17 Classic Southern Potluck Recipes to Feed a Hungry Crowd

When it comes to potlucks in the South, it’s not just about showing up—it’s about showing up with something unforgettable. These 17 tried-and-true Southern dishes are crowd favorites, passed down through generations, and perfect for sharing. Whether you’re headed to a church gathering, a backyard get-together, or a family reunion, these comforting casseroles, creamy salads, and decadent desserts will disappear quickly. Bring a little Southern charm to the table with these foolproof recipes.

Sweetie Pie’s Mac and Cheese

Sweetie Pie’s Mac and Cheese
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Dive into the ultimate comfort food with Sweetie Pie’s legendary mac and cheese. This indulgent dish boasts an irresistibly creamy texture and rich flavor profile, featuring a harmonious blend of five distinctive cheeses that will satisfy your deepest comfort food cravings.

Get the recipe -> Sweetie Pie’s Mac and Cheese

Loaded Bacon Ranch Deviled Eggs

Loaded Bacon Ranch Deviled Eggs
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Indulge in these irresistible deviled eggs featuring a creamy ranch filling topped with melted cheddar and crispy bacon bits. They’re not just delicious—they’re also low-carb, making them the perfect crowd-pleasing appetizer for your next gathering.

Get the recipe -> Loaded Bacon Ranch Deviled Eggs

Pimento Cheese

Pimento Cheese
Image Credit: Happy Snackcidents

Indulge in the creamy comfort of this Southern favorite. Our homemade pimento cheese blends perfectly with crackers or spread between bread for a satisfying sandwich. Simple to prepare, it’s the perfect addition to any gathering or a delicious treat just for you.

Get the recipe -> Pimento Cheese

Easy Broccoli Salad Recipe

Easy Broccoli Salad Recipe
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

This vibrant broccoli salad combines crispy bacon, rich cheese, and crunchy almonds with a sweet dressing that ties everything together. Make it ahead for your next gathering—it’s the perfect crowd-pleasing side dish that everyone will love.

Get the recipe -> Easy Broccoli Salad Recipe

Classic Overnight Seven Layer Salad

Classic Overnight Seven Layer Salad
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Elevate your next gathering with this stunning layered salad that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Fresh, crisp vegetables and a velvety dressing create the perfect make-ahead dish that will impress guests while saving you precious time in the kitchen.

Get the recipe -> Classic Overnight Seven-Layer Salad

Easy BBQ Baked Beans

Easy BBQ Baked Beans
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

These savory BBQ Baked Beans are loaded with bacon and perfectly sweet-tangy flavor. Ready in minutes using canned beans, they’re the ultimate crowd-pleasing side dish for any barbecue or family dinner.

Get the recipe -> Easy BBQ Baked Beans

Easy Pickled Green Tomatoes

Easy Pickled Green Tomatoes
Image Credit: Foodie and Wine

These pickled green tomatoes deliver a tangy, salty punch that elevates any meal. Their distinctive crunch and vibrant flavor transform ordinary dishes into culinary adventures. A perfect balance of acidity and freshness that keeps you coming back for more.

Get the recipe -> Easy Pickled Green Tomatoes

Ham and Pickle Roll Ups

Ham and Pickle Roll Ups
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Indulge in these simple yet delicious ham and pickle roll ups, perfect for your next gathering. With just three ingredients, you’ll create a savory, creamy appetizer that combines the saltiness of ham with tangy pickles and smooth cream cheese—a crowd-pleaser ready in minutes!

Get the recipe -> Ham and Pickle Roll-Ups

Easy Buttermilk Pie

Easy Buttermilk Pie
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Indulge in the rich tradition of southern baking with this creamy, tangy buttermilk pie. A velvety custard filling nestled in a flaky crust makes this classic dessert both comforting and elegant—perfect for Sunday suppers or holiday gatherings.

Get the recipe -> Easy Buttermilk Pie

Chocolate Chess Pie

Chocolate Chess Pie
Image Credit: Stetted

Indulge in this old-fashioned Southern classic that delivers rich, intense chocolate flavor in every bite. Velvety smooth with that signature chess pie texture, it’s an effortless yet impressive dessert perfect for holidays, celebrations, or simply satisfying chocolate cravings.

Get the recipe -> Chocolate Chess Pie

Mouthwatering Pulled Pork Sliders

Mouthwatering Pulled Pork Sliders
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Indulge in our mouthwatering BBQ pulled pork, tender and perfectly sauced, tucked into pillowy Hawaiian rolls. These irresistible mini sandwiches bring bold flavors to any gathering. The ultimate crowd-pleaser for your next party or family dinner.

Get the recipe -> Mouthwatering Pulled Pork Sliders

The Best Baked Ham (Rum, Pineapple, Brown Sugar Glaze)

The Best Baked Ham (Rum, Pineapple, Brown Sugar Glaze)
Image Credit: Blackberry Babe

Elevate yourSummer potluck with this delectable baked ham. The rum, pineapple and brown sugar glaze creates a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors that will impress your guests while requiring minimal effort in the kitchen.

Get the recipe -> The Best Baked Ham

Banana Pudding

Homemade Banana Pudding
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

This dreamy no-bake treat combines sweet bananas with a tangy sour cream pudding for an unforgettable twist on a classic favorite. The layers of vanilla wafers, fresh fruit and velvety pudding create a dessert that’s refreshingly simple yet impressively delicious.

Get the recipe -> Homemade Banana Pudding

Braised Collard Greens

Braised Collard Greens
Image Credit: Or Whatever You Do

These braised collard greens elevate a Southern classic with rich, harmonious flavors that pair perfectly with any main course. Our recipe transforms this humble side dish into a memorable addition to your table.

Get the recipe -> Braised Collard Greens

Cracker Barrel Southern Fried Chicken

Cracker Barrel Southern Fried Chicken
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Experience comfort on a plate with our golden-brown chicken, boasting a perfectly seasoned, crispy exterior that gives way to tender, juicy meat with each bite. It’s reminiscent of those beloved Sunday specials that have families lining up at country restaurants nationwide.

Get the recipe -> Cracker Barrel Southern Fried Chicken

Cracker Barrel Dumplings

Cracker Barrel Dumplings
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Indulge in tender, cloud-like dumplings that float in a velvety chicken broth. This homemade version delivers all the nostalgic comfort of Cracker Barrel’s beloved Sunday specialty right to your family table.

Get the recipe -> Cracker Barrel Dumplings

Easy Copycat Cracker Barrel Hamburger Steak Recipe

Easy Copycat Cracker Barrel Hamburger Steak Recipe
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Sink your teeth into juicy ground beef patties topped with sweet caramelized onions and rich brown gravy. This homemade version brings all the down-home comfort of Cracker Barrel’s beloved classic right to your dinner table.

Get the recipe -> Easy Copycat Cracker Barrel Hamburger Steak Recipe

About Stephanie Manley

Stephanie Manley is the creator of CopyKat.com. She has been recreating copycat recipes since 1995. Learn more about Stephanie Manley.

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