The South – where the tea is sweet, the hospitality is warmer, and the food is, well, let’s just say it’s the stuff dreams are made of. If you’re craving some authentic Southern cooking dinner ideas, you’re in the right place. I’m about to spill all my secrets (or should I say, Grandma’s secrets?) for a finger-lickin’ good time. So, grab a glass of sweet tea and let’s get this Southern cooking party started!
Classic Southern Fried Chicken
This recipe rocks because it’s the ultimate comfort food that never fails to impress. I mean, who doesn’t love a good ol’ plate of crispy, juicy fried chicken? It’s like a warm hug for your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken pieces
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil for frying
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
2. Pour the buttermilk into a separate large bowl.
3. Dip each piece of chicken into the buttermilk, coating completely, 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 the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Why You’ll Love It
This Southern fried chicken recipe is a game-changer. The buttermilk marinade makes the chicken tender and moist, while the spicy flour coating adds a nice kick. It’s the perfect dish for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Biscuits and Gravy Dinner
This recipe is a traditional Southern favorite that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. I mean, what’s not to love about flaky biscuits and a rich, meaty gravy?
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 pound sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add the buttermilk and stir until the dough comes together.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead a few times until it comes together.
6. Roll the dough out to about 1 inch thickness and use a biscuit cutter to cut out the biscuits.
7. Place the biscuits on a baking sheet and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. To make the gravy, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
9. Add the cooked sausage and flour, stirring to combine.
10. Gradually add the chicken broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
Why You’ll Love It
This biscuits and gravy recipe is a soul food dinner menu staple. The flaky biscuits and rich gravy are the perfect comfort food combination. It’s also surprisingly easy to make, even for a beginner.
Southern Sides and Mains
This recipe rocks because it’s a versatile collection of Southern sides and mains that can be mixed and matched to create the perfect meal. From creamy mac and cheese to crispy fried okra, there’s something for everyone.
Ingredients
- 1 cup macaroni
- 2 cups cheese sauce
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup fried okra
- 1/2 cup fried green tomatoes
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cheese sauce, cooked macaroni, and panko breadcrumbs.
4. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with the grated cheddar and parmesan cheese.
5. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
6. To make the fried okra, heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
7. Dip each okra pod into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat.
8. Fry the okra for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Why You’ll Love It
This Southern sides recipe is a traditional Southern favorite that’s easy to customize. Whether you’re in the mood for creamy mac and cheese or crispy fried okra, this recipe has got you covered. It’s also a great way to use up leftover ingredients and reduce food waste.
In conclusion, these Southern cooking dinner ideas are the perfect way to add some comfort and charm to your meal routine. From classic Southern fried chicken to biscuits and gravy, and Southern sides and mains, there’s something for everyone. So go ahead, get cooking, and let the good times roll! With these recipes, you’ll be enjoying delicious, authentic Southern cooking in no time. Happy cooking, y’all!
