33+ Quick and Authentic Southern Recipes That Will Make Your Taste Buds Dance!
Southern cooking is a celebration of flavor that warms the soul. Each dish tells a story, bursting with history and tradition that connects families across generations. Get ready to explore a world of comfort food that will leave you craving more!
Rating: 4.1 (486 reviews). Total Time: 1 hr 15 min.
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This crispy, golden delight is a staple of Southern cuisine, known for its juicy meat and crunchy coating. The chicken is marinated and then fried to perfection, giving it a mouthwatering flavor that will have you coming back for seconds.
Whole chicken, cut into pieces
Buttermilk
Flour
Salt and pepper
Garlic powder
Oil for frying
What makes this fried chicken special is the buttermilk marinade, which tenderizes the meat while adding a tangy flavor. It’s often served with biscuits or collard greens, making it a true Southern feast.
This creamy, savory dish combines succulent shrimp with cheesy grits, creating a delightful blend of textures and flavors. It’s a classic that highlights the freshness of seafood with a Southern twist.
Shrimp
Grits
Butter
Cheddar cheese
Bacon
Garlic
Green onions
The combination of shrimp sautéed in bacon grease with creamy, cheesy grits is nothing short of heavenly. This dish is often served for breakfast or brunch, but it’s delicious any time of day!
These hearty greens are simmered low and slow with flavorful seasonings, creating a dish that’s both nutritious and delicious. The smoky flavor from the meat takes collard greens to another level.
Collard greens
Ham hocks or bacon
Onion
Garlic
Chicken broth
Red pepper flakes
Collard greens are a symbol of Southern cooking, often served alongside fried chicken or cornbread. They are rich in vitamins and are a perfect way to add some greens to your plate!
Soft, flaky biscuits smothered in a rich, creamy sausage gravy is the ultimate comfort food. This dish is a breakfast favorite that will make your morning feel special.
Flour
Baking powder
Milk
Butter
Sausage
Salt and pepper
What sets this dish apart is the homemade sausage gravy, which is perfectly seasoned and creamy. The combination of warm biscuits and savory gravy is simply irresistible!
Rating: 4.6 (33 reviews). Total Time: 5 hr 15 min.
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This tender, smoky pulled pork is a barbecue lover’s dream, served on a bun with tangy sauce. It’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for cookouts and gatherings.
Pork shoulder
BBQ sauce
Coleslaw
Buns
Spices (paprika, garlic powder, cayenne)
The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in pork so tender it falls apart. Top it with crunchy coleslaw for a delightful contrast!
Rating: 4.8 (13 reviews). Total Time: 1 hr 45 min.
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This one-pot dish is a savory mix of rice, meat, and spices, all simmered together for a burst of flavor. Jambalaya is a staple of Creole cuisine, reflecting the rich culture of the South.
Rice
Shrimp
Sausage
Chicken
Bell peppers
Onion
Tomatoes
Spices (cayenne, thyme)
This dish stands out for its versatility— you can use whatever protein you have on hand. The combination of spices creates a symphony of flavors that will make your taste buds dance!
This sweet and buttery dessert is the epitome of Southern comfort food, featuring juicy peaches and a crumbly topping. It’s best served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Peaches
Sugar
Flour
Butter
Baking powder
Milk
The magic of peach cobbler lies in its simplicity. The sweet peaches marry perfectly with the buttery topping, making it a cherished summer dessert.
Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, this Southern classic is seasoned to perfection and fried until golden. It’s a must-try for seafood lovers!
Catfish fillets
Cornmeal
Flour
Buttermilk
Salt and pepper
Oil for frying
The catfish is typically coated in a seasoned cornmeal mixture, giving it a delightful crunch. Serve it with tartar sauce for a delicious meal!
This rich, hearty stew blends a variety of meats, seafood, and vegetables, all slow-cooked for incredible flavor. Gumbo is a festive dish that embodies the spirit of Southern cooking.
Sausage
Shrimp
Chicken
Okra
Bell peppers
Onion
Rice
Spices (cayenne, thyme)
What makes gumbo special is its unique flavor profile, enhanced by the “holy trinity” of vegetables: bell peppers, onions, and celery. Each bowl is a hearty, flavorful experience!
These golden-brown balls of cornmeal are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them the perfect side for fried fish or barbecue. Hush puppies are a Southern favorite at parties and gatherings.
Cornmeal
Flour
Onion
Buttermilk
Egg
Oil for frying
The addition of onion gives these little bites a savory kick, and they are usually served with a dipping sauce. They’re a delicious way to soak up all the wonderful flavors of your meal!
This creamy, dreamy dessert layers bananas, vanilla pudding, and whipped cream, all topped with crunchy vanilla wafers. It’s a beloved Southern treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Bananas
Vanilla pudding mix
Milk
Whipped cream
Vanilla wafers
What makes banana pudding special is its delightful texture, with creamy layers and a hint of crunch from the wafers. It’s a nostalgic dessert that evokes memories of family gatherings and sunny days!
No Southern meal is complete without a glass of sweet tea. This refreshing drink is brewed to perfection and sweetened to make it a delightful accompaniment to any dish.
Black tea bags
Sugar
Water
Ice
Lemon (optional)
The sweet tea is often served over ice, making it a cooling refreshment on hot days. It’s a staple in Southern households and a symbol of hospitality!
These bite-sized treats are a classic appetizer, perfect for gatherings. Creamy and tangy, deviled eggs are a crowd favorite that disappears quickly!
Eggs
Mayonnaise
Mustard
Salt and pepper
Paprika (for garnish)
The creamy yolk filling is usually seasoned with mustard and mayonnaise, giving it a delightful flavor. They’re easy to make and always a hit at parties!
This slightly sweet, buttery bread is the perfect side for any Southern meal. It’s tender yet crumbly, making it ideal for soaking up gravy or stew.
Cornmeal
Flour
Milk
Eggs
Baking powder
Butter
What makes cornbread special is its golden crust and fluffy texture. It’s often served warm, straight from the oven, making it a comforting addition to any table!
This creamy, tangy side dish is a must-have for picnics and barbecues. With tender potatoes and a rich dressing, it’s a dish that everyone loves.
Potatoes
Mayonnaise
Mustard
Eggs
Pickles
Onion
Salt and pepper
The combination of flavors in potato salad brings comfort and nostalgia, reminding many of family gatherings. It’s a staple that pairs well with grilled meats and other summer favorites!
This tart and creamy dessert is a delightful way to end any southern meal. Made with fresh key lime juice, it balances sweetness with a zesty kick.
Key lime juice
Sweetened condensed milk
Egg yolks
Graham cracker crust
Whipped cream
What makes key lime pie famous is its unique flavor and creamy texture, making it a refreshing treat. It’s a perfect way to celebrate the flavors of the South!
This hearty stew combines various meats and vegetables, simmered until tender. It’s a comforting dish that showcases the flavors of Southern cooking.
Chicken
BBQ pork
Tomato sauce
Vegetables (corn, lima beans, potatoes)
Spices (salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce)
The rich flavor comes from slow cooking, allowing all the ingredients to meld beautifully. It’s perfect for chilly nights and is often served with cornbread!
These tender green beans are cooked low and slow with savory bacon, creating a delicious side dish. They’re a simple yet flavorful addition to any meal.
Fresh green beans
Bacon
Onion
Garlic
Chicken broth
Salt and pepper
What makes this dish stand out is the smoky flavor from the bacon, which complements the fresh green beans perfectly. It’s a classic side that everyone will love!
This dish features tenderized beef, breaded and fried until crispy, then smothered in creamy gravy. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal that’s sure to please.
Beef steak (round or sirloin)
Flour
Eggs
Milk
Oil for frying
Salt and pepper
The crispy crust and creamy gravy make chicken fried steak a true Southern comfort food. It’s often served with mashed potatoes and green beans for a complete meal!
This festive dish combines shrimp, crab, potatoes, and corn, all boiled together with delicious spices. It’s a fun, communal meal that’s perfect for gatherings!
Shrimp
Crab legs
Potatoes
Corn on the cob
Old Bay seasoning
Lemon
The seafood boil is not just a meal; it’s an experience! Everyone can dig in, making it a great way to enjoy good food and good company.
This dish is often served on New Year’s Day for good luck, but it’s delicious any time of year. The peas are simmered with spices, creating a comforting side.
Black-eyed peas
Onion
Garlic
Ham hock or bacon
Chicken broth
Spices (cayenne, thyme)
What makes black-eyed peas special is their rich flavor and nutritional benefits. They’re often served with cornbread, making for a wholesome meal!
This sweet and creamy casserole is topped with crunchy pecans or marshmallows, making it a favorite at holiday gatherings. It’s a delightful balance of sweet and savory.
Sweet potatoes
Brown sugar
Butter
Eggs
Pecans or marshmallows
The combination of sweet potatoes and sugary toppings creates a dessert-like side dish that’s hard to resist. It’s a true Southern classic that brings joy to the table!
This crispy appetizer features tart green tomatoes, breaded and fried until golden brown. It’s a Southern delicacy that packs a flavorful punch!
Green tomatoes
Cornmeal
Flour
Eggs
Oil for frying
Salt and pepper
The tangy flavor of the green tomatoes contrasts beautifully with the crunchy coating. They’re often served with a creamy dipping sauce, making them an irresistible treat!
This unique Southern dessert or breakfast topping is a sweet chocolate sauce that’s usually served over biscuits. It’s a sweet way to start your day or end your meal.
Cocoa powder
Flour
Sugar
Milk
Butter
Vanilla extract
Chocolate gravy is a nostalgic dish for many Southerners, often bringing back fond memories of family breakfasts. It’s sweet, rich, and simply delicious over warm biscuits!
Rating: 4.7 (79 reviews). Total Time: 1 hr 15 min.
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This hearty dish combines meat, beans, and spices for a warming meal, perfect for chilly evenings. It’s a versatile dish that can be adjusted to suit your taste.
Ground beef or turkey
Canned tomatoes
Beans (kidney, black, or pinto)
Onion
Chili powder
Garlic
The best part about chili is how customizable it is – you can make it as spicy or mild as you like. It’s often served with cornbread or over rice for a filling meal!
Rating: 4.8 (13 reviews). Total Time: 1 hr 30 min.
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This classic dessert features sweet, spiced apples encased in a flaky crust, making it a beloved treat. Apple pie is often associated with family gatherings and celebrations.
Apples
Sugar
Cinnamon
Flour
Butter
Pie crust
What makes apple pie special is its warm, comforting flavor that evokes feelings of home. Serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream for the ultimate indulgence!
This creamy, cheesy dish is a Southern comfort food favorite, known for its rich flavor and gooey texture. It’s a side dish that pairs well with almost anything!
Macaroni pasta
Cheddar cheese
Milk
Butter
Flour
Breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
The combination of cheeses and the creamy sauce create a rich and satisfying dish. It’s perfect for potlucks and family dinners!
This no-bake pie is a creamy and sweet dessert that’s perfect for peanut butter lovers. It’s simple to make and absolutely delicious!
Peanut butter
Cream cheese
Powdered sugar
Whipped cream
Graham cracker crust
The creamy filling is rich with peanut butter flavor, and it’s often topped with whipped cream for extra indulgence. It’s a delightful treat that’s sure to impress!
Rating: 4.3 (100 reviews). Total Time: 1 hr 30 min.
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This dish features bell peppers stuffed with a flavorful mixture of meat, rice, and spices. It’s a colorful and nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare.
Bell peppers
Ground beef or turkey
Rice
Canned tomatoes
Onion
Spices (Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper)
Stuffed bell peppers are not only delicious but also visually appealing. They’re a great way to incorporate veggies into your meal while enjoying a hearty filling!
