Appalachian cuisine is known for its simplicity, but that doesn’t mean it’s lacking in flavor–and these regional recipes are proof!
We’re sharing some of our favorite Appalachian recipes, so you can enjoy the delicious comfort foods from anywhere.
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Old-fashioned Appalachian recipes represent the resourcefulness of those living in the region, proving that sometimes the most delicious foods are the simplest to make.
These humble foods are typically inexpensive to make, but are tasty and filling ways to stretch a meal.
As someone who was born in West Virginia and grew up in a few different areas of Appalachia, I can attest that these recipes bring back a flood of fond memories of the cuisine of my childhood.
These are some tried-and-true favorites!
1. Instant Pot Pinto Beans and Cornbread (Appalachian Soup Beans)
Pressure cooker pinto beans and cornbread was an abundant staple in my childhood!
We always enjoyed it with a side of fried potatoes, and my dad often topped his bowl with some raw diced onions. Some people also top it with sauerkraut!
Although my mom cooked hers in a stove-top pressure cooker (I can almost hear the whistling of the pressure release valve now!), I adapted the recipe to be made in a more modern Instant Pot electric pressure cooker.
This humble meal is comfort food at its finest–a hearty, filling, and flavorful meal that’s inexpensive to make.
2. Old-Fashioned Pinto Beans and Cornbread
Of course, not everyone has a pressure cooker, but there’s no reason you can’t still enjoy stove top Appalachian soup beans!
This easy recipe allows the pinto beans to cook in a regular stove top pot, so it takes a little bit longer, but you still end up with flavorful and tender beans.
As with the Instant Pot version, you’ll want to definitely serve these alongside some cornbread and fried potatoes!
3. Easy Appalachian Fudge Brownie Pie
Fudge brownie pie is one of those classic Appalachian desserts that is sure to put a smile on your face.
This decadent version gets a modern makeover by using the shortcut of a brownie mix, but with the same marshmallow and fudge topping that makes it so satisfying.
Perfect for a birthday, holiday, or other special occasion!
4. Easy West Virginia Pepperoni Rolls
Pepperoni rolls are a staple in the Appalachian states of West Virginia and Pennsylvania.
Originally made as a simple lunch coal miners could take with them into the mines, they’ve lived on as a delicious meal and snack item!
These days, they can be found in restaurants, gas stations, convenience stores, and more–but I love making my own at home.
The pillowy soft rolls are full of savory pepperoni and melted provolone cheese, making them a handheld treat that disappears fast!
5. Appalachian Cathead Biscuits
Cathead biscuits are a classic Appalachian bread that can be served for breakfast or as an easy side dish with dinner.
These large biscuits, named because they’re the size of a cat’s head, are easy to make because you don’t have to roll and cut the biscuits.
They’re tender and fluffy on the inside–perfect for serving with your favorite jam or homemade preserves.
6. Cast Iron Skillet Cornbread
Cast iron skillet cornbread is a hallmark of Appalachian cuisine, known for being both simple and delicious.
Sometimes called a “corn pone,” this skillet cornbread has crispy edges and a moist interior.
Perfect for serving with pinto beans or any other soup recipe!
7. Pone Bread (Skillet Biscuit Bread)
Pone bread is another classic bread option from Appalachia. It’s essentially one large biscuit, baked to perfection in an iron skillet.
It’s easy to make (no rolling or cutting biscuit dough!), and is versatile enough to be served for breakfast with sausage gravy or jam, or as a side dish with soups and stews.
8. Easy Broccoli Potato Soup
Growing up, my mom frequently made broccoli potato soup as a frugal but filling meal when she needed to stretch the ingredients we had on hand.
It’s a delicious, comforting soup recipe that packed in nutrition and never left us feeling deprived!
You can easily customize it, too, so it’s a versatile option for different diets or preferences.
9. Appalachian Style Chicken and Dumplings
Chicken and dumplings are one of the most quintessential comfort foods, if you ask me!
This southern version uses flat dumplings, which are super easy to make–it rivals the version at Cracker Barrel!
And although this recipe doesn’t call for veggies, you can easily add some frozen vegetables if you’d like.
10. Skillet Fried Potatoes
Southern fried potatoes are the perfect side dish–they can be served with breakfast, lunch, or dinner!
Of course, they’re perfect for enjoying with pinto beans and cornbread, but they pair with practically any main dish, rounding out and stretching a meal using an inexpensive ingredient.
More Comfort Foods to Try
Sometimes, you just need a hearty meal that warms you up from the inside.
For even more delicious comfort foods, try some of these favorites:
- Easy Chicken and Gravy
- Chicken and Biscuits Casserole
- Beef Stew and Dumplings
- Instant Pot Pork Chops and Rice
- Country Style BBQ Ribs
Don’t forget to save this list to your recipe board on Pinterest!
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