20 Old-School Dishes That Would’ve Cleaned Up at the County Fair

Before deep-fried Oreos and rainbow funnel cakes took over the midway, the county fair was a place to show off real, down-home cooking. Think flaky pies, skillet cornbread, and slow-cooked meats that packed serious flavor without the flash. These 20 old-school dishes might not come on a stick—but they’ve got the kind of comfort and craftsmanship that would’ve easily won blue ribbons back in the day.

1. Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Crispy, golden, and perfectly seasoned—served hot or cold, this Southern staple would draw a line every time.

2. Cast Iron Cornbread

Crumbly, slightly sweet, and with that irresistible crunchy edge—bonus points if it’s served with honey butter.

3. Chicken and Dumplings

Creamy, hearty, and packed with tender chicken and pillowy dumplings. Pure comfort in a bowl.

4. Apple Pandowdy

A rustic cousin to pie, with spiced apples baked under a flaky crust and scooped out warm with a spoon.

5. Pot Roast with Gravy

Slow-cooked beef falling apart under a rich, savory gravy? That’s a blue ribbon waiting to happen.

6. Deviled Eggs

A party staple with a county fair twist—extra mustard, a dusting of paprika, and maybe even a pickle chip on top.

7. Shoofly Pie

Sticky, sweet molasses filling with a buttery crumb topping. A Pennsylvania Dutch classic that wins on nostalgia alone.

8. Biscuits and Sausage Gravy

Fluffy biscuits smothered in peppery sausage gravy—stick-to-your-ribs breakfast turned full-blown crowd favorite.

9. Fried Green Tomatoes

Crispy on the outside, tart and juicy on the inside. Pair with ranch or remoulade for fairground perfection.

10. Tomato Sandwiches

Thick slices of juicy summer tomatoes on white bread with mayo and a sprinkle of salt—simple but unbeatable.

11. Blackberry Cobbler

Sweet-tart berries bubbling under a biscuit crust, best served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

12. Ham Salad Sandwiches

Chopped ham, mayo, relish, and a touch of mustard served on soft white bread—retro lunchbox favorite meets blue ribbon vibes.

13. Pickled Beets

Sweet, tangy, and jewel-toned—served chilled and straight from the jar, they’d shine in any canned goods category.

14. Chicken Pot Pie

Flaky pastry filled with tender chicken, vegetables, and a creamy gravy. This one’s a judge favorite for sure.

15. Corn Pudding

Sweet and savory baked custard with golden kernels of corn throughout—homey, humble, and always satisfying.

16. Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Moist, vibrant, and topped with a swoop of tangy frosting—it’s eye-catching and delicious.

17. Pimento Cheese Spread

Sharp cheddar, mayo, and diced pimentos blended into a creamy dip or sandwich filling—Southern charm in every bite.

18. Sweet Potato Casserole

Mashed sweet potatoes topped with marshmallows or pecans, baked until bubbly and golden.

19. Brunswick Stew

A slow-simmered mix of shredded meat, tomatoes, corn, and lima beans—hearty, smoky, and fairground-worthy.

20. Chess Pie

A buttery, custardy pie with a sugary crackle top. It’s rich, simple, and pure Southern tradition.