25 Southern Sunday Suppers the Whole Family Will Love (You Won’t Believe #12!)

Southern Sunday Suppers are a cherished tradition that brings families together around the dinner table, filled with warmth, laughter, and of course, mouthwatering comfort food.

From classic fried chicken to hearty gumbo, these recipes are not just meals; they’re a celebration of Southern culture and hospitality.

Join us as we explore 25 irresistible dishes that will have your family asking for seconds. Get ready to cook up a storm with these family recipes that embody the heart and soul of Southern cooking!

1. Classic Southern Fried Chicken

No Southern Sunday Supper is complete without the iconic fried chicken. Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, this dish is a staple that brings everyone to the table.

Seasoned to perfection and fried to golden brown, each bite delivers a crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender meat. Pair it with some creamy coleslaw and buttery biscuits for a meal that feels like a warm hug.

Recipe Overview:
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Calories: 450 per serving

Nutrition Information:
Calories: 450
Protein: 30g
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 30g

Ingredients List:
– 4 chicken thighs
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a bowl, soak chicken thighs in buttermilk for at least 1 hour.
2. In another bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
4. Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, coating well.
5. Fry the chicken for 10-12 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
6. Drain on paper towels before serving.

Tips for the Best Fried Chicken:
– Allow the chicken to come to room temperature before frying for even cooking.
– Maintain the oil temperature for crispy skin.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I bake the chicken instead? Yes, bake at 400°F for 40-45 minutes.
2. What sides pair well? Mashed potatoes and green beans are perfect companions.

2. Shrimp and Grits

This quintessential Southern dish perfectly marries the ocean’s bounty with the comfort of creamy grits.

Plump shrimp sautéed with garlic, lemon, and spices create a burst of flavor that complements the rich, buttery grits. It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet is simple enough for a weeknight family dinner.

Recipe Overview:
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Calories: 500 per serving

Nutrition Information:
Calories: 500
Protein: 25g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 70g

Ingredients List:
– 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup grits
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a pot, bring chicken broth to a boil and stir in grits.
2. Cook grits on low for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
4. Add shrimp, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper; cook until shrimp are pink.
5. Serve shrimp over a bed of creamy grits.

Tips for Making the Best Shrimp and Grits:
– Use stone-ground grits for a creamier texture.
– Add cheese to the grits for an extra layer of flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, just thaw them before cooking.
2. What can I substitute for grits? Polenta can be a great alternative.

3. Chicken and Dumplings

A bowl of chicken and dumplings is the ultimate comfort food, embodying the essence of Southern cooking.

This dish features tender chicken simmered in a savory broth with fluffy dumplings that soak up all the delicious flavors. It’s the perfect antidote for a chilly evening and is sure to bring a smile to your family’s faces.

Recipe Overview:
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hour
Calories: 350 per serving

Nutrition Information:
Calories: 350
Protein: 25g
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 40g

Ingredients List:
– 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups flour
– 1 tbsp baking powder
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a pot, bring chicken broth to a boil and add chicken pieces.
2. Cook until chicken is tender, then remove and shred.
3. Mix flour, baking powder, milk, and salt to form a dough for dumplings.
4. Drop spoonfuls of the dough into the boiling broth and cook for 15 minutes.
5. Return shredded chicken to the pot and stir gently.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley.

Tips for the Best Chicken and Dumplings:
– Use homemade broth for richer flavor.
– Don’t overwork the dumpling dough for fluffier results.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I add vegetables? Yes, carrots and peas make great additions.
2. How do I store leftovers? Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

4. Southern-Style Collard Greens

Collard greens are a Southern staple that adds a nutritious punch to any Sunday supper.

Cooked low and slow with smoked ham hocks or bacon, they become tender and flavorful, making them the perfect side dish to complement heartier mains. Their earthy flavor pairs particularly well with fried chicken or cornbread.

Recipe Overview:
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 10 mins
Calories: 150 per serving

Nutrition Information:
Calories: 150
Protein: 5g
Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 25g

Ingredients List:
– 1 lb collard greens, washed and chopped
– 1 smoked ham hock
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
2. Add collard greens and ham hock, stirring well.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour until greens are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

Tips for the Best Collard Greens:
– Use a splash of vinegar for added brightness.
– Cook longer for a softer texture.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use fresh greens? Yes, they work beautifully.
2. What if I don’t have ham hocks? Bacon or turkey can be substituted.

5. Classic Macaroni and Cheese

Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting, macaroni and cheese is a beloved dish that never fails to delight.

Baked to perfection with a crispy top, this Southern version of mac and cheese is rich with flavors from multiple cheeses and a hint of spice. It’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with almost any main dish or can simply stand on its own.

Recipe Overview:
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Calories: 400 per serving

Nutrition Information:
Calories: 400
Protein: 15g
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 38g

Ingredients List:
– 2 cups elbow macaroni
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter and stir in milk, cheese, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Combine cheese sauce with macaroni and pour into a baking dish.
5. Top with breadcrumbs and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.

Tips for the Best Mac and Cheese:
– Mix different cheeses for depth of flavor.
– Add a pinch of cayenne for a kick.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, store in the fridge and bake before serving.
2. What other ingredients can I add? Cooked bacon or vegetables are great options.

6. Southern Cornbread

No Southern meal is complete without a side of cornbread. This slightly sweet, golden bread is the perfect accompaniment to hearty dishes like chili, gumbo, or fried chicken.

With its crispy edges and soft, crumbly interior, cornbread is sure to become a family favorite. Serve it warm with a pat of butter melting on top for an extra touch of decadence.

Recipe Overview:
Servings: 8
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Calories: 200 per serving

Nutrition Information:
Calories: 200
Protein: 4g
Fat: 8g
Carbohydrates: 30g

Ingredients List:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1 tbsp baking powder
– 1 cup milk
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup melted butter

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F and grease a baking dish.
2. In a bowl, mix cornmeal, flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In another bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
5. Pour batter into prepared dish and bake for 20 minutes until golden.

Tips for the Best Cornbread:
– Use a cast iron skillet for a crispy crust.
– Add jalapeños for a spicy twist.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I freeze cornbread? Yes, wrap it well and freeze for up to 2 months.
2. What can I serve with cornbread? It pairs wonderfully with soups and stews.

7. Gumbo

Gumbo is a rich, flavorful stew that embodies the spirit of Southern cuisine.

With a blend of meats, seafood, and vegetables, this dish is hearty and satisfying. The dark roux and spices create a depth of flavor that warms the soul, making it a perfect dish for family gatherings. Serve over rice for a complete meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Recipe Overview:
Servings: 8
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 mins
Calories: 350 per serving

Nutrition Information:
Calories: 350
Protein: 25g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 35g

Ingredients List:
– 1 lb chicken, diced
– 1 lb sausage, sliced
– 1 lb shrimp, peeled
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup okra, sliced
– 1/2 cup flour
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large pot, make a dark roux by cooking flour over medium heat until brown.
2. Add sausage, chicken, onion, and bell pepper; sauté until browned.
3. Stir in okra and Cajun seasoning.
4. Gradually add chicken broth, bringing to a simmer.
5. Add shrimp and cook until pink.
6. Serve over cooked rice.

Tips for the Best Gumbo:
– Let it sit for a day; the flavors will deepen.
– Use a mix of seafood for variety.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I make this vegetarian? Yes, just omit meat and use vegetable broth.
2. How do I store leftovers? Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

8. BBQ Ribs

Nothing says Southern like a rack of BBQ ribs, slathered in a tangy sauce and grilled to perfection.

Tender, juicy meat that falls off the bone, paired with a smoky barbecue flavor, makes for an unforgettable dining experience. Serve it with coleslaw and baked beans for a classic Southern feast.

Recipe Overview:
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 mins
Calories: 600 per serving

Nutrition Information:
Calories: 600
Protein: 40g
Fat: 35g
Carbohydrates: 20g

Ingredients List:
– 2 lbs pork ribs
– 1 cup barbecue sauce
– 1 tbsp paprika
– 1 tbsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium heat.
2. Season ribs with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill ribs for 1 hour, turning occasionally.
4. Brush with barbecue sauce and grill for another hour.
5. Serve with extra sauce on the side.

Tips for the Best BBQ Ribs:
– Pre-cook ribs in the oven for 1 hour before grilling for ultimate tenderness.
– Let them rest before cutting for juicier meat.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use beef ribs? Yes, just adjust cooking times.
2. What other sides pair well? Cornbread and potato salad are great options.

9. Peach Cobbler

End your Southern Sunday Supper on a sweet note with a slice of homemade peach cobbler.

With juicy peaches enveloped in a buttery crust, this dessert is a true Southern classic. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures and flavors.

Recipe Overview:
Servings: 8
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hour
Calories: 350 per serving

Nutrition Information:
Calories: 350
Protein: 2g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 55g

Ingredients List:
– 4 cups sliced peaches
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 cup flour
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 1 tbsp baking powder
– 1 tsp cinnamon

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, combine peaches and sugar; let sit for 10 minutes.
3. In another bowl, mix flour, milk, melted butter, baking powder, and cinnamon.
4. Pour batter into a greased baking dish, then top with peaches.
5. Bake for 45 minutes until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with ice cream.

Tips for the Best Peach Cobbler:
– Use fresh, ripe peaches for the best flavor.
– Add a splash of vanilla for extra sweetness.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use canned peaches? Yes, just drain and reduce sugar.
2. How do I store leftovers? Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

10. Hush Puppies

These crispy, golden balls of cornbread are a beloved Southern side dish that pairs perfectly with fried seafood or barbecue.

Hush puppies are simple to make and add a delightful crunch to any meal. Lightly seasoned and fried until golden, they’re often served with a side of tartar sauce or honey for dipping.

Recipe Overview:
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Calories: 220 per serving

Nutrition Information:
Calories: 220
Protein: 4g
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 30g

Ingredients List:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 cup flour
– 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
– 1 egg
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Oil for frying
– Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix cornmeal, flour, onion, salt, and pepper.
2. In another bowl, whisk egg and buttermilk together.
3. Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
4. Heat oil in a deep pot over medium heat.
5. Drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Drain on paper towels before serving.

Tips for the Best Hush Puppies:
– Do not overmix the batter for lighter hush puppies.
– Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature for even frying.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I add spices? Yes, jalapeños or cayenne for a kick!
2. Can I bake them instead? Yes, bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.

11. Biscuits and Gravy

Flaky, buttery biscuits smothered in rich sausage gravy is the quintessential Southern breakfast dish that can easily transition to dinner.

This hearty dish is a comfort food classic that brings satisfaction with every bite. The creamy gravy is loaded with sausage and spices, making it irresistible.

Recipe Overview:
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Calories: 500 per serving

Nutrition Information:
Calories: 500
Protein: 15g
Fat: 30g
Carbohydrates: 40g

Ingredients List:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tbsp baking powder
– 1/2 cup butter, chilled and cubed
– 1 cup milk
– 1 lb sausage
– 2 cups milk for the gravy
– Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 450°F and prepare a baking sheet.
2. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in butter until crumbly.
3. Stir in milk until combined, and roll out dough. Cut into rounds.
4. Bake biscuits for 12-15 minutes until golden.
5. In a skillet, cook sausage until browned; add flour and milk, stirring until thickened.
6. Serve biscuits topped with gravy.

Tips for the Best Biscuits and Gravy:
– Use cold butter for flakier biscuits.
– Let the gravy simmer for extra flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I make biscuits ahead of time? Yes, freeze before baking and cook when ready.
2. What if I want a vegetarian option? Use vegetarian sausage for the gravy.

12. Pecan Pie

This indulgent dessert is a Southern classic that is sure to impress your family.

With a rich filling of pecans, brown sugar, and a hint of vanilla, pecan pie is a sweet ending to any Southern meal. Serve it warm or cold, with a dollop of whipped cream, for a truly delightful treat.

Recipe Overview:
Servings: 8
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 60 mins
Total Time: 1 hour 15 mins
Calories: 450 per serving

Nutrition Information:
Calories: 450
Protein: 5g
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 55g

Ingredients List:
– 1 pie crust
– 1 cup pecans, chopped
– 3 eggs
– 1 cup corn syrup
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 tsp salt

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, corn syrup, brown sugar, vanilla, and salt.
3. Stir in chopped pecans.
4. Pour filling into the pie crust and bake for 60 minutes until set.
5. Allow to cool before slicing.

Tips for the Best Pecan Pie:
– Use fresh pecans for the best flavor.
– Let the pie cool completely for easier slicing.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, it stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
2. What can I serve with it? A scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly.

13. Green Bean Casserole

This classic Southern side dish is a staple at family gatherings.

Creamy and topped with crispy fried onions, green bean casserole combines fresh green beans with a savory cream sauce, making it an irresistible addition to any Sunday supper. It’s an easy dish to prepare and can be made ahead of time.

Recipe Overview:
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Calories: 250 per serving

Nutrition Information:
Calories: 250
Protein: 5g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 30g

Ingredients List:
– 4 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 can cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup fried onions
– Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Boil green beans for 5 minutes; drain.
3. In a bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine green beans with soup mixture and pour into a baking dish.
5. Top with fried onions and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Serve hot.

Tips for the Best Green Bean Casserole:
– Use fresh green beans for a crunchier texture.
– Add cheese for extra creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I make this vegetarian? Yes, use a vegetarian cream soup.
2. How do I store leftovers? Refrigerate and consume within 3 days.

14. Sweet Tea

Every Southern meal deserves a refreshing glass of sweet tea.

This iconic beverage is a staple in Southern households, known for its sweet, refreshing flavor that perfectly complements hearty dishes. Brewed to perfection and served over ice, sweet tea is sure to quench your thirst and enhance your dining experience.

Recipe Overview:
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Calories: 100 per serving

Nutrition Information:
Calories: 100
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 26g

Ingredients List:
– 6 cups water
– 4 black tea bags
– 1 cup sugar
– Ice for serving
– Lemon slices for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Bring water to a boil in a pot.
2. Remove from heat, add tea bags, and steep for 5 minutes.
3. Remove bags and stir in sugar until dissolved.
4. Chill in the refrigerator or serve immediately over ice.
5. Garnish with lemon slices.

Tips for the Best Sweet Tea:
– Adjust the sugar according to your taste.
– For a twist, add fresh mint leaves.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, sweet tea stores well in the fridge.
2. What if I prefer unsweetened tea? Simply omit the sugar.

15. Chocolate Pudding Pie

This decadent dessert is a must-have for chocolate lovers.

A smooth chocolate filling encased in a buttery crust is the perfect sweet ending to a Southern feast. Top it with whipped cream and chocolate shavings for a dessert that looks as good as it tastes.

Recipe Overview:
Servings: 8
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Calories: 400 per serving

Nutrition Information:
Calories: 400
Protein: 6g
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 45g

Ingredients List:
– 1 pie crust
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/3 cup cocoa powder
– 3 tbsp cornstarch
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 tsp vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a saucepan, mix sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, and salt.
3. Gradually whisk in milk and cook over medium heat until thick.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla.
5. Pour filling into pie crust and chill until set.
6. Serve topped with whipped cream.

Tips for the Best Chocolate Pudding Pie:
– Use high-quality cocoa for a richer flavor.
– Chill the pie overnight for best results.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use a store-bought crust? Yes, it saves time.
2. How do I store leftovers? Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

Southern Sunday Suppers create an inviting atmosphere that brings families together to share delicious meals and cherished memories.

From hearty entrees to comforting sides and sweet desserts, these recipes celebrate the rich flavors of Southern cuisine.

Try these dishes at your next gathering and savor the joy of cooking and sharing with your loved ones!