14 Pantry Essentials Every Southerner Can't Do Without

Duke's Mayonnaise

For Southerners, the mayo that graces everything from tomato sandwiches to creamy spinach artichoke dips, and even gets folded into decadent chocolate cakes, must be Duke’s. This year-round essential is incredibly versatile, perfect for everything from casseroles to salad dressings and grilled cheese sandwiches. The distinct, tangy flavor of Duke’s has become a hallmark of Southern cuisine.

Fruit Preserves

Whether you prefer jam or jelly, blackberry or muscadine, a jar of fruit preserves is always a pantry staple in the South. It’s the perfect topping for a Saturday morning buttermilk biscuits and can easily transform into a mouthwatering glaze for grilled chicken.

Got unexpected visitors? Simply pour a jar of pepper jelly over some cream cheese, grab a spreader, and serve with buttery crackers. Instant appetizer!,” shares Southern foodie Staci Purvis Maddox.

Jell-O

On the topic of Jell-O and fruit preserves, Southern expert Robin Justice-Michalicek jokes, “The whole South is practically built on these two ingredients."

Jell-O has deep roots in Southern cuisine, with its distinctive qualities making dishes like colorful congealed salads and strawberry pretzel salads a Southern tradition since the 1900s. While some Jell-O creations may have fallen out of favor (though not all), the powdered gelatin box continues to be a pantry essential.

Instant pudding mix is just as indispensable as regular gelatin, and it's the key ingredient behind super-moist bundt cakes and the "best banana pudding you'll ever taste."

Ritz Crackers

Whether you're using them to coat chicken cutlets or top a creamy squash casserole, never run out of Ritz crackers. These buttery, flaky crackers are perfect for scooping up party dips (like this rich onion dip) and can even be turned into a simple, last-minute dessert when you have guests over.

Diced Pimientos

Why keep a jar of diced pimientos in your pantry? For pimiento cheese, of course. Homemade pimiento cheese—also known as the South's version of pâté—is far superior to store-bought, and it's perfect for bringing to any gathering.

Everyone knows Southern spread is delicious on crackers, but according to Allstar Sarah Stone, “You have to try it on a burger, or even in a soufflé! It’s a game changer.”

Cornmeal

Allstar Paula Roten shares, “I use cornmeal not only for cornbread, but also to dust okra and green tomatoes before frying them up.” Cornmeal is also key for coating fresh-caught catfish and whipping up hush puppy batter, two essentials for any classic fish fry.

Tea Bags

On scorching summer days when the heat feels unbearable, nothing beats a glass of classic sweet tea. While the sweetness level varies across the South, every glass begins with tea bags. The base is typically black tea (often Orange Pekoe), which adds a smooth bitterness to balance the sugar's sweetness. A sprig of mint takes this refreshing iced drink to the next level.

This widely-loved recipe for Alabama Sweet Tea is about as traditional as they come, and the creator insists, "If you're north of the Mason-Dixon, you've NEVER tasted tea this good!"

Grits

Grits are the epitome of simple, satisfying comfort food. So iconic in the South, grits have even earned a nickname—"Girls Raised in the South," or simply G.R.I.T.S.

“Grits with butter or cheese make for a filling breakfast, especially when paired with biscuits and gravy, eggs, and sausage," says Allstar Paula Roten. "Or, take it up a notch and serve grits with shrimp for an elegant dinner."

Bourbon

In the South, bourbon isn't just for sipping—it's also a key ingredient in baking. Southern chefs love adding bourbon to pecan pies, bread puddings, and even BBQ sauces. The rich, bold flavor of this Kentucky-born spirit enhances desserts and pairs perfectly with chocolate (as seen in these irresistible Kentucky Bourbon Balls).

Naturally, bourbon is also the backbone of iconic Southern cocktails like the mint julep or a bourbon old fashioned.

French's Crispy Fried Onions

For the perfect crispy, flavorful topping on any Southern casserole, nothing compares to French's fried onions (a classic that’s been winning hearts for decades!). These salty, slightly sweet crisps add the ideal crunch and flavor to chicken bakes and holiday dishes (and they’re also dangerously good as a snack when nobody’s watching). Golden fried onions turn any casserole into a must-try.

Duncan Hines Cake Mix

Many irresistible desserts begin with a simple box of cake mix, and when it comes to Southern kitchens, Duncan Hines is the go-to choice. With just a box of yellow cake mix, you can whip up cookies, crumbles, or the decadent gooey butter cake. This ready-to-use mix is always on hand in the pantry, ready to be transformed into dump cakes, coffee cakes, and bake sale favorites in no time.

Vidalia Onions

Georgia’s official state vegetable, Vidalia onions are beloved for their unmatched sweetness. In fact, they are the only onions that belong in many classic Southern dishes, such as this irresistible Vidalia Sweet Onion Dip.

And do you know the best way to store them? In pantyhose! Simply drop the onions into the legs, tie a knot between each one, and hang them in a cool, dry spot like your pantry. This classic method can keep those sweet onions fresh for months.

Bisquick

Blueberry muffins for breakfast? No problem. Chicken and dumplings for dinner? You've got it.

A time-saving twist on a Southern baking staple—White Lily all-purpose flour—Bisquick eliminates the need for painstakingly cutting butter or shortening into flour, making it easier than ever to whip up fresh biscuits or peach cobblers.

This simple, affordable baking mix has more uses than we can count, and Southern cooks swear by it for their best baking creations, whether you're preparing sausage balls for the tailgate or a hearty breakfast bake big enough to feed the whole family.

Cream of Anything Soup

From easy sides to casseroles and, of course, soups, loads of Southern favorites rely on cream of chicken, mushroom, potato, or celery soup (pick your favorite). This rich, creamy base brings all the savory flavors together in one comforting dish. Keep a can in the pantry, and you'll be halfway to a quick, satisfying meal.