Potlucks are a cornerstone of Southern culture. They’re gatherings filled with warmth, laughter, and, most importantly, incredible food. But deciding what to bring to a potluck can be daunting. You want something that’s easy to transport, feeds a crowd, and, of course, tastes amazing. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of our absolute favorite Southern potluck recipes – dishes that are guaranteed to be a hit and disappear fast! These recipes are tried-and-true, crowd-pleasing classics that embody the heart and soul of Southern cooking. Get ready to be the star of your next potluck!
**Why Southern Potluck Recipes Are the Best**
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk about what makes Southern potluck food so special. Southern cooking is all about comfort, flavor, and sharing. These recipes are often passed down through generations, carrying with them stories and traditions. They’re made with love and simple ingredients, resulting in dishes that are both satisfying and memorable. Plus, they’re usually designed to feed a large group, making them perfect for potlucks. And, let’s be honest, who can resist a good Southern spread?
**Tips for Potluck Success**
Before we get to the recipes, here are a few tips to ensure your potluck contribution is a smashing success:
* **Consider the Theme:** If the potluck has a specific theme (e.g., BBQ, picnic), make sure your dish fits the theme.
* **Communicate:** Coordinate with the host or other guests to avoid duplicates. Nothing’s worse than three people bringing potato salad!
* **Transport Like a Pro:** Invest in good quality food carriers to keep hot dishes hot and cold dishes cold. This is crucial, especially during warmer months.
* **Label Everything:** Clearly label your dish with its name and any potential allergens (e.g., nuts, gluten).
* **Bring Serving Utensils:** Don’t assume the host will have enough serving spoons or tongs. Bring your own to be safe.
* **Presentation Matters:** While taste is paramount, presentation also plays a role. Garnish your dish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika to make it look appealing.
* **Temperature Control:** For dishes that need to stay hot, consider using a slow cooker or warming tray. For cold dishes, pack them in ice or use insulated containers.
* **Plan Ahead:** Choose a recipe you’re familiar with and that you can easily prepare ahead of time. Don’t wait until the last minute!
* **Taste Test:** Always taste your dish before you leave to make sure it’s seasoned correctly.
* **Don’t Forget Drinks:** While food is the main event, drinks are also important. Consider bringing a pitcher of sweet tea or lemonade to complement the meal.
**Our Favorite Southern Potluck Recipes**
Now for the main event! Here are our tried-and-true Southern potluck recipes that are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser:
**1. Classic Southern Potato Salad**
No Southern potluck is complete without potato salad. This creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet version is a classic for a reason.
**Ingredients:**
* 5 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
* 1 cup mayonnaise
* 1/2 cup yellow mustard
* 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
* 1/4 cup chopped celery
* 1/4 cup chopped red onion
* 4 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and chopped
* 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* Paprika, for garnish (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Boil the Potatoes:** Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
2. **Make the Dressing:** In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, sweet pickle relish, celery, red onion, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. **Combine:** Gently fold the cooled potatoes and chopped eggs into the dressing. Be careful not to mash the potatoes.
4. **Chill:** Cover the potato salad and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
5. **Garnish:** Before serving, garnish with a sprinkle of paprika, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* For a tangier flavor, add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the dressing.
* If you prefer a sweeter potato salad, add a tablespoon of sugar to the dressing.
* You can substitute dill pickle relish for sweet pickle relish.
* For a creamier potato salad, add a 1/4 cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the dressing.
* Add crumbled bacon for a smoky flavor.
* Use red potatoes for a waxier texture.
**2. Deviled Eggs**
Deviled eggs are another Southern potluck staple. They’re easy to make, transport, and always a hit.
**Ingredients:**
* 12 large eggs
* 1/2 cup mayonnaise
* 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
* 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
* 1 teaspoon white vinegar
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* Paprika, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Hard-Boil the Eggs:** Place the eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil and cook for 12-15 minutes. Immediately transfer the eggs to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
2. **Peel the Eggs:** Once the eggs are cool enough to handle, gently peel them.
3. **Cut and Separate:** Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks. Place the yolks in a medium bowl and arrange the egg white halves on a serving platter.
4. **Make the Filling:** Mash the egg yolks with a fork until smooth. Add the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, sweet pickle relish, white vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix well until creamy.
5. **Fill the Eggs:** Spoon the yolk mixture into the egg white halves. Alternatively, you can use a piping bag for a more polished look.
6. **Garnish:** Sprinkle with paprika before serving.
**Tips and Variations:**
* For a spicier deviled egg, add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the filling.
* Add crumbled bacon or chopped chives for extra flavor and texture.
* Use different types of mustard, such as Dijon or stone-ground, for a unique flavor.
* Garnish with a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning.
* Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamier filling.
**3. Macaroni and Cheese**
Macaroni and cheese is a comfort food classic that’s always welcome at a potluck. This Southern-style mac and cheese is extra creamy and cheesy.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 lb elbow macaroni
* 1/2 cup butter
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 3 cups milk
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
* 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
* 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Macaroni:** Cook the macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. **Make the Cheese Sauce:** In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until a smooth paste forms (a roux).
3. **Add the Milk:** Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
4. **Season:** Stir in the salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
5. **Add the Cheese:** Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. **Combine:** Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat.
7. **Bake (Optional):** For a bubbly, golden-brown crust, pour the macaroni and cheese into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use a combination of cheeses, such as Gruyere, Parmesan, or Gouda, for a more complex flavor.
* Add crumbled bacon, chopped ham, or cooked sausage for a heartier dish.
* Stir in some roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or cauliflower, for added nutrition.
* Top with breadcrumbs for a crispy crust.
* Use evaporated milk for an even creamier texture.
**4. Baked Beans**
Baked beans are a sweet and savory side dish that’s perfect for potlucks. This Southern-style version is made with bacon, brown sugar, and molasses for a rich, smoky flavor.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 lb dried navy beans
* 8 cups water
* 1/2 lb bacon, diced
* 1 onion, chopped
* 1/2 cup brown sugar
* 1/4 cup molasses
* 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
* 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. **Soak the Beans:** Rinse the navy beans and place them in a large pot. Cover with 8 cups of water and let them soak overnight.
2. **Cook the Beans:** Drain the beans and add fresh water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1-1 1/2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
3. **Cook the Bacon and Onion:** While the beans are cooking, cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside, reserving the bacon fat.
4. **Sauté the Onion:** Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the bacon fat and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
5. **Combine:** Drain the cooked beans and add them to the skillet with the sautéed onion. Stir in the brown sugar, molasses, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
6. **Bake:** Pour the bean mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Crumble the cooked bacon over the top.
7. **Bake:** Bake at 325°F (165°C) for 1-1 1/2 hours, or until the beans are bubbly and the sauce has thickened.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add a can of diced tomatoes for a richer flavor.
* Use different types of beans, such as pinto beans or Great Northern beans.
* Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangier flavor.
* Use maple syrup instead of molasses for a different sweetness.
* Add diced ham or sausage for a heartier dish.
**5. Coleslaw**
Coleslaw is a classic Southern side dish that’s perfect for balancing out rich and savory flavors. This creamy coleslaw is made with a tangy mayonnaise-based dressing.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 head green cabbage, shredded
* 1/2 cup shredded carrots
* 1/4 cup mayonnaise
* 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
* 2 tablespoons sugar
* 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine the Cabbage and Carrots:** In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and shredded carrots.
2. **Make the Dressing:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, yellow mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. **Combine:** Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrots and toss to coat.
4. **Chill:** Cover the coleslaw and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably longer, to allow the flavors to meld.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add shredded red cabbage for color and flavor.
* Use a pre-shredded coleslaw mix to save time.
* Add chopped celery or bell peppers for extra crunch.
* Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter coleslaw.
* Add a pinch of celery seed for a classic coleslaw flavor.
**6. Cornbread**
Cornbread is a Southern staple that’s perfect for soaking up all those delicious potluck juices. This recipe makes a moist and slightly sweet cornbread.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 1 cup yellow cornmeal
* 1/4 cup sugar
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup buttermilk
* 1/4 cup vegetable oil
* 1 egg, beaten
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9-inch cast iron skillet or baking pan.
2. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, yellow cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. **Combine Wet Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, vegetable oil, and egg.
4. **Combine:** Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. **Bake:** Pour the batter into the prepared skillet or baking pan and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. **Cool:** Let the cornbread cool slightly before slicing and serving.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add creamed corn to the batter for a moister cornbread.
* Add chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
* Use honey instead of sugar for a different sweetness.
* Top with butter and honey for a classic Southern treat.
* Add shredded cheese to the batter for a cheesy cornbread.
**7. Fried Chicken**
While it requires a bit more effort, fried chicken is always a crowd-pleaser. Make sure to keep it warm during transport.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 (3-4 lb) chicken, cut into pieces
* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* 2 teaspoons salt
* 1 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 teaspoon paprika
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
* 2 eggs, beaten
* 1 cup milk
* Vegetable oil, for frying
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Chicken:** Rinse the chicken pieces and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. **Combine Wet Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
4. **Dredge the Chicken:** Dip each piece of chicken into the egg mixture, then dredge it in the flour mixture, making sure to coat it evenly.
5. **Fry the Chicken:** Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the chicken pieces in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet. Fry for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
6. **Drain:** Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Soak the chicken in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes before frying for a more tender and flavorful chicken.
* Add a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture for a spicy kick.
* Use a cast iron skillet for even heat distribution.
* Keep the fried chicken warm in a preheated oven (200°F) until ready to serve.
* Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through (165°F).
**8. Sweet Potato Casserole**
Sweet potato casserole is a classic Southern side dish, especially popular during the holidays, but welcome at any potluck. The traditional version includes a pecan topping.
**Ingredients:**
* 3 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
* 1/2 cup butter, melted
* 1/2 cup brown sugar
* 1/4 cup milk
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* **Topping:**
* 1 cup chopped pecans
* 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
* 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/4 cup butter, melted
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Sweet Potatoes:** Place the sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain the sweet potatoes and let them cool slightly.
2. **Mash the Sweet Potatoes:** Mash the sweet potatoes with a potato masher or electric mixer until smooth.
3. **Combine:** Add the melted butter, brown sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and salt to the mashed sweet potatoes and mix well.
4. **Prepare the Topping:** In a separate bowl, combine the chopped pecans, brown sugar, all-purpose flour, and melted butter. Mix until crumbly.
5. **Bake:** Pour the sweet potato mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the top.
6. **Bake:** Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use canned sweet potatoes to save time.
* Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the sweet potato mixture.
* Substitute marshmallows for the pecan topping.
* Add a splash of orange juice for a brighter flavor.
* Use a combination of pecans and walnuts for the topping.
**9. Green Bean Casserole**
Another classic casserole, green bean casserole is a comforting and easy side dish.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 (14.5 oz) cans cut green beans, drained
* 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
* 1/2 cup milk
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 1/3 cups French fried onions, divided
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Combine Ingredients:** In a medium bowl, combine the green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and pepper. Stir well.
3. **Add Onions:** Stir in 2/3 cup of the French fried onions.
4. **Bake:** Pour the mixture into a greased 1.5-quart baking dish. Bake for 25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
5. **Top with Onions:** Sprinkle the remaining 2/3 cup French fried onions over the top and bake for 5 more minutes, or until the onions are golden brown.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use fresh green beans instead of canned for a more vibrant flavor. Blanch them briefly before adding to the casserole.
* Add sautéed mushrooms for extra mushroom flavor.
* Use cream of celery or cream of chicken soup instead of cream of mushroom soup.
* Top with shredded cheese for a cheesy casserole.
**10. Banana Pudding**
No Southern potluck is complete without a sweet dessert, and banana pudding is a classic choice. This creamy and comforting dessert is sure to be a hit.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
* 1 1/2 cups cold milk
* 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
* 3 cups heavy cream, whipped
* 1 box vanilla wafers
* 4-5 bananas, sliced
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Milk and Pudding:** In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and cold milk until well combined. Add the instant vanilla pudding mix and whisk until smooth. Let the mixture stand for 5 minutes to thicken.
2. **Fold in Whipped Cream:** Gently fold the whipped cream into the pudding mixture.
3. **Layer:** In a trifle bowl or 9×13 inch dish, layer vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and the pudding mixture. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of pudding.
4. **Chill:** Cover the banana pudding and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use homemade vanilla pudding for a richer flavor.
* Add a layer of toasted pecans or shredded coconut for extra texture.
* Substitute chessmen cookies for vanilla wafers.
* Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of vanilla wafer crumbs before serving.
* Drizzle with caramel sauce for added sweetness.
**Other Great Potluck Options:**
* **Pulled Pork Sandwiches:** Easy to assemble and always a crowd-pleaser.
* **Chicken Salad Sandwiches:** A lighter option for a warm day.
* **Brunswick Stew:** A hearty and flavorful stew perfect for cooler weather.
* **Pimento Cheese Dip:** Serve with crackers or vegetables for a quick and easy appetizer.
* **Sweet Tea:** The quintessential Southern beverage.
**Conclusion**
Southern potlucks are all about sharing good food and good company. With these recipes in your arsenal, you’ll be sure to bring a dish that’s not only delicious but also reflects the warmth and hospitality of Southern cooking. So, get cooking, and get ready to be the star of your next potluck! Remember to follow the tips for potluck success to ensure your contribution is a hit. Enjoy the fellowship and the food! Happy cooking!