Join us as we delve into the rich culinary heritage of the South, where dinner is more than just a meal – it’s an opportunity for families and friends to come together, share stories, and savor comforting dishes. From classic comfort foods like crispy fried chicken and creamy mac and cheese, to soulful slow-cooked stews and savory sides, we’ll be exploring some of the most beloved Southern dinner recipes that are sure to leave you feeling full and content.
So grab a plate, pull up a chair, and get ready to indulge in the warm hospitality and mouthwatering flavors of the South – all from the comfort of your own home.
Southern Stewed Chicken
Southern Stewed Chicken embodies the warmth and comfort of traditional Southern cuisine. This beloved recipe combines perfectly cooked chicken with rich, velvety gravy, served atop a bed of fluffy rice. The addition of tender potatoes adds depth and complexity to this satisfying dish, which is sure to become a family favorite.
With its fall-apart chicken and savory sauce, Southern Stewed Chicken is the epitome of comfort food – a true reflection of the warmth and hospitality that defines Southern home cooking.
Black Folks Southern Chicken Spaghetti
Savor the rich flavors of the South with Black Folks’ signature Southern Chicken Spaghetti, an innovative twist on classic spaghetti. This beloved soul food dish masterfully blends tender shredded chicken and al dente noodles in a luscious medley of cream cheese, sour cream, diced tomatoes, and cheddar cheese.
The aromatic trio of onion, garlic, salt, and black pepper elevates the dish to new heights, delivering an explosion of delectable flavors that will leave your palate yearning for another bite. A must-have for those seeking a comforting and satisfying Southern supper option.
Southern Fried Chicken
The quintessential comfort food of Southern cuisine is Southern Fried Chicken; it embodies the region’s hearty and flavorful cooking style. The combination of a crunchy, savory exterior and a juicy, tender interior makes this dish universally appealing. This recipe places great emphasis on seasoning each layer to perfection, yielding a delightfully well-seasoned chicken that’s sure to satisfy any palate.
When paired with your favorite classic homestyle sides, it’s a true culinary representation of the South’s rich gastronomic heritage.
Classic Southern Potato Salad
Southern charm comes alive in this iconic potato salad recipe, where humble pantry staples like mayonnaise, hard-boiled eggs, and relish mingle with the rich flavors of smoked paprika and celery. The creamy Yukon Gold potatoes provide a velvety texture, while chicken stock injects depth into each bite. As a result, this classic Southern potato salad is nothing short of irresistible – perfect for elevating any cookout or Southern-inspired gathering to new heights.
Grandma’s Classic Biscuits and Sausage Gravy
For generations, Grandma’s Classic Biscuits and Sausage Gravy has been a beloved family tradition, satisfying hunger with its matchless harmony of flaky biscuits and rich sausage gravy. This crowd-pleasing dish excels as a morning, midday, or evening meal option, equally enjoyed by both children and adults. With its straightforward ingredients and speedy preparation time under 20 minutes, this versatile recipe is an absolute must-have for any family’s repertoire.
Chicken Pot Pie
This scrumptious Southern-style chicken pot pie recipe seamlessly blends tender chicken, an assortment of colorful vegetables, and a rich, velvety gravy. The pièce de résistance is the addition of heavy cream, which elevates the dish to new heights, paired with a buttery, flaky pie crust that’s sure to delight.
A masterful balance of seasonings, featuring chicken bouillon and Famous Dave’s Country Roast Chicken Seasoning, makes this soul food recipe an absolute must-try for anyone seeking a hearty, comforting meal that will warm the heart and soul.
Southern Sticky Chicken
Indulge in the quintessential Southern Sticky Chicken, an age-old recipe that harmoniously balances sweet, spicy, and tangy notes. The chicken’s juicy tenderness stems from its marination, searing, and subsequent roasting to perfection, resulting in a delectable sticky coating that will leave you craving more. The sauce, crafted with honey, ketchup, soy sauce, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, and garlic, imparts a rich caramelized sweetness with a subtle kick of heat.
This mouthwatering dish is at its finest when made with bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces, ensuring the perfect blend of flavors and textures. Whether you’re a dark meat or white meat aficionado, this Southern staple is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you yearning for a second helping.
Southern Fried Cabbage
Southern Fried Cabbage, a quintessential component of traditional Southern cuisine, boasts a rich history and versatility. The dish’s simplicity belies its depth of flavor, which stems from cooking fresh cabbage in bacon fat or butter. This harmonious marriage of ingredients yields a satisfying and savory delight that can be enjoyed as both a side dish and a main course. When paired with other Southern staples like pan-fried potatoes and cornbread, the combination is nothing short of sublime.
Whether served solo or accompanied by added protein, Southern Fried Cabbage remains a comforting and delectable representation of the South’s culinary prowess.
Southern Potato Salad
Southern Potato Salad is a beloved staple that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering. This delectable side dish is crafted with tender chunks of potato, creamy hard-boiled eggs, and the tangy zip of pickle relish, all bound together by a rich and velvety mayo-based dressing. The end result is a crowd-pleasing delight that’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, and backyard BBQs alike. Its make-ahead convenience only adds to its appeal, making it an ideal accompaniment to any meal or celebration.
Southern Fried Cabbage and Sausage
In the heart of the South, where comfort food reigns supreme, there’s a culinary gem that’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters: Southern Fried Cabbage and Sausage. This mouthwatering dish brings together tender green cabbage, richly flavored pre-cooked andouille sausage, sautéed onions and garlic, and a pinch of Cajun magic for a truly authentic taste of the South.
The subtle sweetness from brown sugar and tanginess from apple cider vinegar strike a perfect balance, elevating this humble one-pan skillet meal into a true showstopper.
Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage
Indulge in the bold flavors of the South with this Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage recipe, a delectable and satisfying dinner option that’s sure to impress. The union of succulent shrimp, savory smoked sausage, and rich homemade Cajun sauce yields a mouthwatering pasta dish reminiscent of a restaurant-quality experience. What’s more, this easy-to-prepare recipe is equally well-suited for special occasions and hectic weeknights alike, making it a versatile addition to any meal routine.
The creamy Cajun sauce, infused with the pungent essence of Cajun spices, delivers a satisfying spicy kick that will leave you craving another bite.
Crockpot Smothered Chicken
Southern comfort food at its finest: Crockpot Smothered Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that yields tender and juicy chicken smothered in a rich, creamy sauce. Served over rice or mashed potatoes, it’s a hearty meal that will satisfy the whole family. This budget-friendly recipe requires minimal prep time, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Whether you’re a classic comfort food fan or looking to mix things up, this dish is sure to become a go-to staple in your household.
Mississippi Pot Roast
In the heart of the South, Mississippi Pot Roast has become a staple in many households. This comforting dish is made by slow-cooking a chuck roast with a medley of flavors, including ranch dressing mix, au jus seasoning mix, and pepperoncinis. The result is a tender and juicy roast that’s perfect for serving alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a rich cheesy hashbrown casserole.
With its unique flavor profile and satisfying texture, Mississippi Pot Roast has earned its place as a must-try southern dinner option.
Chicken and Sausage Gumbo
In the heart of Louisiana, there’s a culinary gem that’s sure to delight any fan of Southern cuisine – Chicken and Sausage Gumbo. This mouthwatering dish brings together the rich flavors of smoked sausage, tender chicken, and authentic Cajun spices for a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Its versatility is one of its greatest strengths, as it only gets better with time – making it an ideal candidate for leftovers or freezing.
When served alongside fluffy white rice and a side of creamy Cajun Potato Salad, the resulting flavor combination is nothing short of extraordinary. At the end of the day, Chicken and Sausage Gumbo is a hearty and satisfying Southern dinner that’s well worth the effort to prepare.
Creamy Southern Mashed Potatoes
Indulge in the warm comfort of Creamy Southern Mashed Potatoes, a delightful twist on traditional mashed potatoes. The harmonious blend of Idaho potatoes, rich butter, tangy sour cream, creamy milk, and a pinch of salt yields a smooth, velvety texture and an explosion of deep potato flavor. This beloved side dish effortlessly complements classic Thanksginas g rans or becomes a cozy companion to any weeknight meal.
And let’s not forget the creative possibilities – leftovers can be transformed into crispy, golden-brown mashed potato pancakes that will satisfy even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re seeking a comforting staple or a flavorful addition to your next gathering, Creamy Southern Mashed Potatoes are an absolute must-try for anyone craving a satisfying and comforting culinary experience.
Instant Pot Jambalaya
Instant Pot Jambalaya is a mouth-watering New Orleans-inspired dish that combines the bold flavors of chicken, andouille sausage, and succulent shrimp with a rich blend of spices. By cooking it in a pressure cooker, you’ll save time without sacrificing any of the flavor. The harmonious mix of diced tomatoes, rice, Creole seasoning, and Tabasco sauce comes together to create a delectable one-pot meal that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Serve it with crusty French bread for a hearty, southern-style dinner that’s perfect for any occasion.
Southern Smothered Chicken and Gravy
This beloved soul food classic, Southern Smothered Chicken and Gravy, is a true comfort food staple. The tender chicken thighs are smothered in a rich, homemade brown gravy that’s sure to satisfy even the heartiest appetites. When served atop a bed of fluffy white rice, this dish becomes a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for cozying up on a chilly fall evening.
With its smooth and velvety texture, the gravy adds a deep layer of flavor that complements the chicken beautifully, making it an absolute must-try for anyone craving a taste of authentic Southern cuisine.
Smothered Pork Chops
In the heart of the South, where comfort food reigns supreme, lies a culinary treasure: the Southern Smothered Pork Chops recipe. This beloved dish boasts lightly breaded pork chops enveloped in a rich, velvety brown gravy, infused with an array of savory and well-balanced seasonings. The end result is a quintessential Southern classic that effortlessly pairs with sides like creamy garlic mashed potatoes and tangy collard greens.
For enthusiasts of soul food, these delectable smothered pork chops are an absolute must-try.
Old Fashioned Peach Cobbler
Indulge in the warmth of Southern tradition with this classic Old Fashioned Peach Cobbler recipe, a beloved favorite among many. The harmonious blend of melted butter, succulent peaches, and a tender dumpling filling creates an irresistible dessert that will transport you back to a simpler time. This comforting treat is as easy to prepare as it is to devour, making it the perfect solution for satisfying any sweet craving.
As it bakes to a golden brown perfection, the aroma of warm cobbler wafts through the air, beckoning everyone to gather ’round and indulge in this quintessential American dessert – an ideal choice for any occasion or impromptu gathering.
Bourbon Pecan Chicken
A delectable twist on traditional Southern cuisine, Bourbon Pecan Chicken harmoniously blends the richness of bourbon, the crunch of pecans, the tanginess of Dijon mustard, and the sweetness of honey to create an irresentic dish. To achieve its signature texture, the chicken breasts are first coated in a pecan-bread crumb mixture, then seared in a pan before finishing its cooking journey in the oven. The resulting moisture is a perfect balance of flavors.
The accompanying sauce, crafted with honey, bourbon, Dijon mustard, cayenne pepper, and heavy cream, injects a delightful interplay of sweetness and heat into the dish. Whether serving as a satisfying everyday meal or a special occasion centerpiece, this recipe’s symphony of textures and tastes is sure to impress.
Easy Southern Style Green Beans
The Easy Southern Style Green Beans recipe is an exemplary representation of warm, inviting cuisine from the South. When you combine crisp green beans with the rich, smoky flavor of bacon and the sweetness of caramelized onions, you’re left with a dish that’s as comforting as it is delectable.
By slow-cooking them in chicken broth for an hour, the green beans absorb all the savory goodness, making them an irresistible side dish that pairs perfectly with classic Southern favorites like fried chicken, brisket, or ham. Whether you’re looking to evoke memories of grandma’s kitchen or simply indulge in a flavorful treat, these Southern Green Beans are sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Easy Chicken and Noodles
Easy Chicken and Noodles is a quintessential Southern comfort food that’s both quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying. The dish features tender chicken, a rich and creamy sauce, and a medley of vegetables, making it an ideal option for a family dinner or cozy night in. One of the standout features of this recipe is its versatility – feel free to swap out traditional pasta for rice, quinoa, or couscous, or experiment with different types of noodles to find your perfect match.
For added texture and a touch of homeliness, try incorporating ‘dumplings’ using biscuit dough. Meanwhile, the wide egg noodles serve as the perfect sponge for absorbing the luscious sauce, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. With this recipe, you can enjoy a hearty and mouthwatering meal without sacrificing valuable time in the kitchen.
Southern Collard Greens
A true Southern culinary treasure, Southern Collard Greens require dedication but yield a rewardingly rich pot likker (broth) that’s equal parts comforting and flavorful. This hearty dish seamlessly blends tenderly braised greens with smoky undertones, making it an ideal choice for any time of day or as a show-stopping addition to holiday gatherings.
Having gained widespread acclaim, including a feature in Taste of the South Magazine and glowing reviews, this recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking to experience the bold, down-home flavors that define Southern cuisine.
Southern Pea Salad
Southern Pea Salad is a masterclass in marrying flavors and textures, yielding a show-stopping side dish perfect for holiday gatherings. The combination of sweet peas, creamy dressing featuring mayonnaise and sour cream, hard-boiled eggs, and either crispy bacon or savory ham provides a delightful symphony on the palate. For added zest, serve it atop crisp lettuce leaves or indulge in its unadulterated goodness.
The optional additions of juicy tomatoes, crunchy green pepper, tangy pickles, flavorful pimentos, or nutty water chestnuts open up a realm of creative possibilities, making this salad a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to wow your loved ones.
Southern Black Eyed Peas and Collard Greens
Combining the tender goodness of collard greens with the savory delight of black eyed peas, Southern Black Eyed Peas and Collard Greens is a New Year’s dish that embodies the rich flavors of the South. The addition of crispy ham or smoky bacon elevates the dish to new heights, infusing it with a deep southern charm. This classic meal has been passed down through generations, carrying with it the promise of good fortune and prosperity.
Serve it alongside a warm slab of cornbread or flaky butter biscuits for a truly authentic southern dining experience that will leave you feeling full and fulfilled.
Southern Ghoulash
Southern Ghoulash, a quintessential southern comfort food, is a one-pot wonder that embodies warmth and satisfaction. By combining ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and pasta, this hearty dish offers a convenient and budget-friendly option for a cozy dinner. A subtle yet tantalizing kick comes from the Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes, while the inclusion of corn adds a delightful twist. As the perfect remedy for a chilly winter evening, Southern Ghoulash is sure to become a new favorite.
Ham and Beans
In the heart of southern cuisine, Ham and Beans has long been a beloved comfort food staple. At its core, this delectable dish centers on navy beans slow-cooked in a rich ham broth, infused with the deep flavors of smoked ham hocks or leftover ham bones. To add depth and complexity, onions, carrots, and diced ham are carefully combined to create a harmonious balance of textures and tastes.
As the recipe allows for customization, Ham and Beans can easily be transformed into a satisfying soup by adding more broth, perfect for those seeking a comforting and nourishing meal. Traditionally served alongside warm cornbread, this hearty dish is an ideal choice for a cozy dinner with family or friends.
