These Southern Dishes Will Make You Feel Right at Home

There’s something about Southern food that feels like a warm hug from the inside. Whether it’s the creamy comfort of mac and cheese, the chicken steak smothered in gravy, or a slice of sweet potato pie, these dishes have a way of making you feel at home no matter where you are. These Southern recipes are packed with flavor and perfect for gathering around the table with family and friends.

Collard Greens

Slow-cooked with smoked ham hock, onion, lemon juice, and brown sugar, these Southern-style collard greens are rich, smoky, and full of flavor. A comforting side dish for family dinners and holidays, they bring the perfect balance of savory, tangy, and hearty goodness.

Get the recipe: Collard Greens

Cornbread - Without Buttermilk

Cornbread in a white baking dish. — Image Credit: Haute and Healthy Living

Need a simple and tasty cornbread recipe without buttermilk? This light and healthy version uses almond flour and Greek yogurt for a moist, tender crumb and comes together in just 30 minutes!

Get the recipe: Cornbread - Without Buttermilk

Southern Black Eyed Peas

Beans on a plate with meat and bread. — Image Credit: Savory Experiments

These Southern black-eyed peas are rich, hearty, and packed with flavor, made even better with collard greens, bacon, and stewed tomatoes. Ready in 45 minutes.

Get the recipe: Southern Black Eyed Peas

Sweet Potato Pie

Pie on plates with forks, topped with whipped topping rosettes. — Image Credit: Savory Experiments

The classic sweet potato pie is always a winner on special occasions - keep it simple by using a store-bought crust and serve this creamy, sweet pie with confidence.

Get the recipe: Sweet Potato Pie

Vegan Fried Chicken

Breaded food in a white bowl. — Image Credit: My Pure Plants

Keeping it vegan but don't want to miss out? Try this vegan 'fried chicken' recipe, with oyster mushrooms standing in for the chicken while still enjoying this epic crispy on-the-outside Southern staple.

Get the recipe: Vegan Fried Chicken

Cajun Sloppy Joes

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

This dish keeps Southern comfort food in the weeknight dinner realm with its 30-minute cooking time. Cajun spices bring flavor and heat to simple ground beef - transforming it into dinner-time magic.

Get the recipe: Cajun Sloppy Joes

Baked Mac and Cheese

Closeup of mac and cheese. — Image Credit: Chenée Today

This rich and creamy Southern baked mac and cheese has a secret ingredient that makes it extra special. It’s a crowd favorite, perfect for Sunday dinner or holiday gatherings, and the ultimate comfort food!

Get the recipe: Baked Mac and Cheese

Meatloaf with Creamy Onion Gravy

Meatloaf on a plate with gravy, rosemary, and mashed potatoes. — Image Credit: Not Entirely Average

This classic dish is tender, flavorful, and easy to prepare ahead of time. Pair it with a hearty side like mashed potatoes, spaetzle, or homemade dumplings to soak up the rich onion gravy. Bonus: this recipe makes two loaves!

Get the recipe: Meatloaf with Creamy Onion Gravy

Peanut Butter Pie

This peanut butter pie is as simple as it is delicious. A creamy peanut butter filling meets a buttery graham crust for a dessert that's always a hit. It’s rich, dreamy, and made for peanut butter lovers.

Get the recipe: Peanut Butter Pie

Chicken Fried Steak

Breaded fried steak topped with gravy on a plate with mashed potatoes, a fork and knife. — Image Credit: The Forked Spoon

This crispy, golden chicken fried steak starts with tender steak, coated in a rich, flavorful batter and fried to perfection. Topped with creamy white gravy, it’s the kind of hearty, comforting meal that works for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Made with simple ingredients, this Southern classic brings restaurant-quality flavor straight to your kitchen.

Get the recipe: Chicken Fried Steak