Comfort food at its finest – that’s what Southern living is all about. Hearty, homemade dishes that warm the soul and bring people together around the dinner table. From crispy fried chicken to creamy shrimp and grits, we’re celebrating the most iconic and deliciously comforting recipes from the South. With a focus on fresh ingredients, rich flavors, and good ol’ fashioned cooking techniques, these classic Southern dishes are sure to become new favorites in your household.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the best of Southern cuisine. From savory dishes like Southern-Style Collard Greens with Smoked Ham Hocks and Chicken and Dumplings with Thyme and Parsley, to sweet treats like Pecan Pie with a Rich Caramel Filling and Peach Cobbler with a Buttery Crust, we’ve got you covered.
So grab your apron, fire up the stove, and get ready to indulge in the rich flavors and comforting aromas of the South. Let’s start cooking!
Southern Fried Chicken with Buttermilk Marinade
Get ready for a crispy and juicy Southern-style fried chicken dish, elevated by the tangy flavor of buttermilk marinade. This classic recipe is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge chicken pieces in flour, shaking off excess.
5. Fry chicken for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total cooking time.
Shrimp and Grits with Creamy Cheese Sauce
A classic Lowcountry dish gets a creamy twist with this recipe, featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a rich cheese sauce and served over warm grits.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water or chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water or broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in the grits and reduce heat to low. Cook, covered, for about 20 minutes or until creamy.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium; add grated cheese and heavy cream. Stir until smooth and melted.
4. Return shrimp to the saucepan and toss with the creamy cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve shrimp over warm grits, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: About 25-30 minutes
Southern-Style Collard Greens with Smoked Ham Hocks
There’s nothing like a warm, comforting plate of collard greens to round out a hearty Southern meal. This recipe combines the rich flavors of smoked ham hocks with the slightly bitter taste of collard greens for a truly satisfying side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen collard greens
– 2 smoked ham hocks
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Rinse the collard greens and remove any stems or tough leaves.
2. In a large pot, combine the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook over medium heat until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the smoked ham hocks to the pot, along with the salt, black pepper, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
4. Add the collard greens to the pot, stirring well to combine.
5. Continue to simmer the greens for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of tenderness.
6. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Buttermilk Biscuits with Flaky Layers
Flaky Buttermilk Biscuits Recipe
Get ready to enjoy a classic Southern staple with these tender and flaky buttermilk biscuits. Made with simple ingredients and a few clever tricks, these biscuits are sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
– Optional: baking soda and cream of tartar (see notes)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut the cold butter into the dry ingredients until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add buttermilk and stir until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
5. Turn dough onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times until smooth.
6. Roll out to about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thickness and use biscuit cutters or a glass to shape into desired shapes.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) space between each biscuit.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pecan Pie with a Rich Caramel Filling
Elevate your traditional pecan pie game with this show-stopping dessert featuring a velvety caramel filling. This indulgent treat is perfect for special occasions or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3 large eggs
– 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine corn syrup, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 235°F (118°C) on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt. Let cool slightly.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and melted butter.
5. Stir the egg mixture into the cooled caramel mixture until smooth.
6. Arrange pecan halves in a 9-inch pie dish. Pour the filling over the pecans and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Southern Cornbread Dressing with Sage and Onion
This classic Southern recipe combines the warmth of cornbread, the savory flavor of onions, and the earthy taste of sage to create a delicious dressing perfect for your holiday table.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 medium onions, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh sage leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onions and chopped sage in butter until the onions are translucent.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, cooked onion mixture, melted butter, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Pour the dressing into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on top.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Fried Green Tomatoes with Spicy Remoulade
A twist on the classic, these crispy fried green tomatoes are served with a creamy and spicy remoulade sauce that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 green tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Remoulade Sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each tomato slice into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry tomatoes for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain fried tomatoes on paper towels.
Spicy Remoulade Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons ketchup
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all sauce ingredients in a bowl. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Dumplings with Thyme and Parsley
This classic recipe is a perfect blend of tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and aromatic thyme and parsley. A warm and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chicken in butter until browned.
2. Add garlic, thyme, flour, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add broth and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, mix parsley into the dumpling mixture (see below).
5. Drop spoonfuls of dumpling mixture onto the surface of the soup.
6. Cover and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until dumplings are cooked through.
Dumpling Mixture:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
Combine flour and water to form a sticky dough.
Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers and Whipped Cream
A warm weather treat that’s sure to please! This creamy banana pudding is perfectly complemented by crushed vanilla wafers and topped with a dollop of whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 4 large ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup crushed Vanilla Wafers (about 20 wafers)
– Whipped cream for topping
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Add milk and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for 2 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
5. Pour pudding into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Arrange sliced bananas on top of pudding.
7. Sprinkle crushed Vanilla Wafers over bananas.
8. Top with whipped cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Southern Pimento Cheese Spread with Jalapeños
Add a kick to your snacking routine with this creamy pimento cheese spread infused with the bold flavor of jalapeños. Perfect for crackers, sandwiches, or as a dip, this spicy twist on a classic Southern favorite is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup pimentos, chopped
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1-2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped (depending on desired heat level)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cheddar, Monterey Jack, pimentos, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and paprika.
2. Add chopped jalapeños and stir until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (assembly only)
Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Classic Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting: A rich, velvety cake paired with a tangy cream cheese frosting, perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons red food coloring
– 1 cup buttermilk
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine butter and eggs; beat until smooth.
4. Add red food coloring and buttermilk; mix well.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; beat until combined.
6. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting.
Frosting:
1. Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Add vanilla extract and powdered sugar; mix until combined.
3. Assemble the cake by spreading frosting on each layer, then frost the outside of the cake.
Smoked Pulled Pork with Homemade BBQ Sauce
This recipe combines the tender flavors of slow-smoked pork with a tangy and sweet homemade BBQ sauce, perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners. With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you’ll be enjoying deliciously pulled pork sandwiches in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or apple)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup homemade BBQ sauce (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder.
4. Place the pork in the smoker, close the lid, and smoke for 8-10 hours or until tender.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the homemade BBQ sauce by combining ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
6. Once the pork is cooked, use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces.
7. Toss the shredded pork with 1/2 cup of the homemade BBQ sauce and serve on a bun or with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Southern Sweet Tea with a Hint of Mint
This refreshing twist on traditional sweet tea adds a cooling hint of mint that’s perfect for warm weather gatherings or everyday sipping. With its smooth sweetness and subtle minty freshness, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart water
– 4 black tea bags (such as Luzianne or Lipton)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil and add the tea bags.
2. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove tea bags and stir in the sugar until dissolved.
4. Add chopped mint leaves and stir gently.
5. Chill the mixture by placing it in the refrigerator or ice bath.
6. Serve over ice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Okra and Tomatoes Stewed with Bacon
Okra and Tomatoes Stewed with Bacon Recipe
A Southern classic, this hearty stew combines the tender goodness of okra, juicy tomatoes, and crispy bacon for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen okra, chopped
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from pan and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the chopped okra to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, or until tender. Stir in the diced tomatoes and cooked bacon.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer the stew over low heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Peach Cobbler with a Buttery Crust
Peach Cobbler with a Buttery Crust Recipe
A classic dessert that’s perfect for warm weather, this peach cobbler recipe combines tender peaches with a crispy, buttery crust. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a delicious treat for your family or friends.
Ingredients:
• 3 cups fresh peaches, sliced
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine peaches, sugar, flour, and salt. Toss until coated.
3. Pour melted butter over the peach mixture and toss again.
4. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Add the peach mixture to the pie crust, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream, egg, and vanilla extract. Pour the mixture over the peaches.
7. Roll out remaining pie crust and use it to cover the cobbler. Crimp the edges to seal.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Black-Eyed Peas with Ham and Onion
This classic Southern side dish is a staple at many holiday meals, and for good reason. The combination of tender black-eyed peas, savory ham, and sweet onion is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried black-eyed peas
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Rinse the black-eyed peas and soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and place the peas in a large pot with fresh water to cover. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
3. Add the diced ham, chopped onion, garlic, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well.
4. Continue to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Southern Deviled Eggs with Paprika and Mustard
Southern Deviled Eggs with Paprika and Mustard
A classic Southern twist on a deviled egg, this recipe adds a smoky depth of flavor from paprika and a tangy kick from mustard. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a snack for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon prepared yellow mustard
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks.
2. In a bowl, mash the yolks with a fork until they’re well broken up.
3. Add the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, yellow mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix until smooth.
4. Spoon the yolk mixture evenly into the egg white halves.
5. Sprinkle the tops with additional paprika for garnish (if using).
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in no time.
Gumbo with Andouille Sausage and Shrimp
This hearty gumbo combines the rich flavors of Andouille sausage, succulent shrimp, and a medley of spices for a truly authentic Louisiana dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 cups mixed seafood (shrimp, crab, and mussels)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1 cup long-grain rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in thyme, cayenne pepper, paprika, and black pepper.
5. Add rice, chicken broth, water, and mixed seafood; bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until seafood is cooked through.
7. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to savor the flavors of the South with these 18 classic recipes from Southern Living. From comforting favorites like Southern Fried Chicken and Buttermilk Biscuits, to sweet treats like Pecan Pie and Banana Pudding, there’s something for everyone. Hearty dishes like Shrimp and Grits and Chicken and Dumplings will warm your belly, while lighter options like Okra and Tomatoes Stewed with Bacon and Southern Sweet Tea provide a refreshing twist. Whatever your craving, these recipes are sure to bring a taste of the South into your kitchen.
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