20 Southern Classics Everyone Should Know How to Make

Homemade Southern food has a way of making every meal feel a little more special. These recipes have stood the test of time, making them just as perfect for weeknight dinners as they are for celebrations. Every recipe is a reminder that the simplest meals are often the most unforgettable.

Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe

Golden, crispy coating and juicy meat make this the kind of meal everyone gets excited about. Serve it with your favorite Southern sides for a dinner that feels comforting from the very first bite.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe

Authentic Louisiana Gumbo Recipe

Rich broth, smoky sausage, tender seafood, and deep flavor come together in one unforgettable bowl. It's the kind of comforting meal that's even better when shared around a crowded table.
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Classic Old Fashioned Buttermilk Biscuits Recipe

Warm, flaky biscuits fresh from the oven have a way of making any meal feel complete. Split one open, add a little butter, and it's easy to see why this recipe has been loved for generations.
Get the Recipe: Classic Old Fashioned Buttermilk Biscuits Recipe

Crispy Southern Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe

Crisp on the outside with a tangy bite inside, these are always a crowd favorite. They're perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish for any Southern-inspired meal.
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Classic Cajun Shrimp and Grits

Creamy grits and perfectly seasoned shrimp make an unbeatable Southern combination. It's hearty enough for dinner but special enough to serve when friends come over.
Get the Recipe: Classic Cajun Shrimp and Grits

Old-Fashioned Southern Caramel Cake with Pecans

Moist cake layered with rich caramel frosting creates a dessert that's worth celebrating. Every slice feels nostalgic and always seems to disappear faster than expected.
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Famous Masters Pimento Cheese Sandwich Recipe

Creamy cheese spread tucked between soft slices of bread makes an easy lunch that's full of Southern flavor. It's perfect for casual gatherings, game days, or whenever you want something simple and satisfying.
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Juicy Smoked Pulled Pork with Dry Rub

Slow-smoked until perfectly tender, every bite is packed with smoky flavor and melts in your mouth. Pile it onto sandwiches, serve it on a platter, or enjoy the leftovers all week long.
Get the Recipe: Juicy Smoked Pulled Pork with Dry Rub

Hearty Lima Beans and Corn Succotash Recipe

Tender vegetables simmer together into a comforting dish that works as either a side or a simple main meal. Every spoonful feels wholesome, filling, and perfect for family dinners.
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Southern Chicken Fried Steak with White Gravy

Crispy breading and rich country gravy turn an everyday steak into pure comfort food. Add mashed potatoes or green beans, and dinner practically takes care of itself.
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Classic Southern Country Sausage Gravy

Rich, savory gravy poured over warm biscuits is one of those breakfasts that never disappoints. It's simple, satisfying, and perfect when you're craving an old-fashioned Southern meal.
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Smooth Southern Sweet Tea Recipe

Nothing cools you down quite like a tall glass of homemade sweet tea. It's refreshing enough for hot summer afternoons and always belongs on the table during family cookouts.
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Southern Pineapple Cheese Casserole with Ritz Crackers

Sweet fruit and a buttery, cheesy topping might sound unexpected, but the flavors work beautifully together. It's one of those classic Southern dishes that always gets people talking.
Get the Recipe: Southern Pineapple Cheese Casserole with Ritz Crackers

Classic Old Fashioned Sour Cream Donuts

Soft, cakey centers and lightly crisp edges make these homemade donuts hard to resist. They pair perfectly with a fresh cup of coffee or an afternoon break.
Get the Recipe: Classic Old Fashioned Sour Cream Donuts

Southern Cornbread Recipe Without Buttermilk

Golden edges and a tender center make this cornbread a welcome addition to almost any meal. Serve it warm alongside chili, barbecue, beans, or your favorite comfort food dinner.
Get the Recipe: Southern Cornbread Recipe Without Buttermilk

Augusta National Sour Cream Pound Cake Recipe

Rich, buttery slices with a wonderfully tender crumb make this cake perfect for sharing. Whether it's served after dinner or with coffee, it always feels like a special treat.
Get the Recipe: Augusta National Sour Cream Pound Cake Recipe

Classic Kentucky Hot Brown with Béchamel Cheese Sauce

Layers of turkey, toasted bread, creamy sauce, and crispy bacon create a sandwich that's hearty enough to be a full meal. It's an easy way to turn simple ingredients into something memorable.
Get the Recipe: Classic Kentucky Hot Brown with Béchamel Cheese Sauce

Smoked Mac and Cheese with Bacon

Creamy macaroni gets even better with smoky flavor and crispy bacon in every bite. Bring it to a barbecue, holiday gathering, or weeknight dinner and watch it disappear quickly.
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Southern Peach Cobbler in a Cast Iron Skillet

Sweet peaches bubble beneath a buttery crust that turns beautifully golden as it bakes. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and dessert is about as comforting as it gets.
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Southern Style Baked Mac and Cheese with Pimentos

Creamy cheese and tangy pimentos give this baked macaroni an extra layer of flavor everyone notices. It's always a welcome addition to holiday meals, potlucks, and Sunday dinners.
Get the Recipe: Southern Style Baked Mac and Cheese with Pimentos