Southern Comfort Food That Will Warm You From the Inside Out

There’s nothing like a hearty Southern meal to make you feel right at home. From rich, sweet potato pie to Nashville hot chicken and iconic sandwiches, these classic comfort foods bring warmth and nostalgia to every bite. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a lazy Sunday meal, these dishes are all about big flavors, simple ingredients, and plenty of soul.

Salmon Croquettes

Salmon patties on a plate topped with white sauce. — Image Credit: Savory Experiments

Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside—these salmon croquettes are a simple way to turn canned salmon into something special. Lightly seasoned and pan-fried, this southern classic is perfect with a squeeze of lemon and your favorite dipping sauce.

Get the recipe: Salmon Croquettes

Sweet Potato Pie

Sweet potato pie is smooth, rich, and packed with warm spices that make every bite feel cozy. A store-bought crust keeps things simple, while the creamy filling bakes up soft and custardy. Serve it chilled with a dollop of whipped cream.

Get the recipe: Sweet Potato Pie

Bourbon Pecan Cheesecake

A cheesecake topped with nuts. — Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

This dessert brings together the best of two worlds: creamy cheesecake and caramelized pecans with a hint of bourbon. The crunchy topping contrasts perfectly with the smooth filling, making each bite just the right mix of rich and nutty.

Get the recipe: Bourbon Pecan Cheesecake

Cajun Sloppy Joe's

Sloppy joes on plate with tater tots beside a skillet of meat. — Image Credit: From Valerie's Kitchen

These aren’t your average sloppy joes. A Cajun twist adds just the right amount of spice, giving this classic comfort food a bold new flavor. Pile it onto toasted buns and enjoy a messy, satisfying meal.

Get the recipe: Cajun Sloppy Joe's

Lemon Icebox Pie

A lemon pie topped with whipped cream surrounded by lemons. — Image Credit: Chenée Today

Cool, creamy, and just the right amount of tangy, lemon icebox pie is the ultimate warm-weather dessert. With a buttery crust and a silky filling, this pretty southern pie pair well with a dollop of whipped cream.

Get the recipe: Lemon Icebox Pie

Cajun Remoulade Sauce

Pink sauce in a bowl on a tray of sweet potato fries. — Image Credit: The Forked Spoon

This zesty Louisiana remoulade sauce brings heat, tang, and a little kick of spice to whatever you put it on. Perfect for seafood, sandwiches, or even fries, it’s an easy way to add bold flavor with just a few simple ingredients.

Get the recipe: Cajun Remoulade Sauce

Cheddar Bay Breakfast Casserole

A biscuit topped casserole. — Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

This southern casserole is loaded with sausage, eggs, cheese, and the iconic cheddar bay biscuits. The perfect comfort food for breakfast or dinner!

Get the recipe: Cheddar Bay Breakfast Casserole

Oyster Mushroom Po'boy Sandwiches

A sub bun filled with breaded fried mushrooms, pickles, sauce, tomato, and lettuce. — Image Credit: Pipercooks

Crispy oyster mushrooms stand in for seafood in this plant-based take on a po’ boy. Piled onto a soft baguette with crunchy lettuce and creamy sauce, it’s a plant-based sandwich that’s just as satisfying as the original.

Get the recipe: Oyster Mushroom Po'boy Sandwiches

Vegan "Pulled Pork" Oyster Mushrooms

A pulled pork bun with slaw. — Image Credit: My Pure Plants

Oyster mushrooms make an incredible meat alternative, soaking up smoky, savory flavors for a pulled pork-style dish. Serve it on a bun, in tacos, or over rice for a satisfying, plant-based meal that’s packed with texture.

Get the recipe: Vegan Pulled Pork Oyster Mushrooms

Nashville Hot Chicken

Saucy fried chicken on a cool rack. — Image Credit: The Forked Spoon

This Nashville Hot Chicken is extra crispy, perfectly spicy, and packed with bold flavor. Golden fried chicken gets coated in a rich, fiery sauce that’s completely customizable—turn up the heat or keep it mild to suit your taste!

Get the recipe: Nashville Hot Chicken