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If you’re in the mood for a hearty Southern meal, this collection of 51+ Southern dinner recipes has got you sorted! From classic comfort foods to modern twists on beloved dishes, each recipe is designed to bring warmth and flavor to your table. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, get ready to enjoy a delicious taste of the South.
Catfish Fry with Tartar Sauce
Catfish fry is a classic Southern dish that brings comfort and flavor to the table. The image showcases golden, crispy catfish fillets, perfectly fried to a crunchy finish. Each piece looks inviting, with a light coating that hints at a delicious crunch with every bite.
Accompanying the catfish are bowls of tartar sauce, ready to add a creamy, tangy kick. This sauce complements the fish beautifully, making each bite even more enjoyable. The fresh celery sticks on the side provide a nice crunch and a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the fried catfish.
To make this dish, you’ll need catfish fillets, cornmeal, flour, and spices for the coating. Fry them until they are golden brown. For the tartar sauce, mix mayonnaise, pickles, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve it all together for a delightful Southern feast!
Southern Style Macaroni and Cheese
Southern style macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food that warms the heart. This dish is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying. The image shows a deliciously baked macaroni and cheese, with golden, gooey cheese coating each piece of pasta.
To make this dish, you’ll need elbow macaroni, sharp cheddar cheese, milk, butter, and a few spices. Start by cooking the macaroni until al dente. In a separate pot, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add milk, stirring until thickened. Then, mix in the cheese until it’s melted and smooth.
Combine the cheese sauce with the macaroni, pour it into a baking dish, and top with more cheese or breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish. Bake until bubbly and golden. This dish pairs perfectly with fried chicken or collard greens, making it a staple at any Southern dinner.
Black-eyed Peas and Rice
Black-eyed peas and rice is a classic Southern dish that brings comfort and flavor to the table. This dish is often enjoyed for its hearty ingredients and simple preparation. The combination of tender black-eyed peas and fluffy rice creates a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
The image showcases a bowl filled with perfectly cooked rice topped with shiny black-eyed peas. The vibrant green of chopped scallions adds a fresh touch, making the dish visually appealing. This meal not only looks good but also packs a nutritional punch.
To make this dish, you’ll need black-eyed peas, rice, water or broth, and seasonings like salt and pepper. Start by cooking the rice according to package instructions. In a separate pot, simmer the black-eyed peas until tender. Combine them with the rice, adding your favorite spices for extra flavor. Top with scallions for a pop of color and taste.
This dish is not just a meal; it’s a tradition in many Southern households. It’s often served on New Year’s Day for good luck. Whether you’re celebrating or just enjoying a cozy dinner, black-eyed peas and rice is sure to please.
Buttermilk Biscuits with Sausage Gravy
Buttermilk biscuits topped with rich sausage gravy are a classic Southern dish that warms the heart. The fluffy, golden biscuits serve as the perfect base for the creamy, savory gravy. Each bite is a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
To make these biscuits, you’ll need simple ingredients like flour, baking powder, buttermilk, and butter. The key is to handle the dough gently to keep the biscuits light and airy. For the gravy, ground sausage is cooked until browned, then combined with milk and seasonings to create a luscious sauce.
This dish is often enjoyed for breakfast but can be a comforting dinner option too. Serve it with a side of fresh fruit or a simple salad for a complete meal. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, this dish brings a taste of the South to your table.
Cornbread with Honey Butter
Cornbread is a staple in Southern cooking, and it pairs perfectly with honey butter. The image shows a delicious slice of cornbread topped with a pat of butter, ready to melt into the warm bread. The golden color and fluffy texture make it irresistible.
To make this tasty dish, you’ll need simple ingredients: cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, milk, eggs, and butter. Mix the dry ingredients, then combine them with the wet ingredients until smooth. Pour the batter into a greased pan and bake until golden brown.
For the honey butter, just mix softened butter with honey until well combined. Spread it generously over warm cornbread for a sweet and savory treat. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.
Classic Southern Fried Chicken
Southern fried chicken is a true comfort food that brings warmth to any table. The crispy, golden-brown exterior is a sight to behold, and it promises a juicy, flavorful bite inside. This dish is often served with classic sides like coleslaw and biscuits, making it a complete meal.
The image showcases a plate piled high with perfectly fried chicken pieces, accompanied by a refreshing coleslaw and creamy dipping sauce. The biscuits on the side add a nice touch, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. This meal is not just about taste; it’s about gathering with family and friends to enjoy something truly special.
To make this classic dish, you’ll need chicken pieces, flour, buttermilk, and a mix of spices for seasoning. The process involves marinating the chicken, coating it in seasoned flour, and frying until crispy. Each bite is a reminder of the rich culinary traditions of the South.
Collard Greens with Smoked Ham Hocks
Collard greens are a staple in Southern cooking, known for their rich flavor and nutritional benefits. The image shows a warm bowl of collard greens cooked with smoked ham hocks, creating a hearty dish that’s perfect for any dinner table.
To make this dish, you’ll need fresh collard greens, smoked ham hocks, onion, garlic, and seasonings like salt and pepper. Start by sautéing the onion and garlic until fragrant. Then, add the ham hocks and collard greens, covering them with water or broth. Let it simmer until the greens are tender and infused with smoky flavor.
This dish pairs wonderfully with cornbread or rice, making it a comforting meal. Enjoy the warmth and richness that collard greens with smoked ham hocks bring to your Southern dinner!
Creamy Shrimp and Grits
Creamy shrimp and grits is a classic Southern dish that brings comfort and flavor to the table. The image showcases a bowl filled with velvety grits topped with succulent shrimp, garnished with fresh parsley and a drizzle of sauce. This dish is not just about taste; it’s a feast for the eyes too!
To make this delightful meal, you’ll need a few key ingredients: shrimp, grits, butter, cream, and seasonings. Start by cooking the grits until they’re smooth and creamy. In a separate pan, sauté the shrimp with garlic and spices until they’re perfectly cooked. Combine everything, and you have a dish that’s sure to impress.
Serve it up hot, and watch as everyone digs in. Creamy shrimp and grits is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. It’s a dish that captures the essence of Southern cooking, making it a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a taste of the South.
Pulled Pork Sandwiches with Coleslaw
Pulled pork sandwiches are a classic Southern dish that brings comfort and flavor to any table. The image shows a hearty sandwich piled high with tender, shredded pork and topped with crunchy coleslaw. The combination of savory meat and fresh slaw creates a delightful contrast that is hard to resist.
To make these sandwiches, start with a pork shoulder, seasoned and slow-cooked until it’s fork-tender. Shred the meat and mix it with your favorite barbecue sauce for that smoky flavor. For the coleslaw, combine shredded cabbage and carrots with a tangy dressing. This adds a refreshing crunch that perfectly complements the richness of the pork.
Serve the pulled pork on soft sandwich buns, and don’t forget to pile on the coleslaw. This dish is perfect for gatherings, picnics, or a cozy dinner at home. Enjoy the flavors of the South with every bite!
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
Sweet potato casserole is a classic dish that brings warmth and comfort to any Southern dinner. This version, topped with marshmallows, adds a delightful sweetness that pairs perfectly with the creamy, spiced sweet potatoes.
The image shows a beautiful casserole dish filled with fluffy sweet potatoes, all covered with a golden layer of toasted marshmallows. The contrast between the soft, orange filling and the crispy, sugary topping makes it visually appealing and mouthwatering.
To make this dish, you’ll need sweet potatoes, butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and, of course, marshmallows. Start by boiling and mashing the sweet potatoes, then mix in the other ingredients. Spread the mixture into a baking dish and top it with marshmallows before baking until golden brown.
This casserole is not just a side dish; it can easily steal the show at your dinner table. It’s perfect for holidays or family gatherings, bringing everyone together with its sweet, comforting flavors.
Beef Brisket with BBQ Sauce
Beef brisket is a classic Southern dish that brings comfort and flavor to any dinner table. This image showcases a beautifully cooked brisket, sliced and drizzled with rich BBQ sauce. The tender meat looks juicy and inviting, making it hard to resist.
To make this delicious dish, you’ll need a few key ingredients. Start with a good cut of brisket, some spices for seasoning, and your favorite BBQ sauce. The cooking process usually involves slow roasting or smoking the meat, allowing it to absorb all those wonderful flavors.
Once cooked, slice the brisket against the grain for the best texture. Serve it with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. Pair it with classic Southern sides like coleslaw or cornbread for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Grilled Vegetable Platter with Southern Spices
Picture a colorful array of grilled vegetables, perfectly charred and seasoned with Southern spices. This platter is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a celebration of flavor. You’ll find vibrant bell peppers, zucchini, and squash, all cut into bite-sized pieces, ready to be enjoyed.
For this dish, you can use a mix of your favorite vegetables. Toss them in olive oil and sprinkle with spices like paprika, garlic powder, and a hint of cayenne for that Southern kick. The grilling process brings out the natural sweetness of the veggies, making them irresistible.
Serve this platter warm as a side dish or a light main course. It pairs well with grilled meats or can stand alone for a vegetarian option. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro on top add a nice touch and a pop of freshness.
Chicken and Dumplings
Chicken and dumplings is a classic Southern dish that warms the heart and fills the belly. It features tender chicken simmered in a rich broth, combined with fluffy dumplings that soak up all the delicious flavors. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
To make this comforting meal, you’ll need ingredients like chicken, broth, flour, butter, and seasonings. Start by cooking the chicken until it’s tender, then prepare the dumplings by mixing flour, baking powder, and milk. Drop the dumplings into the simmering broth and let them cook until they’re light and fluffy.
Serve your chicken and dumplings hot, garnished with fresh herbs for a pop of color. Pair it with some crusty bread for a complete meal. This dish is not just food; it’s a warm hug on a plate!
Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers
Banana pudding is a classic Southern dessert that brings comfort and joy to any meal. This dish is creamy, sweet, and features layers of ripe bananas, fluffy pudding, and crunchy vanilla wafers. The combination of textures makes it a favorite among many.
The image shows a delightful bowl of banana pudding topped with fresh banana slices and surrounded by vanilla wafers. It’s a simple yet inviting presentation that makes you want to dig in right away. The creamy pudding contrasts beautifully with the crunchy wafers, creating a perfect harmony of flavors.
To make this delicious dessert, you’ll need ripe bananas, vanilla pudding mix, milk, and vanilla wafers. Start by preparing the pudding according to the package instructions. Then, layer the pudding, sliced bananas, and wafers in a dish. Let it chill in the fridge for a bit to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve it cold for a refreshing treat!
Pecan Pie with Whipped Cream
Pecan pie is a classic Southern dessert that brings warmth and sweetness to any dinner table. The image shows a slice of pecan pie topped with a generous dollop of whipped cream, making it look inviting and delicious. The pie crust is golden brown, and the filling is rich with pecans, creating a delightful contrast in textures.
This pie is not just about taste; it’s also about tradition. Often served during holidays and family gatherings, pecan pie has a special place in Southern cuisine. The combination of the crunchy pecans and the smooth, sweet filling is simply irresistible.
Making pecan pie is straightforward. You’ll need ingredients like pecans, eggs, sugar, corn syrup, and vanilla. Start by mixing the filling and pouring it into a pie crust. Bake until set, and don’t forget to add that whipped cream on top for an extra touch of indulgence!
