As the holiday season approaches, thoughts turn to family gatherings and traditional feasts. For many Southerners, Thanksgiving is a time-honored celebration that brings people together around the table. When it comes to planning the perfect menu for your Turkey Day gathering, look no further than these 18 classic Southern recipes. From savory dishes like Buttermilk Cornbread Dressing and Smothered Pork Chops with Onion Gravy, to sweet treats like Pecan Pie with Bourbon Whipped Cream and Pumpkin Spice Bread Pudding, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Whether you’re a born-and-bred Southerner or just looking to add some regional flair to your holiday menu, these recipes are sure to be a hit. So go ahead, get cooking, and make this Thanksgiving one to remember!
Buttermilk Cornbread Dressing
Buttermilk Cornbread Dressing: A Southern Staple with a Twist
This creamy cornbread dressing gets its signature flavor from the tanginess of buttermilk and the crunch of toasted pecans. Perfect for accompanying your favorite roasted meats or as a side dish on its own.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup chopped toasted pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the crumbled cornbread in melted butter until lightly browned.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken broth, heavy cream, buttermilk, Dijon mustard, and poultry seasoning.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the toasted cornbread mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the dressing mixture to a baking dish and top with chopped pecans.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Southern Fried Turkey with Cajun Spice
Give your holiday meal a bold boost with this Southern Fried Turkey recipe infused with the spicy kick of Cajun spice. This mouthwatering twist on traditional fried turkey is sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 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, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip turkey in 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.
5. Fry turkey for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Drain on paper towels and let rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: About 45 minutes total (depending on size of turkey)
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping: A classic Southern side dish that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the crunch and flavor of pecans.
Ingredients:
– 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 cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well until smooth.
3. Stir in heavy cream and melted butter until fully incorporated.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with chopped pecans.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey Legs
This hearty dish combines the rich flavors of smoked turkey legs with the tender, slightly bitter taste of collard greens. Perfect for a comforting meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds collard greens, chopped
– 2 smoked turkey legs, bone-in
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the collard greens, smoked turkey legs, salt, black pepper, and chicken broth to the pot.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the greens are tender and the turkey is heated through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Transform plain mashed potatoes into a rich and indulgent side dish by adding the perfect blend of cheesy goodness and savory garlic. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or extra sharp work best)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Boil potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter, cheese, garlic, and milk.
3. Mash with a potato masher or a fork until smooth and creamy.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Southern Green Bean Casserole with Bacon
This classic casserole recipe combines the comfort of green beans, crispy bacon, and creamy sauce for a deliciously Southern twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup crushed crackers (e.g., Ritz)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté green beans, onion, and garlic until tender. Add crumbled bacon; set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, black pepper, and salt. Stir until smooth.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange the green bean mixture in an even layer. Pour the soup mixture over the beans.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and crushed crackers on top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pecan Pie with Bourbon Whipped Cream
This classic Southern dessert gets a sophisticated twist with the addition of rich bourbon whipped cream, making it perfect for special occasions or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients:
For the Pecan Pie:
– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
For the Bourbon Whipped Cream:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
– 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together corn syrup, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. Stir in pecan halves until well coated.
4. Pour mixture into a 9-inch pie dish and bake for 45-50 minutes or until filling is set.
5. For the whipped cream, beat heavy cream, butter, bourbon whiskey, and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
6. Serve warm pecan pie with a dollop of bourbon whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Fried Corn with Onions and Bell Peppers
This classic Southern side dish is a staple at many family gatherings and barbecues. With its crispy, golden exterior and tender, flavorful interior, it’s sure to become a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups frozen corn kernels
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers to the pan, cooking until they’re tender and lightly browned (about 5 minutes).
3. Add the frozen corn kernels to the pan, stirring to combine with the onions and bell peppers.
4. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the corn is thawed and lightly toasted.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Slow-Cooked Mac and Cheese with Three Cheeses
This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering. With the slow-cooker, you can come home to a warm, cheesy macaroni that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a slow-cooker, combine the milk, cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheeses. Stir until the cheese is melted and smooth.
3. Add the cooked macaroni, butter, salt, and pepper to the slow-cooker. Stir until the pasta is well coated with the cheesy mixture.
4. Cook on low for 2-3 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Corn Pudding with Creamed Corn
A classic Southern side dish that’s sure to please, this creamy corn pudding is infused with the sweetness of fresh creamed corn and a hint of yellow cornmeal. It’s perfect for accompanying your favorite barbecue or grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup fresh creamed corn (see note)
– 1 large egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add melted butter, creamed corn, and beaten egg; whisk until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into a greased 9-inch square baking dish.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until set and lightly golden brown.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Note: For creamed corn, boil 2 cups of corn kernels in water until tender. Drain and mash with butter and salt to taste.
Biscuits with Sawmill Gravy
Classic Southern comfort food, biscuits with sawmill gravy are a staple of country breakfasts. These flaky, buttery biscuits pair perfectly with a rich and savory gravy made from pan drippings and flour.
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
Gravy:
– Pan drippings from cooking sausage or bacon (about 1/4 cup)
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add buttermilk and stir until dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on floured surface to about 1 inch thickness.
6. Cut into squares or use a biscuit cutter.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Gravy:
1. In a small saucepan, whisk together pan drippings and flour.
2. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes or until thickened.
Deviled Eggs with Sweet Pickle Relish
Elevate your deviled egg game with a tangy twist – sweet pickle relish adds a delightful contrast to the classic filling. Perfect for potlucks, parties, or just a snack.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs, hard-boiled and peeled
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon prepared yellow mustard
– 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Paprika or chopped chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove yolks.
2. In a bowl, combine yolks, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and yellow mustard. Mix until smooth.
3. Stir in sweet pickle relish until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spoon the yolk mixture into egg white halves.
6. Garnish with paprika or chopped chives if desired.
7. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None (just assemble and chill)
Southern-Style Cornbread
Warm up with a classic Southern treat! This cornbread recipe combines the comfort of yellow cornmeal, the sweetness of sugar, and the tanginess of buttermilk for a flavorful and crumbly delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. Whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, buttermilk, and egg.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smothered Pork Chops with Onion Gravy
This classic Southern comfort food dish is a hearty and flavorful meal that’s sure to please. Tender pork chops smothered in a rich onion gravy make for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 2 large onions, sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Arrange pork chops on top of the onion mixture in the skillet.
6. Pour chicken broth and heavy cream over the pork chops. Bring to a simmer.
7. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until pork chops are cooked through.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Black-Eyed Peas with Ham Hocks
This classic Southern dish is a staple of soul food cuisine, combining the creamy goodness of black-eyed peas with the rich flavor of ham hocks. This recipe makes 6-8 servings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried black-eyed peas
– 2 ham hocks
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Water, enough to cover the peas
Instructions:
1. Rinse the black-eyed peas and soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
3. Place the ham hocks on a baking sheet and roast for 30 minutes, or until they’re lightly browned.
4. In a large pot, combine the cooked black-eyed peas, roasted ham hocks, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
5. Add enough water to cover the mixture and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the peas are tender.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Pumpkin Spice Bread Pudding
This autumnal treat combines the comfort of bread pudding with the warmth of pumpkin spice, perfect for snuggling up on a chilly fall evening. Moist and flavorful, this dessert is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Pumpkin pie spice, to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine bread, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, pumpkin puree, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Serve warm, dust with powdered sugar, and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Fried Okra with Spicy Remoulade
This Southern-style recipe combines crispy fried okra with a tangy and spicy remoulade sauce, perfect for snacking or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup okra pods, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Remoulade Sauce:
+ 1/2 cup mayonnaise
+ 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
+ 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
+ 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Tabasco)
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip okra slices into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Fry coated okra in hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
5. In a small bowl, mix together remoulade sauce ingredients.
6. Serve fried okra with remoulade sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caramel Apple Dumplings with Vanilla Ice Cream
This recipe combines tender apple-filled dumplings, a rich caramel sauce, and creamy vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of refrigerated biscuit dough (16-20 biscuits)
– 2-3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Vanilla ice cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out biscuit dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a bowl, mix together sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Place an apple mixture onto the center of each biscuit, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the biscuit dough over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with melted butter.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Serve warm with caramel sauce and vanilla ice cream.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a hearty Southern Thanksgiving feast! This collection of classic recipes features 18 mouth-watering dishes that are sure to please. From savory sides like Buttermilk Cornbread Dressing and Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes, to sweet treats like Pecan Pie with Bourbon Whipped Cream, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at Southern Fried Turkey with Cajun Spice or slow-cooked Mac and Cheese with Three Cheeses. And don’t forget the greens – Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey Legs are a must-try! These Southern-style recipes are sure to become new family traditions.
