Classic Southern Christmas Dinner Menu

Southern Christmas dinners are all about warmth, flavor, and the comforting touch of home-cooked meals. From creamy mac and cheese to buttery cornbread dressing, every dish is crafted with love and celebrates the rich culinary heritage of the South. These meals bring families together, offering soulful flavors that evoke nostalgia and holiday cheer.

A Classic Southern Christmas Dinner is more than just food — it’s a tradition, a way to gather loved ones around a table overflowing with hearty dishes that satisfy the heart and soul.

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Why Southern Christmas Meals Are Special

Southern cuisine is known for its comforting richness and bold flavors. A Christmas dinner in the South combines:

• Creamy, cheesy dishes like macaroni and cheese that feel indulgent.

• Savory vegetable sides cooked with butter, garlic, and seasonings.

• Hearty starches such as cornbread, rice, or dressing that fill the table with warmth.

• Sweet, comforting desserts that complete the meal.

This combination of flavors, textures, and aromas creates a festive, soulful atmosphere that makes every bite memorable.

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Planning Your Southern Christmas Dinner

A classic Southern Christmas dinner should include:

• Main Dish: Roast chicken, turkey, or glazed ham alternatives (no pork, bacon, or alcohol)

• Comforting Sides: Creamy mac and cheese, cornbread dressing, mashed potatoes, and roasted vegetables

• Greens and Veggies: Buttered collard greens, green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts

• Breads: Cornbread, rolls, or biscuits

• Desserts: Pecan-free pies, sweet potato pie, or cobblers

These recipes are designed to be made from scratch, with simple ingredients that create big flavor.

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Southern-Inspired Main Dishes

Herb Butter Roasted Chicken

A golden roasted chicken is the perfect centerpiece for a Southern Christmas feast.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (4 lbs)

• 4 tbsp butter, softened

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp dried rosemary

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 lemon, halved

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Rub butter, herbs, and spices over the chicken, including under the skin.

3. Stuff cavity with lemon halves.

4. Roast for 1 hour 15 minutes until juices run clear.

5. Let rest for 10 minutes before carving.

This juicy, flavorful chicken pairs perfectly with classic Southern sides like mac and cheese and cornbread dressing.

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Oven-Baked Catfish Fillets

For a seafood twist on Southern tradition, catfish baked with herbs and lemon is light, flavorful, and festive.

Ingredients:

• 4 catfish fillets

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 lemon, sliced

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Place fillets on a baking sheet and brush with olive oil.

3. Sprinkle paprika, garlic powder, and pepper over fish.

4. Top with lemon slices and bake 20–25 minutes until flaky.

5. Garnish with parsley before serving.

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Comforting Southern Sides

Creamy Southern Mac and Cheese

A must-have for any Southern Christmas dinner, this mac and cheese is rich, cheesy, and perfectly creamy.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz elbow macaroni

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded

• 2 cups milk

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• ½ tsp mustard powder

• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Cook macaroni until al dente.

2. Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour to make a roux.

3. Gradually add milk, whisking until smooth.

4. Stir in cheeses, mustard, salt, and pepper until melted and creamy.

5. Combine with pasta and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.

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Southern Cornbread Dressing

A savory, buttery cornbread dressing brings traditional Southern flavor to the table.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups crumbled cornbread

• 2 cups chopped onions

• 1 cup chopped celery

• 2 cups vegetable broth

• 2 tbsp butter

• 1 tsp sage

• ½ tsp thyme

• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Sauté onions and celery in butter until tender.

3. Mix with crumbled cornbread, herbs, and broth.

4. Transfer to a baking dish and bake 30–35 minutes until golden.

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Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Maple Glaze

Sweet potatoes with a buttery maple glaze are a Southern holiday favorite.

Ingredients:

• 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 tbsp maple syrup

• ½ tsp cinnamon

• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Toss sweet potatoes with butter, maple syrup, cinnamon, and salt.

3. Roast 25–30 minutes until tender and caramelized.

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Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Garlic and Butter

Rich, buttery mashed potatoes complement any Southern Christmas plate.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs potatoes, peeled and chopped

• 4 tbsp butter

• ½ cup milk

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Boil potatoes until tender.

2. Mash with butter, milk, garlic, salt, and pepper until creamy.

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Buttered Collard Greens

Collard greens are a staple of Southern cuisine, cooked slow with butter and garlic for rich flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb fresh collard greens, chopped

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ cup vegetable broth

• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Sauté garlic in butter.

2. Add collard greens and broth.

3. Cover and simmer 15–20 minutes until tender.

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Southern Breads

Classic Cornbread

A fluffy, buttery cornbread is essential for soaking up gravy and complementing savory sides.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cornmeal

• 1 cup flour

• 1 tbsp sugar

• 1 tbsp baking powder

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 cup milk

• 2 tbsp butter, melted

• 1 egg

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Mix dry ingredients, then stir in milk, butter, and egg.

3. Pour into a greased pan and bake 20–25 minutes.

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Buttery Southern Biscuits

Soft, flaky biscuits bring warmth and comfort to the holiday table.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups flour

• 1 tbsp baking powder

• ½ tsp salt

• 6 tbsp butter

• ¾ cup milk

Instructions:

1. Combine flour, baking powder, and salt.

2. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

3. Stir in milk and knead gently.

4. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12–15 minutes.

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Sweet Southern Christmas Desserts

Sweet Potato Pie

A classic Southern dessert that’s creamy, spiced, and festive.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes

• 1 cup sugar

• ½ cup milk

• 2 eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• ½ tsp cinnamon

• ¼ tsp nutmeg

• 1 unbaked pie crust

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Mix all ingredients and pour into pie crust.

3. Bake 50–55 minutes until set.

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Pecan-Free Southern Cobbler

A warm fruit cobbler with a buttery biscuit topping, perfect for the holidays.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups chopped fruit (apples, peaches, or berries)

• ½ cup sugar

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 cup flour

• 1 cup sugar

• ½ cup butter

• 1 tsp baking powder

• ½ cup milk

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Toss fruit with sugar and lemon juice in a baking dish.

3. Mix flour, sugar, butter, baking powder, and milk for topping.

4. Drop spoonfuls over fruit and bake 35–40 minutes until golden.

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Tips for a Southern-Style Christmas Dinner

1. Prep ahead: Many sides and desserts can be made a day early.

2. Layer flavors: Use butter, herbs, and spices generously.

3. Serve buffet-style: Southern meals are meant for sharing.

4. Keep it heartwarming: Family-style serving encourages connection and conversation.

5. Balance richness: Pair creamy dishes with fresh greens or lightly roasted vegetables.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a traditional Southern Christmas meal?
It usually includes roasted poultry, creamy mac and cheese, cornbread dressing, mashed potatoes, collard greens, and sweet potato dishes.

Can I make these dishes vegetarian-friendly?
Yes! Substitute vegetable broth for meat-based broths and focus on hearty vegetables, beans, and cheese-based dishes.

How far in advance can I prepare a Southern Christmas dinner?
Many casseroles, mashed potatoes, and desserts can be prepared 24 hours ahead and reheated.

What are the best Southern sides for Christmas?
Mac and cheese, cornbread dressing, collard greens, roasted sweet potatoes, and mashed potatoes are staples.

How can I make my Southern dinner feel festive?
Use rustic table décor, fresh herbs, candles, and colorful vegetables to enhance the holiday atmosphere.

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Bringing Southern Charm to Your Holiday Table

A Classic Southern Christmas Dinner Menu combines warmth, richness, and soul. From creamy mac and cheese to buttery cornbread dressing, roasted vegetables, and sweet pies, each dish brings flavor, tradition, and comfort. Whether you’re feeding family or friends, these homemade recipes create a heartwarming holiday experience that everyone will cherish.

This Southern-inspired feast is all about love, laughter, and the joy of sharing good food with great company — the true spirit of Christmas.