As the holiday season approaches, many of us are thinking about what to serve at our Thanksgiving table. For those who hail from the South, there’s no shortage of delicious and traditional dishes that have been passed down through generations. From savory sides to sweet treats, Southern cuisine is known for its rich flavors and hearty portions. In this article, we’ll take a culinary journey through 18 classic Southern recipes that are sure to be a hit at your Thanksgiving gathering.
Whether you’re looking for comforting casseroles, crispy-fried favorites, or sweet indulgences, these beloved dishes have been perfected over the years to satisfy even the most discerning palates. From collard greens to pecan pie, we’ll explore the rich flavors and traditions of Southern cooking that make every Thanksgiving table feel like a warm hug from Grandma.
Southern Cornbread Dressing
This Southern-style cornbread dressing recipe is a staple at many holiday tables. Made with crispy cornbread, savory herbs, and aromatic spices, it’s the perfect accompaniment to roasted turkey or baked ham.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. Add the melted butter, cornbread, poultry seasoning, sage, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
4. Gradually add the chicken broth, stirring until the dressing reaches your desired consistency.
5. Transfer the dressing to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Candied Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows
This classic Southern side dish is a perfect combination of sweet and savory, topped with toasted marshmallows for an added layer of indulgence. This recipe is easy to make and sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until smooth.
5. Arrange sweet potato slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Brush with the sugar mixture.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
7. Top with mini marshmallows and return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until marshmallows are toasted.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey
A classic Southern combination that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe brings together the tender, slightly sweet flavor of collard greens and the rich, smoky taste of smoked turkey.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound collard greens, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup diced smoked turkey breast
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil 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, chicken broth, water, salt, and pepper to the pot.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the greens are tender.
6. Stir in the diced smoked turkey breast and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Fried Turkey with Cajun Seasoning
Get ready to elevate your holiday turkey game with this spicy and savory recipe! This crispy fried turkey is marinated in a bold blend of Cajun seasoning, perfect for those who love a little heat.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or deep fryer to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove giblets and neck from turkey. Rinse turkey inside and out with cold water, then pat dry with paper towels.
4. Sprinkle Cajun seasoning evenly over the turkey, making sure to coat all surfaces.
5. Dredge turkey in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
6. Fry turkey for 3-4 minutes per pound, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain on paper towels before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes (depending on size of turkey)
Southern Pecan Pie
Rich, buttery, and nutty, this iconic pie is a staple of Southern cuisine. Perfect for holidays or special occasions, it’s sure to impress your guests with its deep, caramel-like flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together corn syrup, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
3. Stir in pecan halves and melted butter until well combined.
4. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish.
5. Pour filling into the pie crust.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Buttermilk Biscuits with Honey Butter
Warm and flaky buttermilk biscuits are a perfect match with sweet and tangy honey butter. This recipe combines the two to create a delightful breakfast or brunch treat.
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
– Honey butter ingredients (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter; use a pastry blender or fingers to work into a crumbly mixture.
4. Pour in buttermilk; stir until dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on floured surface to 1-inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place biscuits on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
Honey Butter:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon pure honey
Mix until smooth and creamy.
Cooking Time:
Bake biscuits for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Serve warm with a pat of honey butter on top. Enjoy!
Green Bean Casserole with Bacon
Elevate your classic green bean casserole game with the addition of crispy bacon! This recipe is a perfect combination of textures and flavors, making it a great side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup French-fried onions
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, then set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add green beans to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, or until tender.
5. In a separate mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup and milk. Stir in cooked green beans, bacon, salt, and pepper.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with French-fried onions.
7. Dot the top with butter and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mac and Cheese with Crispy Topping
Satisfy your comfort food cravings with this classic macaroni and cheese recipe, elevated by a crunchy breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, whisk together milk, flour, and paprika. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Gradually add cheese, stirring until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with panko breadcrumbs and melted butter.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Southern Giblet Gravy
This classic Southern gravy recipe elevates your holiday meals with its rich, savory flavor. Made with giblets from a roasted turkey or chicken, this gravy is the perfect accompaniment to your favorite sides and main courses.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups turkey or chicken giblets
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Remove the giblets from the roasted turkey or chicken and chop them coarsely.
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add the chicken broth and heavy cream or half-and-half, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in the chopped giblets and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Fried Okra with Spicy Dipping Sauce
This Southern classic gets a bold twist with a spicy dipping sauce that will leave you craving for more. Try this easy recipe to add some crispy, crunchy goodness to your meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup okra pods
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Dipping Sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each okra pod into the buttermilk, then roll in the flour mixture to coat. Place coated okra on a plate or tray.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry okra in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
Spicy Dipping Sauce:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Serve with fried okra for an added kick!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Southern-Style Corn Pudding
A classic Southern side dish, this creamy corn pudding is the perfect accompaniment to your favorite comfort foods. With a rich, buttery flavor and a velvety smooth texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together cream, milk, melted butter, and corn kernels.
3. Add flour, salt, baking powder, and paprika; stir until combined.
4. Beat in the egg until smooth.
5. Pour mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the pudding is puffed and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Black-Eyed Peas with Ham Hocks
A classic Southern side dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, this recipe combines tender black-eyed peas with rich ham hocks and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried black-eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4 ham hocks
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, heat oil over medium-high. Add ham hocks and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add soaked black-eyed peas, cumin, salt, and pepper. Pour in chicken broth.
5. Cover the pot and transfer to the preheated oven. Simmer for 6-8 hours or until peas are tender.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Sweet Potato Pie with Whipped Cream
A classic Southern dessert, this sweet potato pie is a delicious twist on traditional pumpkin pie. With the added richness of whipped cream, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 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
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Whipped cream (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together mashed sweet potatoes, heavy cream, sugar, flour, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon until smooth.
3. Beat in eggs and melted butter until well combined.
4. Pour mixture into a 9-inch pie dish and bake for 40-45 minutes or until filling is set.
5. Allow pie to cool before serving with whipped cream.
Whipped Cream:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Beat cream and sugar until stiff peaks form. Serve over cooled sweet potato pie.
Shrimp and Grits Casserole
This classic Lowcountry dish gets a comforting casserole twist with tender shrimp, creamy grits, and crispy breadcrumbs. Perfect for a cozy night in or a brunch gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook grits according to package instructions, whisking in butter, cheddar cheese, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. In a separate pan, sauté shrimp with olive oil until pink and cooked through.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the grits mixture. Top with shrimp, then remaining grits.
5. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Southern Fried Corn
Get ready for a classic Southern side dish that’s sure to please! This simple recipe yields crispy, golden-brown corn that’s perfect for accompanying your favorite comfort foods.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add corn kernels to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the dry mixture.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add the coated corn kernels to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown, stirring occasionally.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until crispy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Bread Pudding
Warm up with a slice of comforting Pumpkin Spice Bread Pudding, infused with the aromatic flavors of fall. This moist and flavorful dessert is perfect for cozying up on a chilly evening or serving at your next holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
– Chopped walnuts or pecans for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
3. Add bread cubes, heavy cream, eggs, melted butter, and pumpkin pie spice; stir until well combined.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and let it rest for 10 minutes.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped nuts, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Serves: 8-10
Braised Collard Greens with Vinegar
A classic Southern side dish, braised collard greens are a staple of many soul food traditions. This simple recipe highlights the rich flavors of collard greens when slow-cooked in a tangy vinegar-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen collard greens
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the collard greens and remove any stems or tough leaves.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the collard greens to the pot in batches, if necessary, stirring to combine with the onion and garlic mixture.
6. Pour in the apple cider vinegar and water, stirring to coat the greens evenly.
7. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let braise for 30-40 minutes, or until the greens are tender.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Southern-Style Banana Pudding
This creamy banana pudding is a staple of Southern cuisine, perfect for warm weather gatherings and family reunions. With its velvety texture and sweet banana flavor, it’s sure to be a crowd pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 4 large ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup Nilla wafers, crushed (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
4. Let pudding cool slightly before stirring in sliced bananas.
5. Spoon pudding into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Top with crushed Nilla wafers, if desired.
7. Chill in refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to savor the flavors of the South with these 18 classic Thanksgiving recipes! From comforting sides like Buttermilk Biscuits with Honey Butter and Green Bean Casserole with Bacon, to show-stopping main courses like Fried Turkey with Cajun Seasoning, there’s something for everyone. Sweet tooth? Try Southern Pecan Pie or Pumpkin Spice Bread Pudding. And don’t forget the collard greens, cornbread dressing, and sweet potato pie that make this menu a true Southern celebration. Whether you’re hosting a big feast or just want to spice up your holiday cooking, these recipes are sure to delight!
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