Southern Thanksgiving recipes bring warmth and comfort to our dining tables, adding rich flavors and unique textures that make every bite a celebration.
Southern Thanksgiving menus include comforting classics like candied sweet potatoes, pecan pie, and roast turkey or baked ham.
From appetizers and side dishes to show-stopping centerpieces and decadent desserts, these recipes will inspire you to create a memorable Thanksgiving meal this holiday season.
Jump to:
- Old-Fashioned Cornbread Dressing
- Sweet Potato Crunch
- Easy Deviled Eggs
- Southern-Style Green Beans
- Crustless Pumpkin Pie with Pecan Pie Topping
- Homemade Apple Pie
- How to Store Leftover Southern Thanksgiving Recipes
- Smoked Boneless Turkey Breast for Thanksgiving - Easy Recipe
- Honey Baked Ham
- Best Southern Corn Pudding
- Best Ever Stuffing Balls
- Smoked Mac and Cheese
- Baked White Cheddar Mac and Cheese
- Southern Dressing: A Classic Cornbread Dish
- Old Fashioned Bacon Grease Biscuits Recipe
- Loaded Twice Baked Potato Casserole
- Southern Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole
- Irish Champ (Irish Mashed Potatoes)
- How to Cook Mustard Greens
- Southern Style Instant Pot Fresh Green Beans
- Sweet Potato Casserole
- Hasselback Sweet Potato Casserole
- How to Make Gravy from Scratch (with or without drippings)
- Sage Sausage Dressing
- Collard Greens Recipe
- Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
- Traditional Thanksgiving Dressing
- Cornbread Dressing
- Best-Ever Homemade Lima Beans (aka Butterbeans!)
- Recipe for Giblet Gravy - From Deep in the Heart of Texas - Christopher Lee for Platter Talk
- How to Make Ambrosia Salad (150-year old recipe) - Nourished Kitchen
- Caramel Apple Pie
- Orange Fluff Salad
- Blueberry Peach Cobbler Cake
- Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Southern Sweet Potato Pie
- Old Fashioned Apple Crisp
- Sweet Potato Bread Pudding
- Red Velvet Poke Cake
- Southern Peach Cobbler
- Southern Old Fashioned Banana Pudding
- Essential Tools for a Southern Thanksgiving Dinner
- Frequently Asked Questions
Making a Thanksgiving meal is no small feat, and planning ahead will ensure a successful Thanksgiving feast. When preparing for a Southern Thanksgiving feast, we know that time is of the essence. To help you out, here are a few classic dishes that you can make ahead of time, so your Thanksgiving Day can be less stressful and more focused on enjoying time with family and friends.
These easy side dish recipes can be made ahead of time but do not take a lot of time to prepare. One of the most popular make-ahead dishes iscornbread dressing. This flavorful side dish can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to two days before baking. Just be sure to store the dressing in an airtight container to keep it fresh.Sweet potatoesare another versatile option. Opt for dishes likeSweet Potato Crunchor a traditionalsweet potato casserole. Prepare these dishes ahead and simply add the toppings before baking on Thanksgiving Day.
Looking to add some greens to the table? Collard Greens andGreen bean casserolecan be prepped in advance as well. Assemble the casserole, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. On Thanksgiving, remember to add the crispy fried onions and bake it until hot and bubbly.
Don't forget about the pies! Bothpecan pieandpumpkin piecan be made ahead of time. In fact, they are often better once they have cooled to room temperature, as it allows them to set and not become a sloppy mess when sliced. If you desire, you can reheat them before serving.
Lastly, whip up a batch ofdeviled eggsthe day before Thanksgiving and store them in the refrigerator. Deviled eggs are a great make-ahead appetizer, as their flavors meld and improve overnight. They are the perfect side dish for the holiday table! Don't forget the cranberry sauce, it's another classic Southern side.
So, there you have it—a variety of Southern Thanksgiving dishes that can be easily made beforehand to help ease the holiday stress and ensure a delicious, memorable meal with loved ones.
Old-Fashioned Cornbread Dressing
Photo Credit:noshingwiththenolands.com
This gorgeous Old Fashioned Cornbread Dressing is the perfect side to go with turkey! It is stuffed full of wonderful ingredients that everyone will be going back to for seconds!!
Sweet Potato Crunch
Photo Credit:www.thefoodblog.net
This classic sweet potato casserole is a must for every Thanksgiving table. Creamy sweet potatoes topped with candied pecans make a delicious side dish and it's so easy to make.
Easy Deviled Eggs
Classic deviled eggs are a staple at the holiday table and they're an easy side dish to make ahead of time.
Southern-Style Green Beans
Photo Credit:www.thefreshcooky.com
You will love these super easy, stovetop Southern Green Beans! Made with canned green beans and bacon, everything is better with bacon!
Crustless Pumpkin Pie with Pecan Pie Topping
Photo Credit:www.snixykitchen.com
With a pecan pie topping, this crustless pumpkin pie is like two classic pies in one. Silky spiced pumpkin pie on the bottom with a candied pecan pie on top, creating a textural and flavor contrast that elevates both.
Homemade Apple Pie
This classic homemade apple pie has a delicious twist - it is made with a homemade flaky cinnamon pie crust that elevates the flavors in this fall favorite.
This easy make ahead Southern side dish is a classic recipe that is best made ahead of time. The flavors in this tangy potato salad meld together to create a delicious and flavorful potato dish.
How to Store Leftover Southern Thanksgiving Recipes
With Thanksgiving, comes leftover Thanksgiving food. With proper food storage, you can enjoy these delicious Southern comfort foods for days after the holiday meal.
For leftover turkey, ham, or pork, start by removing the meat from the bone, cutting them into smaller portions, and storing them in airtight containers or resealable bags. When stored properly, they can last for up to 4 days in the refrigerator, or they can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to label the containers for safety and freshness.Refrigerate all leftovers within two hours at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or colder.
Casseroles, corn puddings, and baked macaroni and cheese should be stored in airtight containers or well-wrapped plates in the refrigerator. They can last for three to four days when stored properly. If you prefer freezing, transfer the leftovers to freezer-safe containers, and they'll be good for two to three months. For best quality, store in the refrigerator because the texture of the pasta is affected when freezing.
For sides like green bean casserole, brussels sprouts, and green beans, store them in airtight containers as well. These vegetables will remain fresh in the refrigerator for three to five days.
Biscuits and dinner rolls should be stored at room temperature in plastic bags or any container with a tight-fitting lid. It's not advised to refrigerate bread as it may lose its quality, but if you wish to store your biscuits for a longer period, freezing is the best option. Wrap the rolls individually in plastic wrap and then put them in a resealable bag or an airtight container. They'll stay fresh in the freezer for up to a month. When ready to eat, let them thaw at room temperature and heat them in the microwave before enjoying.
As for the delectable desserts like pecan pie, apple pie, and sweet potato pie, cover the pies loosely with aluminum foil or plastic wrap, and store them in the refrigerator. These pies will last for three to four days when stored this way.
Ensure the proper storage of your Thanksgiving leftovers, so you can continue enjoying your scrumptious feast even after the holiday is long gone.
Make sure to use the proper freezer-safe bags and containers to store your Southern food not only safely but also to retain freshness and flavor!
We are excited to share some mouth-watering Southern Thanksgiving recipe ideas that will surely impress your family and friends. Here are some easy recipe ideas for a typical southern Thanksgiving dinner. From a flavorful turkey or ham to delectable classic Southern side dishes and sumptuous desserts, your Thanksgiving table will be bursting with flavor and Southern flair. Most of these recipes are made with simple ingredients but have delicious flavors.
We hope these Thanksgiving recipe ideas bring warmth and delight to your turkey dinner, showcasing the best of what Southern cuisine has to offer. Enjoy the feast!
1
Smoked Boneless Turkey Breast for Thanksgiving - Easy Recipe
Photo Credit:blackberrybabe.com
Having a smaller get together this Thanksgiving? Smoke a turkey breast for your main dish! This smoked turkey breast recipe is rubbed with a Cajun seasoning and smoked to moist perfection with an herb butter.
2
Honey Baked Ham
This Instant Pot Honey Baked Ham Copycat is incredibly flavorful and moist just like the store bought variety. This recipe has become a favorite favorite over the past several years and the table just isn't complete without it.
3
Best Southern Corn Pudding
Photo Credit:notentirelyaverage.com
Corn, sour cream, butter, and eggs; the basis for a creamy and most flavorful Southern Corn Pudding! This is true farm-to-table fare requiring little effort for huge payout. Bake as a single casserole or in individual ramekins for a more personalized holiday side!
4
Best Ever Stuffing Balls
Grandma's stuffing balls is a recipe handed down generations for a good reason. Every bite of these stuffing balls is moist, flavorful, and packed with delicious turkey and veggie flavor.
5
Smoked Mac and Cheese
Photo Credit:dishnthekitchen.com
This decadent Smoked Mac and Cheese is the creamy classic side dish you know and love, but with an extra layer of smoky flavor infused into each bite.
6
Baked White Cheddar Mac and Cheese
Photo Credit:biteswithbri.com
This recipe for Baked White Cheddar Mac and Cheese is creamy, decadent, and delicious. It includes a crispy bread coating that provides a delightful crunch. It's made with multiple types of cheese, hot sauce, and panko crumbs for the ultimate mac and cheese dish.
7
Southern Dressing: A Classic Cornbread Dish
Photo Credit:www.lovinglivinglancaster.com
Southern dressing is a classic Southern dish that is often served as a side during Thanksgiving or Christmas. It’s a delicious blend of crumbled cornbread and savory seasonings that come together to create a warm and comforting dish.
8
Old Fashioned Bacon Grease Biscuits Recipe
Photo Credit:bensabaconlovers.com
Just like Grandma made them, these Southern buttermilk biscuits are baked in a cast iron skillet to golden brown perfection. A blend of bacon fat and butter gives these biscuits amazing flavor, and a simple folding technique gives them layers and layers of deliciousness. So good with cranberry sauce!
9
Loaded Twice Baked Potato Casserole
This loaded twice baked potato casserole is easy to make and is perfect for a make-ahead Thanksgiving side dish.
10
Southern Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole
Photo Credit:lifeloveandgoodfood.com
This isn’t just any old broccoli casserole recipe! You won’t find things like canned soup or processed cheese products here. Everything is fresh and made from scratch.
11
Irish Champ (Irish Mashed Potatoes)
This delicious mashed potato side dish is made with lots of butter and mixed with scallions. Stovetop and Instant Pot directions are included for these very buttery potatoes.
12
How to Cook Mustard Greens
Photo Credit:www.rachaelhartleynutrition.com
This recipe for bacon-braised mustard greens is my favorite way to cook mustard greens. It's perfect as a side dish for holiday entertaining or as part of a southern spread.
13
Macaroni salad is an easy to make cold dish for the holidays. It's not only easy to make but it's also a fantastic dish to make ahead of time
14
Southern Style Instant Pot Fresh Green Beans
Photo Credit:marginmakingmom.com
These southern style green beans taste like they’ve simmered for hours, but they’re ready in just minutes! They’re an easy and flavorful addition to your holiday table.
15
Sweet Potato Casserole
Homemade sweet potato casserole with streusel topping and mini marshmallows.This family favorite is a must at Thanksgiving.
16
Hasselback Sweet Potato Casserole
This Hasselback Sweet Potato Casserole is a tasty and fun spin on the classic. It has flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Topping this casserole are mini marshmallows.
17
How to Make Gravy from Scratch (with or without drippings)
Photo Credit:www.joyousapron.com
Thanksgiving dinner just isn't complete without gravy! This easy basic brown gravy recipe can be made with or without drippings, and is full of amazing flavors.
18
Sage Sausage Dressing
This Classic Thanksgiving stuffing is made with sage ground sausage and fresh spices and herbs.
19
Collard Greens Recipe
Photo Credit:www.serenabakessimplyfromscratch.com
These southern-style collard greens are made with ham hocks and cooked in a delicious smoky broth.
20
Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
Southern baked mac and cheese is a dish that's always expected at the holiday dinner table. Baked with 3 different kinds of cheese, this mac ' n cheese is creamy, smooth, and delicious.
21
Traditional Thanksgiving Dressing
This traditional Thanksgiving Dressing is made with sauteed celery and onions, bread, and fresh spices and herbs.
22
Cornbread Dressing
Photo Credit:theforkedspoon.com
Cornbread dressing is a Southern staple, bringing together crumbled cornbread, savory herbs, and aromatic vegetables to create the ultimate comforting side dish. Perfect for holiday gatherings or Sunday dinners, this classic dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, pairing beautifully with roasted meats and gravies.
23
Best-Ever Homemade Lima Beans (aka Butterbeans!)
Photo Credit:heartscontentfarmhouse.com
Even bean-haters will love this classic. Southern side dish. Plenty of bacon and lots of flavor.
24
Recipe for Giblet Gravy - From Deep in the Heart of Texas - Christopher Lee for Platter Talk
Photo Credit:www.plattertalk.com
Every Thanksgiving table should have a delicious southern gravy and this one is ready in just 25 minutes and it's packed with flavor.
25
How to Make Ambrosia Salad (150-year old recipe) - Nourished Kitchen
Photo Credit:nourishedkitchen.com
Rooted in the cooking of the deep south, this centuries-old ambrosia recipe only uses fresh fruit for a deliciously light addition to the Thanksgiving table.
26
Caramel Apple Pie
This Caramel Apple Pie is made with a from-scratch crust. It's filled with tart apples and drizzled with homemade caramel sauce. This pie has a buttery streusel topping and a great addition to the Thanksgiving table.
27
Orange Fluff Salad
Photo Credit:foodnservice.com
No table is complete with a big bowl full of Momma's or Nana's prized Orange fluff salad. The best part is that you don't have to wait for dessert, you can go on over an add a heaping spoonful to your plate...right next to the dressing.
28
Blueberry Peach Cobbler Cake
Blueberry Peach Cobbler Cake is a perfect dessert for a southern Thanksgiving feast. It's a great southern dessert that has a combination of juicy peaches and sweet blueberries.
29
Pumpkin Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
This moist and flavorful pumpkin cake is frosted with a cinnamon-spiced cream cheese frosting. This cake is packed with delicious flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This delectable dessert is a great finish for a Southern Thanksgiving feast.
30
Southern Sweet Potato Pie
Photo Credit:belleofthekitchen.com
This delicious Sweet Potato Pie is a classic southern recipe. It’s perfect for the holidays and will have you choosing it over pumpkin pie every time!
31
Old Fashioned Apple Crisp
Old-fashioned apple crisp made with Granny Smith apples, brown sugar, a warm blend of spices of cinnamon and nutmeg, and old-fashioned oats. This house will smell amazing with this Southern dessert in the oven.
32
Sweet Potato Bread Pudding
Photo Credit:www.hellospoonful.com
Sweet potato bread pudding is an easy fall dessert that is a must have on your holiday dinner table! Top with pecan praline sauce or caramel sauce.
33
Red Velvet Poke Cake
A southern classic dessert is red velvet cake, and this red velvet poke cake version is an easy recipe to make and a great cake to bring to the Thanksgiving table.
34
Southern Peach Cobbler
Photo Credit:www.razzledazzlelife.com
Peach Cobbler is a traditional dessert in the south and all over the world. Made with warm, sweet peaches and a decadent cobbler style crust, it's the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you use canned, frozen, or fresh peaches, learn how to make the best southern peach cobbler recipe!
35
Southern Old Fashioned Banana Pudding
Photo Credit:farmtojar.com
This Southern classic is made with banana pudding, vanilla wafers, and sliced bananas. This dessert comes together quickly and a delicious addition to the holiday table.
Aroasting panwith a rack is crucial for cooking your turkey ham. It allows the air to circulate evenly around the meat, ensuring even cooking and a crispy exterior.
Aluminum foilis used by wrapping it around the ham while it is baking in the oven. It locks in the moisture and prevents the ham from drying out as it bakes.It also is useful in side dishes.
Sheet pansare versatile and handy for preparing various side dishes and roasting vegetables.
Ameat thermometeris essential for monitoring the internal temperature of your turkey and ham, so you don't overcook or undercook it.
Basting tools, such as basting brushes and bulb basters, help you keep your turkey or ham moist and juicy during the cooking time. By applying the cooking liquid or glaze at regular intervals, your turkey and/or ham will stay tender and delicious.
Casserole dishesare a must during the holiday season for your Southern side dishes.
Pie Plates are useful when making homemade pie crust pies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some must-have Southern side dishes for Thanksgiving?
When it comes to Southern side dishes, you can never go wrong with classic recipe ideas likeClassic Cornbread Dressing, Southern baked macaroni and cheese, or classic sweet potato casserole. These best ever stuffing balls and hasselback sweet potato casserole are also some of my family's favorite sides.
Which Southern desserts are popular during Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving celebrations in the South are never complete without a delicious dessert table with recipes including pecan pie, sweet potato pie, pumpkin pie, and apple pie. Bread pudding, red velvet cake, and cobblers with seasonal fruits such as peach or apple can also be served to satisfy your guests' sweet tooth as well as other family recipe favorites.
Can I serve ham instead of turkey for Thanksgiving?
If you want to break from tradition and serve something other than turkey, consider serving a delicious homemade honey baked ham. Serving both turkey and ham is very popular on Southern Thanksgiving tables.
Dana
Dana is an experienced recipe creator who crafts easy and delicious recipes for all levels of home cooks.
Her recipes range from classic comfort foods to healthy and nutritious meals, and she is always on the lookout for new and exciting ways to bring flavor and variety to the table.
