The South brings its own flavor to Thanksgiving, quite literally. Deep-fried turkeys, casseroles with unapologetically indulgent toppings, and pies so rich they demand a nap after. Here’s a look at the dishes that define a Southern Thanksgiving and make it unlike any other feast in the country.

Deep-Fried Turkey

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Southern Thanksgivings start with a turkey that’s anything but basic. A Cajun-spiced, deep-fried bird delivers crispy skin and juicy meat that’s impossible to achieve in the oven. Plus, frying frees up the stove for all those casseroles—and we need every inch of space.

Cornbread Dressing

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Forget stuffing. In the South, it’s all about cornbread dressing. Made with crumbled cornbread, rich broth, and a mix of herbs, this dish is baked to perfection for that signature golden crust. It’s the star side, without question.

Spoon Bread

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Somewhere between cornbread and souffle, spoon bread is light, airy, and perfect for scooping onto your plate. Its origins trace back to Native American cooking, making it a dish with deep historical roots that’s still a staple at the table.

Tomato Pudding

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Tomato pudding is one of those dishes you side-eye as a kid but learn to adore as an adult. Made with stewed tomatoes and day-old bread, it’s a sweet-and-savory masterpiece that Southerners defend fiercely as a Thanksgiving essential.

Buttermilk Pie

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This simple custard pie isn’t flashy, but it delivers in every bite. Buttermilk pie combines creamy filling with a lightly crackled sugar top, offering the perfect blend of tangy and sweet. It’s been a Southern favorite for generations.

Shrimp Dip

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Mississippi-style shrimp dip isn’t shy about its bold flavors. Chunks of shrimp mixed with cottage cheese, sour cream, and a kick of hot sauce make this dip as addictive as it is unique. Pair it with Ruffles for that quintessential Southern touch.

Yeast Rolls

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Soft, pillowy, and slathered with butter, yeast rolls are a non-negotiable on Southern tables. They’re the perfect vessel for sopping up gravy or piling on leftover turkey (or both).

Creamy Corn Pudding

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Corn pudding brings together the sweetness of corn with the richness of cream and butter. It’s a humble dish that fits right in with the decadence of a Southern Thanksgiving spread.

Fluff Salad

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Call it ‘Pink Stuff’ or cranberry fluff—this Cool Whip-based salad is a sweet, nostalgic staple. Loaded with fruit, marshmallows, and sometimes nuts, it’s dessert masquerading as a side dish.

Mayo-Roasted Turkey

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Using mayonnaise to roast a turkey might sound unusual, but Southerners know better. The mayo locks in moisture and adds a rich flavor, creating a bird that’s perfectly juicy and flavorful every time.

Oyster Casserole

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This coastal favorite is a must in places like Charleston and New Orleans. Fresh oysters baked with butter, cream, and a crunchy topping bring a taste of the sea to the Thanksgiving table.

Hashbrown Casserole

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This dish takes potatoes to a new level. Frozen hash browns baked with cheese, cream, and a crunchy topping make for a casserole that’s rich, satisfying, and entirely Southern.

Pineapple Casserole

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Yes, pineapple can be a casserole. This sweet-and-savory dish pairs the tropical fruit with cheddar cheese, butter, and Ritz crackers. It’s unexpected, but Southerners swear by its spot on the Thanksgiving table.

Sweet Potato Pie

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Pumpkin may take the pie spotlight elsewhere, but in the South, sweet potato pie reigns supreme. Its creamy filling, spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, feels like a warm hug in dessert form.

Edward Clark