15+ Soul Food Recipes to Savor and Share

15+ Soul Food Recipes to Savor and Share

ByCook Maniac Team Reading Time: 12 minutes

Soul food recipes celebrate rich flavors and traditional cooking methods that ancestors passed down. These recipes offer comfort and satisfaction for every meal.

A table set with steaming pots of collard greens, fried chicken, cornbread, and sweet potato pie. A warm, inviting kitchen with the aroma of soul food recipes

Many people love soul food for its hearty ingredients and heartwarming flavors. From comforting sides to delicious main courses, you can discover a variety of dishes that bring family and friends together around the table.

1) Southern Fried Chicken

A cast iron skillet sizzling with golden-brown Southern Fried Chicken, surrounded by a spread of traditional soul food dishes

Southern fried chicken is a classic dish loved by many. It features crispy skin and juicy meat that makes every bite delicious. You can easily make it at home for family gatherings or special occasions.

To start, season the chicken with salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. This helps to enhance the flavor. After that, coat the chicken in seasoned flour for a tasty crunch when it fries.

For cooking, heat oil in a skillet to about 350°F (175°C). Then, fry the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. This typically takes around 15-20 minutes.

Ingredients

  • Chicken pieces (legs, thighs, breasts)
  • Salt
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Seasoned flour
  • Oil for frying

Cooking Instructions

  1. Season the chicken with salt, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  2. Coat the chicken in seasoned flour.
  3. Heat oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C).
  4. Fry the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 15-20 minutes.

2) Peach Cobbler

A rustic kitchen table with a steaming peach cobbler, surrounded by fresh peaches, cinnamon sticks, and a vintage recipe book

Peach cobbler is a beloved dessert in soul food cooking. It brings together sweet, juicy peaches and a fluffy crust that is hard to resist. This dish is perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner.

You can enjoy it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The combination of flavors makes it a real treat!

Ingredients

  • 3 lbs peaches, fresh or frozen
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup butter
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • 1½ tsps vanilla extract

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix the peaches with granulated sugar, brown sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
  3. Melt the butter in a baking dish.
  4. Pour the peach mixture into the dish.
  5. Bake for about 30-40 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

3) Macaroni and Cheese

A bubbling pot of creamy macaroni and cheese sits on a rustic wooden table, surrounded by scattered cheese gratings and a sprinkle of breadcrumbs

Macaroni and cheese is a beloved soul food dish. It brings warmth and comfort to many meals. The creamy cheese sauce, combined with tender pasta, makes it a favorite for family gatherings.

To make this dish special, you can use a mix of cheeses like sharp cheddar and cream cheese. This adds layers of flavor and richness. You can also bake it to get a golden, crispy top.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup cream cheese
  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • 2 eggs
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions and drain.
  3. In a large bowl, mix the cooked macaroni with butter, cheeses, and evaporated milk.
  4. Beat the eggs and add them to the mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. Pour the mixture into a baking dish and bake for 30 minutes, until golden on top.

4) Collard Greens

A pot of collard greens simmering on a stove, surrounded by ingredients like smoked ham hock, onions, and garlic

Collard greens are a classic dish in soul food. They are flavorful and nutritious, often cooked with smoked meat for added taste. These greens have a hearty texture that makes them perfect for slow cooking.

To prepare collard greens, you should first wash and chop them. Many recipes call for ingredients like bacon, onions, and garlic. This combination creates a savory broth that enhances the greens’ natural flavor.

You can cook collard greens on the stove or in a slow cooker. Simmer them until they are tender but still vibrant. Serve them hot as a side dish or mix them into meals for a delicious addition.

Ingredients

  • 4 lbs collard greens, cleaned and cut
  • 1 lb bacon ends, chopped
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 tsp salt
  • Optional: pepper flakes for spice

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a large pot, cook bacon until crispy.
  2. Add diced onions and cook until soft.
  3. Stir in collard greens until wilted.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and water.
  5. Season with salt and optional pepper flakes.
  6. Simmer for 45 minutes, or until greens are tender.

5) Fried Catfish

A golden-fried catfish fillet served on a checkered tablecloth with a side of hush puppies and coleslaw

Fried catfish is a beloved soul food dish known for its crunchy coating and tender fish. It makes a great meal for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.

To start, you’ll need fresh catfish fillets. A cornmeal mixture makes the perfect breading, giving it that classic southern flavor. You can spice it up with seasonings like onion powder and cayenne pepper for a little heat.

Fry the coated fillets in hot oil until they’re golden brown. Make sure the oil is around 350°F (175°C) for the best results.

Serve your fried catfish with sides like collard greens or cornbread for a true soul food experience.

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs fresh catfish fillets
  • 1 1/2 cups yellow cornmeal
  • 1 tsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper
  • Salt to taste
  • Oil for frying

Cooking Instructions

  1. Rinse catfish fillets and pat them dry.
  2. In a bowl, mix cornmeal, flour, onion powder, cayenne, and salt.
  3. Coat each fillet with the cornmeal mixture.
  4. Heat oil in a frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
  5. Fry the fillets for 5-7 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
  6. Drain on paper towels before serving.

6) Shrimp and Grits

A steaming plate of shrimp and grits, with creamy grits topped with plump, seasoned shrimp and a savory sauce, served on a rustic wooden table

Shrimp and grits is a classic Southern dish known for its rich flavors and comforting textures. You make it with creamy, stone-ground grits topped with shrimp cooked in a flavorful sauce.

Start by cooking your grits in chicken stock for added taste. Once they begin to thicken, stir in cream, butter, and cheese for a smooth finish.

For the shrimp, sauté it in a pan with garlic and spices, such as Cajun seasoning. Once the shrimp are pink and cooked through, serve them over a generous scoop of the creamy grits.

This dish is perfect for breakfast or dinner. It brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup stone-ground grits
  • 4 cups chicken stock
  • 1 cup cream
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup shredded cheese
  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Cajun seasoning to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a pot, bring chicken stock to a boil.
  2. Slowly add grits and stir.
  3. Cook until thickened, about 20 minutes.
  4. Stir in cream, butter, and cheese.
  5. In a pan, sauté garlic until fragrant.
  6. Add shrimp and Cajun seasoning; cook until pink.
  7. Serve shrimp over the creamy grits.

7) Smothered Chicken

A platter of smothered chicken, surrounded by collard greens and cornbread on a rustic wooden table

Smothered chicken is a classic soul food dish that is rich in flavor. It features tender chicken cooked in a creamy onion and garlic gravy that makes every bite satisfying.

This dish is often served over rice, allowing you to enjoy the delicious gravy. It is a comforting meal that can be made in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons oil

Cooking Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then brown on both sides.
  3. Remove chicken and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, cook onion and garlic until soft.
  5. Stir in flour and gradually add chicken broth and cream.
  6. Return chicken to the skillet and simmer for 25 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
  7. Serve over rice and enjoy!

8) Cornbread

A rustic kitchen with a vintage cast iron skillet filled with golden brown cornbread, surrounded by ingredients like cornmeal, buttermilk, and butter

Cornbread is a classic dish in soul food that brings comfort to any meal. Its warm, buttery flavor pairs well with a variety of dishes. Whether you like it sweet or savory, cornbread is sure to please.

To make a simple version, you’ll need cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, butter, and milk. You can bake it in a skillet for crispy edges or in a pan for a softer texture.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Mix the dry ingredients in one bowl and the wet ingredients in another. Combine them and pour the batter into your greased skillet or pan. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 1 cup milk

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In one bowl, mix cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, combine melted butter and milk.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir until just mixed.
  5. Grease a skillet or pan and pour in the batter.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown.

9) Fried Cabbage

A sizzling skillet of fried cabbage with bacon and onions, surrounded by traditional soul food ingredients like cornbread and collard greens

Fried cabbage is a favorite in soul food cuisine. It’s simple to make and packed with flavor. You can enjoy it as a side dish with your favorite meats or serve it on its own.

To start, you’ll need fresh cabbage. You can add bacon or sausage for a tasty twist. Sautéing onions and bell peppers with the cabbage enhances its flavor.

The delicious combination of butter, spices, and crispy bacon makes this dish hard to resist. It can be ready in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients

  • 1 head of green cabbage, chopped
  • 4 strips of bacon, chopped
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons of butter

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
  2. Then, add the onions and bell peppers. Sauté until soft.
  3. After that, stir in the cabbage and cook until wilted.
  4. Finally, add butter, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  5. Serve warm and enjoy!

10) Black-eyed Peas

A rustic kitchen counter with a pot simmering black-eyed peas, surrounded by ingredients like onions, garlic, and spices

Black-eyed peas are a staple in soul food. They have a creamy texture and rich flavor. Often, people cook them with smoked meat or spices. This makes them comforting and satisfying.

These peas are easy to prepare and are perfect for any meal. You can serve them as a side dish or as a main course. They pair well with cornbread or rice.

Here’s what you need for a simple black-eyed peas recipe:

Ingredients

  • 1 pound dried black-eyed peas
  • Water
  • 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ onion, chopped
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper

Cooking Instructions

  1. Rinse the black-eyed peas and soak them for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  2. In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  3. Then, add onion and garlic. Sauté until soft.
  4. After that, stir in the soaked black-eyed peas, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
  5. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes, or until tender.
  6. Season to taste and enjoy!

11) Lima Beans

A pot simmering with seasoned lima beans, surrounded by ingredients like onions, garlic, and smoked ham hock on a rustic kitchen counter

Lima beans are a tasty and nutritious part of soul food. Known for their creamy texture, they are often used in various dishes. They can be enjoyed in soups, stews, or on their own.

To prepare lima beans, you usually start with dried beans. You can soak them overnight for easier cooking. Cooking them with smoked meats adds a delicious flavor.

You can find recipes that feature ingredients like bacon, ham hocks, and seasonings for extra taste. There are also vegetarian options available.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups dried lima beans
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 smoked ham hock (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. Soak the lima beans overnight in water.
  2. Then, drain and rinse the beans.
  3. Next, place beans in a pot with water, onion, and ham hock.
  4. Bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours at 210°F (99°C).
  5. Add salt and pepper to taste. Enjoy!

12) Banana Pudding

A table set with a large dish of creamy banana pudding surrounded by scattered vanilla wafers and slices of ripe bananas

Banana pudding is a classic soul food dessert that brings joy to many. It combines layers of creamy vanilla pudding, fresh banana slices, and sweet vanilla wafers. This delightful treat is a must-have at gatherings and family dinners.

To make banana pudding, you’ll want high-quality ingredients. Homemade vanilla pudding works best, as it adds richness. You can also use store-bought pudding for a quicker option.

The process is simple. Start by layering the pudding, bananas, and wafers in a dish. Repeat the layers until you fill the dish. For an extra touch, top it off with whipped cream.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of milk
  • 1/2 cup of sugar
  • 1/3 cup of cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon of salt
  • 2 ripe bananas
  • 1 cup of vanilla wafers
  • Whipped cream (optional)

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a saucepan, mix the milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
  2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
  3. Then, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  4. In a dish, layer the pudding, banana slices, and vanilla wafers.
  5. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used.
  6. Top with whipped cream if desired. Enjoy!

13) Sweet Potato Pie

A rustic kitchen table set with a freshly baked sweet potato pie surrounded by ingredients like cinnamon, nutmeg, and pecans

Sweet potato pie is a classic dessert in soul food cuisine. It features a creamy filling made from sweet potatoes mixed with spices that give it a warm flavor. The pie is often enjoyed during holidays and family gatherings.

To make your sweet potato pie, you start with a buttery crust. The filling uses mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, eggs, and milk for a rich texture. You can spice it up with cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla to enhance the flavors.

Baking your pie at 350°F (175°C) allows the filling to set perfectly while the crust becomes golden brown. Enjoy this delicious treat with a dollop of whipped cream on top!

Ingredients

  • 3 cups mashed sweet potatoes
  • 1 cup sugar
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 1 cup milk
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tsp nutmeg
  • 1 pie crust

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix mashed sweet potatoes, sugars, and milk.
  3. Then, add eggs, cinnamon, and nutmeg; blend well.
  4. Pour the filling into the pie crust.
  5. Bake for 45-50 minutes until set.
  6. Let it cool before serving.

14) Gumbo

A steaming pot of gumbo surrounded by colorful ingredients and spices on a rustic kitchen counter

Gumbo is a classic dish from Louisiana that reflects the rich culture of soul food. It combines meats, vegetables, and a flavorful broth. The dish is often served over rice, making it a filling and satisfying meal.

To start, you will need a dark roux, which gives gumbo its unique taste. You can add chicken, sausage, and shrimp, along with vegetables like bell peppers and onions. Gumbo recipes vary widely, so feel free to mix and match ingredients based on your preference.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 7 cups chicken stock
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 lbs skinless, boneless chicken thighs
  • 1/2 lb andouille sausage
  • 1 cup chopped bell peppers
  • 1 cup chopped onions
  • 1 cup chopped celery
  • 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cooked rice for serving

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat oil and make a dark roux with flour over medium heat.
  2. Then, add chopped vegetables and sauté until soft.
  3. Afterward, stir in chicken stock and water, then bring to a boil.
  4. Add chicken and sausage; simmer for about 30 minutes.
  5. Finally, add shrimp and cook until heated through.
  6. Serve over rice and enjoy!

15) Red Beans and Rice

A steaming pot of red beans and rice sits on a rustic wooden table, surrounded by colorful spices and fresh ingredients

Red beans and rice is a classic dish from the South that brings comfort and flavor. It’s simple to make and pairs well with many meals. This dish often features red beans simmered with spices, meat, and served over fluffy rice.

You can customize it to your taste. Common ingredients include Andouille sausage, smoked ham, and bay leaves. The blend of flavors creates a hearty meal you’ll love.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup red beans
  • 1 pound Andouille sausage
  • 1 smoked ham hock
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups cooked rice
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • Bay leaves
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Soak the red beans overnight.
  2. In a pot, sauté onions and garlic until they soften.
  3. Add sausage and ham hock, and cook until they brown.
  4. Stir in the soaked beans, broth, and spices.
  5. Simmer for about 2 hours until the beans are tender.
  6. Serve over warm rice.

Similar Posts