37 Southern Recipes That Start With Bacon Grease and Don’t Apologize for a Single Bite

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There are 37 reasons here to stop pretending butter is the boldest thing in the kitchen. These Southern-style recipes start with bacon grease because they know better, and they finish strong without softening the blow. They’re messy in the best way, stacked, layered, fried, and passed around with the kind of confidence that doesn’t need correcting.

Blueberry Dump Cake

Made with only a handful of ingredients, Blueberry Dump Cake layers juicy blueberries, cake mix, and butter to form a dessert that is effortless yet full of flavor. Simply toss the ingredients together in a baking dish for easy preparation. As it bakes, the butter helps create a golden crust that balances sweetness beautifully. This recipe offers a simple way to enjoy classic flavors in an uncomplicated dessert.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Dump Cake

Texas Corn Succotash

Combining bold flavors and textures, Texas Corn Succotash brings together fresh corn, bell peppers, and onions in a mix that’s hearty and comforting. The inclusion of bacon grease adds a rich undertone that enhances every bite. This dish can stand alone as a side or be paired with your favorite mains. Simple to prepare, it makes every meal feel rich and fulfilling without complicated techniques.
Get the Recipe: Texas Corn Succotash

Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Full of rich flavors, Mississippi Mud Potatoes feature layers of sliced potatoes baked with ingredients like cheese, sour cream, and bacon grease for added depth. Every bite is creamy and flavorful, showcasing rich textures that complement one another. The dish is hearty enough to be a centerpiece for family meals or a substantial side. Preparation is as straightforward as slicing, layering, and baking to perfection.
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Pork Chops with Tomato & Green Onion Relish

A hearty main, Pork Chops with Tomato & Green Onion Relish, pairs tender, perfectly cooked pork chops with a tangy relish that balances freshness and flavor. The relish, made from ripe tomatoes and green onions, adds brightness to the dish. Bacon grease lends a subtle richness to the pork during cooking, ensuring it stays moist and flavorful. This is a dish that highlights simple ingredients prepared with care.
Get the Recipe: Pork Chops with Tomato & Green Onion Relish

Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

Packed with flavor, Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes are a wonderful combination of crispy edges and tender centers. Bacon grease adds a unique richness, complementing the roasted garlic and Parmesan cheese layered over the crispy potatoes. Smashing the potatoes creates more surface area for crispiness, resulting in addictive textures and bold flavors. Minimal effort involved makes these potatoes a standout addition to any table.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes

Corn Fritters

Light yet comforting, Corn Fritters come together with fresh corn kernels folded into a simple batter for frying. Bacon grease adds a depth that enhances the sweetness of the corn, creating a comfort-food classic with every crisp bite. These fritters work great as an appetizer, snack, or flavorful side dish. Their easy preparation and quick fry time make them a reliable choice for busy days.
Get the Recipe: Corn Fritters

Shrimp and Grits Casserole

Combining creamy textures and hearty accents, Shrimp and Grits Casserole takes a traditional Southern dish and reimagines it in casserole form. The shrimp gains richness from being cooked in bacon grease, which carries over into the grits base for a cohesive flavor profile. Cheese and spices bind the casserole together, making it hearty yet balanced in taste. Assembly is straightforward, making this dish great for gatherings or a family meal.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Grits Casserole

Steak & Potato Soup

Hearty and filling, Steak & Potato Soup combines tender steak chunks and soft, perfectly cooked potatoes in a rich, flavorful broth. Bacon grease serves as a base for cooking the steak, creating layers of smoky depth within the soup. Additions like onions and herbs round out the flavors, ensuring each spoonful packs warmth and satisfaction. Ideal for meals when comfort is what you need, the recipe is simple yet rewarding.
Get the Recipe: Steak & Potato Soup

Strawberry Pretzel Salad

A blend of textures defines Strawberry Pretzel Salad, where creamy layers meet the crunch of salty pretzels and the sweetness of strawberries. The balance between salty, sweet, and creamy makes each bite unique and enjoyable. The preparation involves creating distinct layers that look as good as they taste. Easy to make, this dish brings together simplicity and flavor with minimal effort in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Pretzel Salad

Chicken & Corn Chowder

Full of rich, layered flavors, Chicken & Corn Chowder pairs tender chicken with sweet corn in a creamy broth accented with bacon grease. The flavors come together beautifully to create a dish that’s both hearty and gratifying. With simple ingredients like potatoes, chicken broth, and seasonings, this recipe delivers comfort without excess complexity. Whether serving a group or a comforting meal, this is an excellent choice.
Get the Recipe: Chicken & Corn Chowder

Pork Belly Burnt Ends

Bursting with smoky flavor, Pork Belly Burnt Ends are caramelized nuggets of pork that are cooked slowly to maximize tenderness. Bacon grease is used to enhance their flavor and richness during the process. Coated in a tangy and sweet barbecue glaze, these bites are meant to become addictive. Simple preparation steps create an impressive dish perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own.
Get the Recipe: Pork Belly Burnt Ends

Bacon Fried Corn

Sweet corn gets an irresistible upgrade in Bacon Fried Corn, where bacon grease works to enhance its natural flavor. Cooked in a skillet, the corn kernels are tossed until slightly caramelized for added texture and sweetness. Simple seasonings complement the dish while letting the corn’s freshness remain the highlight. Perfect as a side for any meal, this recipe requires minimal effort but offers maximum flavor.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Fried Corn

Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells

Packed with gooey cheese and flavor, Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells are perfect for a hearty meal made with deliciously stuffed pasta shells. Layers of marinara, a wholesome cheese blend, and pasta work together effortlessly in a comforting dish. Bacon grease adds a subtle smokiness to the sauce, elevating the recipe further. Preparation involves stuffing shells and baking, resulting in a rich dinner for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells

Cowboy Cornbread Casserole

Packed with bold flavors and hearty textures, Cowboy Cornbread Casserole combines cornbread layers with a hearty filling of seasoned beef, vegetables, and bacon grease. The cornbread brings a slight sweetness, working as the perfect complement to the filling inside. Assembling the casserole is simple, with the ingredients baked together for a flavorful one-pot meal. Easy to serve and full of flavor, this recipe is crowd-pleasing and fuss-free.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Cornbread Casserole

Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe

Modeled after the classic restaurant dish, Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe delivers bold chili flavors paired perfectly with smoky undertones. Bacon grease is used to enhance the ground beef and spices, creating complexity in every bite. Beans and tomatoes work harmoniously with the aromatic blend of seasonings for a rich, hearty meal. The preparation involves straightforward steps, making it as accessible as it is flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Texas Roadhouse Chili Copycat Recipe

Smoked Sweet Potatoes

Rich in texture and featuring natural sweetness, Smoked Sweet Potatoes make for a simple yet impressive side dish. Cooking them in bacon grease adds depth and balances the sweetness with smoky undertones. The potatoes can be seasoned lightly to bring out their natural nutrients and flavors without overpowering them. Quick but full of rewarding results, this recipe is great when paired with main courses or served on its own.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Sweet Potatoes

Corned Beef Hash Casserole

A comforting combination of corned beef, potatoes, and seasonings, Corned Beef Hash Casserole brings together rich flavors in a baked dish. Bacon grease adds to the entire richness, creating a depth of flavor that ties the ingredients together. Simple layers and straightforward steps make this casserole easy to prepare. It is perfect for those who enjoy traditional flavors with a hint of Southern soul in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Corned Beef Hash Casserole

Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies

Combining sweetness with nutty depth, Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies skip the oven for quick and easy preparation. Bacon grease adds richness when paired with peanut butter, oats, and sugar for a recipe loaded with flavor. Perfect for celebrating any occasion, these cookies are chewy, comforting, and ready to enjoy within minutes. Their simplicity makes them a go-to option for quick, sweet treats.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter No-Bake Cookies

Roast Pork with Apples

Pairing seasoned pork with fruity sweetness, Roast Pork with Apples offers a complex yet comforting flavor profile. Bacon grease helps sear the pork, creating a golden crust that holds in juices. Fresh apples soften and caramelize during cooking, complementing the richness of the meat. The result is a robust dish that balances hearty and sweet elements in perfect harmony for a main course that’s both hearty and refined.
Get the Recipe: Roast Pork with Apples

Southern Ham Salad

Versatile and full of bold flavor, Southern Ham Salad incorporates diced ham mixed with mayonnaise, relish, and seasoning for a creamy, tangy result. Bacon grease adds nuance to the ham, enriching its taste and texture. Great for sandwiches or served on crackers, this recipe remains an accessible favorite. Its combination of simplicity and flavor makes it a timeless accompaniment to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Southern Ham Salad

Sweet Potato Hash with Pulled Pork

Combining hearty ingredients into one skillet, Sweet Potato Hash with Pulled Pork packs bold flavor with tender meat and caramelized vegetables. Bacon grease aids in achieving a rich sear on both potatoes and pork, creating texture and depth. Every bite brings together sweetness and hearty notes into a dish that’s perfect for meal times. This recipe showcases Southern cooking at its most straightforward yet impactful.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Hash with Pulled Pork

Southern Style Pickled Shrimp

Showcasing bold flavors and bold tanginess, Southern Style Pickled Shrimp marinate tender shrimp in vinegar, spices, and onion slices. The bacon grease helps bind the seasoning for deeper flavor penetration, while the pickling process offers freshness and bite. Served chilled, it’s a dish that shines as a unique option at gatherings or in everyday meals. The result is a refreshing offering with nuanced complexity.
Get the Recipe: Southern Style Pickled Shrimp

Skillet Stroganoff Pie

Combining pie-like comfort with robust flavors, Skillet Stroganoff Pie brings beef, noodles, and creamy sauce into a cohesive dish. Bacon grease enhances the cooking base, enriching the rich stroganoff sauce. Topped with a flaky pie crust and baked, it’s perfect for family meals and cozy dinners alike. The contrast of creamy filling and crust makes this recipe an instant favorite for everyday indulgence.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Stroganoff Pie

Southwestern Chili

Bringing bold spices to a warming recipe, Southwestern Chili highlights ground beef, beans, and vegetables. Bacon grease builds smokiness, deepening the flavor profile as peppers and seasonings blend. Finished with optional toppings like cheese or avocado, it’s a customizable dish with plenty of flair. Every spoonful delivers warmth and spice, allowing flexibility in how you serve or enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Southwestern Chili

Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes

Mixing sweetness with hearty, Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes turns a fruit-forward idea into something special. Bacon grease lightly coats the peaches to amplify their charred complexity on the grill. Mixed with tomatoes and greens, it’s topped with dressing for balance. The combination of sweet fruit and tangy seasoning ensures this recipe remains refreshing, providing an experience unlike typical salads.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Peach Salad with Tomatoes

Smothered Pork Chops with Onions & Mushrooms

Featuring a hearty mix of meat and vegetables, Smothered Pork Chops with Onions & Mushrooms focuses on robust flavor profiles. Bacon grease creates a caramelized base, adding depth to both the protein and accompanying vegetables. Topped with a creamy sauce, the dish is slow-cooked for tenderness. Its combination of textures makes it a rich and welcoming option for those looking to enjoy comforting meals.
Get the Recipe: Smothered Pork Chops with Onions & Mushrooms

Classic Hoppin’ John

Highlighting rice and peas with bacon grease, Classic Hoppin’ John delivers a dish deeply rooted in Southern tradition. The smokiness from the grease infuses the rice and beans, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Simple seasonings round out the combination, ensuring boldness in every bite. Whether served as a side or main dish, this recipe stays true to its history while remaining endlessly enjoyable.
Get the Recipe: Classic Hoppin’ John

Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins

Comforting in its mastery of texture, Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins perfects tender chicken and flavorful dumplins. Bacon grease is key in creating a rich base for the hearty broth that holds these staples. Cooked together, the dumplins add soft, chewy depth, ensuring the dish feels whole. Recreating this experience at home is a rewarding process, offering a balance of nostalgia and comfort with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins

Kale Salad with Lemon

Combining simplicity with a focus on freshness, Kale Salad with Lemon enhances leafy greens into a refreshing dish. Massaged with bacon grease and a tangy lemon vinaigrette, the kale achieves a tender yet robust texture. Added elements like nuts or cheese provide contrast and round out the flavors. This straightforward recipe showcases how even salads can provide richness and balance without elaborate preparation.
Get the Recipe: Kale Salad with Lemon

Classic Blueberry Boy Bait

Doubling as dessert and snack, Classic Blueberry Boy Bait mixes buttery moistness with tart blueberry pops. Bacon grease in preparation adds complexity, blending sweetness and depth. Ideal for gatherings or enjoying alone, this easy-to-make recipe remains memorable for its balance. The texture and simplicity ensure it’s a dish you’ll return to for its approachability and dependable flavor.
Get the Recipe: Classic Blueberry Boy Bait

Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots

Recreating restaurant flavors, Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots focuses on the natural sweetness of cooked carrots enhanced with seasoning. Bacon grease completes the experience, offering depth and richness that complements the carrots’ soft texture. Simple, flavorful, and nostalgic, these are easy to make and enjoy as a side dish. Their combination of sweetness and flavor ensures they’re loved by most who try them.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Baby Carrots

Texas BLT

Highlighting bold simplicity, Texas BLT uses thick-cut bacon, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomatoes layered between toasted bread. Bacon grease adds extra flavor, making this classic sandwich feel enhanced without extra effort. It’s an easy recipe that relies on fresh ingredients and good technique to shine. Perfect for moments when bold flavors and straightforward preparation are all that’s needed to put something great together.
Get the Recipe: Texas BLT

Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuits

Focusing on creamy textures and buttery toppings, Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuits combines tender chicken with baked biscuit crust. Bacon grease adds richness to the sauce, binding the cobbler together, enhancing both filling and topping. The biscuits turn golden in the oven, incorporating a texture contrast to the soft filling below. Every bite balances indulgent layers in an approachable recipe.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuits

Oven Baked Ribs

Featuring tender meat with bold flavor, Oven Baked Ribs are prepared using bacon grease for enhanced seasoning. Slow baking ensures the ribs remain juicy while achieving caramelization on the edges from a generous spice rub or glaze. Simple to cook, they’re perfect for sharing at meals without requiring advanced equipment. The result is smoky, melt-in-your-mouth ribs that impress with large portions and depth of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ribs

Summer Squash Casserole

Turning vegetables into a hearty dish, Summer Squash Casserole combines cooked squash with creamy ingredients and bacon grease for bold flavor. Topped with breadcrumbs or cheese, it becomes a baked hit with crispy edges that contrast with the soft squash. Ideal as a side, its approachable nature lets the vegetable truly stand out with this preparation. It’s a recipe built for simplicity with remarkable flavor depth.
Get the Recipe: Summer Squash Casserole

Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy

Blending tender chicken with comforting sauce, Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy showcases bold seasoning enhanced by bacon grease. The thighs remain juicy as they cook, while the onion gravy thickens into a flavorful coating. Simple yet rewarding, this recipe is great for casual meals when warmth and substance are the priorities. Every element pairs seamlessly, creating a unified flavor experience.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Chicken Thighs with Creamy Onion Gravy

Southern Tomato Pie

Highlighting ripe tomatoes and buttery crust, Southern Tomato Pie brings a twist to the idea of pie. Bacon grease enriches the filling as cheese and herbs are layered with fresh tomatoes. Baked into golden perfection, it’s a recipe that effortlessly blends comfort and freshness. The flaky crust contrasts with the hearty filling, creating a dish that’s ready to be enjoyed at meals of all sizes.
Get the Recipe: Southern Tomato Pie