When it comes to Thanksgiving in the South, it’s more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of family, heritage, and the flavors that make Southern cuisine so beloved.
Southern Thanksgiving tables are known for their hearty, flavorful dishes, often passed down through generations, with recipes that speak to the region’s rich culinary traditions.
From crispy fried chicken to creamy casseroles and decadent desserts, a Southern Thanksgiving is as warm and comforting as it gets.
Whether you’re hosting a large family gathering or a smaller dinner, adding a Southern twist to your menu is a great way to celebrate the holiday with bold, comforting flavors.
Think buttery cornbread, smoky greens, and sweet potato pie. These dishes don’t just fill plates; they create memories.
In this post, we’ve rounded up 21 mouthwatering Southern Thanksgiving menu ideas to help you craft a holiday feast that’s as welcoming and flavorful as the South itself. Get ready to wow your guests with these soulful classics!
21 Southern Thanksgiving Menu Ideas
Main Courses
1-Fried Turkey
Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, fried turkey is a Southern staple that’s perfect for Thanksgiving.
2-Country Ham
A salt-cured, slow-baked ham glazed with honey and brown sugar adds a savory-sweet flair to your table.
3-Smothered Pork Chops
Tender pork chops cooked in a rich, creamy gravy are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Stuffing and Dressings
4-Cornbread Dressing
This Southern classic combines crumbled cornbread, celery, onions, and sage for a dish that’s full of flavor.
5-Oyster Dressing
This Southern classic combines crumbled cornbread, celery, onions, and sage for a dish that’s full of flavor.
Vegetables and Greens
6-Collard Greens with Ham Hocks
Slow-cooked collard greens with smoky ham hocks make a flavorful and hearty side dish.
7-Southern Green Bean Casserole
This version of the classic includes a touch of bacon and a creamy, cheesy sauce.
8-Candied Yams
Sweet and tender yams glazed with brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter are a must-have on any Southern table.
9-Fried Okra
Crispy, golden fried okra is a simple yet irresistible Southern side.
10-Black-Eyed Peas
Simmered with onions, garlic, and a touch of bacon, black-eyed peas add a warm and earthy element to your meal.
Potatoes and Bread
11-Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping
This Southern favorite combines sweet potatoes with a crunchy, caramelized pecan topping.
12-Buttermilk Biscuits
Fluffy, buttery biscuits are perfect for sopping up gravy or just enjoying on their own.
13-Hush Puppies
These deep-fried cornmeal fritters are crispy on the outside and soft inside—perfect for dipping into gravy or sauces.
Gravy and Sauces
14-Red-Eye Gravy
This Southern classic, made with coffee and pan drippings, pairs beautifully with ham or biscuits.
15-Bacon Gravy
Creamy, savory, and packed with bacon flavor, this gravy elevates any side dish it touches.
Desserts
16-Sweet Potato Pie
A Southern classic, this spiced pie with a creamy sweet potato filling is a Thanksgiving favorite.
17-Pecan Pie
Rich, gooey, and packed with pecans, this dessert is the perfect sweet ending to your meal.
18-Chess Pie
This simple yet decadent pie, made with butter, sugar, and eggs, is a Southern dessert staple.
19-Banana Pudding
Layers of vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and wafers topped with whipped cream make for a nostalgic and delicious treat.
Drinks
20-Sweet Tea
No Southern meal is complete without a pitcher of refreshing, ice-cold sweet tea.
21-Bourbon Punch
A festive drink combining bourbon, citrus, and spices for a holiday-appropriate kick.
FAQs
What defines a Southern Thanksgiving menu?
A Southern Thanksgiving menu is known for its bold flavors, hearty dishes, and recipes rooted in tradition. It often includes classics like cornbread dressing, collard greens, sweet potato casserole, and pecan pie.
Can I make these dishes ahead of time?
Yes! Many Southern dishes, like cornbread dressing and pies, can be prepared ahead of time. Reheat them just before serving to save time and reduce stress on Thanksgiving Day.
How can I adapt these recipes for dietary restrictions?
For gluten-free options, substitute gluten-free cornbread in the dressing or use alternative flours in biscuits. Many recipes can also be made vegetarian by omitting meats like ham hocks or bacon.
What drinks pair best with a Southern Thanksgiving meal?
Sweet tea is a classic non-alcoholic option, while bourbon punch or even a glass of red wine complements the bold flavors of a Southern feast.
Can I mix Southern dishes with traditional Thanksgiving recipes?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate Southern dishes alongside classic options like roast turkey or mashed potatoes for a well-rounded menu.
Bottom Line
Southern Thanksgiving menus are all about flavor, comfort, and tradition. These 21 ideas bring the best of the South to your holiday table, ensuring your guests leave full and happy.
From crispy fried turkey to decadent pecan pie, each dish is a celebration of Southern hospitality and culinary heritage.
Whether you’re a lifelong Southerner or simply want to add a bit of Southern charm to your Thanksgiving, these recipes will make your holiday unforgettable.
So grab a glass of sweet tea, set the table, and get ready for a feast that’s as soulful as it is delicious. Happy Thanksgiving!