17 Classic Southern Sides Grandma Brings to Every Gathering

No Southern gathering is complete without a table full of irresistible side dishes. From creamy casseroles to tangy salads and fluffy breads, these timeless recipes have been passed down through generations and always find a place alongside the main course. Whether it’s a Sunday dinner, a church potluck, or a holiday feast, these sides deliver the kind of soulful, home‑cooked comfort everyone loves. Here are 17 classic Southern sides Grandma never shows up without.

Buttermilk Biscuits

Buttermilk Biscuits
Image Credit: Stetted

Indulge in our flaky, golden buttermilk biscuits that melt in your mouth with every bite. Made from scratch with simple ingredients, these versatile treats elevate any meal from ordinary to extraordinary. Perfect for sopping up gravy or slathered with honey butter!

Get the recipe -> Buttermilk Biscuits

Boston Market Cornbread

Boston Market Cornbread
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Indulge in this irresistibly sweet, cake-like cornbread that perfectly mimics Boston Market’s beloved recipe. Our secret blend of Jiffy and cake mix creates a moist, fluffy texture that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s the ultimate comfort food companion!

Get the recipe -> Boston Market Cornbread

Easy Fluffy Yeast Rolls

Easy Fluffy Yeast Rolls
Image Credit: Blackberry Babe

These soft, buttery yeast rolls bake up irresistibly light and fluffy, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Ready in just minutes, they’re the ultimate homemade comfort food your family will request again and again.

Get the recipe -> Easy Fluffy Yeast Rolls

Loaded Bacon Ranch Deviled Eggs

Loaded Bacon Ranch Deviled Eggs
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

These irresistible deviled eggs elevate the classic appetizer with creamy ranch seasoning, sharp cheddar, and crispy bacon. Perfect for your next gathering, they deliver big flavor while keeping carbs low. A crowd-pleasing snack that disappears fast!

Get the recipe -> Loaded Bacon Ranch Deviled Eggs

Creamy Potato Salad

Creamy Potato Salad
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Indulge in our velvety potato salad that combines tender eggs with crisp vegetables for the perfect side dish. This simple recipe comes together quickly and delivers homemade flavor that puts store-bought versions to shame. Your summer gatherings just got more delicious!

Get the recipe -> Creamy Potato Salad

Creamy Coleslaw Recipe

Creamy Coleslaw Recipe
Image Credit: Or Whatever You Do

This creamy coleslaw delivers the perfect crunch with every bite. It’s the ideal companion for summer BBQs or a refreshing topping that transforms ordinary sandwiches into something special. Simple, versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser!

Get the recipe -> Creamy Coleslaw Recipe

Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad with Sour Cream Dressing

Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad with Sour Cream Dressing
Image Credit: Blackberry Babe

Experience the perfect summer side dish with this creamy cucumber salad. Crisp cucumber slices are enveloped in a velvety dressing, brightened with fresh dill and a splash of vinegar for a refreshing bite that complements any meal.

Get the recipe -> Easy Creamy Cucumber Salad with Sour Cream Dressing

Sweet Pea Salad with Cheddar and Bacon

Sweet Pea Salad with Cheddar and Bacon
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

This vibrant pea salad combines crispy bacon and sharp cheese tossed in a smoky dressing that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s the perfect make-ahead side dish for potlucks, barbecues, and holiday gatherings any time of year.

Get the recipe -> Sweet Pea Salad with Cheddar and Bacon

Sweetie Pie’s Mac and Cheese

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

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with this irresistibly creamy mac and cheese. Sweetie Pie’s legendary recipe blends five distinctive cheeses for a rich, velvety texture that will leave you craving more. Each bite delivers pure, cheesy perfection!

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

Green Bean Casserole

Green Bean Casserole
Image Credit: xoxoBella

This creamy green bean casserole brings comfort and tradition to your holiday table. Tender green beans nestled in velvety sauce, topped with crispy onions—it’s a crowd-pleasing classic that comes together quickly while you focus on the rest of your feast.

Get the recipe -> Green Bean Casserole

Southern Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe

Southern Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

This Southern classic transforms sweet potatoes into a holiday masterpiece with its velvety base and irresistible brown sugar pecan topping. Every bite offers the perfect balance of creamy sweetness and nutty crunch, making it a treasured addition to your Thanksgiving table or special family dinner.

Get the recipe -> Southern Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping Recipe

Southern Squash Casserole with Ritz Cracker Topping

Southern Squash Casserole with Ritz Cracker Topping
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Indulge in this irresistible Southern classic where tender yellow squash meets sharp cheddar and a golden, buttery Ritz cracker crust. Each creamy, comforting bite captures summer’s bounty in a dish that pairs perfectly with any meal.

Get the recipe -> Southern Squash Casserole with Ritz Cracker Topping

Broccoli Rice and Cheese Casserole

Broccoli Rice and Cheese Casserole
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

This creamy broccoli cheese rice casserole is the ultimate weeknight side dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Perfectly cheesy and comforting, it complements any protein for a complete meal the whole family will love.

Get the recipe -> Broccoli Rice and Cheese Casserole

Crockpot Collard Greens

Crockpot Collard Greens
Image Credit: Stetted

Discover the comfort of Southern cooking with these effortless crockpot collard greens. The slow cooker works its magic while ham hock infuses each tender leaf with smoky richness. A hands-off method that delivers authentic flavor without the fuss.

Get the recipe -> Crockpot Collard Greens

Crispy Southern Fried Okra

Crispy Southern Fried Okra
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Discover the secrets to perfectly crispy Southern fried okra with our foolproof recipe. We’ll guide you through selecting fresh okra and creating that ideal cornmeal coating that brings authentic Southern flavor to your table. Click for all our expert tips!

Get the recipe -> Crispy Southern Fried Okra

Southern Green Beans

Southern Green Beans
Image Credit: Stetted

Tender Southern green beans slow-simmered with smoky bacon and sweet onions create a savory side dish that melts in your mouth. This versatile comfort food brings homestyle flavor to holiday tables, summer gatherings, or simple family dinners.

Get the recipe -> Southern Green Beans

Cheesy Corn Pudding

Cheesy Corn Pudding
Image Credit: Walking On Sunshine Recipes

Indulge in this irresistibly rich cornbread casserole that transforms a simple box of Jiffy mix into something extraordinary. Velvety, cheesy, and utterly comforting, it’s the side dish that will have everyone reaching for seconds at your Thanksgiving table.

Get the recipe -> Cheesy Corn Pudding

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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