19 Southern Favorites That Still Bring People Together

Southern food is about more than flavor — it’s about gathering family, friends, and neighbors around the table. These classic recipes remain beloved today, offering comfort and connection with every bite.

Southern Chicken and Dumplins

Southern Chicken and Dumplins
Southern Chicken and Dumplins. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

Savor the heartwarming goodness of this southern staple. Tender chicken and pillowy dumplings swim in rich, velvety broth—creating a bowl of pure comfort that’ll transport you straight to grandma’s kitchen. A beloved classic worth mastering.
Get the Recipe: Southern Chicken and Dumplins

Easy Chicken Pot Pie with Frozen Vegetables

Easy Chicken Pot Pie with Frozen Vegetables
Easy Chicken Pot Pie with Frozen Vegetables. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

Indulge in homemade comfort with this effortless chicken pot pie. Every bite delivers tender chicken, garden-fresh vegetables, and savory gravy beneath a golden, flaky crust. It’s the perfect way to transform yesterday’s leftovers into today’s heartwarming family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Pot Pie with Frozen Vegetables

Classic Chicken and Rice Casserole

Classic Chicken and Rice Casserole
Classic Chicken and Rice Casserole. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

This comforting chicken and rice casserole combines tender meat with fluffy grains in a creamy sauce that’s pure comfort. Ready in under an hour, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner solution that even picky eaters will request again and again.
Get the Recipe: Classic Chicken and Rice Casserole

Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti

Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti
Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

This creamy, cheesy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti delivers mouthwatering flavor with minimal effort. The zesty Rotel adds just enough kick to this comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or feeding hungry fans on game day.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti

Easy Chicken Gumbo

Easy Chicken Gumbo
Easy Chicken Gumbo. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

Experience authentic Louisiana flavor in under an hour with this quick chicken gumbo. Loaded with okra and the Holy Trinity of vegetables, this simplified recipe brings all the rich, comforting taste of traditional gumbo to your table without the long wait.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Gumbo

Simple Roast Chicken with Lemon & Herbs

Simple Roast Chicken with Lemon & Herbs
Simple Roast Chicken with Lemon & Herbs. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

Succulent, golden-brown chicken infused with zesty lemon and fragrant herbs creates a mouthwatering meal that’s impressive yet simple. The perfect balance of crispy skin and juicy meat will make this roasted masterpiece your new favorite dinner staple.
Get the Recipe: Simple Roast Chicken with Lemon & Herbs

Authentic New Orleans Shrimp and Grits

Authentic New Orleans Shrimp and Grits
Authentic New Orleans Shrimp and Grits. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

Savor the bold flavors of the South with this mouthwatering New Orleans classic. Creamy, buttery grits create the perfect backdrop for plump shrimp swimming in a rich, spicy Cajun sauce that’ll transport you straight to Bourbon Street.
Get the Recipe: Authentic New Orleans Shrimp and Grits

Jambalaya Pasta

Jambalaya Pasta
Jambalaya Pasta. Photo credit: Stetted.

Indulge in this mouthwatering jambalaya pasta that combines succulent shrimp and savory sausage with authentic Cajun spices. Perfect for busy weeknights, this flavor-packed dish brings New Orleans right to your dinner table without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Jambalaya Pasta

Cajun Chicken and Sausage Gumbo (Under an Hour)

Cajun Chicken and Sausage Gumbo (Under an Hour)
Cajun Chicken and Sausage Gumbo (Under an Hour). Photo credit: Butter and Baggage.

This soulful Southern classic combines tender chicken and smoky sausage in a deep, flavorful roux. Slow-simmered with Cajun spices, this comforting gumbo delivers authentic Louisiana warmth with every spoonful. Perfect over rice for family gatherings or cozy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Chicken and Sausage Gumbo (Under an Hour)

Popeyes Red Beans and Rice

Popeyes Red Beans and Rice
Popeyes Red Beans and Rice. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

Experience creamy red beans cooked with authentic Cajun spices and served over tender rice. Our version elevates the classic dish with real ham hock that infuses a rich, smoky flavor throughout. This comforting, soul-warming meal tastes even better than the original.
Get the Recipe: Popeyes Red Beans and Rice

Spicy Collard Greens and Rice

Spicy Collard Greens and Rice
Spicy Collard Greens and Rice. Photo credit: Running To The Kitchen.

Zesty collard greens simmered to perfection with a hint of spice, brightened with fresh lemon and served alongside hearty brown rice. This satisfying side dish complements any protein for a quick, nutritious meal that’s full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Collard Greens and Rice

Crock Pot Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Crock Pot Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Crock Pot Pulled Pork Sandwiches. Photo credit: The Creative Bite.

This mouthwatering slow cooker pulled pork practically makes itself! Fork-tender meat simmers in savory spices until it’s ready for perfect sandwiches. Ideal for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings when you need a crowd-pleasing meal without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Crockpot Collard Greens

Crockpot Collard Greens
Crockpot Collard Greens. Photo credit: Stetted.

Experience the comfort of the South with these effortless crockpot collard greens. Slowly simmered with smoky ham hock until perfectly tender, they deliver authentic flavor without the fuss. A classic side dish that brings warmth to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Collard Greens

Betty Crocker Classic Deviled Eggs

Betty Crocker Classic Deviled Eggs
Betty Crocker Classic Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

Betty Crocker’s classic deviled eggs are a timeless crowd-pleaser that combines creamy yolks with simple seasonings for an irresistible bite. Perfect for Easter, potlucks, or elegant appetizers, these delicious treats disappear quickly from any table!
Get the Recipe: Betty Crocker Classic Deviled Eggs

Crispy Southern Fried Okra

Crispy Southern Fried Okra
Crispy Southern Fried Okra. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

Discover the secrets to making irresistibly crispy Southern fried okra that will transport you straight to grandma’s kitchen. Our foolproof method ensures each piece has that perfect crunch outside while keeping the okra tender inside.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Southern Fried Okra

Sweetie Pie’s Mac and Cheese

Sweetie Pie’s Mac and Cheese
Sweetie Pie’s Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with Sweetie Pie’s legendary mac and cheese. Every velvety bite delivers the perfect harmony of five distinct cheeses, creating a decadently creamy texture that will leave you craving more of this soul-warming classic.
Get the Recipe: Sweetie Pie’s Mac and Cheese

Masters Tomato Pie Copycat Recipe

Masters Tomato Pie Copycat Recipe
Masters Tomato Pie Copycat Recipe. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

Experience the iconic Augusta flavor at home with these mini Masters-inspired tomato pies. Creamy pimento cheese and rich tomato basil marinara nestle inside buttery, golden puff pastry for a delicious taste of golf’s most prestigious tournament.
Get the Recipe: Masters Tomato Pie Copycat Recipe

Luby’s Creamy Grits

Luby's Creamy Grits
Luby’s Creamy Grits. Photo credit: CopyKat Recipes.

Transport yourself to the South with Luby’s iconic grits, made extra creamy with whole milk. Our simple recipe delivers that perfect silky texture and rich flavor you crave. Whether for breakfast or alongside dinner, these velvety grits bring comfort food perfection to your table anytime.
Get the Recipe: Luby’s Creamy Grits

Brunswick Stew

Brunswick Stew
Brunswick Stew. Photo credit: The Kitchen Magpie.

Transform leftover pulled pork and chicken into a hearty Brunswick stew that’s bursting with flavor. Using rotisserie chicken adds depth to this comforting classic. It’s the perfect way to repurpose leftovers into a delicious meal your family will love.
Get the Recipe: Brunswick Stew

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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