15 Dishes You Should Definitely Try At Golden Corral

Golden Corral is a choose-your-own-adventure feast, and knowing what to grab first is half the fun. From carved meats to nostalgic desserts, the buffet hides some true standouts worth a dedicated plate. This guide spotlights the dishes regulars swear by and first-timers shouldn’t miss. Read on, build a game plan, and taste the best of the line without second-guessing your choices.

1. Carved Sirloin (Dinner)

Head straight to the carving station for juicy, peppered sirloin sliced to order. Ask for end cuts if you crave that savory crusty edge with concentrated flavor. Let your slice rest a minute so the juices settle, then add a sprinkle of salt to wake it up. Pair with sautéed mushrooms or horseradish if available, and don’t skip a drizzle of au jus. This is the dependable, meaty anchor of a Golden Corral plate and a must-try for steak fans.

2. Pot Roast

Golden Corral’s pot roast is slow-cooked until spoon-tender, swimming in rich, beefy gravy. It practically falls apart, making it perfect to spoon over a mound of mashed potatoes. Look for chunks with both lean meat and a bit of collagen for silky texture. The gravy clings beautifully, delivering deep, homestyle flavor with every bite. Add a side of buttered corn or green beans for contrast. This dish is the epitome of comfort food and one of the buffet’s most reliable crowd-pleasers.

3. Fried Chicken

Grab a fresh batch of fried chicken as it hits the line for maximum crunch and juiciness. The well-seasoned crust crackles, protecting moist meat underneath. Choose a mix of white and dark pieces to compare textures—breasts for heft, thighs for richness. A quick rest on your plate keeps the crust crisp. Hit it with hot sauce or honey for contrast. Pair with coleslaw or mac and cheese for classic comfort. It’s a buffet staple done right when timing meets that golden crust.

4. Bourbon Street Chicken

Sweet meets savory in this garlicky, slightly sticky chicken that’s easy to love. The glaze clings to tender bites, balancing brown sugar notes with a hint of soy and spice. Spoon it over steamed rice to catch every bit of sauce, or pair with veggies for a lighter plate. It shines when kept hot and glossy, so seek out the freshest pan. The flavors are approachable yet punchy, making it a reliable go-to when you want bold without heat overload.

5. Smoked Pit Ham (Carvery/Seasonal)

When the smoked pit ham appears, seize the moment. It’s salty-sweet with a gentle smoke that complements rather than overwhelms. Ask for a slightly thicker slice to preserve juiciness and chew. A swipe of mustard amplifies the sweet-savory contrast, and a warm yeast roll turns it into a perfect mini sandwich. The caramelized edges deliver extra flavor, so request an outer slice if available. Seasonal availability means it’s worth prioritizing when you see it on the board.

6. Grilled-to-Order Steak (Dinner)

The grill-to-order steak is your chance to customize. Ask for medium-rare for a warm red center and better tenderness, then let it rest a minute on your plate. If offered, top with sautéed mushrooms and onions for steakhouse vibes. A pinch of salt right before eating sharpens the flavor. Pair with baked potato or mac and cheese for a balanced plate. This is a solid value, especially when you get a fresh pull from the grill at peak dinner times.

7. Meatloaf

This is comfort on a tray: tomato-topped meatloaf with homey seasoning and slices that hold together in gravy. Look for a piece with a bit of crust from the pan edges. The tomato glaze adds tang that balances the savory loaf. Ladle on brown gravy or ketchup, depending on your camp. Pair with mashed potatoes for classic diner energy or green beans if you want lighter sides. It’s satisfying, dependable, and nostalgic in the best possible way.

8. Mashed Potatoes & Brown Gravy

Buttery, smooth mashed potatoes become an edible canvas for the buffet’s best gravies. Spoon on brown gravy for a savory, beefy boost that ties the plate together. They’re the perfect base under pot roast, sliced sirloin drippings, or meatloaf. Add a pat of butter if available for gloss and richness. The texture tends toward creamy rather than chunky, making it easy to pair with almost anything. It’s a strategic side that lets your other picks truly shine.

9. Mac & Cheese

Golden Corral’s mac and cheese is creamy and kid-approved, but adults should lean in too. The sauce coats the elbows generously, delivering mild, comforting cheesiness. It’s especially great as a base under chopped brisket, ham, or even Bourbon Street Chicken for a playful twist. Watch for pans that look freshly stirred and glossy. Sprinkle with a little black pepper for contrast if you like. When you want pure comfort, a scoop of this never disappoints.

10. Fried Fish (Cod/Pollock, Fridays or Dinner)

On Fridays or dinner service, seek out the fried fish for a crispy, light bite. The breading is delicate, keeping the fish flaky and moist. A squeeze of lemon and a dab of tartar sauce brightens everything. Aim for freshly fried pieces with audible crunch. Pair with coleslaw or hush puppies if available for a classic fish-fry experience. It’s a smart rotation pick, especially when you want something lighter than fried chicken without losing that satisfying crisp.

11. Baked Chicken (Rotisserie/Herb)

If you want a lighter option, the baked or rotisserie-style chicken delivers juicy meat with seasoned skin. Go for a mix of white and dark meat to compare tenderness. The herb rub adds fragrance without overwhelming, and the drippings are flavorful over veggies. Pair with green beans or salad for balance. Look for freshly replenished pans to ensure moistness. It’s a dependable protein that won’t weigh you down, perfect for a second plate when you’re pacing yourself.

12. Salad Bar “Build”

Start with a crisp base of mixed greens, then layer in protein like grilled chicken or chickpeas for staying power. Add colorful crunch from cucumbers, peppers, and shredded carrots. A vinaigrette on the side keeps things bright without drowning the salad. Sprinkle sunflower seeds or croutons for texture, and maybe a spoon of cottage cheese for creaminess. Building a balanced salad early helps you enjoy richer dishes later without overdoing it. It’s strategy and freshness in one bowl.

13. Yeast Rolls with Honey Butter

Warm, steamy yeast rolls are irresistible and practically demand honey butter. Split one open and watch the butter melt into every fluffy crevice. They’re also perfect for building mini sliders with pot roast or ham. Look for trays just refreshed for maximum softness. A light sprinkle of salt on the butter heightens the sweet-savory magic. Keep one on your plate throughout the meal—you’ll find a reason to use it with nearly every dish you try.

14. Banana Pudding (Dessert Bar)

This nostalgic dessert layers vanilla wafers, creamy pudding, and sliced bananas for a soft, comforting finish. The wafers soften into a cake-like texture, melding with the sweet custard. Look for bowls with intact banana slices and a generous pudding-to-cookie ratio. A dollop of whipped topping adds lightness and polish. It’s not flashy, but it delivers pure satisfaction and a familiar Southern vibe. If you grew up with it, one spoonful will take you home.

15. Fudge Brownies or Soft-Serve Sundae

Finish strong with a warm fudge brownie, a swirl of soft-serve, and a drizzle of chocolate sauce. The temperature contrast is the magic—melting ice cream seeping into fudgy edges. Add nuts or sprinkles if you like crunch, or keep it pure and gooey. Alternatively, build a straightforward sundae with caramel and crushed cookies. Either route, you’ll end on a high note. It’s the dessert bar’s most customizable win and a sweet finale worth a dedicated plate.