When it comes to comfort food, country cooking has no equal. Rich, hearty dishes that warm the soul and fill the belly are what this culinary style is all about. From classic Southern staples like fried chicken and collard greens, to comforting casseroles and stews, country cooking has something for everyone. In this article, we’re counting down 18 of our favorite recipes that showcase the best of country cooking. From slow-cooked meats to homemade biscuits, these dishes are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen. Whether you’re a native Southerner or just looking for some good ol’ fashioned comfort food, keep reading to discover the perfect recipe to satisfy your cravings.
Southern Fried Chicken with Buttermilk Gravy
Classic Southern comfort food at its finest! This recipe yields crispy, juicy fried chicken served with a tangy buttermilk gravy that’s simply divine.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp 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. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. For the gravy, whisk together 1 cup buttermilk with 2 tbsp pan drippings (from the fried chicken) in a small bowl.
7. Serve the fried chicken hot with the buttermilk gravy spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Country-Style Pork Ribs with BBQ Sauce
Savor the rich flavors of slow-cooked pork ribs slathered in a tangy BBQ sauce. This recipe yields fall-off-the-bone tender results with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
• 2 pounds country-style pork ribs
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 onion, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. Rinse ribs under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs.
4. Place ribs on a large baking sheet or rimmed dish, leaving space between each rack.
5. Bake for 2 hours, or until meat starts to pull away from the bone.
6. Brush BBQ sauce all over the ribs during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
7. Serve warm, garnished with sliced onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 15 minutes
Homemade Chicken and Dumplings
Soften your senses with this classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine chicken, carrots, celery, and chicken broth.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Stir in melted butter and warm water to form a sticky dough.
6. Drop spoonfuls of dumpling mixture onto the simmering chicken and broth.
7. Cover the pot and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the dumplings are golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Classic Beef Pot Roast with Vegetables
A hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for a cold winter’s night. This classic recipe is easy to make and filled with tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and rich gravy.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 pound beef pot roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the pot roast with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes to the pot. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Add the beef broth and red wine (if using) to the pot. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Roast for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
Slow-Cooked Country Ham with Red Eye Gravy
This classic Southern dish is a staple of comfort food, pairing tender country ham with rich, bold red eye gravy. Perfect for special occasions or cozy weeknight meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) country ham
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons black coffee
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. Place the country ham in the slow cooker, fat side up.
3. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and flour. Sprinkle evenly over the ham.
4. Pour coffee and beef broth over the ham, making sure it’s covered.
5. Add butter on top of the ham.
6. Cook for 8-10 hours or overnight.
7. Remove from slow cooker and slice into thick pieces.
8. Serve with red eye gravy (simply mix pan drippings with more coffee, if desired).
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Old-Fashioned Cornbread with Honey Butter
This classic Southern recipe yields a moist and flavorful cornbread that’s perfect for accompanying your favorite comfort foods or as a sweet treat on its own. Our addition of honey butter takes it to the next level, adding a rich and velvety texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, and baking soda.
3. In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, egg, and melted butter. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
8. Serve warm with honey butter (mix equal parts softened butter and honey to taste).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Country-Style Green Beans with Bacon
Add a touch of Southern charm to your meal with this simple and flavorful recipe. Crisp green beans meet smoky bacon in a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy.
3. Remove bacon from skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside.
4. Add green beans, garlic, and chicken broth to the same skillet.
5. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until green beans are tender-crisp.
6. Stir in cooked bacon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with optional butter if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Garlic Butter
Elevate your meal game with this simple yet indulgent recipe for creamy mashed potatoes infused with the richness of garlic butter. Perfect as a side dish or a main course, these heavenly spuds are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated cheddar cheese or chopped fresh herbs for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot with the softened butter, garlic, and heavy cream.
3. Mash the mixture with a potato masher or a fork until smooth and creamy.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with grated cheese or chopped herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Southern Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey
A classic Southern side dish gets a rich twist with the addition of smoky turkey. This hearty recipe is perfect for a comforting meal or as a flavorful accompaniment to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound collard greens, cleaned and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup smoked turkey, diced (such as andouille or kielbasa)
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped collard greens, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until greens are tender.
7. Stir in the diced smoked turkey and apple cider vinegar.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Country Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy
A classic Southern comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. This country fried steak is breaded and fried to a golden brown, served with a rich and creamy gravy.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef steaks (top round or top sirloin)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons 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
– Creamy Gravy (see below)
Instructions:
1. Dip steak in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
2. Dredge in buttermilk, then coat with flour mixture again, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry steaks for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Serve hot with Creamy Gravy (see below).
Creamy Gravy:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour, then slowly add heavy cream, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook Time: About 20-25 minutes
Homemade Biscuits with Sausage Gravy
A classic comfort food combination that’s easy to make and sure to please the whole family. Flaky biscuits paired with a rich, savory sausage gravy – what’s not to love?
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 heavy cream
– 1 egg, beaten
– Sausage gravy:
+ 1 pound sausage, cooked and crumbled
+ 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
+ 1 cup chicken broth
+ 1/2 cup milk
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. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Pour in heavy cream and beaten egg; stir until dough comes together.
4. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., rounds, squares).
5. Bake biscuits for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Sausage Gravy:
1. Cook sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned and crumbly.
2. Remove sausage from pan; add flour to coat the bottom of the pan.
3. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
Slow-Cooked Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Moist and flavorful pulled pork sandwiches are just a few hours away with this easy slow-cooked recipe. Perfect for a weekend lunch or dinner, these tender sandwiches are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup barbecue sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw or pickles, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder.
4. Place the sliced onion at the bottom of the slow cooker.
5. Add the garlic on top of the onion.
6. Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker, fat side up.
7. Pour in the barbecue sauce.
8. Cook for 8-10 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
9. Shred the pork with two forks and serve on hamburger buns.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Southern-Style Mac and Cheese
A comforting, creamy dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups whole milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a separate saucepan, whisk together flour and paprika. Gradually add in milk, whisking continuously until smooth.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat and let cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Gruyère cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Add cooked macaroni, butter, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to the cheese sauce. Stir until well combined.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Country-Style Chicken Pot Pie
A comforting classic that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a satisfying lunch. This recipe combines tender chicken, creamy vegetables, and flaky pie crust for a truly homemade treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 large celery stalk, sliced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup butter
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, carrots, celery, and onion until the vegetables are tender. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in flour, butter, chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Roll out pie crust to fit a 9×13-inch baking dish. Fill with the chicken mixture.
5. Roll out remaining pie crust to fit the top of the filling. Crimp edges to seal.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Classic Corn Pudding with Cheddar Cheese
A comforting side dish that combines the sweetness of corn with the richness of cheddar cheese, perfect for pairing with your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cream, milk, egg, and corn.
3. Add the cheddar cheese and melted butter; stir until well combined.
4. Pour mixture into a greased 8-inch square baking dish.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until set and lightly golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Southern Sweet Potato Casserole
A traditional Southern favorite, this sweet potato casserole combines the natural sweetness of cooked sweet potatoes with a crunchy marshmallow-strewn topping. Perfect for holiday gatherings or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, baked and mashed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, flour, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
3. Add heavy cream and beaten eggs; mix until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with mini marshmallows.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Country-Style Meatloaf with Tomato Glaze
Country-Style Meatloaf with Tomato Glaze Recipe
This classic American comfort food combines tender meatloaf with a sweet and tangy tomato glaze, perfect for a cozy dinner or casual gathering. With its moist texture and rich flavors, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup tomato glaze (see below)
Tomato Glaze:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp dried oregano
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.
5. While the meatloaf is cooking, prepare the tomato glaze by combining crushed tomatoes, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and dried oregano in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 10-15 minutes or until thickened.
6. Brush the tomato glaze over the meatloaf during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Slow-Cooked Beef Stew with Herbs
A hearty and flavorful stew that’s perfect for a cozy evening meal. This recipe combines tender beef, aromatic herbs, and rich vegetables to create a comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 tbsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine beef cubes, potatoes, carrot, onion, garlic, beef broth, and red wine (if using).
2. Add thyme and rosemary, then season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the warm and comforting flavors of country cooking! This collection of 18 recipes features hearty dishes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic comfort foods like homemade chicken and dumplings, beef pot roast with vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes with garlic butter, to Southern-style staples like fried chicken with buttermilk gravy and slow-cooked pulled pork sandwiches, there’s something for everyone. Each recipe is a twist on traditional country cooking, making it perfect for cozy nights in or special occasions.
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