Cozy nights are the perfect excuse to indulge in some good ol’ fashioned comfort food. There’s nothing like a warm, comforting dish to bring people together and fill their bellies with joy. Soul food, in particular, has a way of doing just that – it’s a culinary tradition that’s deeply rooted in African American culture and is all about hearty, satisfying dishes that nourish both body and soul.
Whether you’re looking for classic comfort foods like fried chicken or mac ‘n cheese, or more adventurous options like collard greens with smoked turkey or sweet potato pie, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 of the most comforting soul food recipes out there, guaranteed to become new favorites in your household. So grab a plate and get ready to dig in – these recipes are sure to warm your heart and fill your belly with love!
Southern Fried Chicken with Buttermilk Brine
Get ready for a finger-lickin’ good time with this classic Southern dish! This recipe combines the tenderizing power of buttermilk with the crunch of crispy fried chicken, all in one mouth-watering meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1/2 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the brine and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove the chicken from the brine and dredge in flour, shaking off excess.
5. Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown, about 8-10 minutes per batch.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Homemade Macaroni and Cheese with Sharp Cheddar
Get ready to savor a classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. This recipe combines al dente macaroni with a rich, creamy sauce made with sharp cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer, then remove from heat.
7. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
8. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheesy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes
Slow-Cooked Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey
Nourish your body with the rich flavors of slow-cooked collard greens and smoked turkey, a classic Southern comfort food dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen collard greens, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 pound smoked turkey breast or thighs, sliced
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 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the chopped collard greens, chicken broth, water, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
6. Add the sliced smoked turkey and continue to simmer for another 30 minutes or until the greens are tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Classic Cornbread with Honey Butter
Classic Cornbread with Honey Butter: A warm, crumbly cornbread paired with a sweet and tangy honey butter is the perfect accompaniment to any meal or gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey Butter (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. Whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, and sugar in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Honey Butter:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon pure honey
Mix together softened butter and honey until well combined. Serve warm with cornbread.
Crispy Fried Catfish with Cajun Seasoning
Experience the bold flavors of the Bayou with this mouthwatering recipe that combines crispy fried catfish with the spicy kick of Cajun seasoning. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each catfish fillet into the 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 the catfish for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Smothered Pork Chops in Onion Gravy
A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and always a crowd pleaser. Thick-cut pork chops are smothered in a rich onion gravy, perfect for serving with mashed potatoes or egg noodles.
Ingredients:
– 4 thick-cut pork chops (1-1.5 pounds)
– 2 large onions, sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Season pork chops with salt, pepper, and paprika. Place in the skillet with the onions.
5. Pour chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
6. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until pork chops are cooked through.
7. Serve hot, spooning some of the onion gravy over the top.
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Creole Red Beans and Rice with Andouille Sausage
This hearty dish is a staple of Louisiana cuisine, combining the rich flavors of slow-cooked red beans, savory Andouille sausage, and fluffy rice. A comforting and easy meal that’s perfect for any day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 pound Andouille sausage, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Cook the red beans according to package instructions until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the Andouille sausage over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until browned.
3. Add the onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the cooked red beans, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
5. Serve the bean mixture over cooked white rice.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Sweet Potato Pie with Cinnamon Crust
Sweet Potato Pie with Cinnamon Crust: A Classic Southern Dessert
This sweet potato pie recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a warm and comforting cinnamon crust, perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture and aromatic spices, this dessert is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– Cinnamon crust (recipe below)
– Whipped cream or chopped nuts for garnish (optional)
Cinnamon Crust:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine sweet potatoes, sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Mix until smooth.
3. Add heavy cream and eggs; mix until well combined.
4. Roll out the cinnamon crust to fit the pie dish.
5. Pour the sweet potato mixture into the crust-lined pie dish.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Baked Candied Yams with Marshmallow Topping
Sweeten up your holiday season with these caramelized yams topped with a fluffy marshmallow treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 large yams, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Marshmallow topping (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine yam slices, sugar, corn syrup, and water.
3. Mix until the yams are evenly coated with the sweet mixture.
4. Arrange the yam slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 30 minutes or until caramelized, flipping the yams halfway through.
Marshmallow Topping:
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine marshmallows and butter.
2. Microwave on high for 20-25 seconds or until puffed and slightly golden.
Fried Green Tomatoes with Comeback Sauce
A crispy, savory twist on a traditional Southern favorite, these fried green tomatoes are served with a tangy and creamy comeback sauce for dipping. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 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
– Comeback 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, 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. Fry tomato slices in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with Comeback Sauce.
Comeback Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tablespoon relish
– 1 tablespoon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Southern-Style Shrimp and Grits
This classic Lowcountry dish combines the sweetness of shrimp with the creamy comfort of stone-ground grits, all wrapped up in a flavorful package that’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water or shrimp broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions:
1. Bring water or shrimp broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Gradually whisk in grits and reduce heat to low. Cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until thickened.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and cayenne pepper. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. To serve, place cooked grits on a plate or in a bowl. Top with shrimp mixture and sprinkle with cheddar cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Buttery Biscuits with Sausage Gravy
A classic comfort food combination that’s easy to make and perfect for a hearty breakfast or brunch. Flaky, buttery biscuits served with a rich sausage gravy are sure to please.
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 heavy cream
– 1 pound sweet or hot sausage, casings removed
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for gravy)
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 and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into small pieces.
3. Pour in heavy cream and stir until dough comes together.
4. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1 inch thickness. Cut into squares or use biscuit cutters.
5. Bake biscuits for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. While biscuits bake, cook sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon as it cooks.
7. Reduce heat and stir in flour to thicken gravy. Serve hot over warm biscuits.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBQ Ribs with Homemade Bourbon Glaze
Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of tender BBQ ribs smothered in a rich bourbon glaze, perfect for a summer gathering or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove membrane from back of ribs and apply dry rub evenly.
4. Grill or bake ribs for 2-1/2 hours or until tender.
5. Meanwhile, combine bourbon whiskey, honey, Dijon mustard in a small saucepan.
6. Bring glaze to a simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly.
7. Brush glaze on ribs during last 10 minutes of cooking.
8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours (grilling or baking) + 10 minutes (glazing)
Chicken and Dumplings with Fluffy Drop Biscuits
This comforting recipe combines tender chicken, flavorful broth, and fluffy drop biscuits for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of year.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken and Dumplings:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Fluffy Drop Biscuits:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine chicken, broth, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, prepare the drop biscuits by whisking together flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Add melted butter, buttermilk, and a pinch of salt; stir until just combined.
5. Drop spoonfuls of biscuit mixture onto simmering chicken and broth.
6. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until biscuits are golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Peach Cobbler with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
Enjoy the warm weather with a classic Southern dessert that’s perfect for family gatherings or potlucks. This peach cobbler recipe combines juicy peaches, crunchy biscuit topping, and creamy vanilla bean ice cream for a delightful summer treat.
Ingredients:
For the peach cobbler:
– 3 cups fresh peaches, sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 1/2 cups biscuit topping (see below)
For the vanilla bean ice cream:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 vanilla bean, split lengthwise
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced peaches, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Let it sit for 15 minutes.
3. Roll out biscuit topping to fit the peach mixture. Place on top of peaches.
4. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
5. Chill ice cream according to manufacturer’s instructions. Serve with warm cobbler.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Black-Eyed Peas with Ham Hocks
This classic Southern dish is a staple of soul food and New Year’s celebrations alike, made even richer by the addition of smoky ham hocks. With its tender peas, flavorful broth, and comforting aroma, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried black-eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 ham hocks
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine black-eyed peas, ham hocks, onion, garlic, and cumin.
3. Pour in chicken broth, making sure that the peas are covered by about an inch of liquid.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Simmer for 6-8 hours or until peas are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Southern Cornbread Dressing with Sage
Add a warm and comforting twist to your holiday meal with this Southern-style cornbread dressing, infused with the earthy flavor of sage. Perfect for accompanying roasted turkey or as a standalone side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1/2 cup chopped celery
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 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 (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté celery and onion in butter until tender.
3. Add crumbled cornbread, poultry seasoning, sage, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.
4. Gradually add chicken broth, stirring until the mixture reaches your desired consistency.
5. Transfer the dressing to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Fried Okra with Spicy Ranch Dip
A crispy fried okra recipe that pairs perfectly with a creamy spicy ranch dip, perfect for snacking or as a side dish. This combination of textures and flavors is sure to satisfy your cravings!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup okra pods
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Ranch Dip (see below)
Fried Okra:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate dish.
3. Dip each okra pod into the buttermilk, 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 okra pods in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
6. Drain on paper towels.
Spicy Ranch Dip:
– 1 cup ranch dressing
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
Combine ingredients and serve with fried okra.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hot Water Cornbread with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with a warm slice of cornbread infused with the richness of maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 cup hot water (around 190°F)
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, and baking soda.
3. Add sugar, hot water, maple syrup, and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined (the mixture should still be slightly lumpy).
4. Pour the batter into a greased 8-inch round cake pan or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers and Meringue
This creamy banana pudding is elevated by the crunch of vanilla wafers and the sweetness of meringue. Perfect for a warm-weather dessert or a comforting treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 4 large ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 package of Vanilla Wafers (about 30-40 wafers)
– 1 cup meringue cookies, crushed
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.
3. In a large bowl, combine sliced bananas and pudding mixture. Stir gently to combine.
4. Arrange Vanilla Wafers on top of the banana pudding.
5. Top with crushed meringue cookies.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: None (assembly only)
Summary
Cozy up on a chilly night with these 20 soulful recipes that will warm your heart and belly. From classic comfort foods like Southern Fried Chicken, Homemade Macaroni and Cheese, and Smothered Pork Chops to sweet treats like Sweet Potato Pie and Peach Cobbler, there’s something for everyone. Try Slow-Cooked Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey or Crispy Fried Catfish with Cajun Seasoning for a taste of the South. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food classics or new twists on old favorites, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling cozy and content.
