I Wasn’t Raised on Grits but 29 Southern Recipes Made Me Believe
Skeptics might laugh at grits until they’ve been converted by 29 Southern favorites that mean serious business. They’re the kind of meals that bring a quiet pause to the table because everyone’s too busy eating. By the end, even the doubters are asking for seconds. It’s less of a menu and more of a full-blown lifestyle change.
Grilled Pineapple
Backyard cookouts often need something a little different to surprise guests. That’s why Grilled Pineapple works so well, adding a sweet, smoky touch to the spread. The warm caramelized edges make it hard to ignore. It’s one of those sides that keeps people reaching for more.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Pineapple
Egg Salad
Warm-weather gatherings feel easier when there’s a simple, creamy side on the table. Egg Salad delivers that comfort without stealing the spotlight from other dishes. It’s versatile enough for sandwiches or served on its own. People usually find a way to fit it onto their plate.
Get the Recipe: Egg Salad
French Onion Casserole
Southern kitchens are known for baked dishes that bring everyone to the table. French Onion Casserole is no exception, with layers that bake together into a cozy, hearty side. It pairs well with roasts or fried chicken. Once it’s served, it disappears quickly.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Casserole
Cowboy Caviar
Potluck tables tend to have at least one colorful, fresh option that catches the eye. Cowboy Caviar fills that role while offering a mix of textures in every bite. It works as a dip, side, or topping, which makes it a flexible choice. Guests rarely leave any behind.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Caviar
Cabbage Casserole
Weeknight dinners feel more complete when there’s something warm and filling at the center. Cabbage Casserole is that kind of dish, easy to serve and enjoyed by all ages. It’s great for pairing with grilled meats or baked favorites. By the end of the meal, the dish is usually empty.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Casserole
Grilled Hot Dogs
Casual get-togethers often call for quick food that still brings flavor. Grilled Hot Dogs have that charred edge that makes them stand out from the boiled version. They’re easy to dress up with whatever’s on hand. No matter how many you make, they tend to run out fast.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Hot Dogs
Amish Breakfast Casserole
Early mornings in the South often start with a big, hearty breakfast. Amish Breakfast Casserole fits the bill, feeding several people in one go. It’s a warm and filling way to start the day. Everyone leaves the table ready for whatever comes next.
Get the Recipe: Amish Breakfast Casserole
Twice Baked Potatoes
Special dinners deserve sides that feel just a bit extra. Twice Baked Potatoes combine creamy centers with crisp tops for the perfect contrast. They work for holidays, cookouts, or even as a snack. Once you’ve had one, it’s hard not to want another.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potatoes
Easy Cornbread Casserole
Cornbread holds a special place in Southern cooking, and Easy Cornbread Casserole makes it even more crowd-friendly. It’s soft, warm, and great for pairing with barbecue or chili. The slight sweetness makes it stand out on a table full of sides. It’s a dish that goes fast at potlucks.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cornbread Casserole
Zucchini Boats
Adding variety to dinner can be as simple as changing how vegetables are served. Zucchini Boats bring a fun twist that looks as good as it tastes. They’re light but still filling enough to be part of the main meal. Guests often ask how they’re made.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Boats
Philly Cheesesteak
While not born in the South, Philly Cheesesteak has earned a spot at plenty of Southern gatherings. It’s hearty, cheesy, and easy to serve to a hungry crowd. The warm bread and rich filling make it perfect for game days. You’ll spot it disappearing fast once it’s sliced and ready.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheesesteak
Cattle Drive Casserole
Family dinners often feel easier when one dish can feed everyone. Cattle Drive Casserole does exactly that while keeping cleanup simple. It’s rich, filling, and perfect for nights when you want a hearty meal without making several sides. Leftovers, if there are any, heat up just as well the next day.
Get the Recipe: Cattle Drive Casserole
Dinner Rolls
No Southern spread feels complete without something to mop up sauces and gravies. Dinner Rolls do the job perfectly, soft and warm from the oven. They fit beside every dish, from fried chicken to holiday roasts. More than one person will always sneak an extra roll before dessert.
Get the Recipe: Dinner Rolls
Bacon Wrapped Smokies
Party snacks that disappear first usually have one thing in common—they’re addictive. Bacon Wrapped Smokies fit the bill with a bite-sized, flavorful punch. They’re easy to grab while talking or watching a game. No matter how many you make, it won’t be enough.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Wrapped Smokies
Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip
Game day spreads often have one dip that everyone crowds around. Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip is usually it, creamy and rich with flavors that keep people coming back. It pairs well with chips, bread, or crackers. Once it’s set out, the bowl empties fast.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Bacon Ranch Crack Dip
Corn Fritters
Simple sides can sometimes steal the show. Corn Fritters are crisp on the outside and soft inside, making them a fun addition to any meal. They work for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, adding a little variety to the plate. People often take more than they planned because they’re that easy to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Corn Fritters
Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Weekend mornings feel more special when breakfast doubles as dessert. Cinnamon Roll Pancakes offer that treat factor with every bite. They look impressive on the plate without being hard to make. Plates are usually cleared without a crumb left.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Deviled Eggs
Any big family gathering almost expects to see Deviled Eggs on the table. They’re quick to grab, easy to eat, and welcome at everything from church events to holidays. People often make double just to keep up with demand. Even then, they vanish fast.
Get the Recipe: Deviled Eggs
Red Cabbage Coleslaw
When heavier dishes are served, something fresh and crisp helps balance things out. Red Cabbage Coleslaw does that while adding color to the table. It’s a great match for grilled or fried foods. The crunch keeps people coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Red Cabbage Coleslaw
Perfect Spatchcock Turkey
Holiday feasts need a main dish that cooks evenly and stays juicy. Perfect Spatchcock Turkey delivers both, cutting down on oven time, too. It leaves room for all the other sides to get their turn in the heat. Once carved, it’s the centerpiece everyone talks about.
Get the Recipe: Perfect Spatchcock Turkey
Strawberry Rhubarb Pie
Pies have a way of making a meal feel complete, especially at summer gatherings. Strawberry Rhubarb Pie stands out for its mix of sweet and tart in every slice. It’s just as good chilled as it is warm. People often save room for it no matter how full they are.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Rhubarb Pie
Crack Chicken Casserole
Busy nights call for meals that can be made in one dish. Crack Chicken Casserole is rich, filling, and easy to portion out. It works for both family dinners and potlucks. Chances are there won’t be any left to store.
Get the Recipe: Crack Chicken Casserole
Apple Pie
Few desserts feel as timeless as Apple Pie, and it fits right in at a Southern table. Warm filling and flaky crust make it a year-round favorite. It’s just as welcome on a holiday as on a quiet Sunday. A slice with ice cream never gets turned down.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie
Yellow Squash Casserole
Garden vegetables take on a whole new life in dishes like Yellow Squash Casserole. Baked until tender, it’s a simple side that’s easy to enjoy. It pairs with almost any main dish. Even those who don’t usually go for vegetables take a serving.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Squash Casserole
Ham and Cheese Sliders
Sliders make feeding a crowd simple while still feeling special. Ham and Cheese Sliders are warm, cheesy, and easy to pass around. They work for parties, game nights, or casual dinners. Guests often ask for the recipe before they leave.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Sliders
Eggplant Casserole
Comfort casseroles aren’t just about meat, and Eggplant Casserole proves it. It’s filling without being heavy, making it great for weeknights. Baking it brings everything together into a soft, rich bite. It’s a dish people are often surprised to love.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Casserole
Roast Beef Sliders
Tailgates and casual gatherings benefit from hand-helds like Roast Beef Sliders. They’re warm, hearty, and easy to grab between conversations. Serving them is as quick as eating them. They usually vanish before the last round of drinks.
Get the Recipe: Roast Beef Sliders
Southern Cornbread
No regional spread makes its mark quite like Southern Cornbread sitting next to hearty mains. Crumbly and warm, it’s perfect for soaking up every drop on your plate. It’s one of those sides that feels like tradition. People notice when it’s missing.
Get the Recipe: Southern Cornbread
Chicken and Dumpling Casserole
Cold evenings call for a meal that warms from the inside out. Chicken and Dumpling Casserole does exactly that with every spoonful. It’s a favorite for family dinners and get-togethers. Once served, the table tends to go quiet for a bit.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Dumpling Casserole
