There are certain expectations that surround comfort food in times of trouble.
Tasty, reliable, and warm are definitely required.
And don’t forget thedesserts.
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Southern funeral food is all aboutproviding comfortto those in attendance and honoring those who are not.
Here are the staple Southern classic dishes you’ll see during trying times that require comfort.
Bake this in the oven for crisp edges and a creamy center.
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Pair these with our newest spreadCreole Mayonnaiseand every guest’s need will be satisfied.
A soak in buttermilk makes this chicken juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside.
The ingredient list might be short and simple, but the helpings are packed with flavor.
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This simple side is a perfect and refreshing match for the biscuits and chicken on the table.
They may take some time to cook, but most of it is hands-off.
These taste even better the next day.
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Odds are, you’ve seen this comforting casserole everywhere from wakes to potlucks to Mama’s house.
The secret to this irresistible recipe is to brown the butter before cooking the cornbread in acast-iron skillet.
This dish feeds a crowd, but it likely wont last long.
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Serve with baguette slices or chips.
For even cooking and to ensure a creamy dish, stir every ten minutes during cooking.
The glaze caramelizes during the end of cooking.
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Serve with spicy pineapple chutney.
King Ranch Chicken
Spice up the offerings with this longtime favorite.
With just a few minutes of hands-on time, this meal cooks in the slow cooker for juicy results.
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This is great for making ahead and baking before serving.
This variation tastes like everyones favorite version with the addition of radish for a peppery bite.
With a homemade meat sauce, it still comes together in under an hour.
The addition of pancetta, or cured pork belly, makes thismid-week casserolea meat lover’s dream.
Cheesy Broccoli And Rice Casserole
You pretty much can’t go wrong with this old-school casserole.
Without even a dollop of creamy canned soup, it’ll stay fresh and delicious as the hours pass.
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This makes plenty for a crowd.
A hearty batch of these will make the funeral spread complete.
Double up this recipe for a hearty 13x9 version.
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Even just seeing it at a reception will provide a little warmth and comfort.
Chocolate Mayonnaise Sheet Cake
No dessert is more comforting than a chocolate cake.
This pie can be made in advance, alleviating just a bit of worry in preparation for your event.
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Chocolate Peanut Butter Icebox Pie
This cool decadent dessert will bring sweet joy to any summer reception.
Guests will rave over the chocolate custard cradled in a Nutter Butter crust.
The pretty presentation of chocolate-covered peanuts over fluffy whipped cream doesn’t hurt either.
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Strawberry Pretzel Jell-O Salad
Is any Southern wake complete without aJell-O salad?
Make up a couple of batches and freeze one just in case extras are called for.
Hot Chicken Salad
Your favoritechicken saladgets even more comforting as a baked version.
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This is a creamy, cheesy dip-style casserole with almonds and water chestnuts for crunch.
Topped with potato chips, this dish will be your go-to comfort meal.
Sloppy Joe Casserole
This casserole has all of the flavors without the mess of the belovedsloppy joesandwich.
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Here, the bun is turned into a toasty topping.
Favorite pizza toppings are added to spaghetti for a cheesy casserole that pleases.
Hot sauce adds a kick.
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Prep ahead of time, and bake just before serving.
Best Brown Butter Blondies
Sweets are not to be forgotten from the funeral spread.
Dessert trays will abound, but classics like these blondies will draw everyone in.
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Ready in under 30 minutes, this breadcrumb-topped casserole will be a hit for you and for recipients.
Salted Caramel Banana Pudding
This classic Southern standby really soothes, no matter the occasion.
Top with fresh whipped cream.
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