47 Soulful Southern Recipes to Satisfy Your Comfort Food Cravings

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If you’re craving a taste of the South, look no further! From crispy fried chicken to creamy baked mac and cheese, Southern comfort food is known for its rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and a touch of soul. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory like Mississippi Pot Roast or sweet like Lemon Pound Cake, this collection of 47 classic Southern recipes will transport you straight to the heart of home-cooked goodness. These dishes are perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you need a little extra comfort on your plate. Let’s dig in!

Red Rice

A close-up of a delicious shrimp jambalaya dish featuring plump shrimp, sausage slices, rice, diced tomatoes, and green peppers. Garnished with fresh parsley, this vibrant and colorful Southern recipe sits in a white dish next to a striped towel. — Image Credit: Grandbaby Cakes

Dive into the deliciousness of this Savannah Red Rice recipe, a true Southern low country gem! Imagine white rice soaked in tangy tomatoes, infused with fragrant and spicy seasonings, and aromatic garlic and onions. To top it all off, tender shrimp and crispy bacon add the perfect finishing touch! This dish is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more!

Get The Recipe: Red Rice

Chicken Bog

A bowl of chicken and sausage jambalaya, filled with rice, sliced sausages, chunks of chicken, chopped carrots, celery, and a lemon wedge garnish. The ingredients are mixed and cooked together, showcasing a hearty and colorful Southern recipe. — Image Credit: Grandbaby Cakes

Get ready to indulge in this delicious Southern chicken bog recipe—a comforting hug in a bowl! Imagine tender chicken, aromatic veggies, fragrant herbs, smoky sausage, and fluffy rice all simmered together in a perfectly seasoned savory broth. This dish is the ultimate soul warmer, guaranteed to satisfy your appetite and keep you cozy when you need a meal that truly sticks to your bones!

Get The Recipe: Chicken Bog

Copycat Cracker Barrel Country Fried Steak

Country Fried Steak topped with creamy gravy. — Image Credit: Jennifer Deremer/Not Entirely Average

Craving a taste of the South? Skip the drive-thru and whip up this Country Fried Steak with creamy sawmill gravy – all in your own kitchen in just 45 minutes! Tender, seasoned cube steak gets a golden-fried makeover, then smothered in a rich and comforting white gravy you won’t be able to resist. It’s the perfect weeknight meal that delivers big on flavor and Southern charm.

Get The Recipe: Chicken Fried Steak

Easy Homemade Cornbread

A piece of Cornbread on a plate topped with butter and drizzled with honey — Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

Ditch the extra step! This recipe uses fine cornmeal, eliminating the need to soak and resulting in a light, moist, and delicious homemade cornbread that’s ready in no time.

Get The Recipe: Easy Homemade Cornbread

Rib Tips

Try Memphis barbecue with our juicy, tender smoked rib tips! Served with white bread and pickles, it’s a simple but super tasty combo that brings out this Southern classic’s authentic flavors.

Get The Recipe: Rib Tips

Green Bean Casserole with Bacon

This tasty Green Bean Casserole with Bacon recipe is the ultimate side dish, featuring a creamy sauce and a crunchy topping.

Get The Recipe: Green Bean Casserole with Bacon

Mississippi Pot Roast

A close-up of a savory dish featuring tender, slow-cooked beef served over creamy mashed potatoes. The beef is garnished with fresh parsley and is accompanied by a rich, flavorful gravy that seeps into the mashed potatoes - perfect for those who love slow cooker recipes. — Image Credit: Grandbaby Cakes

Get a taste of the real deal Mississippi Pot Roast, straight from a Mississippi native! With just 6 ingredients, this dish is bursting with flavor – a must-try!

Get The Recipe: Mississippi Pot Roast

Lemon Pound Cake

Lemon perfection made easy! This buttery pound cake gets a vibrant citrus twist with the addition of lemon juice and zest. Topped with a simple lemon glaze, it’s a foolproof recipe packed with flavor.

Get The Recipe: Lemon Pound Cake

Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe

This classic Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe involves tomato slices soaked in buttermilk and fried in cornmeal, resulting in a truly delicious dish. Pair it with a side of homemade remoulade sauce and discover your next go-to recipe!

Get The Recipe: Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe

Salisbury Steak

Whether you’re following a Keto Diet or simply reducing carbs, this recipe for Low Carb Italian Meatballs offers a delicious gluten-free option.

Get The Recipe: Salisbury Steak

Fried Okra

Try this southern comfort recipe when you’re craving the ultimate crispy side dish. This Fried Okra is super easy to whip up and gives you that crunchy bite you’ll love, especially with some tasty dipping sauces on the side!
Get the Recipe: Fried Okra

Cream Cheese Corn

Craving a familiar favorite with a delightful upgrade? Look no further than this Stovetop Cream Cheese Corn! This recipe transforms classic creamed corn into a luxuriously creamy side dish with a touch of cheesy goodness. It comes together in just 20 minutes, making it the perfect quick and easy addition to any meal, especially holiday gatherings where everyone will be begging for seconds.

Get The Recipe: Cream Cheese Corn

Fried Chicken

Recreating KFC’s signature fried chicken at home is easy with this straightforward copycat recipe. Uncover the secret seasoning blend that replicates the flavor of KFC’s 11 herbs and spices.

Get the Recipe: KFC Fried Chicken

Pork Burgers

a pork burger topped with Caramelized Onions — Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

Want a burger that’s bursting with flavor? Try these amazing Pork Burgers! Grill ’em up for a smoky twist, sear them on the stove for a quick fix, or toss them in your favorite appliance—these versatile patties are down for whatever your hunger throws their way.

Get The Recipe: Pork Burgers

Mint Julep Cocktail

This Mint Julep Cocktail is ideal for any event, whether it is a casual summer barbecue or an elegant gathering. It’s guaranteed to dazzle your guests!

Get The Recipe: Mint Julep Cocktail

Hummingbird Bundt Cake

If you’re a fan of the delightful flavors found in classic southern cake, get ready to fall in love with this Hummingbird Bundt Cake! Bursting with juicy pineapple and crowned with luscious cream cheese frosting, this show-stopping dessert is sure to wow your dinner guests and leave them craving more!
Get the Recipe: Hummingbird Bundt Cake

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

Muscadine Cocktail Meatballs

Dive into the Southern classic of Muscadine Cocktail Meatballs! Whether you whip them up from scratch or grab them from the freezer, these delicious meatballs, paired with sweet Muscadine or Scuppernong grape jelly, are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering!
Get the Recipe: Muscadine Cocktail Meatballs

Blueberry Cornbread Muffins

a blueberry muffin topped with a fresh blueberry with more muffins in the background — Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

Cornbread gets a delicious upgrade with blueberries! These muffins are light and fluffy, packed with juicy blueberries, and have a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the cornbread flavor. Enjoy them warm for an unforgettable breakfast experience.

Get The Recipe: Blueberry Cornbread Muffins

Pimento Cheese Grits

You won’t find a more authentic southern dish than grits, and this pimento cheese grits recipe brings all the goodness of the classic with a twist. Dive into every cheese-infused bite!
Get the Recipe: Pimento Cheese Grits

Oatmeal Apple Crisp

Close-up of a serving of apple crisp, featuring baked apple slices topped with a golden, crispy oat and sugar mixture. The dessert is swimming in a caramel-like sauce, delivering those delicious fall flavors. A fork is placed to the right, partially visible on a white plate—a must-try for apple recipes lovers. — Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

This Oatmeal Apple Crisp is just the perfect autumn treat! Picture this: a classic apple filling topped with a crispy, buttery oatmeal layer that takes you right back to your childhood.

Get The Recipe: Oatmeal Apple Crisp

Deviled Ham

A bowl of chicken salad mixed with chopped celery and herbs, inspired by Southern recipes, is placed on a white surface. A serving spoon rests in the bowl, while two round crackers are partially visible in the upper right corner. A striped cloth can be seen in the top left. — Image Credit: Grandbaby Cakes

Whip up this Deviled Ham in under 10 minutes and impress your taste buds! With a delightful blend of creamy mayo, zesty spices, savory cooked ham, a splash of sauces, and the perfect crunch of scallions and onions, this spread is a must-have in your cooking arsenal. Get ready for a flavor explosion, y’all!

Get The Recipe: Deviled Ham

Strawberry Shortcake Biscuits

A strawberry shortcake. — Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

This easy recipe for Strawberry Shortcake Biscuits is made completely from scratch. Once you try it, you’ll never have store-bought again!

Get The Recipe: Strawberry Shortcake Biscuits

Red Beans and Rice

Delicious Louisiana-style comfort food at its finest! Red beans and smoked sausage are simmered low and slow with tasty Cajun spices, then served with freshly cooked rice for a homestyle dinner you’ll want to enjoy over and over!

Get The Recipe: Red Beans and Rice

Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

An indulgent creamy dish made with three kinds of cheese topped with panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and garlic, then baked until it’s hot, bubbly, and golden.

Get The Recipe: Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

Blackened Chicken

Blackened Chicken is a deliciously quick dish that transforms lean chicken breasts into a flavor-packed delight! Generously coated with a spicy Cajun-style seasoning, these beauties are pan-seared in a sizzling cast iron skillet, creating a tantalizing blackened char. For a touch of richness, we finish them off with a luscious pat of butter! Get ready to savor every bite!

Get The Recipe: Blackened Chicken

Candied Sweet Potatoes

Indulge in the delightful experience of sweet potatoes drenched in a rich caramel sauce, perfectly spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of zesty orange. A truly irresistible treat!

Get The Recipe: Candied Sweet Potatoes

Apple Brown Betty

A dish piled high with baked Apples and crumb topping. — Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

This simple and tasty Apple Brown Betty recipe combines tender apples with caramel sauce and a crunchy cinnamon crumb topping.

Get The Recipe: Apple Brown Betty

Chicken Corn Chowder

Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

Look no further than this Chicken Corn Chowder. This simple recipe combines juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and sweet corn in a rich and comforting broth – a delicious one-pot meal that’s sure to warm you from the inside out.

Get The Recipe: Chicken Corn Chowder

Healthy Fried Chicken

Ditch the deep fryer! This low-fat recipe delivers a crispy, flavorful coating on baked chicken, making it a healthy alternative you won’t miss.

Get The Recipe: Healthy Fried Chicken

Easy Po’ Boy Steak Sandwich

A close up image of two Po’ Boy Steak Sandwiches with peppers and onions. — Image Credit: Jenny DeRemer for Not Entirely Average

Craving a juicy, flavorful sandwich you can build at home? Look no further than these GRILLED, CHILLED & MARINATED Po’ Boy Steak Sandwiches! Marinate your steak for maximum tenderness, then grill to perfection. Pile it high on toasted French bread with crisp romaine lettuce, creamy mayo, and “a whole bunch of deliciousness” (your choice!).

Get The Recipe: Po Boy

Cream of Crab Soup

A close-up of a ladle holding a creamy soup with chunks of vegetables and bacon, designed to warm your soul. The dish is garnished with chopped herbs, perhaps parsley. A bowl of this comfort food is partially visible in the background. — Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

This creamy soup combines tender crab meat and soft potatoes, with each spoonful exploding with flavor from smoky bacon, rich seafood stock, and a hint of briny clam juice. It’s a satisfying, hearty dish that truly comforts.

Get The Recipe: Cream of Crab Soup

Fried Potatoes and Onions

Tender potatoes and onions are fried until crispy in a pan infused with bacon and garlic. Simple yet incredibly satisfying.

Get The Recipe: Fried Potatoes and Onions

Macaroni Salad

Creamy and tangy, this classic macaroni salad combines tender pasta with a flavorful dressing, making it a hearty side dish for any summer gathering.

Get The Recipe: Macaroni Salad

Smothered Pork Chops

Weeknight dinners don’t get much better than this! These juicy pork chops practically cook themselves, bathed in a luxuriously rich caramelized onion and mushroom gravy. A quick sprinkle of melted cheese adds the finishing touch to this simple yet satisfying comfort food classic.

Get The Recipe: Smothered Pork Chops

Cozy Baked Apple Slices

Caramel is drizzled over ice cream and baked apples. — Image Credit: Namely Marly

You won’t be able to get enough of this delightful treat. Top warm, baked apple slices with a generous scoop of creamy ice cream and a decadent drizzle of gooey caramel sauce. This delightful dessert is perfect for a cozy night in, offering a harmonious mix of flavors and textures that will surely satisfy your sweet cravings.

Get the recipe: Cozy Baked Apple Slices with Caramel

Carolina BBQ Sauce

Ditch the boring bottled stuff! Authentic Carolina BBQ sauce boasts a complex, tangy flavor with a hint of mustard, perfect for serious grill masters. This isn’t just a sauce, it’s the missing ingredient that unlocks the full potential of your grilled creations.

Get The Recipe: Carolina BBQ Sauce

Grilled Corn On The Cob

Craving summer’s sweet kiss? Look no further than grilled corn on the cob! This guide unlocks all the secrets to achieving juicy, flavorful perfection, whether you love it on or off the cob.

Get The Recipe: Grilled Corn On The Cob

Southern Deviled Eggs with Pimento Cheese

A deviled egg assembled with southern pimento cheese spread. — Image Credit: Jenny DeRemer for Not Entirely Average

Ditch the ordinary and whip up these Southern Deviled Eggs with Pimento Cheese. Creamy pimento cheese takes the classic to a whole new level of flavor, making them the star of any potluck or barbecue.

Get The Recipe: Deviled Eggs

Grilled Chicken Thighs and Legs

Grilled Chicken Thighs & Legs on a serving dish — Image Credit: Mypointofview

Craving delicious grilled chicken but on a budget? Look no further! Chicken thighs and legs are a more affordable option, and this recipe delivers juicy, flavorful results with a simple marinade and a tasty sauce.

Get The Recipe: Grilled Chicken Thighs and Legs

Hamburger and Rice

This savory hamburger and rice recipe comes together quickly, packing tons of flavor without dirtying many dishes. Tender ground beef, fluffy rice, and a touch of magic (okay, maybe some delicious seasonings) make this a satisfying meal for any busy night.

Get The Recipe: Hamburger and Rice

Easy Layered Nilla Wafer Banana Pudding Trifle

Image Credit: Jenny DeRemer for Not Entirely Average

Forget fancy desserts – down South, nothing spells comfort quite like Nilla Wafer Banana Pudding. This layered masterpiece features creamy, homemade vanilla pudding, Nilla Wafers for a delightful textural contrast, and a cloud of fluffy whipped cream.

Get The Recipe: Banana Pudding

Easy Homemade Corn Muffins

Freshly baked corn muffins cooling on a cooling rack. — Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

This classic recipe is just the beginning! Easily customize it to your taste with a few simple ingredients. Add a touch of honey for sweetness or a sprinkle of cheese for a savory twist.

Get The Recipe: Easy Homemade Corn Muffins

Southern Oxtail Recipe

Indulge in the nostalgia of Southern oxtail, a beloved soul food classic evoking memories of Sunday dinners at grandma’s house. Picture this: tender oxtails, so succulent they fall off the bone, covered in a savory gravy with bell pepper and onion, all atop a bed of fluffy white rice.

Get The Recipe: Southern Oxtail Recipe

Collard Greens

Experience the ultimate comfort and flavor with our top-rated collard greens recipe. This dish showcases tender collard greens simmered to perfection with smoked turkey legs, infusing rich, smoky notes. A harmonious blend of savory spices adds depth and warmth to every bite, elevating this classic Southern favorite to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Get The Recipe: Collard Greens

Easy Crab Cakes

Three Crab Cakes on a plate with lemon wedges and a fork next to it. — Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

This recipe lets you whip up incredible crab cakes with fresh, flavorful ingredients at home. It’s surprisingly easy – just mix it up, pan-fry it, and enjoy a customizable, restaurant-worthy meal that’ll leave you happy and satisfied.

Get The Recipe: Easy Crab Cakes

Poor Man’s Burnt Ends

An overhead view of a foil tray filled with glazed and caramelized burnt ends. The meat pieces are dark and glossy, indicating a rich and flavorful sauce coating—a true testament to Southern recipes. The tray sits on a light-colored surface. — Image Credit: Cooks With Soul

Get ready to savor the deliciousness of Poor Man’s Burnt Ends! This recipe showcases tender chuck roast cubes, generously seasoned and smothered in mouthwatering BBQ sauce, creating a rich and flavorful dish that will have you coming back for seconds!

Get The Recipe: Poor Man’s Burnt Ends