Southern Christmas Dinner Recipes bring warmth, tradition, and rich flavors to the holiday table. These Southern classics blend hearty ingredients, slow-cooked goodness, and a touch of Southern hospitality to create the ultimate holiday feast. Each dish reflects the region’s deep-rooted culinary heritage, from crispy fried chicken to creamy mashed potatoes.
The secret to a memorable Southern holiday meal lies in using fresh, comforting ingredients passed down for generations. Every dish is crafted to unite people, whether it’s buttery cornbread, savory collard greens, or a mouthwatering pecan pie.
This collection of Southern Christmas Dinner Recipes features a perfect mix of main courses, side dishes, and desserts to help you create an unforgettable holiday spread. Whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or an intimate celebration, these down-home favorites will make your Christmas dinner truly special. Let’s dive into the best Southern-inspired holiday recipes to make your Christmas extra delicious!
Oyster Stew
Oyster Stew is a beloved dish in Southern Christmas Dinner Recipes, offering a rich and creamy start to a holiday feast. This dish dates back to the early settlers of the Southern coast, where fresh oysters were a staple ingredient due to their abundance in the Gulf and Atlantic waters. The stew is typically made with plump, briny oysters, butter, heavy cream, onions, and celery, creating a silky texture that melts in your mouth. One of the reasons this dish has remained a cherished Southern holiday tradition is its comforting warmth, making it perfect for Christmas gatherings.
The trick to achieving the perfect Oyster Stew lies in gentle cooking—oysters should be heated until their edges just begin to curl, ensuring they remain tender and flavorful rather than rubbery. Beyond its simplicity, what makes Oyster Stew special is the depth of flavor created with minimal ingredients. The oysters release their natural juices, blending into the creamy base to create a rich, briny taste that is both luxurious and satisfying. Some cooks elevate the dish by adding Worcestershire sauce, sherry, cayenne pepper, or even a splash of white wine, infusing the stew with subtle layers of flavor.
Others prefer a more traditional approach, using just salt, pepper, and a dash of nutmeg for warmth. It is typically served steaming hot with buttery crackers or crusty French bread, which helps soak up every drop of the delicious broth. For an extra touch of Southern authenticity, some households add a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top just before serving.
The best Oyster Stew starts with fresh, high-quality oysters, ideally sourced from the Gulf Coast or the Chesapeake Bay, where the waters are known for producing some of the most flavorful oysters. When preparing for a Southern Christmas dinner, using freshly shucked oysters instead of canned varieties ensures a superior taste and texture. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, this dish embodies the essence of Southern comfort food, bringing warmth, nostalgia, and a touch of coastal heritage to your holiday meal.
Crawfish Chowder
A bowl of Crawfish Chowder is a decadent and flavorful addition to Southern Christmas Dinner Recipes, offering the bold, spicy essence of Louisiana cooking in a creamy, hearty dish. This rich chowder is brimming with succulent crawfish tails, tender potatoes, sweet corn, and bell peppers, all simmered in a luscious base of butter, heavy cream, and Cajun seasonings. The dish is a perfect marriage of flavors—where the natural sweetness of crawfish and corn balances the heat of paprika, cayenne, and Old Bay seasoning, resulting in a chowder that’s both comforting and deeply satisfying.
The origins of this dish trace back to Cajun and Creole cuisine, where seafood-based soups and stews have long been a staple of holiday gatherings, especially in coastal Southern states.
What sets Crawfish Chowder apart is the way the flavors develop during slow cooking. The crawfish tails release their signature sweet and briny essence, blending seamlessly with the creamy broth, while the bell peppers and onions add an aromatic base that enhances the richness of the dish. Some variations incorporate smoky andouille sausage or bacon, adding another layer of complexity with their bold, savory notes. The chowder is thickened to perfection, creating a consistency that clings to the spoon, making every bite indulgent. Traditionally, it is garnished with chopped green onions, fresh parsley, or even a sprinkle of grated cheese, adding a pop of freshness to the dish.
For the best Southern Christmas experience, using wild-caught crawfish is key, as it ensures a fresher, more authentic flavor compared to frozen or farm-raised varieties. Many Southern home cooks also prepare homemade seafood stock using crawfish shells, which intensifies the natural seafood essence of the dish. Served with warm cornbread, garlic toast, or a side of white rice, Crawfish Chowder is a heartwarming, soul-satisfying dish that will have guests coming back for seconds. Whether you’re looking to bring a taste of New Orleans flair to your holiday table or simply want a rich, comforting soup, this chowder is a must-have for a Southern-inspired Christmas feast.
Real Homemade Tamales
Real Homemade Tamales are a labor of love and a cherished dish in many Southern Christmas Dinner Recipes, especially in regions influenced by Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. These delicious, corn-based parcels are filled with a savory mixture of slow-cooked meat, chilies, and spices, all wrapped in corn husks and steamed to perfection. While tamales are a year-round favorite, they hold a special place in Southern holiday traditions, often prepared in large batches by families who gather to assemble them. Making tamales from scratch requires time and patience, but the result—a tender, flavorful masa with a rich, spicy filling—is well worth the effort.
The key to the perfect homemade tamale starts with authentic masa harina, a type of corn flour that gives tamales their distinct texture. The masa is combined with lard, broth, and seasonings, ensuring a light, fluffy consistency once steamed. Fillings can range from slow-braised pork in red chili sauce, shredded chicken in green tomatillo salsa, or even a combination of black beans and cheese for a vegetarian twist.
The magic happens when the tamales are wrapped in softened corn husks, carefully folded, and placed in a steamer to cook for two to three hours, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. The result is a moist, flavorful tamale with a delicate texture that pairs perfectly with a side of salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.
For a truly authentic experience, many families in the South prepare tamales in big batches, making them a social event filled with storytelling, laughter, and tradition. Some even incorporate spicy chorizo, roasted peppers, or smoky chipotle for an extra layer of heat and complexity. Whether served as a holiday appetizer or as part of a Christmas dinner spread, homemade tamales bring a rich, cultural touch to Southern holiday feasts. Pair them with Mexican rice, refried beans, or tangy cabbage slaw, and you have an unforgettable dish that brings flavor, warmth, and tradition to the holiday table.
Tourtiere (French Pork Pie)
Tourtière, or French Pork Pie, is a lesser-known but incredibly flavorful dish that has found its way into Southern Christmas Dinner Recipes, especially in regions influenced by French and Cajun cuisine. This hearty meat pie originated in Québec, but its rich, savory blend of ground pork, warm spices, and flaky pastry makes it a perfect addition to a Southern holiday feast. The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves gives the dish a distinct warmth, creating a deeply spiced, comforting flavor that pairs beautifully with classic Southern sides like mashed potatoes and collard greens.
The heart of a Tourtière lies in its slow-simmered pork filling, which is cooked with onions, garlic, and a blend of aromatic spices, creating an irresistible depth of flavor. Some variations use a combination of ground beef, veal, or even venison, adding a unique Southern twist to the traditional recipe. The mixture is then encased in a buttery, flaky pie crust, which turns golden brown and crisp after baking. The pie is typically served warm with cranberry sauce or a tangy tomato relish, adding a sweet and acidic contrast that enhances the richness of the meat filling.
In Southern Christmas celebrations, this dish is often served as part of a larger spread, alongside dishes like roasted meats, cornbread dressing, and seasonal vegetables. Some families incorporate Cajun flavors by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika, giving the dish an extra kick of spice. Whether enjoyed as a main course or a hearty appetizer, Tourtière is a rustic, flavorful pie that adds a touch of French elegance to any Southern holiday meal.
Easy Roasted Beef Tenderloin
A beautifully Roasted Beef Tenderloin is a show-stopping centerpiece in many Southern Christmas Dinner Recipes, bringing an element of luxury and indulgence to the holiday table. This melt-in-your-mouth cut of beef is known for its tender, buttery texture, making it an ideal main course for a Southern-style Christmas feast. Unlike tougher cuts of meat, beef tenderloin requires minimal preparation, allowing the natural juiciness and rich flavor of the beef to shine. With a simple rub of garlic, rosemary, salt, pepper, and olive oil, this dish transforms into a succulent, flavorful masterpiece that pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a bold horseradish sauce.
The secret to achieving perfectly roasted beef tenderloin lies in precise cooking techniques. The meat is first seared over high heat, locking in its natural juices and creating a beautifully caramelized crust. It is then transferred to a low-temperature oven, where it slowly roasts until reaching medium-rare or medium doneness, ensuring maximum tenderness. Many Southern cooks prefer to use a reverse-searing method, which involves slow-roasting the tenderloin first, followed by a final high-heat sear, enhancing the flavor and texture even further. The result is a deeply flavorful, incredibly juicy cut of beef that practically melts in your mouth.
For an authentic Southern touch, some families incorporate a bourbon-infused glaze or a red wine reduction, adding an extra layer of richness to the dish. Others pair the tenderloin with buttery cornbread, cheesy grits, or a classic Southern-style gravy, elevating the dish to new heights of indulgence. Whether served as the main highlight of a holiday dinner or alongside other Southern Christmas classics, a perfectly roasted beef tenderloin is a must-have for an elegant and memorable Christmas meal.
Good New Orleans Creole Gumbo
Good New Orleans Creole Gumbo is a Southern Christmas Dinner Recipes essential, embodying the soulful, bold flavors of Louisiana cooking. This deeply flavorful stew is a staple in many Southern households, especially during the holiday season when families gather to enjoy a warm, hearty meal filled with rich, complex spices and fresh seafood. Unlike its Cajun counterpart, which is darker and spicier, Creole gumbo includes tomatoes, giving it a slightly sweeter, tangier profile. It typically combines shrimp, crab, and oysters with andouille sausage and chicken, simmered in a thick, aromatic roux-based broth that coats every bite in spiced perfection.
What makes Creole Gumbo stand out is its depth of flavor, achieved through slow cooking and careful seasoning. A good gumbo starts with a dark, rich roux, made by slowly whisking flour and fat over low heat until it reaches a deep brown color, adding a nutty, toasted essence to the dish. Then, the “holy trinity” of Cajun and Creole cooking—onions, celery, and bell peppers—is sautéed in the roux, releasing their savory aroma into the broth. A mix of seafood stock, tomatoes, garlic, and Creole seasonings infuses the gumbo with a bold, robust taste, while file powder or okra helps thicken it to the perfect consistency.
For an authentic Southern Christmas experience, gumbo is traditionally served over steaming white rice, which soaks up the flavorful broth beautifully. Many Southern cooks add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of green onions before serving, enhancing its spicy, aromatic quality. Paired with buttery cornbread or crispy French bread, this dish is a celebration of Louisiana heritage and a must-have for any Southern-style holiday feast. Whether enjoyed as a main course or a starter, Creole Gumbo delivers a comforting, rich, and festive experience that captures the essence of Southern Christmas cooking.
Southern Macaroni and Cheese Pie
A Southern Christmas Dinner Recipes collection wouldn’t be complete without Southern Macaroni and Cheese Pie, a rich, creamy, and decadent baked dish that brings pure comfort and nostalgia to any holiday table. Unlike the traditional stovetop mac and cheese, this Southern favorite is baked until golden brown, with a firm, custard-like texture that holds its shape when sliced. Made with a blend of sharp cheddar, creamy gouda, and butter, this dish is known for its irresistible cheesiness and satisfyingly crispy top layer. Every bite is buttery, creamy, and packed with cheesy goodness, making it a must-have side dish for a Southern-style Christmas feast.
What makes Southern Macaroni and Cheese Pie unique is its use of eggs and heavy cream, which create a rich, dense texture that sets when baked. The pasta is cooked just until al dente, ensuring it holds up well in the oven without becoming mushy. A mix of whole milk, eggs, and seasonings like mustard powder, paprika, and black pepper is whisked together before being poured over the macaroni, allowing it to absorb the flavors and richness of the cheese sauce as it bakes. Some Southern cooks add a touch of hot sauce, a sprinkle of nutmeg, or even a dash of Worcestershire sauce to enhance the dish’s savory depth.
For the perfect golden crust, a final layer of shredded cheese is sprinkled on top before baking, creating a crispy, bubbly finish that makes every bite even more indulgent. Some variations include crumbled bacon, jalapeños, or even lobster, adding an extra level of flavor and texture. Served alongside glazed ham, roasted meats, or collard greens, Southern Macaroni and Cheese Pie is a holiday essential, bringing richness, warmth, and comfort to the Christmas dinner table.
Ham with Honey and Brown Sugar Glaze
No Southern Christmas Dinner Recipes list is complete without a glazed holiday ham, and Ham with Honey and Brown Sugar Glaze is a Southern classic that brings sweet, savory, and smoky flavors together beautifully. A perfectly baked ham is the star of many Christmas dinners, offering a tender, juicy interior coated in a sticky, caramelized glaze that balances richness with just the right amount of sweetness. Whether made with spiral-cut ham or bone-in country ham, this dish is a Southern staple that pairs perfectly with biscuits, cornbread dressing, and creamy mashed potatoes.
The secret to a perfect holiday ham lies in its glaze, which is a sticky, sweet, and slightly tangy blend of honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and warm spices like cinnamon and cloves. As the ham roasts, the glaze caramelizes into a golden, glossy coating, sealing in the juices while adding a rich, sweet crust to every slice. Some Southern cooks take it a step further by basting the ham with pineapple juice, bourbon, or a splash of apple cider vinegar, adding a layer of fruitiness and complexity to the dish. The result is a flavor-packed main course that is as impressive as it is delicious.
For the best texture and flavor, ham is slow-roasted at a low temperature, allowing it to stay moist and tender. A final broil helps create the signature sticky, caramelized crust, making every bite burst with a smoky, sweet flavor. Served warm or at room temperature, this Southern holiday classic is a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with savory sides like macaroni and cheese, roasted vegetables, and sweet potato casserole. Whether prepared in classic style or with a unique Southern twist, glazed ham is a Christmas must-have, delivering a perfect balance of sweetness, saltiness, and warmth to the holiday feast.
Old Charleston-Style Shrimp and Grits
Old Charleston-Style Shrimp and Grits is a Southern Christmas Dinner Recipes favorite, combining the buttery richness of stone-ground grits with succulent, spiced shrimp in a dish that is both comforting and deeply flavorful. Originating in the Lowcountry region of South Carolina, this dish has become a Southern classic, cherished for its creamy texture and bold seasoning. Perfect for a Christmas brunch or dinner, shrimp and grits bring a hearty, homestyle warmth to the holiday table, making it a must-have for festive Southern feasts.
What makes this dish irresistible is the combination of textures and flavors. The grits are slow-cooked, absorbing the richness of butter, cream, and cheese, creating a silky, smooth base that complements the tender, juicy shrimp. The shrimp is typically sautéed with garlic, onions, and bell peppers, then seasoned with Cajun spices, smoked paprika, and a touch of hot sauce for a smoky, slightly spicy kick. Many Southern cooks add crispy bacon or andouille sausage, which enhances the dish with a smoky depth and a hint of saltiness that balances the creamy grits perfectly.
To serve, the shrimp mixture is ladled over a steaming bowl of grits, with an optional sprinkle of green onions, fresh parsley, or even a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Some variations include a tomato-based gravy, a splash of Worcestershire sauce, or a hint of sherry, adding layers of complexity to the dish. Whether enjoyed as a holiday breakfast, brunch, or dinner, Old Charleston-Style Shrimp and Grits is a Southern classic that brings warmth, comfort, and a touch of elegance to any Christmas gathering.
Chef John’s Duck, Sausage, and Shrimp Gumbo
For those looking for a showstopping main course in their Southern Christmas Dinner Recipes, Easy Roasted Beef Tenderloin is the ultimate holiday centerpiece. Known for its melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, this luxurious cut of beef is a Southern favorite for Christmas celebrations, offering a rich, beefy flavor that pairs beautifully with savory sides like creamed spinach, roasted potatoes, and horseradish sauce. Unlike tougher cuts of meat, beef tenderloin requires minimal seasoning and careful roasting, ensuring it remains juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked.
The secret to a perfectly roasted beef tenderloin lies in proper seasoning and searing. A simple rub of coarse salt, black pepper, garlic, and fresh rosemary enhances the natural richness of the meat, while a quick sear in a hot skillet creates a golden-brown crust that locks in the juices. The beef is then slow-roasted at a low temperature, allowing it to cook evenly while retaining its buttery texture. Some Southern cooks prefer to baste the tenderloin with melted butter and garlic, adding an extra layer of flavor and richness.
Once roasted to medium-rare perfection, the tenderloin is rested before slicing into thick, juicy medallions. It’s often served with a rich red wine reduction, creamy béarnaise sauce, or a tangy horseradish cream, elevating the dish with a savory contrast. Paired with buttery dinner rolls, roasted vegetables, and decadent mashed potatoes, Easy Roasted Beef Tenderloin is a holiday masterpiece, perfect for a Southern Christmas celebration filled with elegance and indulgence.
