34 Authentic Southern Comfort Food You’ll Love

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Welcome to our collection of Southern comfort food recipes! These dishes are designed to bring warmth and joy to your table, whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself. From hearty mains to delightful sides, these recipes capture the essence of Southern cooking and are sure to become favorites in your kitchen.

Best Southern Ham Gravy with Cheesy Biscuits and Eggs

A plate of cheesy eggs and biscuits smothered in southern ham gravy.
Image Credit: Jenny DeRemer for Not Entirely Average

Southern breakfast is a delightful affair, with the rich flavors of smoky ham gravy drizzled over cheesy biscuits, perfectly complemented by velvety soft scrambled eggs. The best part? These mouthwatering dishes are a breeze to make from scratch. Some of my all-time favorite recipes can be whipped together in mere minutes, effortlessly pleasing every palate around the table. Amidst the daily hustle and bustle, there’s nothing quite like gathering together, taking a well-deserved break, and savoring the food and company. And, as it turns out, many of these easy-to-make delights are commonly served over biscuits right here in the heart of the South!

GET THE RECIPE: Ham Gravy

Biscuits and Gravy

A skillet with a country biscuit topped with sausage gravy and a sage leaf.
Image Credit: Culinary Hill.

Southern Biscuits and Gravy is a top choice for weekend brunch. Imagine flaky buttermilk biscuits covered in a rich and creamy sausage gravy—who could resist such a delightful combination?

GET THE RECIPE: Biscuits and Gravy

Copycat Cracker Barrel Country Fried Steak

Chicken fried steak with country gravy.
Image Credit: Jenny DeRemer for Not Entirely Average

Copycat Cracker Barrel Country Fried Steak Recipe brings the South straight to your home kitchen in just 45 minutes! Commonly known as chicken-fried steak in the Southern United States, this dish features seasoned cube steak coated in a golden-brown crust, perfectly complemented by a rich and creamy white sawmill gravy that’ll have you craving seconds and thirds!

GET THE RECIPE: Chicken Fried Steak

Pecan Praline Recipe

Praline pecan clusters on a baking tray.
Image Credit: Culinary Hill.

Pecan Pralines are a classic Southern treat featuring crunchy pecans and a soft, buttery-sweet base. Best of all, you only need 5 ingredients to make them!

GET THE RECIPE: Pecan Praline Recipe

Easy 3 Ingredient Buttermilk Biscuits

A biscuit with fruit jelly.
Image Credit: Jenny DeRemer for Not Entirely Average

With just three simple ingredients, you can create flaky, tender biscuits that are a masterclass in Southern baking – even if you’re a beginner! These easy-to-make treats are sure to earn you a reputation as a skilled baker.

GET THE RECIPE: Buttermilk Biscuits

Candied Yams

A sweet potato casserole.
Image Credit: Downshiftology.

Candied yams bring a comforting Southern touch to your holiday table. Sliced yams are coated in a buttery, sugary, spiced glaze and baked until beautifully caramelized. This sweet side dish is sure to have everyone coming back for seconds!

GET THE RECIPE: Candied Yams

Fried Cabbage

A bowl of fried cabbage with bacon.
Image Credit: Inspired Taste.

My fried cabbage recipe with bacon is quick and delicious, turning ordinary cabbage into a crave-worthy dish. Trust me, you’ll want to make this easy recipe over and over again!

GET THE RECIPE: Fried Cabbage

Oven Baked Home Fries Recipe with Sausages and Sunny Eggs

A big breakfast plate of home fries, with sausages and eggs.
Image Credit: Jenny DeRemer for Not Entirely Average

Start your day with a hearty, one-pan wonder that combines crispy, golden home fries, savory sausages, and perfectly cooked eggs – a breakfast trifecta that’s sure to become a morning favorite!

GET THE RECIPE: Sheet Pan Breakfast

The Best Grits We’ve Made

A big bowl of grits with a pat of butter.
Image Credit: Inspired Taste.

Grits are a beloved Southern dish made from coarsely ground corn, and my family absolutely loves them! If you’re new to grits, they have a texture similar to creamy porridge or polenta.

GET THE RECIPE: The Best Grits We’ve Made

Smoked Carolina Pulled Pork Sandwiches

A heap of smoked pork on a griddled bun, with coleslaw.
Image Credit: Jenny DeRemer for Not Entirely Average

Get ready for a authentic Southern culinary adventure! We’re diving into the heart of Carolina-style barbecue with slow-smoked pork that’s tender, juicy, and full of flavor. The ultimate goal? A mouthwatering pile of pulled pork sandwiches that embody the traditional spirit of this beloved regional specialty. Buckle up, friends – it’s gonna be a delicious journey!

GET THE RECIPE: Pulled Pork Sandwich

Beef and Sour Cream Noodle Casserole

HERO image for a Sour Cream Noodle Bake casserole.
Image Credit: Jenny DeRemer for Not Entirely Average

Pasta lovers, rejoice! This creamy sour cream noodle bake is the ultimate comfort food indulgence, packed with savory beef and al dente noodles – a satisfying treat that will hit all the right spots!

GET THE RECIPE: Sour Cream Noodle Bake

Sweet Potato Pie

A slice of sweet potato pie.
Image Credit: Inspired Taste.

This easy homemade sweet potato pie recipe is one of the best pies I’ve ever made. It features a flaky butter crust and a creamy, light sweet potato filling. I can’t wait for you to try it!

GET THE RECIPE: Sweet Potato Pie

Hoppin’ John

Two bowls filled with black-eyed pea hoppin john and spoons.
Image Credit: Culinary Hill.

Hoppin’ John is a traditional Southern dish brimming with thick-cut bacon, rice, and black-eyed peas, believed to bring good luck. Hoppin’ John, a staple in Carolina Low Country cuisine, is enjoyed throughout the American South and beyond.

GET THE RECIPE: Hoppin’ John

Cornmeal Biscuits with Country Sausage and Watermelon Rind Preserves

Two country biscuits with sausage and pickled watermelon rinds preserves.
Image Credit: Jenny DeRemer for Not Entirely Average

Savor the South in every bite with these tender cornmeal biscuits, packed with flavorful country sausage and sweet watermelon rind preserves – a breakfast treat that’s pure Southern comfort!

GET THE RECIPE: Sausage Biscuits

Vegan Southern Pineapple Casserole

A casserole of pineapple, butter, and crushed crackers known as southern pineapple casserole.
Vegan Southern Pineapple Casserole. Photo credit: Strength and Sunshine.

Southern Pineapple Casserole offers a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors. This vegan and gluten-free version includes tangy pineapple, dairy-free cheddar cheese, and a buttery cracker topping, providing a nostalgic taste of southern comfort. Easy to prepare, this casserole is ideal for holidays, potlucks, and any gathering where you want to bring a touch of the south to the table. Enjoy the unique combination that makes southern-inspired casseroles so special.
GET THE RECIPE: Vegan Southern Pineapple Casserole

Beef Tips in Creamy Mushroom Pan Sauce

A dinner plate loaded with mashed potatoes and beef tips in brown gravy with mushrooms.
Image Credit: Jenny DeRemer for Not Entirely Average

Indulge in a rich and savory Southern delight with this quick and easy recipe for beef tips smothered in a decadent creamy mushroom sauce – a mouthwatering dinner ready in just 30 minutes!

GET THE RECIPE: Beef Tips in Gravy

Crockpot Pumpkin Cobbler Recipe

A bowl of cobbler with whipped cream.
Crockpot Pumpkin Cobbler Recipe. Photo credit: Saving Dollars & Sense.

Get cozy with this Crockpot Pumpkin Cobbler Recipe. It combines the warm flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg with a sweet, crunchy topping. Its autumnal flavors and slow cooker convenience make it a popular Southern dessert that’s perfect for fall or any time you crave a little pumpkin goodness.
GET THE RECIPE:  Crockpot Pumpkin Cobbler Recipe

Slow Cooker Brunswick Stew

Hot Brunswick Stew in a bowl with cornbread.
Slow Cooker Brunswick Stew. Photo credit: The Magical Slow Cooker.

Brunswick stew is a Southern classic that’s sure to warm your soul. This slow cooker version uses chicken, pork, and beef, combined with corn, lima beans, and tomatoes in a rich, flavorful broth. A touch of barbecue sauce adds a sweet and smoky note, making this stew a true crowd-pleaser and perfect for comforting meals.
GET THE RECIPE: Slow Cooker Brunswick Stew

Oven Baked Deep South Barbecue Ribs

A plate of food with a fork and knife, with Barbecue and Ribs.
Image Credit: Jenny DeRemer for Not Entirely Average

Think ribs are only for BBQ pros? Think again! With a little patience, you can achieve tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs in the comfort of your own oven. No need for a pit or special skills – just time and a craving for delicious Deep South barbecue flavor!

GET THE RECIPE: Oven Baked Ribs

Tailgater Frito Pie with Cowgirl Chili

overhead photo of Frito Pie Casserole on a tray
Image Credit: Jenny DeRemer for Not Entirely Average

Elevate a classic snack to a whole new level with this game-day twist: crispy Fritos meet hearty chili con carne in a flavorful fusion that’s perfect for tailgating or a cozy night in!

GET THE RECIPE: Frito Pie

Copycat Bob Evans Sausage Gravy and Biscuit Casserole

A plate of scrambled eggs and hot sausage biscuit and gravy casserole.
Image Credit: Jenny DeRemer for Not Entirely Average

Prepare for breakfast casserole deliciousness as we recreate Bob Evans’ famous sausage gravy recipe! With just a bag of all-purpose flour and a skillet, we’ll whip up a batch of this savory delight. Then, we’ll layer it with biscuits to create a mouthwatering casserole that’s perfect for brunch, weekend breakfast, or even breakfast for dinner. Quick and easy to prepare, this dish will become a family favorite. Plus, it reheats beautifully for leftovers!

GET THE RECIPE: Biscuit and Gravy Casserole

Lowcountry Boil Recipe

Shrimp, corn on the cob, sausage slices, potatoes, seasoned with herbs and spices.
Photo Credit: Britney Breaks Bread.

This Lowcountry Boil is a seafood lover’s dream with shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes all in one pot. The seasoning mix of Old Bay and Cajun spices makes it a flavorful hit at any gathering. Plus, it’s as simple to clean up as it is to cook!
GET THE RECIPE: Lowcountry Boil Recipe

A Recipe for Charleston Pickled Spiced Shrimp

Pickled shrimp and vegetables on toasted rye with aioli.
Image Credit: Jenny DeRemer for Not Entirely Average

Charleston Pickled Spiced Shrimp is a recipe that promises an unforgettable encore. Begin by grilling hearty slices of rye bread until perfectly charred, then slather them with a luscious sherry aioli. Next, pile on a colorful array of crunchy veggies, including onion, celery, carrot, fennel, and vibrant red bell pepper, all pickled to perfection in an irresistible blend of Champagne vinegar and aromatic celery seed brine. And let’s not forget the star of the show – shrimp, gently poached in a fragrant bath infused with zesty lemon zest and the unmistakable kick of Old Bay Seasoning. 

GET THE RECIPE: Pickled Shrimp

Hush Puppies

A plate of hushpuppies with dipping sauce.
Image Credit: Culinary Hill.

Perfect Hush Puppies are truly a culinary masterpiece. With a fluffy, light interior and a crispy, salty exterior, these easy homemade Hush Puppies are set to become your favorite snack recipe. The best part? You can have a warm platter of these delicious bites ready in just 15 minutes!

GET THE RECIPE: Hush Puppies

The 3 Ingredient Ham Glaze Recipe That Makes a Gigantic Difference

Quick and Easy 3-Ingredient Ham Glaze! Story Poster Image
Image Credit: Jenny DeRemer for Not Entirely Average

Take your holiday ham to the next level with a sweet and tangy glaze that’s incredibly easy to make. With just three ingredients, you’ll create a flavor combination that’s sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more. It’s the perfect way to add a little extra something special to your holiday meal!

GET THE RECIPE: Ham Glaze

Best Southern Corn Pudding

A spoonful of creamy baked corn casserole.
Image Credit: Jenny DeRemer for Not Entirely Average

Southern Corn Pudding is farm to table fare, accompanying everything from grilled steak to the Thanksgiving dinner turkey! Baked until gorgeously golden brown, spoonsful of ‘creamy corn pudding bliss’ grace the dinner table in this classic southern dish. If serving as part of a holiday meal, it compliments everything from holiday ham and turkey to a green bean casserole!

GET THE RECIPE: Corn Casserole

Creamy Sweet Potato and Muenster Gratin

A casserole of sweet potatoes layered with Muenster cheese.
Image Credit: Jenny DeRemer for Not Entirely Average

The epitome of southern comfort food might be this Creamy Sweet Potato and Muenster Gratin. This rendition of potato gratin takes the beloved Southern staple sweet potato to unparalleled heights of richness with minimal effort required. This dish embodies the perfect marriage of creamy and cheesy, offering a savory counterpart to the iconic Southern sweet potato casserole. This potato bake effortlessly steals the spotlight, giving even your main course a run for its money in the flavor department.

GET THE RECIPE: Potatoes Au Gratin

Carolina Gold BBQ Sauce

A pulled pork sandwich topped with coleslaw and yellow sauce on a white plate, with a jar of yellow sauce and a colorful cloth in the background.
Photo Credit: Quiche My Grits.

This mustard-based sauce is a staple for South Carolina BBQ, known for its tangy and slightly sweet flavor. Perfect for pulled pork and grilled chicken, it adds a distinctive taste to your summer cookouts. Easy to make, it’s a practical choice for any BBQ enthusiast. Perfect for those who enjoy a tangy twist in their BBQ sauces. Make your BBQ sessions memorable with this classic sauce.
GET THE RECIPE: Carolina Gold BBQ Sauce

Crispy Chicken with Herbed Carolina Gold Rice & Scratch Pan Gravy

A dinner plate filled with rice and topped with a fried chicken cutlet and scratch-made country gravy.
Image Credit: Jenny DeRemer for Not Entirely Average

There’s nothing quite as comforting as breaded cutlets fried to a perfect golden brown and served alongside a savory pan gravy. Crispy Chicken with Herbed Carolina Gold Rice & Scratch Pan Gravy is pure homey goodness. While this dish may not boast extravagant flavors or elaborate presentation, it captures the heart and soul of Southern American cooking in every forkful. Bringing together crispy fried chicken and American-grown rice, each element may seem ordinary. However, when plated together and paired with scratch-made pan gravy, they form a harmony that whistles Dixie.

GET THE RECIPE: Fried Chicken

Crock Pot 3 Cheese Mac and Cheese

A bowl of creamy mac and cheese garnished with herbs on a green plate. A gold spoon on a white surface to the right. A striped cloth partially visible to the left.
Photo Credit: The Feathered Nester.

This Crock Pot 3 Cheese Mac and Cheese is creamy, cheesy, and incredibly easy to make. The combination of cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese ensures every bite is gooey and delicious. Great for both kids and adults at any gathering.
GET THE RECIPE: Crock Pot 3 Cheese Mac and Cheese

a red plate, piled with Butter Pecan Cookies
Image Credit: Jenny DeRemer for Not Entirely Average

Indulge in a sweet blast from the past with these classic Butter Pecan Cookies, fresh from the oven! Soft, buttery, and nutty, these tender treats are perfect for satisfying your summer snacking cravings. Get ready to savor the warmth and nostalgia in every bite!

GET THE RECIPE: Butter Pecan Cookies

Southern Cream Cheese Pound Cake

A pound cake with sugar glaze.
Image Credit: Jenny DeRemer for Not Entirely Average

Serve a slice of nostalgia with Southern Cream Cheese Pound Cake, a timeless recipe that delivers a big, beautiful, moist cake perfect for any occasion! With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can quickly whip up an easy cake batter that transforms into the BEST old-fashioned cream cheese pound cake you can imagine. And here’s the best part – it’s all achieved through a two-step method! Yes, you read that right – two simple steps stand between you and a delectable pound cake that rivals those crafted by any Southern baker. So why wait?

GET THE RECIPE: Pound Cake

Chicken on the Ritz Casserole

A spoonful of chicken casserole with a Ritz cracker topping.
Image Credit: Jenny DeRemer for Not Entirely Average

With just a handful of straightforward ingredients, you can create a rich and creamy sauce that takes this scrumptious ‘Chicken on The Ritz’ Casserole to the next level – perfect for hectic evenings. Plus, if you have a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken on hand, you’re already halfway to a stress-free dinner!

GET THE RECIPE: Ritz Chicken Casserole

Easy Layered Nilla Wafer Banana Pudding Trifle

Layers of banana pudding, Nilla wafer cookies, and whipped cream.
Image Credit: Jenny DeRemer for Not Entirely Average

Ask any self-respecting Southerner, and they’ll tell you that the ultimate Southern comfort dessert is Nilla Wafer Banana Pudding, a delicious scratch-made layered trifle boasting creamy vanilla pudding, Nilla Wafers, and luscious Cool Whip! This make-ahead, no-bake dessert is a breeze to whip up, utilizing simple ingredients sure to please a crowd. With just a few minutes of prep time, you can create a delicious masterpiece perfect for any occasion.

GET THE RECIPE: Banana Pudding

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About Jenny deRemer

I am a Charleston, South Carolina-based culinary novice, an ardent authority on all things travel, a designer by trade, and the creator of Not Entirely Average. I have a weakness for farmers' markets, delight in adventures way off the beaten path, enjoy documenting my many moods through photography, and have been known to conquer the occasional yard sale with gusto!

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