10 Southern Casseroles Everyone Should Try At Least Once

Southern cooking has always had a special way of turning simple ingredients into unforgettable comfort food, and casseroles are at the heart of that tradition. They’re hearty, practical, and packed with flavor, often built around family recipes passed down for generations. Whether it’s creamy chicken and rice, cheesy baked grits, or a sweet potato dish that feels like dessert, each casserole tells a story. If you want to experience true Southern comfort, these ten casseroles belong on your table.

1. Chicken and Rice Casserole

This classic is the definition of comfort food, offering a rich and satisfying combination of tender chicken, creamy rice, and savory seasonings. It’s often made with a mix of cream-based soups, which create that smooth texture Southerners know and love. Many families prepare it for Sunday dinners, potlucks, or weeknights when a one-dish meal is needed. What makes it special is the balance between the mildness of the chicken and the richness of the sauce, with just enough herbs to brighten the dish. Pair it with a simple green vegetable or cornbread, and you’ve got a Southern meal that feels like home.

2. Squash Casserole

Squash casserole is one of those dishes that shows how Southerners turn seasonal produce into something irresistible. Yellow squash is sliced and layered with cheese, onions, eggs, and a creamy binder, then topped with buttery cracker crumbs that crisp up in the oven. It’s the perfect side dish for gatherings, and it has a way of pleasing both picky eaters and vegetable lovers. The sweetness of the squash pairs beautifully with the salty, crunchy topping, creating a balance that keeps people coming back for seconds. Served alongside fried chicken or barbecue, squash casserole is pure comfort on a plate.

3. Sweet Potato Casserole

This dish often blurs the line between dinner and dessert, and no Southern holiday table feels complete without it. Sweet potato casserole combines whipped, spiced potatoes with a rich topping of either toasted marshmallows or brown sugar and pecan crumble. The sweetness makes it appealing to kids, while adults appreciate the warm spices and nutty crunch. What’s remarkable is how it manages to work as both a side and a showstopper, holding its own next to turkey or ham. Each bite is sweet, creamy, and slightly caramelized, proving why this casserole is a Southern staple.

4. Green Bean Casserole

Although it became popular nationwide, green bean casserole is firmly rooted in Southern kitchens. It’s a holiday mainstay that blends tender green beans with cream of mushroom soup and tops them with crispy fried onions. The creamy base contrasts with the salty crunch of the topping, making every bite satisfying. While many families stick to the classic version, some Southern cooks add extra cheese or fresh mushrooms for a richer taste. Whether it’s on a Thanksgiving table or served at a church supper, this casserole brings people together with its reliable, comforting flavor.

5. Grits Casserole

Cheesy grits casserole shows just how versatile this Southern staple can be. Instead of being served as a simple side, grits are baked with plenty of cheese, eggs, and sometimes sausage or bacon, creating a hearty dish with a custard-like texture. It’s often served at brunch or holiday breakfasts, though it can easily anchor a dinner table too. The richness of the cheese and cream makes this casserole decadent, while the grits give it a uniquely Southern character. It’s filling, flavorful, and always leaves you wishing you had made a bigger pan.

6. Cornbread Casserole

Cornbread casserole takes a beloved Southern bread and transforms it into a creamy, savory side dish. Often made with whole-kernel corn, creamed corn, sour cream, and butter, it has a soft, almost pudding-like consistency that pairs beautifully with bold main courses like chili or barbecue ribs. The flavor lands somewhere between sweet cornbread and a custard, offering just enough sweetness without overpowering the meal. It’s one of those sides that disappears fast, leaving people asking for the recipe. Cornbread casserole proves how a few pantry staples can turn into something memorable.

7. King Ranch Chicken Casserole

Born in Texas but loved across the South, King Ranch chicken casserole is a bold, spicy dish layered with tortillas, cheese, chicken, and a creamy sauce often made with tomatoes and green chiles. It’s similar to an enchilada casserole but has its own Southern twist, offering just the right amount of heat without overwhelming the cheesy richness. It’s a crowd-pleaser at potlucks and family gatherings, with each slice holding together beautifully thanks to the tortilla layers. The dish is a perfect example of how Southern cooking blends influences into something entirely its own.

8. Hashbrown Casserole

If you’ve ever had breakfast at a Southern diner, you’ve likely seen hashbrown casserole on the menu. It combines shredded potatoes with cheese, sour cream, and sometimes cream of chicken soup, all baked until golden and bubbly. The edges crisp up while the inside stays soft and creamy, giving you the best of both textures. It’s especially popular at brunch, but many families serve it at dinner alongside ham or roast beef. The appeal is in its simplicity: comforting, filling, and always a safe bet when you need a dish that will please everyone at the table.

9. Shrimp and Rice Casserole

This dish reflects the coastal influence on Southern cooking. Shrimp and rice casserole blends tender shrimp with seasoned rice, onions, peppers, and often a creamy sauce that ties it all together. It’s hearty enough to serve as a main course yet light enough to enjoy year-round. The flavors lean toward Cajun or Creole in some recipes, adding spices that give the casserole a lively kick. It’s the kind of dish that works for both family dinners and special occasions, offering comfort while showcasing the seafood traditions of the South.

10. Macaroni and Cheese Casserole

Macaroni and cheese in the South isn’t just stovetop pasta with cheese. It’s baked, golden, and casserole-style, with eggs, milk, and plenty of sharp cheddar. The baking step creates a firm, sliceable dish with a crispy top that contrasts the creamy interior. Many Southern families consider baked mac and cheese a required side at Sunday dinners, cookouts, and holiday meals. It’s filling enough to be a main course but shines as a side, complementing meats and vegetables alike. Few casseroles match its universal appeal, making it the perfect dish to end this list.