Soul Food Sunday Dinner Recipe

Soul Food is much more than just cuisine—it’s a celebration of culture, heritage, and family. Rooted in African American traditions, Soul Food has a rich history of blending bold flavors and hearty ingredients, creating dishes that comfort the body and soul alike. These meals tell a story of resilience and resourcefulness, passed down through generations.

Sunday dinners hold a special place in this tradition, serving as a time for families and friends to come together, share stories, and strengthen bonds. These gatherings often feature a spread of iconic dishes like fried chicken, collard greens, macaroni and cheese, and cornbread, transforming mealtime into an act of love and community.

When preparing a Soul Food meal, the key is to cook with care and attention. Take your time to season and layer flavors, use fresh ingredients, and don’t be afraid to put your personal spin on classic recipes. Most importantly, remember that the heart of Soul Food lies in its ability to bring people together.

Main Components of a Soul Food Dinner

Southern Fried Chicken or Smothered Beef Chops Recipe

Ingredients for the Main Dish

For Southern Fried Chicken:

• 6 pieces of chicken (thighs, drumsticks, or breasts)
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Vegetable oil for frying

For Smothered Beef Chops:

• 4 bone-in Beef chops
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (plus extra for dredging)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking

Southern Fried Chicken

1. Marinate: Soak the chicken in buttermilk for at least 4 hours or overnight for maximum tenderness.
2. Prepare Coating: In a large bowl, combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
3. Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Coat each piece evenly in the seasoned flour.
4. Heat Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensure there’s enough oil to submerge the chicken halfway.
5. Fry: Fry the chicken in batches for 10–12 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Use a thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Drain and Serve: Let the chicken rest on a wire rack over a baking sheet to stay crispy.

Smothered Beef Chops

1. Season and Dredge: Season beef chops with salt, pepper, and paprika. Lightly coat with flour.
2. Sear: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef chops for 3–4 minutes on each side until browned. Remove and set aside.
3. Make Gravy: In the same skillet, add sliced onions and garlic. Cook until softened. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of flour and stir, creating a roux. Slowly whisk in chicken broth to create a smooth gravy.
4. Simmer: Return the beef chops to the skillet, covering them with gravy. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes, or until tender.
5. Serve: Serve smothered beef chops with a generous ladle of gravy on top.

Tips for Perfect Seasoning and Texture

• Always taste-test your seasoning before cooking. Adjust salt, pepper, or spices to your liking.
• For fried chicken, double-dip in buttermilk and flour for extra crunch.
• For smothered beef chops, ensure the gravy is smooth by whisking continuously and adding broth gradually.
• Use a meat thermometer for perfectly cooked meat—165°F (74°C) for chicken and 145°F (63°C) for beef chops.

Whether you choose crispy Southern Fried Chicken or tender Smothered Beef Chops, the main dish is the star of your Soul Food Sunday dinner!

Classic Soul Food Side Dishes

Collard Greens or Mustard Greens Recipe

Collard greens and mustard greens are quintessential Soul Food side dishes, offering rich, savory flavors that perfectly complement the main course. Whether simmered with smoked meat or adapted for vegetarians, these greens are a staple of any Soul Food Sunday dinner.

Essential Ingredients

• 2 lbs fresh collard greens or mustard greens
• 1 smoked turkey leg, ham hock, or 4 slices of thick-cut bacon (for non-vegetarian option)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar (balances the bitterness of greens)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cleaning and Cooking Steps

1. Prepare the Greens:
   • Rinse greens thoroughly under cold water to remove dirt and grit.
   • Remove the tough stems by folding each leaf in half and cutting along the spine. Stack leaves and chop into bite-sized pieces.
2. Cook the Meat (Optional):
   • If using smoked turkey or ham hock, simmer it in the broth for 20–30 minutes to release flavor before adding greens.
   • For bacon, cook until crisp, remove, and use the rendered fat to sauté onions and garlic.
3. Sauté Aromatics:
   • Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and garlic and cook until softened.
4. Simmer the Greens:
   • Add greens to the pot in batches, letting them wilt slightly before adding more.
   • Pour in the broth and add apple cider vinegar, crushed red pepper, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Cook Until Tender:
   • Cover and simmer over low heat for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
6. Serve:
   • For a non-vegetarian option, shred the smoked meat and mix it into the greens before serving.

Variations for Dietary Preferences

• Vegetarian Option: Replace smoked meat with 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for a similar depth of flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Vegan Option: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms for a savory, umami kick.
• Spicy Kick: Add fresh chili peppers or increase the crushed red pepper for heat lovers.

Whether rich and smoky or light and vegetarian, collard greens or mustard greens bring balance and a touch of soul to your Sunday dinner plate.

Creamy Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

Macaroni and cheese is the ultimate comfort food and a beloved side dish at any Soul Food Sunday dinner. This recipe delivers the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness with a crispy, golden topping that’s sure to please every palate.

Cheese Selection and Pasta Preparation

Ingredients:

• 1 lb elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
• 4 cups shredded cheese (a blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and gouda works best)
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for topping (optional)

Steps:

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
   • In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes to make a roux.
   • Gradually pour in milk and cream, whisking until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken.
   • Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
   • Add shredded cheese a handful at a time, stirring until fully melted and creamy.

Baking Tips for Creamy Texture and Crispy Topping

1. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce until fully coated. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
2. Create a Crispy Topping: Sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers mixed with a touch of melted butter over the top. For extra flavor, add a handful of grated Parmesan to the topping mixture.
3. Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Options for Flavor Customization

• Add Protein: Mix in cooked and crumbled bacon, diced ham, or shredded chicken for a hearty twist.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Experiment with Cheese: Swap in other cheeses like Monterey Jack, gruyere, or pepper jack for unique flavor profiles.
• Vegetarian Add-Ins: Stir in steamed broccoli, caramelized onions, or roasted red peppers for added texture and taste.

Whether served as a side dish or the star of the meal, creamy macaroni and cheese is a crowd-pleasing classic that brings warmth and indulgence to your Soul Food Sunday dinner.

Cornbread Recipe

Cornbread is a cornerstone of Southern cooking and a must-have for any Soul Food Sunday dinner. Its golden, crumbly texture and subtle sweetness make it the perfect side dish to complement savory staples like collard greens and fried chicken.

Ingredients for Traditional Southern Cornbread

• 1 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (optional, for a slightly sweet cornbread)
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk (or whole milk with a splash of vinegar)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for greasing the skillet)

Baking Instructions and Tips

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a cast-iron skillet in the oven to heat as it preheats.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar (if using), baking powder, and salt.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter until well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cornbread dense.
5. Prepare the Skillet: Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven and coat it with a thin layer of melted butter or oil to prevent sticking.
6. Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into the skillet, spreading it evenly. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the cornbread to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Variations

• Jalapeño Cornbread: Add 1/4 cup diced jalapeños and 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese to the batter for a spicy, cheesy kick.
• Honey-Glazed Cornbread: Drizzle the top of the cornbread with honey immediately after removing it from the oven for a sweet, glossy finish.
• Herb-Infused Cornbread: Stir in chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives for a savory twist.
• Corn Kernels: Fold in 1/2 cup of fresh or canned (drained) corn kernels for added texture and sweetness.

Cornbread’s versatility makes it an essential part of any Soul Food meal. Whether you keep it traditional or explore creative variations, this dish will always bring a comforting and satisfying element to your table.

Explore More Few-Second Recipes for Your Dinners

You’ll love these recipes to complement your creation:

• Looking for the perfect spread? Try the Pistachio Butter Breakfast Recipe for a nutty and indulgent topping or the Cottage Cheese Breakfast Recipe for a creamy, protein-packed option.
• Love experimenting with dough? Explore the Crescent Roll Breakfast Recipe for another versatile and delicious baked treat.
• Need a hearty dinner idea? Pair your Dinner with the flavorful Ground Sausage Recipe for Dinner for a satisfying meal.

These recipes are perfect complements to your soul food Sunday dinner and will inspire more delightful meals in your kitchen!

Conclusion

Soul Food Sunday dinners are more than just meals—they’re moments of connection, tradition, and joy shared with loved ones. The rich flavors and comforting dishes reflect a deep history of resilience and creativity, making every bite a celebration of culture and family.

As you prepare your Soul Food Sunday dinner, remember that these recipes are a foundation for personalization. Add your unique twist, experiment with ingredients, and make every dish your own. The beauty of Soul Food lies in its ability to evolve while still honoring its roots.

We’d love to hear about your experiences in the kitchen! Share your stories, favorite recipes, and photos of your delicious meals with us. Let’s continue the tradition of bringing people together through the love of good food.