17 Old Fashioned Southern-Style Eats

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There’s nothing quite like a taste of the South to bring warmth and comfort to your table. This collection of 17 Southern-style recipes is packed with home-cooked charm and classic flavors, from crispy KFC-style fried chicken to creamy homemade mac and cheese, and irresistible apple desserts like Apple Brown Betty. Whether you’re craving hearty casseroles, sweet and tangy BBQ dishes, or timeless treats like Cherry Crumble, these recipes celebrate the heart and soul of Southern cooking. Pull up a chair and get ready to indulge in some down-home goodness!

KFC Fried Chicken Recipe

Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

Craving that iconic KFC crunch at home? This homemade Kentucky-style fried chicken is the leaked Colonel Sanders’ original 11 herbs and spices recipe.

Get The Recipe: KFC Fried Chicken Recipe (the leaked recipe)

Classic Chili Con Carne

Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

This recipe for Classic Chili Con Carne is the perfect dish for a cozy night in with the family, or a casual get-together with friends. Packed with ground beef, kidney beans, and a blend of spices, this chili is sure to warm you up from the inside out!
Get the Recipe: Classic Chili Con Carne

Traditional Homemade Meatloaf

Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

This traditional homemade meatloaf recipe is a comforting classic that’s perfect for family dinners or game day gatherings. The juicy and flavorful meatloaf is topped with a caramelized shiny glaze that takes it to the next level. It’s an easy-to-make dish that everyone will love!
Get the Recipe: Traditional Homemade Meatloaf

Apple Upside Down Cake

Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

Looking for the perfect centerpiece for your holiday table? This Apple Upside Down Cake is a fruity, cinnamon-spiced delight that’s sure to impress. Indulge in this family-friendly treat that’s perfect for Thanksgiving, game day, or any fall gathering.
Get the Recipe: Apple Upside Down Cake

Homemade Creamy Mac and Cheese

Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

This homemade creamy mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food! This one-pot dish is ready in just 30 minutes. It’s a family-friendly favorite that’s perfect as a side dish or a quick and easy lunch.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Creamy Mac and Cheese

Hamburger and Rice

Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

This Hamburger and Rice recipe is a comforting one-pot meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in. Made with tender ground beef, savory vegetables, and fluffy rice, it’s a quick and easy dish the whole family will love.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger and Rice

Grilled Corn On The Cob

Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

This guide provides tips and tricks for buying, cleaning, and grilling corn on the cob, whether on the stove, grill, or in foil. With simple ingredients like corn, butter, salt, and pepper, this recipe is perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or a family-friendly side dish.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Corn On The Cob

Cherry Crumble

Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

This easy cherry crumble features a sweet and tart cherry filling topped with a buttery, crunchy oat topping. It’s perfect for a summer dessert or any time you’re craving a comforting treat. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence!
Get the Recipe: Cherry Crumble

Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

This Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole is an easy and delicious side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with simple ingredients like cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, and a creamy sauce, this casserole is sure to be a hit with the whole family. It’s a great way to get your veggies in while enjoying a comforting and flavorful dish.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

Flaming Cherries Jubilee

Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

Cherries Jubilee is the ultimate dessert showstopper—a warm, syrupy mix of boozy cherries bursting with deep, fruity flavor and rich caramel sweetness. Flamed to perfection for a touch of drama and served over creamy vanilla ice cream, it’s a bold, unforgettable treat that’s as exciting as it is delicious!

Get The Recipe: Flaming Cherries Jubilee

Apple Brown Betty

Photo credit: Erren’s Kitchen

Apple Bottom Bourbon Pecan Cheesecake

Image Credit: Jenny DeRemer for Not Entirely Average

This Apple Bottom Bourbon Pecan Cheesecake is a versatile masterpiece, blending smooth bourbon flavors with crunchy pecans. Perfect for any occasion, it impresses guests and satisfies your sweet tooth, epitomizing Southern charm and elegance.

Get The Recipe: Praline Cheesecake

Southern Pecan Cheddar Wafers

Photo credit: Not Entirely Average

These Southern Pecan Cheddar Wafers are a snappy, guest-worthy appetizer with a delightful southern flair. The combination of cheddar cheese, pecans, and a hint of cayenne pepper creates a savory and subtly spicy treat that’s perfect for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Southern Pecan Cheddar Wafers

Fried Pork Chops

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These fried pork chops are a delicious Southern classic! Marinated in a spicy buttermilk and dredged in seasoned flour, they’re fried to a perfect golden brown. This recipe brings a flavorful and juicy main dish to your table.
Get the Recipe: Fried Pork Chops

Rhubarb BBQ Sauce Grilled Chicken

Photo credit: House of Nash Eats

Looking for a unique BBQ sauce to slather on your grilled favorites? This Rhubarb BBQ Sauce is tart, tangy, sweet, and smoky all in one! Perfect on grilled chicken, pork, ribs, and burgers, it’s a savory twist for your next BBQ.
Get the Recipe: Rhubarb BBQ Sauce Grilled Chicken

Vegan Green Bean Casserole

Photo credit: Minimalist Baker

This vegan green bean casserole is a cozy and nostalgic dish that’s perfect for the holidays or any time you’re craving comfort food. It’s made with simple ingredients like green beans, mushrooms, and crispy fried onions, and it’s ready in just 30 minutes! This recipe is also dairy-free, egg-free, nut-free, and refined sugar-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Green Bean Casserole

Easy Crab Cakes

Image Credit: Erren Hart/Erren’s Kitchen

This recipe lets you whip up incredible crab cakes with fresh, flavorful ingredients at home. It’s surprisingly easy – just mix it up, pan-fry it, and enjoy a customizable, restaurant-worthy meal that’ll leave you happy and satisfied.

Get The Recipe: Crab Cakes