As the saying goes, “home is where the heart is,” and for many Southerners, that’s exactly what their kitchen represents. The warmth, love, and tradition that go into cooking up a storm on the stovetop or in the oven are all part of what makes Southern cuisine so special. With its rich history, cultural heritage, and mouthwatering flavors, it’s no wonder why this style of cooking has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of people around the world.
In this article, we’ll take a trip down South to explore 18 delicious traditional Southern food recipes that are sure to become new family favorites. From classic comfort foods like Buttermilk Fried Chicken and Biscuits and Gravy, to sweet treats like Pecan Pie and Peach Cobbler, there’s something for everyone on this culinary journey through the heart of Dixie.
Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Classic Buttermilk Fried Chicken Recipe
Get ready for a finger-lickin’ good time with this iconic Southern-style fried chicken recipe! Tender, juicy meat coated in a crispy, buttery crust – what’s not to love?
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk and a pinch of salt.
2. Add chicken pieces to the buttermilk mixture; let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
4. In a separate bowl, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Remove chicken from buttermilk; coat in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
6. Fry chicken for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Drain on paper towels; serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Shrimp and Grits
A Southern favorite gets a flavorful twist with this simple recipe. Succulent shrimp, garlic, and cream come together to create a comforting dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water or chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the grits and water/broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat to low; cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add shrimp; cook until pink and just cooked through (1-2 minutes per side).
4. Stir in heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked grits and shrimp mixture. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Collard Greens with Smoked Ham Hocks
This hearty recipe combines the natural sweetness of collard greens with the rich, smoky flavor of ham hocks. The result is a comforting side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch collard greens, cleaned and chopped
– 2 smoked ham hocks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the collard greens and ham hocks to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pour in enough water to cover the greens, then bring to a boil.
6. Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and braise for 2-3 hours, or until the greens are tender.
7. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Southern Cornbread
Moist and flavorful, this classic Southern cornbread recipe is a staple of comfort food at its finest. With a crispy crust and a tender interior, it’s the perfect accompaniment to your favorite soups, stews, or barbecue dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish or a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, and buttermilk.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Pour in melted butter and stir until smooth.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pecan Pie
Classic Pecan Pie Recipe
A traditional Southern dessert, pecan pie is a rich and nutty treat that’s perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together melted butter, sugar, and corn syrup until well combined.
3. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Stir in pecan halves until they’re evenly coated with the wet mixture.
5. Pour filling into a pre-baked pie crust (homemade or store-bought).
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until filling is set and edges are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Biscuits and Gravy
Savor the comfort of a warm breakfast with this timeless Southern classic: flaky biscuits smothered in a rich, meaty gravy. Perfect for a cozy morning gathering or a satisfying brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 pound sausage (such as country-style or breakfast link), cooked and crumbled
– 2 cups pan drippings (from cooking the sausage)
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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. Add cold butter; use a pastry blender or fingers to work into a crumbly mixture.
3. Gradually add buttermilk, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Roll out dough to 1-inch thickness; cut into squares or shapes.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
6. In a separate pan, whisk together sausage drippings and flour to make gravy. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until thickened.
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried Green Tomatoes Recipe
A Southern classic, fried green tomatoes are a delicious twist on traditional tomato dishes. This recipe yields crispy and flavorful results that pair perfectly with remoulade sauce or as a side dish.
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
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, coating both sides, then roll in the flour mixture to coat. Place coated tomato slices on a plate or tray.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Carefully place 2-3 coated tomato slices into the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through. Repeat with remaining tomato slices.
6. Remove fried tomatoes from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chicken and Dumplings
Classic Chicken and Dumplings Recipe
Soothing comfort food at its finest! This hearty recipe combines tender chicken with fluffy dumplings in a rich, flavorful broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups biscuit or dumpling mix (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken, carrots, celery, and garlic in butter until the vegetables are tender.
2. Add the flour, thyme, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
3. Gradually add the broth, stirring constantly.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Prepare the dumpling mix according to package instructions or make your own by combining flour, baking powder, and salt with cold water.
6. Drop the dumplings into the pot, cover, and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Red Beans and Rice
Classic Red Beans and Rice Recipe
A staple of Louisiana cuisine, this hearty dish is a comforting combination of tender red beans, flavorful sausage, and creamy rice. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a Sunday brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 pound smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups cooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the soaked red beans and 4 cups of water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the beans are tender.
4. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in the vegetable oil.
5. Serve the red beans over the rice.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Macaroni and Cheese
A comforting and creamy pasta dish that’s perfect for a cozy evening or a family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
4. Add the flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
7. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted.
8. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Banana Pudding
This creamy pudding is a southern staple that’s perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a comforting dessert any time of the year. With its rich flavor and velvety texture, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 4 large ripe bananas
– 1 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup Nilla wafers, crushed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
3. Gradually add in milk, whisking until smooth.
4. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens.
5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
6. Peel bananas and slice into coins.
7. In a large bowl, combine pudding mixture, sliced bananas, and crushed Nilla wafers.
8. Pour mixture into 9×13-inch baking dish.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pimento Cheese Spread
This creamy spread is a Southern staple, perfect for topping crackers, sandwiches, or veggies. With its tangy and slightly sweet flavor, it’s a great addition to any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped pimentos (green peppers)
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the grated cheddar cheese and mayonnaise. Mix until smooth.
2. Add the chopped pimentos, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper to the cheese mixture. Mix until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This spread is ready in just a few minutes of mixing.
Black-Eyed Peas with Bacon
A classic Southern side dish gets a smoky boost from crispy bacon, making this recipe perfect for your next family gathering or barbecue.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black-eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the black-eyed peas according to package instructions or by boiling for 30 minutes.
3. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Add the cooked black-eyed peas, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Add the chicken broth to the skillet and stir to combine.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with the crispy bacon.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed and the peas are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sweet Potato Casserole
This sweet and savory casserole combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a crunchy pecan topping, perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, granulated sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Stir in heavy cream and brown sugar until well combined.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle chopped pecans evenly over the top.
6. Drizzle melted butter over the pecans.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Fried Catfish
Get ready for a Southern favorite with this easy-to-make fried catfish recipe. This classic comfort food is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (about 1 pound)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each catfish fillet into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry catfish for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 12-15 minutes total
Hush Puppies
These crispy fried cornbread balls are a classic Southern side dish that pairs perfectly with fried fish, shrimp, or even just as a snack. With only a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy these tasty treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons cornmeal
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, and baking soda.
2. Add buttermilk and stir until mixture forms a thick batter.
3. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of batter into the hot oil, about 6-8 at a time.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove hush puppies from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 4-6 minutes total per batch.
Peach Cobbler
This classic dessert is a warm-weather staple, perfect for family gatherings or casual evening treats. With fresh peaches and a crumbly biscuit topping, this peach cobbler is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups sliced fresh peaches
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup biscuit or cobbler topping (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced peaches, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Let it sit for 15 minutes, allowing the fruit to release its juices.
3. Roll out biscuit topping to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6 mm). Place it on top of the peach mixture.
4. Dot the top with butter pieces.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the fruit is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Gumbo
This hearty and flavorful gumbo recipe combines the rich traditions of Louisiana cuisine with a simple and approachable cooking method. With its medley of ingredients, including okra, rice, and a blend of spices, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 cups diced okra
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup long-grain rice
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chicken thighs in chicken broth until tender.
2. Add the chopped onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are soft.
3. Stir in okra, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Summary
Indulge in the rich flavors of the South with these 18 traditional recipes. From comforting classics like Buttermilk Fried Chicken and Biscuits and Gravy to hearty dishes like Chicken and Dumplings and Red Beans and Rice, there’s something for everyone. Sweet treats like Pecan Pie and Peach Cobbler satisfy your sweet tooth, while savory sides like Collard Greens with Smoked Ham Hocks and Black-Eyed Peas with Bacon add a touch of Southern charm. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or a taste of tradition, these recipes are sure to delight.
