There’s something about Southern cooking that warms the heart and fills the belly. With each bite of crispy fried chicken or creamy shrimp and grits, you’re transported to a cozy family gathering, where laughter mingles with the rich aromas wafting from the kitchen. I created this post because I know how comforting a home-cooked meal can be, especially when it’s served with love and shared with those you cherish.
If you’re someone who enjoys gathering friends and family around the dinner table, this collection is just for you. These recipes not only showcase the best of traditional Southern cuisine, but they also cater to those busy nights when you need easy dinner recipes that bring everyone together. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting, you’ll find options that are as delicious as they are straightforward.
In this article, I’ve gathered 12 Southern dinner recipes that promise hearty flavors and family-friendly appeal. From the iconic shrimp and grits to the beloved chicken pot pie, each dish is crafted to evoke those comforting feelings we all crave. Plus, you’ll discover tips to make these meals even easier to prepare, so you can spend more time enjoying and less time stressing in the kitchen. Get ready to dive into these delightful recipes that will turn your family dinners into celebrations of Southern comfort food!
So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get cooking!
Key Takeaways
– Discover 12 Southern dinner recipes that capture the essence of comforting flavors, perfect for gatherings.
– Enjoy classic dishes like Crispy Southern Fried Chicken and Classic Shrimp and Grits that are sure to please your crowd.
– Learn practical tips to simplify the cooking process, making these recipes accessible for busy weeknights.
– Each recipe is designed to evoke the warmth of Southern hospitality, making your family feel right at home.
– Bring a touch of tradition to your table with dishes that not only taste great but also nourish the soul.
1. Crispy Southern Fried Chicken
Craving a chicken that stays crispy and juicy? This fried chicken delivers. A buttermilk soak tenderizes the meat and builds tang. A seasoned flour crust locks in that crunch as it hits hot oil. Each bite starts with a crackle and ends with a juicy center.
Ingredients:
1 whole chicken (cut into pieces)
2 cups buttermilk
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, soak the chicken pieces in buttermilk for at least an hour, or overnight for maximum flavor.
2. In another bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat the oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Remove chicken from buttermilk, letting excess drip off, then dredge in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
5. Fry the chicken in batches, about 12 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Drain on paper towels before serving.
FAQs:
Can I bake instead of fry? Yes, bake at 425°F for about 40-45 minutes for a healthier version.
Crispy Southern Fried Chicken
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A simple bowl that feels like a hug. The creamy grits form a smooth base, while shrimp bring a savory punch. This dish honors the Lowcountry while staying friendly for weeknights. The trick is to keep the grits thick and the shrimp moist.
Ingredients:
1 cup grits
2 cups water
1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
4 slices bacon (diced)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a pot, bring water to a boil and stir in grits.
2. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.
3. In a skillet, cook diced bacon until crispy.
4. Add shrimp to the skillet and season with lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook until shrimp turn pink.
5. Serve shrimp over a bed of creamy grits, garnished with green onions.
FAQs:
Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, just thaw them properly before cooking.
Shrimp and grits is comfort you can taste—thick grits, juicy shrimp, a smoky hint of bacon. For a southern recipes dinner, keep the grits thick, the shrimp moist, and dinner on the table fast for weeknights.
Classic Shrimp and Grits
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3. Hearty Chicken and Dumplings
This one-pot dish feels like a warm blanket. Chicken simmers in a rich broth, while fluffy dumplings soak up all the goodness. It’s a family favorite that blends comfort and flavor in every bite. You can tweak the veggies for what you have on hand.
Ingredients:
1 whole chicken (cut into pieces)
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, celery)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 cup milk
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring chicken broth to a boil and add chicken pieces.
2. Cook for about 20 minutes until chicken is tender.
3. Remove chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot with vegetables.
4. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, milk, salt, and pepper to form a dough.
5. Drop spoonfuls of dough into the boiling broth and cook for 15 minutes until dumplings are fluffy.
FAQs:
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken? Absolutely, it saves time and adds flavor.
Hearty Chicken and Dumplings
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Collard greens bring earthy flavors and a touch of bite to any meal. Slow cooking with ham hock or bacon adds depth and a savory finish. These greens soak up the meat juices and make the plate feel complete. They’re sturdy enough to serve with fried chicken or a hearty stew.
Ingredients:
2 lbs collard greens (washed and chopped)
1 ham hock or 4 slices of bacon
4 cups chicken broth
1 onion (chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook ham hock or bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the drippings.
2. Sauté onions and garlic in the drippings until soft.
3. Add collard greens and chicken broth; stir to combine.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about an hour until greens are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper before serving.
FAQs:
Can I use frozen collard greens? Yes, adjust cooking time as needed.
Southern Collard Greens
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Sweet potato casserole brings creamy sweetness to the table. The mash is smooth, while the topping adds a crunchy contrast. It fits gatherings and holiday meals alike. A warm spice note can bridge the flavors across the plate.
Ingredients:
4 large sweet potatoes (peeled and cubed)
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/4 cup butter (melted)
1/2 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Boil sweet potatoes until fork-tender; drain and mash.
3. In a bowl, mix mashed sweet potatoes with sugar, milk, vanilla, and butter until smooth.
4. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
5. In another bowl, combine pecans, brown sugar, and melted butter; sprinkle over sweet potato mixture.
6. Bake for 25 minutes or until golden.
FAQs:
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, prepare the base and top just before baking.
Sweet Potato Casserole
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Cornbread shines beside fried chicken and chili. It is light, a touch sweet, and easy to make. The crust should be golden and the center soft. Bake it in a hot pan for extra flavor and color. It pairs well with butter and honey for a simple finish.
Ingredients:
1 cup cornmeal
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, mix cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk together milk, oil, and eggs.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
5. Pour batter into a greased skillet and bake for 20 minutes until golden.
FAQs:
Can I bake this in a regular pan? Yes, a cast-iron skillet gives the best crust.
Fun fact: Traditional cornbread is a cornerstone of southern recipes dinner, turning a Southern dinner into a comfort classic with crusty edges and a soft heart when baked in a hot pan. A touch of honey or butter seals the deal, keeping it easy for family gatherings.
Traditional Cornbread
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Gumbo is a rich, hearty dish that fills a room with aroma. It combines spices, meats, and seafood in a single pot. You can use what you have on hand and still land a bold flavor. Let the roux deepen the base, then taste and adjust heat.
Ingredients:
1 lb andouille sausage (sliced)
1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
4 cups chicken broth
1 onion (chopped)
1 bell pepper (chopped)
2 celery stalks (chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
Cooked rice for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, brown the sausage until crisp.
2. Add onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic; sauté until softened.
3. Stir in the Cajun seasoning and cook for another minute.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 5 minutes. Serve over rice.
FAQs:
Can I use other meats? Yes, chicken, crab, or vegetables work well.
Classic Gumbo
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Green beans get a cozy, meat-infused treatment in this side. Bacon and onions build a savory base, then beans simmer until tender. The result is a comforting pairing that fits any Southern table. A splash of vinegar brightens the finish for balance.
Ingredients:
1 lb fresh green beans (trimmed)
4 slices bacon (diced)
1 onion (chopped)
2 cups chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a pot, cook diced bacon until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving drippings.
2. Add chopped onion to the drippings and sauté until translucent.
3. Stir in the green beans and chicken broth, bringing to a simmer.
4. Cook for about 30 minutes until beans are tender. Season with salt and pepper and top with bacon before serving.
FAQs:
Can I use frozen green beans? Yes, adjust cooking time.
Country-Style Green Beans
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This is a feast you share. A big pot with shrimp, crab, corn and potatoes brings people together. Spices wake up every bite and fill the air with flavor. It is simple to pull off, and perfect for summer gatherings.
Ingredients:
2 lbs shrimp (peeled)
1 lb crab legs
4 ears of corn (cut into halves)
8 small potatoes
2 tablespoons Old Bay seasoning
1 lemon (cut into wedges)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add Old Bay seasoning.
2. Add potatoes and cook for about 10 minutes.
3. Add corn, cook for an additional 5 minutes, then add shrimp and crab.
4. Cook until shrimp are pink and crab is heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Serve family-style on a newspaper-lined table with lemon wedges.
FAQs:
Can I use frozen seafood? Yes, thaw first.
Fun fact: A shrimp boil can turn a kitchen into a party in under 30 minutes. Pro tip: toss in corn and potatoes with Old Bay, then squeeze lemon for a bright finish.
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Pecan pie ends a hearty meal with a sweet, toasty note. The filling glows with a rich glaze, and the crust stays flaky. Serve warm or chilled for a cozy finish. A drizzle of bourbon can turn the flavor up a notch if you like.
Ingredients:
1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup corn syrup
1 cup brown sugar
3 eggs
2 cups pecans (chopped)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together corn syrup, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla.
3. Stir in pecans until evenly distributed.
4. Pour filling into the pie crust.
5. Bake for 60 minutes or until set. Let cool before serving.
FAQs:
How should I store leftovers? Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
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Chicken pot pie brings a warm, hearty mood to the table. Tender chicken and veggies sit in a creamy sauce under a flaky crust. It’s great for using up leftovers and feeding a crowd. A simple herb twist can brighten the filling.
Ingredients:
2 cups cooked chicken (shredded)
2 cups mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 cup chicken broth
1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, mix cooked chicken, mixed vegetables, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the mixture into a pie crust in a pie dish.
4. Cover with another crust, sealing edges and cutting slits for steam.
5. Bake for 45 minutes until golden brown.
FAQs:
Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months.
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Biscuits and gravy is a hearty breakfast that works any time. Fluffy biscuits meet a rich sausage gravy for a comforting bite. The dish feels like a warm welcome, perfect for family mornings. You can swap sausage for mushrooms for a lighter version.
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup butter (cold)
1 cup milk
1 lb breakfast sausage
2 cups milk (for gravy)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in cold butter until crumbly.
3. Add milk and stir until just combined. Roll out dough and cut into biscuits. Bake for 15 minutes until golden.
4. For the gravy, cook sausage in a skillet until browned, then sprinkle flour and stir. Gradually add milk, simmer until thickened.
5. Serve biscuits topped with gravy.
FAQs:
Can I make the biscuits ahead of time? Yes, you can prep the dough and freeze unbaked for a quick meal later.
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These 12 Southern dinner recipes are not just meals; they’re a connection to family, tradition, and comfort. Each dish has its unique story and flavor, designed to bring loved ones together around the table. Remember, cooking is about sharing and creating memories, so don’t hesitate to try these recipes and add your special touch. Happy cooking!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some easy dinner recipes for a Southern family gathering?
When it comes to easy dinner recipes for a Southern family gathering, think of classic dishes like fried chicken, shrimp and grits, or pulled pork. These hearty Southern dishes are not only comforting but also crowd-pleasers! Pair them with sides like collard greens or cornbread for the ultimate Southern feast that everyone will love.
How can I make traditional Southern cuisine healthier?
You can definitely enjoy traditional Southern cuisine while keeping it healthy! Try baking instead of frying meats, using whole grains in your cornbread, or incorporating more vegetables into your dishes. You can also swap out heavy creams for lighter alternatives in recipes like creamy coleslaw or macaroni and cheese. This way, you can savor the comforting flavor without the guilt!
What are some family-friendly meals that feature Southern comfort food?
For family-friendly meals featuring Southern comfort food, you can’t go wrong with beef stew, chicken and dumplings, or biscuits and gravy. These hearty Southern dishes are not only delicious but also easy to make in large batches, making them perfect for family gatherings. Plus, kids love them just as much as adults!
Can I prepare Southern recipes in advance for a dinner party?
Absolutely! Many Southern recipes can be prepared in advance, which is a huge time-saver for dinner parties. Dishes like lasagna, gumbo, or casseroles can be made a day ahead and simply reheated before serving. Just make sure to store them properly to maintain their comforting flavors and textures!
What ingredients are essential for Southern comfort food recipes?
To create delicious Southern comfort food recipes, you’ll want to stock your pantry with essential ingredients like cornmeal, buttermilk, bacon, collard greens, and seafood like shrimp. These items will help you whip up a variety of hearty Southern dishes that are packed with flavor and perfect for any family gathering!
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