Welcome to the flavorful world of Southern cuisine! Whether you're a born-and-raised Southerner or simply a lover of comfort food, this blog post is your ticket to discovering the best Southern recipes. Get ready to indulge in a symphony of flavors, where hearty dishes and soulful ingredients come together to create unforgettable culinary experiences.
From crispy fried chicken to melt-in-your-mouth biscuits, the South has a treasure trove of recipes that will transport your taste buds to a place of pure satisfaction. So, grab your apron and let's dive into the deliciousness that is Southern cooking!
1. Southern Fried Chicken
Southern Fried Chicken is a classic comfort food that captures the essence of Southern cuisine. With a crispy and flavorful breading on the outside and a juicy and tender center, it is a dish that appeals to everyone.
Served with your favorite homestyle sides, this finger-licking-good recipe is a must-try for those looking to experience the taste of the South.
2. Southern Chicken & Pastry
Southern Chicken & Pastry is a classic southern comfort food that brings back childhood memories. The recipe features tender chicken simmered in flavorful broth, combined with Anne's frozen pastry for convenience.
The dish is seasoned with marjoram, poultry seasoning, black pepper, and salt, resulting in a deliciously comforting flavor. While it may not compare to the chef's mom's version, it is still a close approximation. Overall, Southern Chicken & Pastry is a simple yet satisfying dish that captures the essence of southern cuisine.
3. Southern Cabbage
Southern Cabbage is a classic comfort food dish that captures the essence of Southern cooking. This recipe combines shredded cabbage with a blend of savory seasonings, resulting in a flavorful and satisfying side dish.
Whether enjoyed as part of a weeknight meal or a soul food Sunday dinner, Southern Cabbage is sure to please with its sweet and savory flavors.
4. Southern Style Cornbread Dressing
Southern Style Cornbread Dressing is a savory and flavorful side dish that is perfect for holiday gatherings. Made with cornbread, onions, celery, garlic, and sage, this dressing is easy to prepare and pairs well with any main course. The addition of Ritz or saltine crackers adds a nice texture to the dish.
With a generous amount of chicken broth and cream of chicken soup, the dressing is moist and delicious. Overall, this Southern Style Cornbread Dressing is a must-try for anyone looking to add a traditional southern touch to their holiday table.
5. Simple Southern Cornbread
Simple Southern Cornbread is a delicious homemade recipe that captures the true essence of southern cuisine. Made with just a few simple ingredients, including self-rising cornmeal mix, buttermilk, and eggs, this cornbread is easy to make and delivers a mouthwatering flavor.
The addition of bacon drippings or oil adds a rich and savory touch. Whether enjoyed plain or with a smear of butter and honey, this cornbread is sure to satisfy any craving for authentic southern comfort food.
6. Southern-Style White Beans and Ham
Southern-Style White Beans and Ham is a classic Southern comfort dish that is perfect for fall and winter. This recipe features slowly simmered white Northern beans cooked in vegetable or chicken stock, along with diced ham, celery, onions, and jalapeño for a slightly spicy kick.
Topped with fresh green onions and served with collard greens and cornbread, this creamy and delicious dish is a must-try for any Southern food lover.
7. Southern Sticky Chicken
Southern Sticky Chicken is a delicious and flavorful baked chicken recipe that perfectly captures the essence of Southern cuisine. The chicken is marinated in a sweet and tangy sauce, then seared and roasted to develop a sticky coating.
The combination of honey, ketchup, soy sauce, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, and garlic creates a caramelized and balanced flavor profile. This recipe is best made with bone-in, skin-on chicken for juiciness and tenderness. It's a must-try dish for anyone looking to experience the true taste of the South.
8. Southern Meatloaf
Southern Meatloaf is a classic comfort food with a Southern twist. This recipe combines ground beef and ground pork with cornbread crumbs as a binder, adding a flavorful touch. The meatloaf is moist and tender, enhanced by a sweet and savory glaze made with ketchup and Worcestershire sauce.
It pairs well with mashed potatoes, cornbread, collard greens, or green beans, making it a simple and cozy dish that everyone loves. Overall, Southern Meatloaf is a delicious and satisfying Southern recipe that brings families together around the table.
9. Southern Style Creamed Corn
Southern Style Creamed Corn is a decadent and indulgent side dish that features fresh corn sautéed with real cream and butter. The result is a rich and silky cream sauce that perfectly complements the sweetness of the corn.
Adjusting the sweetness and saltiness to your liking adds a personal touch to this simple yet delicious dish. Whether served on special occasions or during corn season, this creamed corn is a must-try for those who appreciate the flavors of the South.
10. Southern Spoon Bread
Southern Spoon Bread is a classic southern side dish that is a must-try for any food lover. Made with cornmeal, hot milk, butter, salt, egg yolks, and egg whites, this dish is light, moist, and tender.
It can be enjoyed with butter or even honey for a touch of sweetness. Whether served as a side dish or enjoyed on its own, Southern Spoon Bread is a delicious and comforting addition to any meal.
11. Classic Southern Gravy
Classic Southern Gravy is a rich and creamy staple in Southern cuisine. It is versatile and can be served over biscuits, potatoes, meat, or bread. The recipe emphasizes the importance of using real butter or drippings for flavor and advises against using margarine.
It also highlights the need for slowly adding liquid while whisking to avoid lumps. Overall, this easy-to-follow recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to master the art of Southern gravy.
12. Southern Cornbread Dressing with Chicken
This Southern Cornbread Dressing with Chicken is a classic and delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. Made with homemade cornbread and flavorful sautéed vegetables, it is a comforting and satisfying recipe.
The addition of shredded chicken adds a protein-packed twist to this traditional Southern favorite. Drizzle it with gravy and serve it for Sunday dinners or Thanksgiving. It's a must-try for anyone looking for a taste of true Southern cuisine.
13. Cornbread Salad
Cornbread Salad is a delightful Southern dish that combines the flavors of moist cornbread, pinto beans, bell peppers, corn, tomatoes, ranch dressing, sharp cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions. It's a colorful and delicious salad that is perfect for potlucks, picnics, and family gatherings.
The layers of ingredients create a visually appealing dish that is as tasty as it looks. Whether served in a trifle dish or tossed in a bowl, this salad is a crowd-pleaser that captures the essence of Southern cuisine.
14. Southern Fried Corn
Southern Fried Corn is a beloved Southern side dish that features fresh corn cut off the cob and fried in a combination of butter and bacon grease. The addition of bacon grease adds a savory and smoky flavor to the dish.
Scraping the cobs after cutting the corn ensures a thickened texture and enhanced flavor. This recipe is a must-try for corn lovers seeking a taste of authentic Southern cuisine.
15. Southern Shrimp and Grits
Southern Shrimp and Grits is a classic Southern dish that combines plump, tender shrimp with creamy, flavorful grits. The dish is traditionally seasoned with bacon fat and can be customized with spices like Old Bay or Cajun seasoning.
The grits are cooked in stock and butter for added richness, and cheese can be added for extra flavor. This dish is a must-try for anyone looking to experience authentic Southern cuisine.
16. Southern Potato Salad
Southern Potato Salad is a classic, creamy side dish that embodies the flavors of the South. Made with cubed russet potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, dill pickles, and a tangy mixture of mayonnaise and yellow mustard, this old-fashioned recipe is a favorite at potlucks and cookouts.
The addition of dill pickle juice adds a unique twist and enhances the overall flavor. With its easy preparation and ability to be made ahead, this potato salad is a must-have for any Southern gathering.
17. Authentic Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese
This Authentic Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese recipe is a true gem. Creamy, rich, and incredibly delicious, it stands out among other homemade mac and cheese recipes. It is easy to make and reheats well, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings.
The recipe has a deep-rooted history in Southern cuisine, adding to its authenticity. With its combination of real ingredients and a luxurious creamy texture, this mac and cheese is a must-try for any mac and cheese lover.
18. Red Beans and Rice
Red Beans and Rice is an authentic New Orleans dish that captures the essence of Southern cuisine. This flavorful recipe features plump red kidney beans, savory andouille sausage, and ham, all simmered together with the holy trinity of vegetables – celery, green bell pepper, and onion.
The addition of Creole seasoning adds a spicy kick, while hot sauce brings the heat. Served alongside fluffy rice, this dish is a true taste of the French Quarter. It's no wonder that Red Beans and Rice is a beloved staple in Louisiana, offering a delightful combination of complex flavors that will transport you to the heart of the South.
19. Homemade Southern Biscuits
Homemade Southern Biscuits are a classic southern breakfast staple. These biscuits are light, flaky, and perfectly buttery.
Made with a combination of all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, kosher salt, butter, shortening, and buttermilk, these biscuits are easy to make and have a delicious homemade taste. They are best served hot and are perfect for a comforting breakfast or brunch.
20. Southern Fried Potatoes
Southern Fried Potatoes are a classic Southern breakfast side dish that delivers on flavor and texture. Pan-fried in butter with onions, these potatoes are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
The addition of sautéed onions adds a delightful flavor to the dish. Perfectly paired with eggs, bacon, or ham, these potatoes can be customized with various toppings and seasonings. A must-try for potato lovers seeking a delicious Southern twist.
21. Southern Tea Cakes
Southern Tea Cakes are a cherished Southern treat that has been passed down through generations. This old-fashioned recipe uses simple ingredients like flour, sugar, butter, and buttermilk. The dough is sticky, but with generous flouring, it can be easily shaped.
Chilling the dough before baking helps the tea cakes maintain their shape. These tea cakes have a unique texture and taste that is neither a sugar cookie nor a biscuit. They hold a special place in Southern culture and are perfect for enjoying with family stories and memories.
22. Bourbon Pecan Chicken
Bourbon Pecan Chicken is a mouthwatering southern dish that combines the flavors of bourbon, pecans, Dijon mustard, and honey. The chicken is coated in a mixture of pecans and bread crumbs, pan-fried until golden brown, and then finished in the oven.
The sauce, made with honey, bourbon, Dijon mustard, cayenne pepper, and heavy cream, adds a sweet and spicy kick to the dish. Overall, Bourbon Pecan Chicken is a delicious and comforting meal that is perfect for any occasion.
23. Shrimp and Grits
Shrimp and Grits is a classic southern dish that combines buttery, cheesy grits with juicy shrimp cooked in bacon fat. The flavors are rich and comforting, making it a favorite among many.
The dish originated as a breakfast staple but has evolved into a delicious main course for any time of the day. The combination of creamy grits and flavorful shrimp is a true delight for the taste buds.
24. Chicken Fried Steak with Country Gravy
Chicken Fried Steak with Country Gravy is a classic southern comfort food that is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
The cube steak is coated in a seasoned flour mixture, fried to a golden brown, and served with a creamy pan gravy. This dish is simple to make and ready in less than 30 minutes. It's a family-friendly meal that is sure to be a hit.
25. Southern Green Beans and Potatoes
Southern Green Beans and Potatoes is a classic Southern comfort food that brings back memories of homecooked meals. This dish, cooked in a cast iron dutch oven, is a true taste of the South.
The combination of tender green beans, small potatoes, and crispy bacon creates a flavorful and satisfying side dish. With a slow cooking process, the beans become tender and the flavors meld together beautifully. This recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to experience authentic Southern cooking.
26. Southern Collard Greens
Southern Collard Greens are a flavorful and delicious side dish that is easy to make. With minimal ingredients and a slow cooking process, these greens are better than what you can get at a restaurant. Whether you use fresh or bagged collards, the result is a dish that is reminiscent of kale or Swiss chard.
The addition of ham hocks adds a savory depth of flavor, while the garlic and onion powder enhance the taste. Overall, Southern Collard Greens are a must-try for anyone looking for a classic Southern staple.
27. Southern Poutine
Southern Poutine is a delightful twist on the classic Canadian dish. It features crispy French fries topped with a savory sausage gravy and melted cheddar cheese. The combination of flavors creates a comforting and indulgent appetizer that is perfect for any season.
The key to this dish is the crispy fries, which can be easily achieved with Grown in Idaho Super Crispy Shoestring Fries. Overall, Southern Poutine is a must-try for anyone looking to experience a delicious southern take on a beloved favorite.
28. Pan Fried Pork Chops
Pan Fried Pork Chops are a classic Southern dish that delivers on flavor and comfort. These bone-in or boneless pork chops are coated in a seasoned flour mixture, dipped in a buttermilk and egg mixture, and then fried to a golden brown perfection.
The result is a crispy and juicy pork chop that is sure to satisfy any meat lover. Whether enjoyed as a main dish or paired with your favorite Southern sides, Pan Fried Pork Chops are a delicious addition to any Southern meal.
29. Southern Fried Corn with Bacon
Southern Fried Corn with Bacon is a mouthwatering side dish that combines the sweetness of fresh corn with the savory goodness of crispy bacon. Cooked in maple syrup and a touch of whiskey, this recipe takes corn to a whole new level.
The addition of onions and sage adds depth of flavor, making it a perfect accompaniment to any meal. Simple yet delicious, this dish is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the best of Southern cuisine.
30. White Gravy
White Gravy is a classic Southern comfort food that brings back nostalgic memories. This smooth and creamy gravy is the perfect addition to main dishes like fried chicken fingers and mashed potatoes. It is also great for breakfast, served over biscuits.
Made with just five pantry ingredients, this homemade white gravy is easy to make and more frugal than store-bought options. It can be enjoyed with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile and delicious addition to any meal.
31. Traditional Southern Tomato Pie
Traditional Southern Tomato Pie is a savory dish that showcases the flavors of fresh tomatoes, two types of cheese, and a buttery pie crust. It is a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed as a light lunch with a side salad or as a tasty side dish with grilled protein for dinner.
The tomatoes are drained to prevent the crust from becoming soggy, and the cheese mixture adds a creamy and flavorful element to the pie. Overall, Traditional Southern Tomato Pie is a delicious and satisfying dish that celebrates the best of Southern cuisine.
32. Creamy Butter Beans
Creamy Butter Beans are a must-try southern side dish. Packed with smoked ham flavor, these beans are incredibly thick and creamy. They make a delicious addition to any southern meal and can even be served as a main dish over rice.
The recipe is easy to follow and the beans turn out unbelievably meaty. If you're a fan of southern cuisine, you won't be disappointed with these Creamy Butter Beans.
33. Southern Fried Cabbage and Bacon
Southern Fried Cabbage and Bacon is a flavorful and satisfying dish that will quickly become a favorite. The tender cabbage is seasoned perfectly with garlic, onions, and salty bacon, creating a magical combination of flavors.
This dish can be served as a side or a main course, and pairs well with any meal. The recipe is simple to make and the cabbage cooks quickly, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights. Overall, Southern Fried Cabbage and Bacon is a must-try dish that will impress both family and guests.
34. Southern Cornbread
Southern Cornbread is a classic southern recipe that captures the essence of traditional southern cooking. This recipe offers a crispy, golden crust and a tender, flavorful interior. It can be enjoyed alongside various dishes, such as pinto beans, mashed potato cakes, or chicken pot pie.
The key to achieving the perfect texture and taste lies in using self-rising cornmeal mix and a well-seasoned cast iron skillet. Overall, Southern Cornbread is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the authentic flavors of the South.
35. Grits
Grits are a staple in Southern cuisine, made from ground corn kernels cooked in liquid until tender. This recipe for creamy Southern Grits is versatile and can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner.
The grits are cooked with half and half, water, and butter, resulting in a rich and flavorful dish. They can be served as a side or as a bed for various saucy dishes, creating a magical combination of flavors. Overall, this recipe offers a perfect and delicious way to enjoy traditional Southern Grits.
36. Southern Green Beans
Southern Green Beans are a classic southern dish that is a must-have at any holiday table or weeknight dinner. Made with fresh string beans, potatoes, and simmered in a smoky broth made with smoked turkey necks, these slow-cooked green beans are comfort food at its finest.
The aroma of the smoky turkey necks and sweet garlic fills up your house and will have your family racing to the dinner table. If you're a fan of southern cuisine, these flavorful green beans are a must-try.
37. Southern Ham Salad
Southern Ham Salad is a classic Southern dish that has been enjoyed for generations. This tangy and slightly sweet salad is made with coarsely ground ham, hard-boiled eggs, and a flavorful dressing made with mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, and Dijon mustard.
It can be served as a spread on crackers, as a filling for sandwiches, or even as a dip with celery. The versatility of this recipe allows for personal twists and adjustments to suit individual tastes. Overall, Southern Ham Salad is a delicious and convenient dish that is perfect for quick meals or as a satisfying snack.
38. Hoecakes
Hoecakes are a classic Southern dish that combines the crispy crunch of cornmeal with a touch of sweetness. Made with self-rising flour, self-rising cornmeal, eggs, sugar, buttermilk, and vegetable oil, these pancakes are easy to make and full of flavor.
They can be enjoyed for breakfast with butter and syrup or paired with savory dishes like pulled pork or collard greens. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge or freezer and reheated for a quick and tasty meal. Hoecakes are a must-try for anyone looking to experience the deliciousness of Southern cuisine.
39. Fried Catfish
Fried Catfish is a classic Southern dish that delivers on flavor and texture. The catfish fillets are coated in a seasoned cornmeal mix, resulting in a crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior.
This restaurant-quality recipe is quick and easy to make, taking only about 20 minutes. Serve it with tartar sauce for a complete and satisfying meal. Whether enjoyed as a main course or as catfish nuggets for a snack, this recipe is a must-try for seafood lovers.
40. Louisiana Red Beans and Rice
Louisiana Red Beans and Rice is a classic Southern comfort food that delivers on both flavor and authenticity. This dish features tender red beans and spicy Andouille sausage cooked in a rich and aromatic blend of onions, celery, bell peppers, and garlic.
The addition of oregano, thyme, paprika, and cayenne pepper adds a delightful kick to the dish. Simmered in vegetable or chicken broth with bay leaves, the beans become tender and flavorful. Served over your choice of long grain rice, this dish is a hearty and satisfying meal that captures the essence of Southern cuisine.
41. Slow Cooker Red Beans and Rice
Slow Cooker Red Beans and Rice is a classic southern dish that delivers pure comfort with minimal effort. This recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd, and the use of a slow cooker allows for a fix it and forget it approach. The addition of creole seasoning adds a spicy kick, and the choice between smoked sausage and andouille sausage allows for customization of spice levels.
The trick of mashing the beans creates a thicker texture, ensuring a satisfying meal. This recipe can be made with small or large kidney beans, and it does not require pre-soaking. Overall, Slow Cooker Red Beans and Rice is a filling and flavorful dish that captures the essence of southern comfort food.
42. Low Carb Mississippi Chicken Thighs
Low Carb Mississippi Chicken Thighs is a flavorful and tender dish that combines the peppery kick of pepperoncini peppers with the creaminess of Ranch dressing.
The chicken thighs are seared to perfection and then baked in the oven, resulting in fall-off-the-bone meat. It's a low carb and keto-friendly option that is easy to make with just a few ingredients. Perfect for those who love Southern flavors with a healthy twist.
43. Southern Crispy Fried Oysters
Southern Crispy Fried Oysters are a true delicacy that captures the essence of southern cuisine. These oysters are encased in a classic, crispy cornmeal crust that adds a delightful crunch to each bite.
With a silky texture and a salty-sweet creaminess, these fried oysters offer a burst of briny, buttery freshness. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, these restaurant-quality fried oysters are quick and easy to prepare, making them perfect for any occasion.
44. Spicy Southern Hot Corn
Spicy Southern Hot Corn is a sassy Southern-style dish that can be served as a side or a dip. It features corn, red bell pepper, jalapenos, and pickled jalapenos cooked in a creamy and spicy sauce. Topped with cheddar cheese, it is baked until hot and bubbly.
This flavorful dish is perfect for holiday meals and pairs well with other traditional Southern dishes. It can be made ahead of time and reheated for convenience. Overall, Spicy Southern Hot Corn is a crowd-pleasing recipe that adds a kick to any Southern spread.
45. Collard Greens
This southern collard greens recipe is a must-try for any fan of southern cuisine. With the addition of bacon and smoked ham, the collard greens are simmered low and slow until they become tender and full of flavor.
The resulting pot liquor is simply divine. If you've never had collard greens before or haven't been a fan, this recipe will change your mind. It's the best collard greens recipe out there.
