When it comes to comfort food, few cuisines evoke a sense of warmth and nostalgia like good ol’ Southern soul food. The kind of dishes that fill your kitchen with the aroma of sizzling meat and baking spices, reminding you of grandma’s house or momma’s cookin’. These 18 heartwarming recipes are sure to transport you back to a simpler time, when life was slower and meals were savored. From crispy fried chicken to creamy macaroni and cheese, smothered pork chops to sweet potato pie, these old school soul food classics never go out of style. Whether you’re lookin’ for a family dinner or just a quick weeknight meal, we’ve got you covered with these tried-and-true recipes that’ll make your taste buds do the cha cha slide.
Southern fried chicken with crispy coating
Get ready to savor the classic flavors of Southern fried chicken with this easy-to-make recipe. This crispy coating recipe yields juicy and flavorful chicken pieces that are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion 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, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat. Place coated chicken 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. Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total, including frying time.
Slow-cooked collard greens with smoked turkey
Slow-cooked Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey: A Hearty and Flavorful Twist on a Southern Classic
This comforting dish is perfect for a cold winter’s day, combining the natural bitterness of collard greens with the rich flavor of smoked turkey.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound collard greens, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound smoked turkey breast or thighs, diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the collard greens, smoked turkey, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in the chicken broth, cover the pot, and bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 2-3 hours or until the greens are tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Buttery cornbread with a golden crust
Moist and flavorful cornbread with a crispy golden crust is the perfect accompaniment to your favorite soups, stews, or salads. This recipe yields a deliciously buttery cornbread that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Mix flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, buttermilk, egg, honey, and vanilla extract.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Pour batter into a greased 8-inch square baking dish.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Classic macaroni and cheese with a cheesy top
Classic Macaroni and Cheese with Cheesy Top
A comforting, creamy pasta dish that’s sure to please. This recipe is a classic for a reason – it’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, stirring occasionally.
7. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
8. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish.
9. Top with additional grated cheese (optional) and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Smothered pork chops in rich gravy
Elevate your dinner game with this classic comfort food recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. Moist pork chops smothered in a rich, flavorful gravy are the perfect centerpiece for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless pork chops
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season pork chops with flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Sear pork chops in a skillet over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Transfer pork chops to a baking dish and top each chop with chopped onion and minced garlic.
5. Pour chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then pour it over the pork chops.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until pork chops are cooked through.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade buttermilk biscuits flaky and warm
Warm and flaky homemade buttermilk biscuits are a staple of Southern cuisine. This recipe yields tender, buttery treats that are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a side to your favorite comfort foods.
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
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 in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk and a pinch of salt.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
6. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times until it forms a cohesive ball.
7. Roll the dough out to about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thickness.
8. Cut into desired shapes using a biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass.
9. Place biscuits on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) space between each.
10. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Black-eyed peas with ham hocks and spices
Classic Southern Comfort: Black-Eyed Peas with Ham Hocks and Spices
A hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion, these black-eyed peas with ham hocks and spices are a staple of Southern cuisine. This recipe is easy to make and packed with protein and fiber.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black-eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 ham hocks (about 1 pound)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the black-eyed peas, ham hocks, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour.
4. Remove from heat and let it rest for 15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Sweet potato pie with a cinnamon crust
This classic Southern dessert combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a warm and comforting cinnamon crust, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
For the filling:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine sweet potato mixture, sugar, flour, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Mix well.
3. Roll out the cinnamon crust dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish.
4. Pour in the sweet potato filling and smooth top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown and filling is set.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Fried catfish with a cornmeal batter
A Southern classic gets a crunchy makeover! This recipe combines tender catfish with a flavorful cornmeal batter, resulting in a mouthwatering dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (about 1 pound)
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 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 cornmeal, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each catfish fillet into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the cornmeal mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the coated catfish for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Red beans and rice with smoked sausage
This classic Louisiana dish is a staple of comfort food, perfect for a cozy night in. With the added smokiness from the sausage, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 pound smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup long-grain rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the soaked red beans, rice, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until the beans are tender.
5. Serve hot over cooked white rice.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Chitterlings cleaned and seasoned to perfection
Get ready to savor a flavorful twist on a classic Southern delicacy! This recipe brings out the best in Chitterlings, with a perfect balance of seasonings and textures.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Chitterlings (cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the Chitterlings to the skillet, stirring to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Sprinkle paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper over the Chitterlings; stir well.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until Chitterlings are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serve: Hot, garnished with chopped parsley or scallions if desired.
Peach cobbler with a buttery crumble topping
Capture the warmth of summer with this classic peach cobbler, topped with a crispy buttery crumble that’s sure to become a family favorite. This recipe is perfect for warm-weather gatherings or cozying up on a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups fresh peaches, sliced
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine peaches, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Mix until the fruit is evenly coated.
3. Transfer the peach mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, oats, brown sugar, and cold butter until crumbly.
5. Top the peach mixture with the crumble topping, spreading it evenly.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the peaches are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Fried green tomatoes with a tangy dipping sauce
Fried Green Tomatoes with Tangy Dipping Sauce Recipe
A Southern classic gets a refreshing twist! This recipe combines crispy fried green tomatoes with a zesty dipping sauce that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large 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
– Tangy Dipping Sauce (recipe 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, coating both sides, 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.
5. Fry tomato slices for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels.
Tangy Dipping Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth. Serve with fried green tomatoes.
Cooking Time: About 20 minutes for frying the tomatoes, plus an additional 5-10 minutes for preparing the dipping sauce.
Pinto beans slow-simmered with bacon
A hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this recipe combines tender pinto beans with the rich flavor of crispy bacon. The slow-simming process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a deliciously smooth and savory bean dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups of water
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the cooked bacon from the pot with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the soaked and drained pinto beans, ground cumin, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 8-10 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Candied yams with marshmallow topping
Bring a touch of Southern comfort to your holiday table with these tender, sweet yams topped with a fluffy marshmallow delight. This classic recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 large yams, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– Salt to taste
– Marshmallow topping (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine yam pieces, brown sugar, granulated sugar, corn syrup, water, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss until coated.
3. Spread the yams in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
5. Remove from oven and top with marshmallow topping.
6. Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until marshmallows are toasted.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Hot water cornbread crispy on the outside
This recipe yields a moist and flavorful cornbread with a crispy exterior, perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite soups and stews. With just 7 ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this delicious treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup hot water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon baking soda
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, and salt.
3. Add hot water and stir until just combined; do not overmix.
4. Pour in melted butter and stir until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before cutting and serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Okra stewed with tomatoes and onions
A flavorful and comforting stew that combines the natural sliminess of okra with the sweetness of tomatoes and onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup okra, sliced into thin rounds
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 medium tomatoes, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the okra and cook until it starts to thicken and become slimy, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the okra has reached your desired level of thickness.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Banana pudding layered with vanilla wafers
This classic Southern dessert is a sweet treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Layers of creamy banana pudding and crunchy vanilla wafers create a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4 large ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 12-16 vanilla wafers
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together heavy cream, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens (about 5 minutes).
2. Remove from heat and stir in sliced bananas and vanilla extract.
3. In a large bowl, combine pudding mixture and whipped cream (optional). Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Assemble by layering pudding mixture with vanilla wafers in a 9×13-inch dish or individual serving cups.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Tips:
– Use high-quality vanilla extract for the best flavor.
– You can also add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top for extra spice.
– Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Summary
Get ready to indulge in some serious comfort food with these 18 old school soul food recipes that are sure to warm your heart and belly! From classic dishes like mac ‘n cheese and fried chicken, to slow-cooked greens and smothered pork chops, there’s something for everyone. And don’t forget the sweet treats – peach cobbler, banana pudding, and candied yams will satisfy any sweet tooth. These recipes are a true celebration of Southern cuisine at its finest, with a focus on hearty ingredients and homey flavors that’ll make you feel like you’re sitting down to dinner at grandma’s house.
