From Pies to BBQ The Best Southern Eats

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There’s something magical about Southern cooking—it’s more than just food; it’s a way of life. Whether it’s the buttery crust of a key lime pie, the smoky aroma of sticky glazed ribs, or the creamy decadence of mashed potatoes, Southern recipes have a way of wrapping you in warmth and nostalgia. In this roundup, we’re serving up 15 irresistible Southern dishes that celebrate the heart and soul of this beloved cuisine. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into a world of comfort and flavor!

Easy Key Lime Pie

the completed pie ready to serve — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

This Easy Key Lime Pie recipe delivers a velvety smooth and refreshing dessert that’s sure to impress your guests. With a simple preparation, this pie is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to holiday celebrations. Get ready to wow everyone with this magnificent treat!
Get the Recipe: Easy Key Lime Pie

Apple Upside Down Cake

A close up of a warm apple cake topped with baked apples — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

Looking for a show-stopping dessert? This Apple Upside Down Cake is the perfect holiday centerpiece! The cinnamon-spiced cake with a caramelized apple topping is a truly indulgent treat that your family will love.
Get the Recipe: Apple Upside Down Cake

Dutch Oven Beef Stew

a spoonful of stew — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

Warm up with a hearty and comforting Dutch Oven Beef Stew. This classic recipe features tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and a rich, savory broth. Perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering!
Get the Recipe: Dutch Oven Beef Stew

Candied Sweet Potatoes

This candied sweet potatoes recipe can be made on the stovetop or baked in the oven. Sweet potatoes in a spiced caramel sauce—what’s not to love?

Get The Recipe: Candied Sweet Potatoes

Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes

A casserole dish filled with creamy mashed potatoes topped with golden-brown, crispy edges. A serving spoon scoops out a portion, revealing the smooth texture underneath the lightly browned top. — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

These Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes are creamy, buttery, and the perfect solution for stress-free holiday meals. The recipe can easily be doubled or tripled to feed a crowd. Make them ahead of time and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve.
Get the Recipe: Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes

Asparagus Casserole

This Asparagus Casserole is a creamy and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With a crispy topping and fresh parsley garnish, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. This recipe is ideal for holidays, potlucks, or a comforting family meal.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Casserole

Make-Ahead Turkey Gravy

A plate of mashed potatoes topped with savory turkey gravy and garnished with fresh herbs. A gravy boat filled with additional make-ahead gravy is visible in the background. A blue cloth napkin is partially visible on the side. — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

Simplify your holiday cooking with this Make-Ahead Turkey Gravy! Rich and savory, this gravy can be prepared in advance, ensuring a stress-free and delicious holiday meal. Perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas, it’s a family-friendly favorite that will impress your guests.
Get the Recipe: Make-Ahead Turkey Gravy

Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

Sweet, fresh strawberries and sharp rhubarb come together in this dazzling pie. The crumb topping is the perfect grand finale to this spring dessert. This recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

Vinegar Coleslaw {No Mayonnaise}

a close up image of vinegar coleslaw in a white bowl with a fork — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

This Vinegar Coleslaw is a crunchy and tangy side dish that’s perfect for any summer gathering. Made with fresh cabbage, carrots, and a zesty vinegar dressing, it’s a refreshing alternative to traditional mayonnaise-based coleslaw. This recipe is easy to make and sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Get the Recipe: Vinegar Coleslaw {No Mayonnaise}

Baked or Barbecued Sticky Glazed Ribs

A close up of barbecued sticky glazed ribs — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

Get ready to sink your teeth into these Baked or Barbecued Sticky Glazed Ribs! This recipe creates the most amazing sticky glaze with ingredients like honey, bourbon, and molasses. Whether you bake them in the oven or throw them on the barbecue, you’re in for a finger-licking good meal.
Get the Recipe: Baked or Barbecued Sticky Glazed Ribs

The Best Hamburger Recipe

Want to make the best burgers ever? This recipe provides all the tips and tricks you need for perfect patties every time, from grinding your own meat to toasting your buns. It’s a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for a family-friendly meal, BBQ, potluck, or game day.
Get the Recipe: The Best Hamburger Recipe

Homemade BBQ Baked Beans

Ditch the canned stuff and whip up a batch of these Homemade BBQ Baked Beans! They’re packed with smoky flavor, thanks to bacon and a blend of spices, making them the perfect side dish for any BBQ or potluck. Your friends and family will be begging for the recipe!
Get the Recipe: Homemade BBQ Baked Beans

Peaches and Cream

This peaches and cream recipe is a simple and delicious way to enjoy your fresh summer peaches! With just a few ingredients, you can whip up this summertime classic in no time. It’s the perfect dessert for a quick and easy treat!
Get the Recipe: Peaches and Cream

Orange Raspberry Pound Cake

This Orange Raspberry Pound Cake is a delightful treat that’s bursting with sunshine flavors! The tangy orange zest and sweet raspberries combine beautifully in this cake, making it perfect for any occasion. You can’t go wrong with this pound cake.
Get the Recipe: Orange Raspberry Pound Cake

Apple Brown Betty

a dish piled high with baked Apples and crumb topping — Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

This Apple Brown Betty is a comforting and classic dessert that’s perfect for fall! Featuring a delicious apple filling and a crispy, buttery crumb topping, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate treat.
Get the Recipe: Apple Brown Betty

KFC Fried Chicken Recipe

A plate of golden-brown fried chicken pieces, garnished with sprigs of rosemary, placed on a white rectangular platter. The chicken looks crispy and seasoned, with a glass bowl partially visible in the background. — Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

Craving that iconic KFC crunch at home? This homemade Kentucky-style fried chicken is the leaked Colonel Sanders’ original 11 herbs and spices recipe.

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