Get ready to indulge in a culinary journey through the South, where rich flavors and hearty portions are the norm. In this article, we’re excited to share 20 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the best of Southern cooking. From classic comfort foods to innovative twists on traditional dishes, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, our collection of recipes is designed to inspire and delight. You’ll find beloved favorites like Southern Fried Chicken, Homemade Buttermilk Biscuits, and Mac and Cheese with a Crispy Top, alongside innovative dishes that will surprise and impress your friends and family.
In the coming pages, we’ll take you on a culinary tour through the South, highlighting the bold flavors, comforting traditions, and warm hospitality that make this region so special. So grab a cup of sweet tea, get cozy, and let’s dive into the world of 20 Flavorful Divas Can Cook Recipes Delicious!
Southern Fried Chicken
Get ready to savor a classic Southern favorite with this simple and mouthwatering recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 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, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate large bowl.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry the coated chicken pieces for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken pieces.
Enjoy your delicious Southern Fried Chicken!
Homemade Buttermilk Biscuits
Looking for a classic Southern treat that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser? Look no further than these homemade buttermilk biscuits! With just a few simple ingredients and some gentle mixing, you’ll be enjoying warm, flaky goodness in no time.
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
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.
3. Cut in the cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Pour in the buttermilk; stir gently until dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
5. Turn dough out onto a floured surface; knead gently 2-3 times.
6. Roll out to about 1 inch thickness; cut into desired shapes (biscuits, squares, or strips).
7. Place on prepared baking sheet; bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cheesy Garlic Butter Rolls
Elevate your snack game with these mouthwatering cheesy garlic butter rolls that are perfect for a quick indulgence or as a side dish. Made with a simple dough, infused with rich flavors of melted butter, garlic, and cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast; let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add softened butter, flour, salt, and garlic to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Roll out the dough into a rectangle, spread with melted butter, and sprinkle with cheese and parsley.
6. Roll up the dough, cut into 12 equal pieces, and place on prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Creamy Cajun Pasta
This spicy pasta dish combines the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with the comfort of creamy sauce and al dente noodles. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as fettuccine or linguine)
– 2 tbsp. butter
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp. Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Cajun seasoning and stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Combine cooked pasta and creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Potato Pie
Sweet Potato Pie Recipe: A Classic Southern Treat
This sweet potato pie recipe is a beloved classic in the South, perfect for Thanksgiving or any other fall gathering. With its creamy texture and warm spices, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
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 for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the mashed sweet potatoes, heavy cream, sugar, flour, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon until smooth.
3. Beat in the eggs until well combined.
4. Stir in the melted butter.
5. Pour the mixture into a pie crust and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smothered Pork Chops
Savor the rich flavors of tender pork chops smothered in a tangy, sweet, and savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 pork chops (1-inch thick)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season pork chops with salt, pepper, and cumin.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced onion and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Remove skillet from heat. Stir in chicken broth, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar.
6. Place pork chops in the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over each chop.
7. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until pork is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Peach Cobbler
Sweeten up your dessert game with this classic homemade peach cobbler recipe. Fresh peaches, sugar, and spices come together in a deliciously gooey filling topped with a crispy, buttery crust.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups fresh or frozen peaches, sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced peaches, granulated sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Let it sit for 15 minutes.
3. Roll out the dough to fit a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place the peach mixture inside.
4. Top with melted butter, then roll out the remaining dough to fit the top of the cobbler.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until crust is golden brown and filling bubbles up.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Jambalaya with Shrimp and Sausage
This classic Louisiana dish combines the flavors of juicy shrimp, spicy sausage, and savory rice for a hearty meal that’s sure to please. With its rich history and cultural significance, jambalaya is a staple of Creole cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille or kielbasa), sliced
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced bell pepper
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add shrimp and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Combine cooked rice with the jambalaya mixture and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Southern Collard Greens
A Southern classic, collard greens are a staple in many households. This recipe brings out the natural sweetness and earthy flavor of these leafy greens by cooking them with bacon and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen collard greens
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Rinse the collard greens and remove any stems or thick veins. Cut into smaller pieces.
2. Cook the diced bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy.
3. Add the minced garlic, chopped onion, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pot. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the collard greens to the pot, stirring to combine with the bacon mixture.
5. Pour in the apple cider vinegar and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and cook for 30-40 minutes or until the greens are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mac and Cheese with a Crispy Top
This comforting macaroni and cheese dish is elevated by a crispy, golden-brown top that adds texture and flavor to the classic comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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 large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Add cooked macaroni and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fried Catfish with Spicy Remoulade
Get ready for a Southern classic with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the flaky goodness of catfish with the spicy kick of remoulade. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Spicy Remoulade (recipe below)
Spicy Remoulade:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp hot sauce (e.g., Tabasco)
– 1/2 tsp chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dip each catfish fillet in the flour mixture, coating evenly.
3. Fry catfish in hot oil until golden brown (about 4-5 minutes per side).
4. Drain on paper towels and serve with Spicy Remoulade.
5. To make remoulade, combine all ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes (includes frying time).
Cornbread Dressing
Classic Cornbread Dressing Recipe
A staple of Southern cuisine, cornbread dressing adds a warm, comforting touch to your holiday table. This recipe combines the sweetness of cornbread with the savory flavors of herbs and spices for a delicious accompaniment to turkey or chicken.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. Add the crumbled cornbread, melted butter, dried sage, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and stir until the mixture is moist but not soggy.
5. Transfer the dressing to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until lightly browned and crispy on top.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
A timeless Southern classic, this red velvet cake combines the deep, rich flavor of cocoa powder and buttermilk with a tangy cream cheese frosting for a truly unforgettable dessert.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon red food coloring
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine cocoa powder and buttermilk; stir until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let cakes cool completely before frosting.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes per cake
Blackened Salmon with Garlic Butter
A flavorful twist on traditional salmon dishes, this recipe combines the bold flavors of blackening seasoning with the richness of garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp blackening seasoning
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil and blackening seasoning.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the blackening mixture evenly over both sides of the salmon.
5. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
6. Place the salmon fillets on top of the garlic butter, spooning some of the butter sauce over each piece.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake in preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Warm up with this hearty slow cooker beef stew recipe that’s perfect for a cozy night in. With tender chunks of beef, vegetables, and rich broth, it’s a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the beef, onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes in a slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, red wine (if using), and thyme. Pour over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers
This classic Southern dessert is a comforting treat that combines the sweetness of bananas and vanilla wafers with a creamy pudding. It’s perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 large ripe bananas
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 package (6-8 wafers) Nilla Vanilla Wafers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low; simmer for 5 minutes or until pudding thickens slightly.
4. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla extract.
5. Slice bananas into 1/2-inch rounds.
6. In a large bowl, layer pudding, banana slices, and Vanilla Wafers. Repeat layers two more times, ending with a layer of pudding on top.
7. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (plus chilling time)
Shrimp and Grits
A classic Lowcountry dish that combines succulent shrimp with creamy grits, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water or shrimp broth
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the grits and water or broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 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 to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in parsley, salt, and pepper.
5. Serve the shrimp over the grits. If using cheese, sprinkle on top and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Chicken Pot Pie
This classic comfort food recipe combines tender chicken, creamy vegetables, and flaky pastry in a satisfying pie that’s sure to become a family favorite. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious homemade version of this beloved dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large celery stalk, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 1/4 cup frozen mixed vegetables (such as peas, corn, and carrots)
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups pie crust dough (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook chicken, carrots, celery, and garlic in a large skillet until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add flour, butter, mixed vegetables, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.
4. Roll out pie crust dough and fill with the chicken mixture.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Caramel Pecan Cheesecake
This Caramel Pecan Cheesecake is a perfect combination of creamy cheesecake, crunchy pecans, and gooey caramel. With its velvety texture and deep flavors, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, separated
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare the crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into a springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
4. Pour cheesecake batter into the prepared pan.
5. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top of the cheesecake.
6. Drizzle caramel sauce over the pecans.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
8. Let cool completely before refrigerating.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Spicy Honey Glazed Chicken Wings
Sweet and spicy, these chicken wings are a perfect combination of flavors. A simple glaze made with honey, hot sauce, and spices adds a depth of flavor to the crispy fried wings.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, hot sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken wings to the glaze and toss to coat evenly.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the chicken wings in batches until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
6. Transfer the fried wings to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until crispy.
7. Serve hot with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing (optional).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a culinary journey with these 20 delicious recipes from Divas Can Cook! From classic comfort foods like Southern Fried Chicken and Mac and Cheese with a Crispy Top, to indulgent desserts like Caramel Pecan Cheesecake and Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers, this collection has something for everyone. Try your hand at making homemade Buttermilk Biscuits or Creamy Cajun Pasta, or satisfy your sweet tooth with Sweet Potato Pie or Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. Whatever you’re in the mood for, these recipes are sure to please.