![Ben Mim's Perfect Cornbread Recipe](https://cdn.statically.io/img/www.southernliving.com/thmb/9DboKwud_MAbafaPkbRc9r_vh3U=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2311801_wtcns_09_0_0_0_2_1_0-1-d33b83d3d7b9445580dc493e0e70a99e.jpg)
There are some dishes that every Southerner should know how to make. From cheese straws and biscuits to sweet tea and peach cobbler, these recipes are staples on our dinner tables. They're beloved classics that have been passed down through the generations. We learned these recipes from our mothers and grandmothers—just like they did.
If any of these dishes aren't already in your repertoire, bring out the blank recipe cards. There's nothing like mastering a new dish, trying it out on family and friends, and tweaking the recipe until you know it's finally perfect. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these classic Southern dishes are bound to have a special place on the table and in your heart.
Old-School Squash Casserole
![squash casserole on a plate with a casserole dish behind it](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/lITL5ou5xXgPfR2KaZ8iL1EZs8A=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/20220406_SL_Old-School-Squash-Casserole_Beauty_1636_1x1-cad8efa795954ecb95f5f153f4f7b0c3.jpg)
Squash casserole is a staple dish found at meat-and-three diners and at church covered-dish suppers. With its creamy sauce and cracker topping, we can see why.
Fried Green Tomatoes
![Fried Green Tomatoes](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/pVPrq-6TwotO75vFBaKaRAG8g70=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/fo_ea7a826cce7dfb39_spcms_0_0_0_1_0-2000-6915b4338fe6489c9a1347ac250920c4.jpg)
This hyper-Southern dish is so popular that there have been books and films dedicated to it. Tangy tomatoes and a crisp cornmeal coating make an irresistible pair.
Our Favorite Buttermilk Biscuit
![Our Favorite Buttermilk Biscuit on a plate with jam and butter](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/N5K7cVhQth9QGGnJBBdSMmaFUkI=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/OurFavoriteButtermilkBuscuit-1X1-0211_preview-eca948f908ca4cfd886120b3c2182fcd.jpg)
When in doubt, whip up a batch of classic buttermilk biscuits. They're perfect perched on the edge of your dinner plate or served for dessert alongside a warm cobbler or a scoop of jam.
Classic Sweet Tea
![Classic Sweet Tea](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/0fsEUJlYlzm_l_LX-7KyDxUxtFE=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/classic-sweet-tea-sl-45fdb4488e8e475ebc69ed425661347b.jpg)
If you arrive for a Southern-style meal, a glass of sweet tea is sure to be on offer. This recipe features strong tea and sweetness that's not overpowering.
Classic Deviled Eggs
![basic deviled eggs](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/SI0-Zh1Md7cLDjeUUcRw0R8d3-M=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/fodeeg031034344_1_0_0-2000-4b36a1f1bbe14cd781036f20aac3def7.jpeg)
Every Southerner should have a deviled eggs recipe. Add your own flourishes, or borrow one of our recipes and make it your own. Any backyard barbecue, shower, or luncheon should have plenty of deviled eggs on the menu.
Basic Pimiento Cheese
![Basic Pimiento Cheese](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/OmzGrtgsKiGJbcWCFrNy3KkOXe8=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2548801_south0494_brighter_0_0_1_1_0_0_1_0_0_0_0_2_0_0-a4c27382546040caa0d153173568c3e0.jpg)
No matter the day or occasion, pimiento cheese is an easy choice. Serve it as a dip, a spread, or between two slices of bread.
Tomato Tea Sandwiches
![Tomato Tea Sandwiches](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/ApTSLRdWK76bj0_WWnpAcxba8FI=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/tomato_tea_sandwiches_2499901_09_0_0_0_1_0_0_0-539201ca90224b28a359599e6c6b4f82.jpg)
You just can't have an elegant Southern luncheon or shower without an array of dainty tea sandwiches. This tomato sandwich is dressed with an herbed sauce, and red onion adds crunch.
Ben Mims' Perfect Cornbread
![Ben Mim's Perfect Cornbread Recipe](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/9DboKwud_MAbafaPkbRc9r_vh3U=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2311801_wtcns_09_0_0_0_2_1_0-1-d33b83d3d7b9445580dc493e0e70a99e.jpg)
The best way to make classic Southern cornbread? In a skillet—with browned butter. Hands down.
Old-Fashioned Banana Pudding
![a square dish of banana pudding with baked meringue](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/RlQa_AsbK41KLo62-XjBedqWYhI=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Banana_Pudding_023-f9b4b750d5cf4064abe8d8391436607b.jpg)
You can never have too many servings of this delicious dessert. It's just indulgent enough.
Southern Shrimp and Grits
![Gulf Coast Shrimp and Grits](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/AAZuHEhrSOtd3a9BmhlKC7yD2as=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2040603_comfo_0040_0_0_2-2000-44f4ea8dcd614a96a3adee1e731b5a21.jpg)
You don't have to be on the Gulf Coast to enjoy shrimp and grits—but it sure helps. Smoked Andouille, Tabasco, and mushrooms ramp up the flavor of this creamy dinner.
Mama's Fried Chicken
![Mama's Fried Chicken](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/VdQIsvWaMGF0t9w_plZhv9ysqc4=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/slhcb_04_fry_170_0_0-2000-9a98c3caad2143ab83400d385e219285.jpg)
Who knows fried chicken better than a Southern mama? We rest our case. Now you'll know the secret to the best fried chicken too.
Mint Julep
![Mint Julep Garden Party](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/BQlzuodhfkWrILt8xcpszF3wK-g=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/CROP_2598601_derby_5935_0-2000-de7e62a7d5f7456c86e6ad80612844f8.jpg)
Mint Juleps aren't just for the Derby. They're a refreshing cocktail choice for any and all hot summer days down South.
Fresh Peach Cobbler
![Fresh Peach Cobbler](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/6FmewkH0lFn3_vdU6V7a0DwJFfw=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/FreshPeachCobbler_Beauty_square-68b04a6fc38141358309cd04fa24fc59.jpg)
Once peaches come into season in the summertime, you know that peach cobbler is soon to follow. This version is easy—and tasty.
Double-Crust Chicken Pot Pies
![Double-Crust Chicken Pot Pies](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/usX7EPVF8rSiO_f3OXqyIBZHZ24=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/january-2017-recipes-2504001_winte_26946_0-58e86ae8459a4ab5a1b0d433ce02c24c.jpg)
When a meal begins with a scoop of chicken pot pie—flaky on top and steaming inside—you know it's going to be one for the books.
Caramel Cake
![Caramel Cake](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/5mkuOnGZz17aiC4YHWIpf2rdyHY=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/caramel-cake_0_0_0_1-3c94aeec89244ffdb2176390cbb70f07.jpg)
Every Southern baker needs an old-fashioned cake recipe for those occasions when they want to impress. This one does the trick.
Chicken and Dumplings
![Chicken and Dumplings](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/klj1zDaNXHwDWCj1F6Mwk2oqspY=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/winter-soups-soups-and-stews-chicken-and-dumplings-1-8e237ae414aa441a99ddff04ff05abcc.jpg)
Arguably the ultimate comfort food, this meal is a perennial cold-weather favorite. This recipe features fluffy homemade dumplings, just like home.
Hummingbird Cake
![Hummingbird Cake on a green cake stand](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/OyPqNEXZbXUsR3-Q2s84sgOPzAA=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/HummingBirdCake_Beauty_493_square-2000-2004d92ec41a4d419db78106e6c2347f.jpg)
No Southern celebration is complete without a slice of heavenly Hummingbird Cake. With moist, fruit-studded cake layers and cream cheese frosting, it's no wonder it's our most popular cake.
Shrimp and Okra Gumbo
![Shrimp and Okra Gumbo](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/6SHjpvfDW1aF7RE_f3ja6NHTEMM=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/winter-soups-soups-and-stews-utot_3_coastal_134_0_0_0_0_0-2000-6345320d82c342c6909d2a601e85bf64.jpg)
Every Southerner should have a good gumbo recipe at their fingertips. You know, just in case.
Million Dollar Pound Cake
![Million Dollar Pound Cake](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/AlIe_Ep1X8UQJ_4CN0bTwHAETn4=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/474428695_6044108689001_6044064199001-vs-5078dd31b590460bb4091aec93600a29.jpg)
No one says no to pound cake. This recipe is so popular, it's practically an heirloom.
Crispy Andouille Hush Puppies
![Crispy Andouille Hush Puppies](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/jOlW1CSw_Sxo4au-vh489e1ag6I=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/snacks-2365801_fairh10430_0-2000-64b0d1854f434e6e9d389cdaaf3b20d2.jpg)
If you have seafood on the table, you need a few hush puppies, too. Make a double batch of this recipe because they'll disappear quickly.
Tee's Corn Pudding
![50 Best Thanksgiving Tee's Corn Pudding](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/iMwrs1wAHcqfJW9FHJRQfHvJFyE=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/fo_30b6728a59f2dd13_spcms_4-064a290c527748feb0577935a059790d.jpg)
It's not just for Thanksgiving. Corn pudding is welcome at any special occasion. Bonus, this dish doesn't take a lot of time.
Southern-Style Collard Greens
![Southern-Style Collard Greens in a white bowl with a bowl of cornbread beside it](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/x3aR6XTtLj6nrxWed3IsvbmB-hA=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/20220406_SL_Southern-Style-Collard-Greens_Beauty_1605_1x1-842805c347e64d5dad3adb54af057950.jpg)
When the weather turns cool, we know that the collards are soon to follow. They cook low and slow, but with minimal hands-on time, a pot of these is a must.
Heavenly Key Lime Pie
![Heavenly Key Lime Pie](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/1Sb0YGrXcgsckF6VpARaVhgA5wI=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/fo_7ec7abeb592b4497_spcms_1_0-2000-30a4f77d28c34cb399c23d2e86b2df42.jpg)
Take a trip to breezy Key West with one bite of this classic Southern pie. This recipe perfectly balances the tart Key lime flavor with the sweet, creamy components.
Sausage Gravy and Biscuits
![Sausage Gravy and Biscuits](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/40ew6EbxpwroYewkwqbXiQDmUE4=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Sausage20Gravy20and20Biscuits-2000-419208c0e7fc442a95c484caf760404c.jpg)
Two of our favorite things combine to create this comfort breakfast food. There's really no limit on when you can serve this. It's a winner for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
Utterly Deadly Southern Pecan Pie
![Utterly Deadly Southern Pecan Pie](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/T0Ubtv-QaQWDAm0itIAx1gCOIN4=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2008001_pecan049_0_0-2000-8b4d57f5eeb94e2aac77e2c503053e71.jpg)
It'd be a shame to make it through autumn without running into a pecan pie or two. This skillet version is a "deadly" delicious variation.
Pan-Fried Okra with Cornmeal
![Pan-Fried Okra with Cornmeal Recipe](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/xDMLTrjRM5uK61ySKKKxu0I-8eE=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/pan-fried_okra_with_cornmeal_2503301_virgi_031_0_0_0-98b043f1063b45a18f73fe6cbab91102.jpg)
How do you make your okra? Whether grilled, fried, or pickled, it is a classic of the highest order.
Spicy Cheddar Cheese Straws
![Mamau’s Cheese Straws](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/wJJ2GtG4C37M9A1a1U7l5rOUb1s=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/meme-a2b298877b8842b6907bffb398b6c0f9.png)
These are the quickest thing to disappear in the house, at all times. Luckily, they're easy to make.
Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese
![Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe in a dark casserole pan](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/I8epc-2Tk5NQz7KZrD9yfjVoa70=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/20220408_SL_ClassicBakedMacaroniandCheese_Beauty_1879_1x1-7db32267b6c0441d86fd07965b120a2d.jpg)
This dish goes from weeknight dinner to the holiday table, and that's true versatility. And it's ready to go in three steps.
Shout Hallelujah Potato Salad
![Shout Hallelujah Potato Salad](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/VweUyHDqb6FF_llI_md93kUNw7I=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2202101_dinne00359_1_0_0_0-2000-5cedd87536034bc6885e5a991b48907a.jpg)
When barbecue is on the grill, potato salad needs to be on the table. It's practically a commandment.
Carolina Pulled Pork Sandwiches
![Carolina Pulled Pork Sandwiches](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/Hhc3ZZP8Nq11uULXVkCxU-BWxLs=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/carolinapulledporksandwiches-s-2000-f799df33d98f4ef78c4e7208fe6d2631.jpg)
While every Southerner does barbecue differently, this is a great starter recipe for anyone new to the dish. Thanks to the slow cooker, you'll have tender pulled pork every time.
Best Cornbread Dressing
![Best Cornbread Dressing](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/yUfo_OWQecgzHNbfU0C4QGoKaJo=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2648801_Opener_101_Best-Cornbread-Dressing-2000-94f355bbb3474ae88cd3c67cce153514.jpg)
Around the holidays, leftover cornbread comes in handy when it comes time to make the dressing. Add in nuts, cheese, bacon, sausage, or apples to create different variations of this timeless dish.
Make-Ahead Sweet Potato Casserole
![Make-Ahead Sweet Potato Casserole](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/WVYtL6cLf4w06LF-Z3kcSGgLWiw=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/0981_192910_DuPree_SL_sweet20potato20Casserole_19016_0-2000-73a4a5c3d1b44d9c8aa8584c294ce0bb.jpg)
Southern sweet potato casserole just isn’t complete without a sweet topping, and this one made with oats and brown sugar fits the bill. You can make the casserole up to four days in advance.
Fresh Corn Spoonbread
![Fresh Corn Spoonbread](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/5ESJ_BEd6theTTp0xmHJQni6a58=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/fresh-corn-spoonbread-f263d0c4c9164a3e9ccdd107bac6e411-092515ed04514311824d201564a85a33.jpg)
Iain Bagwell; Styling: Heather Chadduck
While cornbread is the go-to for many Southern meals, this spoonbread should hold equal ranking. Lighter and moister than your favorite corn muffins, this can be served in individual ramekins.
Perfect Pot of Grits
![Perfect Pot of Grits](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/Vy9LCJY1iMz54VC4DiwlnHRyCHo=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/perfect-pot-grits-sl-x-ba39c2959cc64339a6753cb1bd31eebc.jpg)
There’s just no getting around it: Every Southerner should master making the perfect pot of grits. This recipe turns a few ingredients into Southern comfort.
Creole Tomato Sandwich
![Southern Living Creole Tomato Sandwich sliced and ready to serve](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/c0j8lkTUAmPAIS9EssOd1JhIWr4=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/27323_WT_tomwich_0325_preview-2f6c128b6fd74e0199bdc1c1ba151c75.jpg)
Victor Protasio, Food Stylist: Ruth Blackburn, Prop Stylist: Shell Royster
Tomato sandwiches are essentially Southern. This recipe uses Creole tomatoes grown in Louisiana, but substitute another red summer tomato from your farmers’ market if these aren’t in your area. The homemade mayonnaise is a must.
Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwiches
![Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwiches](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/olEQX7cJcPmeIJx0RXHsePNa0yM=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/heirloom_03_101_0-e6555bd20f854e07b4cf12141b523d2a.jpg)
This open-faced sandwich was created in Kentucky in the 1920s, and it’s been a staple ever since. The creamy Mornay sauce, bacon slices, and juicy tomato are essential turkey toppings.
Texas Sheet Cake with Fudge Icing
![Texas Sheet Cake With Fudge Icing](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/M5DieqmzN6kyz3Gkj8c_BWVQFlE=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/southern-living-TexasSheetCakewithFudgeIcing-TK-0040_preview-f5168f6f6a9d4e4e81f89201c55666f9.jpg)
Victor Protasio, Food Stylist: Karen Rankin, Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen
Popular at funerals and almost any other event, this fudgy cake may be big, but it doesn’t last long. Pour the warm icing on the still-warm cake for this signature dessert.
Hello Dolly Bars
![Hello Dolly Bars](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/8X32INtUkEUpPpf8CdbM4SD1E4Q=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/hello-dolly-bars-50400000111520-xl_0_0_0-82d3cf1359374910929776339f613144.jpg)
With all the goodness layered in these sweet bars, it’s no wonder they’re a classic. Let cool before cutting into bars.
Alabama White BBQ Sauce
![Alabama White BBQ Sauce](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/hzmCyJL-qJ7Mv6fGIjfksRJrQbY=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/SL_011223_00177_preview-e2a3608b094a4fffb90e752f0cee95e5.jpg)
Victor Protasio; Food Stylist: Ruth Blackburn; Prop Stylist: Christine Keely
The South is known for plenty of barbecue, and those in the know reach for this creamy white sauce for topping. Use it on grilled or smoked chicken, or any other meat on your plate.
Praline Key Lime Pie
![Praline Key Lime Pie](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/dykPA2pTbxDwpfEKcoJM3yDH8y0=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/praline-key-lime-pie-sl-x-bf4fe6bbb18c467493e206073ecbee60.jpg)
A true Southern treat, this pie delivers beloved Key lime in a graham cracker-pecan crust. An extra layer of pecans drizzled with caramel makes this worthy of special dinners.
Chicken-and-Brisket Brunswick Stew
![Chicken-and-Brisket Brunswick Stew](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/ci-o5zcDdjwQlaB0ZvHwiM0Cw1A=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/stew-213e3ae5b5a44e5c8e38d6eb49eebf7a.jpg)
Every Southern home has its own version of this classic recipe. Brimming with shredded chicken, smoky barbecued beef brisket, and vegetables, this stew is the warm bowl of comfort you crave.
Chicken-Fried Steak with Cream Gravy
![Southern Living Chicken Fried Steak with Cream Gravy on a plate to serve with broccoli](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/z_e__EkeTHi5YjO8E6be6dnlfFQ=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/27357_ChicFrSteak_363-9e12fa46fc8e48f1993b58df69f8f56d.jpg)
Victor Protasio, Food Stylist: Ruth Blackburn, Prop Stylist: Christine Keely
A true Southern delicacy, thin cube steaks are coated like traditional fried chicken. And the results are so good. Be sure to reserve your drippings to make the creamy white gravy to ladle over the steaks before serving.
Kentucky Slow-Cooker Burgoo
![Kentucky Slow-Cooker Burgoo](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/tCa3zJjnOu2a2doDaPGJ51ErPL4=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2628701_Stews_burgoo_184-2000-ab67901ab6164b6ea9f8c8bc89978ae6.jpg)
This classic stew has been showing up on Southern tables since the 1800s. Reach for this recipe when you need to feed a crowd.
Classic Hoppin' John
![Southern Living Classic Hoppin John in a bowl to serve with hot sauce on the side](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/2lEQCFT1-FmYLIe96rr6vtNcMik=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Classic_Hoppin_John_4x3_0224-fe0dc8a04edf497ebfb6ea1672b6b96e.jpg)
Stacy K. Allen, Food Stylist: Ruth Blackburn, Prop Stylist: Christina Daley
No New Year's celebration is complete without a serving of black-eyed peas, and this traditional dish makes them a meal. Sides of collard greens and cornbread are a must.
Red-Eye Gravy
![Red-Eye Gravy with Ham](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/Bzbmn35XieGuX0QwvxNS9zhEBJk=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2435401_Gravy_0154-2000-ea5f7e166a5f4450bba95db0d3ea1c96.jpg)
Breakfast probably wasn’t complete at your grandparents’ house without some form of gravy. Popular red-eye gravy uses only pan drippings from country ham and strong coffee. Top biscuits, grits, or anything else on your breakfast plate.