all ready in just 20 minutes!

Get The Recipe: Super Crispy Pan Fried Fish

Strawberry Shortcake Filled Bundt Cake

A bundt cake with a creamy filling and fresh strawberries inside, topped with whipped cream, sliced strawberries, and mint leaves. This stunning treat is a must-try for anyone who loves creative cake recipes. A large slice reveals the luscious interior filling. — Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

A deliciously unexpected twist on the classic Strawberry Shortcake! This bundt cake isn’t just a dessert—it’s a showstopper, hiding a delightful surprise inside that’s sure to wow your guests and steal the spotlight at any celebration.

Get The Recipe: Strawberry Shortcake Filled Bundt Cake

Shrimp And Grits Recipe

This dish isn’t just a meal, it’s a celebration! Experience a symphony of flavors that’s not only spectacular to taste, but also faithful to the rich culinary history of Charleston.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp And Grits Recipe

Crispy Chicken With Rice & Scratch Pan Gravy

Sometimes comfort food reigns supreme, and this Crispy Chicken with Herbed Carolina Gold Rice & Scratch Pan Gravy is pure magic. Forget elaborate presentations; every bite bursts with Southern soul. Golden-brown, crispy chicken pairs perfectly with fluffy Carolina Gold rice tossed in fresh herbs, all tied together with rich pan gravy. It’s a classic that never goes out of style.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Chicken With Herbed Carolina Gold Rice Scratch Pan Gravy

Homemade Sausage Gravy Recipe for Biscuits and Sausage Gravy

A flaky biscuit sits on a plate covered in creamy sausage gravy, garnished with chopped parsley—a classic from Southern recipes. A fork rests on the plate, breaking open the biscuit, with a striped cloth napkin beside it. — Photo credit: The Cookie Rookie

Homemade Sausage Gravy is a creamy, savory delight. This sausage gravy recipe is perfect for a classic biscuits and sausage gravy breakfast!
Get the Recipe: Homemade Sausage Gravy Recipe for Biscuits and Sausage Gravy

KFC Fried Chicken Recipe

Close-up of crispy fried chicken drumsticks with a side of creamy mashed potatoes sprinkled with herbs. A small bowl of brown gravy is in the background on a white plate. — Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

Craving that legendary KFC crunch without leaving home? Get ready to recreate the magic with this homemade Kentucky-style fried chicken, featuring the Colonel’s secret blend of 11 herbs and spices!

Get The Recipe: KFC Fried Chicken Recipe (the leaked recipe)

Turkey & Ham Pot Pie

A serving spoon over the turkey and Ham pie with a scoop of the pie in the spoon — Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

This Turkey and Ham Pie combines tender turkey, savory ham, sweet leeks, and fresh herbs encased in a flaky puff pastry. Perfect for transforming leftovers into a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish.

Get The Recipe: Turkey and Ham Pie

Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

This delectable Crockpot Chicken and Gravy easily turns plain chicken into the most wonderful slow cooker meal!
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Chicken and Gravy

One Pan Sausage Biscuit Gravy Cobbler

A red skillet filled with creamy sausage gravy topped with golden biscuits, a classic from Southern Recipes, with a portion served in a gray bowl. A striped cloth and silver spoon are nearby on a rustic wooden table. — Photo credit: The Cookie Rookie

SAUSAGE BISCUIT GRAVY COBBLER is a tasty and super easy one-pan meal. This skillet breakfast recipe takes the classic biscuits and gravy and makes it even better.
Get the Recipe: One Pan Sausage Biscuit Gravy Cobbler

Pan Seared Brined Pork Chops

A close-up view of a skillet containing juicy, seared pork chops—a classic Southern comfort food. Each chop is garnished with a sprig of fresh thyme, and the center chop has a melting pat of butter on top. The edges are browned, and whole garlic cloves are scattered around. — Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

Savor the delightful crunch of these juicy Pan Seared Pork Chops! Crispy on the outside and bursting with flavor, they’re incredibly easy to whip up and guaranteed to impress every time.

Get The Recipe: Pan Seared Brined Pork Chops