No one does comfort food like the South. Of course, deep-fried everything isn’t exactly the healthiest fare, but it’s more about gathering together with good food, family, friends, and fun. So, if you’re a big fan of classic Southern recipes, you’re going to love this list. You’ll find everything from fried chicken, to chicken and dumplings, to buttermilk cornbread, to shrimp and grits. Our favorite southern classics are all here, and we hope that you love them, too.

So, put on your apron, channel your grandma and her infamous cooking skills, and get to work on these delicious recipes. Your family will thank you. Promise.
Our Favorite Classic Southern Recipes
Authentic Buttermilk-Brined Southern Fried Chicken: Traditional, authentic, deep-fried buttermilk-brined southern fried chicken by a true Southern Belle! Learn the secrets to the juiciest meat, the crunchiest crust, and the most flavorful fried chicken you’ve ever had. (via Sweet Tea & Thyme)
Southern Hushpuppies: Southern Hushpuppies are a classic side dish made with a cornmeal batter and onion. They’re deep-fried until they are golden brown and perfectly crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. (via Home Made Interest)
Homemade Chicken and Dumplings: This is the ultimate comfort food recipe, so hearty and delicious! A simple from-scratch recipe, it’s always a favorite on a cold night. (via Miss in the Kitchen)
Fried Okra: Okra is an underappreciated vegetable in many places, but not in the South! It’s deep-fried, crispy, and delicious. (via Organized 31)
Mississippi Pot Roast: The most delicious pot roast you will EVER eat! Made with just five simple ingredients and slow-cooked in the crockpot, you are going to fall in love with this dish. (via Belle of the Kitchen)
Air Fryer Catfish: With this recipe for Crispy Golden Cajun Air Fryer Fish, you can indulge in a healthier version of super delectable, crunchy fish fillets without the guilt!
Sweet Potato Casserole: This sweet potato casserole with a praline topping is delicious during the fall season and for holidays. The nuts are a great crunchy bite and using pralines is the quintessential southern touch to the dish. (via Marathons and Motivation)
Chicken and Dumpling Casserole: This chicken and dumpling casserole is a delicious take on a classic southern comfort food recipe that the whole family will love. (via Crayons and Cravings)
Old-Fashioned Potato Salad: It doesn’t get any more classic than potato salad! You’ll never make another recipe once you make this one. (via Down Red Bud Drive)
Cornbread Salad: This Southern cornbread salad is perfectly dressed with a tasty ranch-style sour cream mayo dressing. It’s a crowd-pleaser and great to be served all year round! Use leftover cornbread to make this salad, or bake a fresh batch of tasty homemade cornbread. (via Little Sunny Kitchen)
Pineapple Casserole: Pineapple Casserole is a salty-sweet side dish that’s popular in the South and always a hit at pot lucks. It’s made with pineapple, cheddar cheese, salty crackers, and a few other ingredients and takes just 5 minutes to prepare! (via Sugar and Soul)
Authentic Shrimp and Grits: Shrimp and grits are a true Southern classic! Learn how to make the most flavorful, creamy, southern grits and the best way to season plump, tender shrimp. (via Sweet Tea & Thyme)
Classic Southern Deviled Eggs: Creamy classic Southern Deviled Eggs are always a potluck and party favorite. Bring a plate full to your next potluck, and watch them disappear. (via The Kitchen is My Playground)
Country Fried Pork Chops: These crowd-pleasing Country Fried Pork Chops are everything you want them to be…crispy, crunchy, spicy, and juicy! This recipe is fully adjustable for every spice level…low, medium, and high! (via Dish in the Kitchen)
Pimento Cheese: Pimento Cheese is the perfect dish to bring to a potluck. Serve with crackers or celery for a guaranteed crowd pleaser! (via Feast for a Fraction)
Instant Pot Southern Stuffing: This southern-style stuffing will become a staple in your house. It’s full of flavor and super easy to make. Give it a try and you’ll be hooked. (via Sweetpea’s Kitchen)
Sweet Buttermilk Cornbread: This moist, fluffy and tender cornbread is a perfect addition to any meal. This quick and easy recipe can be prepared, baked and ready to serve in under 30 minutes. (via Little Sweet Baker)
Smothered Potatoes: Learn how to make the best ever Southern smothered potatoes. Soft, flavorful and so easy! It makes a wonderful side to accompany any meal and can be ready in just 20 minutes. (via Little Sunny Kitchen)
Red Potato Salad: This recipe for Red Potato Salad is full of flavor, color, and texture. And since it is so quick and easy to make, you could take it to all your holiday parties and potlucks (via Recipes from a Pantry)
Homemade Chocolate Gravy: This is one of my all-time favorite breakfasts from childhood. It’s the perfect weekend treat and chocolate for breakfast is always a great idea! (via Miss in the Kitchen)
Deep-Fried Pickles: Fried pickles are a fun party appetizer, treat for the kids, or anytime snack. We promise you won’t be able to eat just one! (via In the Kids Kitchen)
Instant Pot Turnip Greens: If you love good greens, you’ll love these easy and delicious instant pot turnips-southern greens. They are cooked to perfection and so full of flavor. (via Southern Eats & Goodies)
Mama Sylvia’s Baked Beans: This Mama Sylvia’s Baked Beans recipe has been passed down through the generations and is loved by so many people! These baked beans take less than 5 minutes to put together and are out of the oven in under an hour!
Hoppin’ John Soup: Whip up the famous Hoppin John soup and enjoy it on New Year’s day for good luck or any day of the year. (via Recipes From a Pantry)
Chipped Beef Dip: This is one of our favorite hot dips to serve for game day, as an appetizer or to take to a potluck. Warm chipped beef dip is a classic appetizer that everyone loves.
Which of these classic Southern recipes are you going to try first?
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