25 Southern Potluck Staples You Can Whip Up Tonight

Need a dish for church supper, a neighborhood cook-out, or tomorrow’s office lunch? This hand-picked lineup pulls together weeknight-fast yet tastes like it simmered all Sunday. Think comfort casseroles, crunchy salads, scoopable dips, and sweet bites that all travel like champs. Grab a foil pan, set the oven timer, and watch these Southern staples disappear at the potluck.

Classic Chicken and Rice Casserole

Classic Chicken and Rice Casserole
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

This cozy casserole combines tender chicken and fluffy rice in a creamy sauce for the ultimate comfort food experience. Simple to prepare and guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters on busy weeknights.

Get the recipe -> Classic Chicken and Rice Casserole

Poppy Seed Chicken

Poppy Seed Chicken
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Succulent chicken nestled in a rich poppy seed sauce, crowned with crispy Ritz crackers. This velvety dish transforms everyday ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal that’s perfect for special occasions yet simple enough for weeknight dinners.

Get the recipe -> Poppy Seed Chicken

Bacon-Infused Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Bacon-Infused Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Savor our rich and creamy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole, a comforting blend of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and gooey cheese topped with crispy bacon. This family-favorite dish comes together quickly for a satisfying weeknight dinner solution.

Get the recipe -> Bacon-Infused Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

Easy Tamale Pie Casserole

Easy Tamale Pie Casserole
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Savor the comfort of this quick Mexican-inspired Tamale Casserole that brings together seasoned ground beef, sautéed onions, and juicy tomatoes topped with a golden cornbread crust. It’s a family-friendly dinner that delivers authentic flavors without the fuss.

Get the recipe -> Easy Tamale Pie Casserole

Homemade Chicken Pot Pie

Homemade Chicken Pot Pie
Image Credit: Walking On Sunshine Recipes

Indulge in individual chicken pot pies with flaky crusts and creamy filling. These comforting personal portions are easily customizable with seasonal vegetables or herbs. Transform leftover turkey into a delicious variation of this classic comfort food that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner.

Get the recipe -> Homemade Chicken Pot Pie

Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Cajun Shrimp Pasta
Image Credit: xoxoBella

Dive into this Cajun shrimp pasta that strikes the perfect balance of creaminess and heat. Its robust flavors make it an ideal weeknight meal that feels special without the fuss. Simply add a crisp side salad to complete this satisfying dinner.

Get the recipe -> Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Set-and-forget slow cooker pulled pork: A Southern classic made easy

Set-and-forget slow cooker pulled pork: A Southern classic made easy
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Tender, juicy slow cooker pulled pork simmers to perfection with minimal effort. This versatile BBQ classic works beautifully in sandwiches, tacos, or on its own. Our foolproof recipe delivers restaurant-quality results right in your Crockpot.

Get the recipe -> Southern Pulled Pork

Smoked Spare Ribs

Smoked Spare Ribs
Image Credit: Or Whatever You Do

Tender, smoky spare ribs cooked low and slow, enhanced with a special homemade rub and apple cider basting technique. The finishing touch of BBQ sauce creates an irresistible sticky-sweet crust that perfectly complements the succulent meat.

Get the recipe -> Smoked Spare Ribs

Authentic New Orleans Shrimp and Grits

Authentic New Orleans Shrimp and Grits
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Dive into the rich flavors of the South with this classic Cajun comfort food. Creamy, cheesy grits create the perfect base for succulent shrimp simmered in a savory, spice-infused sauce that captures the essence of New Orleans cuisine.

Get the recipe -> Authentic New Orleans Shrimp and Grits

King Ranch Casserole

King Ranch Casserole
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this King Ranch Casserole. Tender shredded chicken and soft corn tortillas are enveloped in a rich, spicy cheese sauce that will transport your taste buds straight to Texas. Every bite delivers creamy, zesty perfection!

Get the recipe -> King Ranch Casserole

Creamy Macaroni Salad Recipe

Creamy Macaroni Salad Recipe
Image Credit: Or Whatever You Do

This crowd-pleasing creamy macaroni salad combines al dente pasta with crisp vegetables in a tangy dressing. The perfect make-ahead side dish for summer gatherings, it travels well and pairs beautifully with grilled favorites.

Get the recipe -> Creamy Macaroni Salad Recipe

Broccoli Salad

Broccoli Salad
Image Credit: Or Whatever You Do

This vibrant broccoli salad blends crisp florets with savory companions, creating a refreshing side that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Perfect for health-conscious food lovers who don’t want to sacrifice flavor for wellness.

Get the recipe -> Broccoli Salad

Easy Homemade Coleslaw From Scratch

Easy Homemade Coleslaw From Scratch
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Discover the joy of homemade coleslaw with our foolproof recipe. This classic side dish combines crisp vegetables with a creamy dressing for the perfect balance of crunch and creaminess. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s an effortless addition to any meal.

Get the recipe -> Easy Homemade Coleslaw From Scratch

Texas Cowboy Caviar Dip

Texas Cowboy Caviar Dip
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Discover the vibrant Texas cowboy caviar dip, a refreshing summer appetizer that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Brimming with colorful ingredients and bold flavors, this crowd-pleasing favorite will elevate your next barbecue or gathering.

Get the recipe -> Texas Cowboy Caviar Dip

Deviled Eggs Recipe

Deviled Eggs Recipe
Image Credit: Or Whatever You Do

These creamy deviled eggs are the perfect crowd-pleaser for any gathering. With a rich, tangy filling that’s both simple to make and utterly delicious, this classic appetizer never fails to disappear from the serving tray within minutes.

Get the recipe -> Deviled Eggs Recipe

Pimento Cheese

Pimento Cheese
Image Credit: Happy Snackcidents

Savor the rich, creamy goodness of this Southern staple. Our homemade pimento cheese blends sharp flavors and smooth textures for the perfect sandwich spread or cracker topping. Quick to prepare, it’s comfort food that brings a taste of the South to your table.

Get the recipe -> Pimento Cheese

Hot Onion Dip

Hot Onion Dip
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

This cheesy Hot Onion Dip combines creamy mayo, melted Swiss cheese, and smooth cream cheese for an irresistible appetizer. The savory flavors blend perfectly when baked until golden and bubbly, making it the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any gathering.

Get the recipe -> Hot Onion Dip

Ina Garten French Onion Dip

Ina Garten French Onion Dip
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Elevate your appetizer game with Ina Garten’s luxurious French onion dip. Sweet caramelized onions blend perfectly with creamy cheese for a sophisticated twist on a classic favorite that will impress guests at your next gathering.

Get the recipe -> Ina Garten French Onion Dip

Cheddars Honey Butter Croissants

Cheddars Honey Butter Croissants
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

These warm, flaky croissants are brushed with a sweet honey butter glaze that perfectly complements the buttery layers. A spot-on copycat of Cheddar’s famous rolls, they’re irresistibly soft inside with a delicate golden crust that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Get the recipe -> Cheddars Honey Butter Croissants

Homemade Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits

Homemade Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Indulge in warm, cheesy goodness without leaving home. These simple copycat Cheddar Bay Biscuits capture the irresistible flavor of Red Lobster’s famous side, bringing that special restaurant experience straight to your dinner table.

Get the recipe -> Homemade Red Lobster Cheddar Bay Biscuits

Easy Buttermilk Pie

Easy Buttermilk Pie
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Experience the rich, creamy delight of this classic southern treat. With its smooth custard filling and buttery crust, this traditional dessert brings comfort in every bite. Simple ingredients combine for a wonderfully nostalgic taste that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Get the recipe -> Easy Buttermilk Pie

Banana Pudding Poke Cake

Banana Pudding Poke Cake
Image Credit: Baking Beauty

Indulge in a slice of heaven with this irresistibly moist banana pudding poke cake. Topped with creamy Cool Whip, fresh bananas, and crunchy vanilla wafers, it transforms the classic dessert into a delightful cake experience everyone will love.

Get the recipe -> Banana Pudding Poke Cake

Strawberry Dump Cake

Strawberry Dump Cake
Image Credit: Baking Beauty

This irresistible strawberry dump cake combines juicy berries, moist cake and crunchy streusel for a truly exceptional dessert. The best part? It’s incredibly easy—just dump the ingredients and bake for a delicious treat that’s sure to impress.

Get the recipe -> Strawberry Dump Cake

Easy Blackberry Cobbler with Pie Filling

Easy Blackberry Cobbler with Pie Filling
Image Credit: CopyKat Recipes

Experience the sweet joy of this easy Blackberry Cobbler! Fresh, bubbling blackberry filling meets a golden, buttery crust for a homemade dessert that tastes like summer sunshine. Perfect with vanilla ice cream for an irresistible treat anyone can make.

Get the recipe -> Easy Blackberry Cobbler with Pie Filling

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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