20 Hearty Country Recipes for Comforting Meals

If there’s one thing that can bring people together, it’s a warm and comforting meal straight from the heart of country cooking. From classic dishes like chicken pot pie and beef stew to sweet treats like peach cobbler and blackberry jam-filled hand pies, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 20 hearty country recipes.

Get ready to cozy up with some old-fashioned comfort food that’s sure to become new family favorites. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are designed to bring people together and fill your belly with delicious goodness.

Southern Fried Chicken with Buttermilk Gravy

A classic Southern comfort food recipe that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, served with a rich and creamy buttermilk gravy.

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
– 1/2 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 pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat. Place coated chicken on a plate or tray.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes per batch).
5. Remove fried chicken from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Serve with Buttermilk Gravy: Whisk together 1 cup buttermilk, 2 tbsp butter, and 1 tsp flour in a small saucepan. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: About 25-30 minutes total (10-12 minutes for frying, 5-7 minutes for gravy)

Grandma’s Homemade Chicken Pot Pie

This classic comfort food recipe has been passed down through generations and is sure to become a family favorite. Flaky pie crust, tender chicken, and creamy vegetables come together in a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– 1/2 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, onion, and garlic until cooked through.
3. Add mixed vegetables, flour, chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.
4. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Pour chicken mixture into the pie crust.
6. Roll out remaining pie crust to fit top of pie. Crimp edges to seal.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until crust is golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Slow-Cooked Country-Style Ribs

Get ready to fall in love with the tender, flavorful country-style ribs that slow cooking has to offer!

Ingredients:

– 2 racks of pork ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup barbecue sauce

Instructions:

1. Preheat your slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove the membrane from the back of each rack of ribs (this will help them cook more evenly).
4. Place the ribs in the slow cooker, bone-side down.
5. Sprinkle the dry rub mixture evenly over both racks of ribs.
6. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
7. Remove the ribs from the slow cooker and brush with barbecue sauce.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)

Classic Beef and Vegetable Stew

Savor the hearty flavors of this comforting stew, perfect for a chilly evening or a weekend gathering with friends and family.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add beef; cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, beef broth, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes or until beef is tender.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Buttermilk Biscuits with Sausage Gravy

Classic Buttermilk Biscuits with Sausage Gravy Recipe

Rich, flaky biscuits and savory sausage gravy – a match made in heaven! This comforting duo is perfect for a weekend breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg, beaten
– Sausage Gravy (recipe below)

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl.
3. Add cold butter; use a pastry blender or fingers to work into dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in buttermilk and beaten egg until dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place biscuits on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Sausage Gravy:
– 1 pound sweet or hot sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half

Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned. Remove from heat and stir in flour to make a roux. Gradually add chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking until smooth. Simmer for about 5 minutes or until thickened. Serve warm over biscuits.

Old-Fashioned Meatloaf with Brown Sugar Glaze

A hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Brown Sugar Glaze (see below)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Add chopped onion and garlic; mix well.
4. Transfer mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F.

Brown Sugar Glaze:

– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp ketchup
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

Mix ingredients in a small bowl until smooth. Brush glaze over meatloaf during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.

Country Ham and Red-Eye Gravy

Savor the rich flavors of the South with this classic Country Ham and Red-Eye Gravy recipe, perfect for serving alongside biscuits or eggs.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb country ham, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cups pan drippings (from cooking country ham)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tsp all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced country ham and cook until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
2. Remove the cooked ham from the skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to low and add pan drippings to the skillet. Whisk in heavy cream and flour until smooth. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened, stirring occasionally.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve Red-Eye Gravy over cooked country ham, biscuits, or scrambled eggs.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Country Butter

A classic comfort food recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. This creamy mashed potato dish is elevated by the rich flavor of country butter, making it perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.

Ingredients:

– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Country butter (softened), for serving

Instructions:

1. Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the softened butter, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until smooth and creamy.
3. If using cheddar cheese, stir it in until melted and well combined.
4. Serve the mashed potatoes hot, topped with a pat of country butter.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Cornbread Dressing with Sage and Sausage

Elevate your holiday meals with this savory cornbread dressing infused with the warmth of sage and spicy sausage.

Ingredients:

– 4 cups stale cornbread, crumbled
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage leaves
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. In a large skillet, combine melted butter, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add crumbled cornbread, cooked sausage, chopped sage, and poultry seasoning to the skillet. Toss until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer dressing to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Fried Green Tomatoes with Remoulade Sauce

A Southern classic gets a refreshing twist with this recipe that combines the crunch of fried green tomatoes with the tangy zip of remoulade sauce.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 green tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Remoulade Sauce (see below)

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each tomato slice into the buttermilk, coating both sides, then coat in the flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the coated tomato slices for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain the fried tomatoes on paper towels.

Remoulade Sauce:

– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Serve with the fried green tomatoes.

Country-Style Green Beans with Bacon

This classic Southern-style recipe brings together the simplicity of green beans and the richness of crispy bacon, creating a deliciously balanced side dish perfect for family gatherings or holiday meals.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
3. Arrange green beans in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. Add garlic to the same skillet and sauté for 1 minute.
6. Pour chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits.
7. Pour the garlic-chicken broth mixture over the green beans on the baking sheet.
8. Sprinkle cooked bacon pieces evenly over the green beans.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until green beans are tender.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Homemade Chicken and Dumplings

Savor the comfort of a warm, homemade bowl of chicken and dumplings on a chilly day. This classic recipe is easy to make and packed with flavorful goodness.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup whole milk

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (5 minutes).
2. Add chicken to the pot and cook until browned (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from pot.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and milk to make dumpling mixture.
5. Drop the dough by spoonfuls onto the simmering soup. Cover pot and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes or until dumplings are cooked through.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Skillet Cornbread with Honey Butter

Savor the warm, comforting flavors of homemade cornbread, freshly baked in a skillet and served with a drizzle of sweet honey butter.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Honey butter (see below)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, combine flour, cornmeal, salt, baking soda, and sugar.
3. Add buttermilk and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
4. Pour in vegetable oil and stir until the mixture is smooth.
5. Cook for 10 minutes or until the edges start to set.
6. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until cornbread is golden brown.

Honey Butter:

– Soften 2 tablespoons butter at room temperature.
– Mix in 1 tablespoon pure honey until well combined.
– Serve warm cornbread with a drizzle of honey butter.

Pot Roast with Carrots and Onions

A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to prepare and simmered to perfection.

Ingredients:

– 3-4 pound beef pot roast (chuck or round)
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups beef broth
– 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 a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot over medium-high heat. Sear the pot roast until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
4. Remove the pot roast from the pot and set aside.
5. Add the chopped carrots and onions to the pot, cooking until they begin to caramelize, about 10 minutes.
6. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for 1 minute.
7. Add the beef broth to the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
8. Return the pot roast to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
9. Roast for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Southern-Style Collard Greens with Ham Hocks

A classic Southern dish that’s both comforting and flavorful, this recipe combines the earthy taste of collard greens with the rich flavor of ham hocks.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound fresh or frozen collard greens
– 2 pounds smoked ham hocks
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. Rinse the collard greens and remove any stems or tough parts. Cut into smaller pieces.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook over medium heat until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the ham hocks to the pot, along with the collard greens, salt, black pepper, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the greens are tender.
4. Remove the ham hocks from the pot, let them cool slightly, then chop into smaller pieces. Return the chopped ham to the pot and stir well.

Cooking Time: 1 hour

Apple Butter-Glazed Pork Chops

Elevate your pork chops with a sweet and tangy glaze made with apple butter, mustard, and spices. This recipe yields tender, flavorful chops perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 pork chops (1-1.5 pounds)
– 1/2 cup apple butter
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together apple butter, mustard, honey, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth.
3. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
4. Place pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the apple butter glaze evenly over both sides of the pork chops.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Peach Cobbler with Vanilla Ice Cream

Savor the sweetness of summer with this classic peach cobbler, topped with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream.

Ingredients:

– 3 cups fresh peaches, sliced
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Vanilla ice cream, for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine peaches, sugar, flour, and salt.
3. Pour melted butter over the peach mixture and toss until coated.
4. Roll out pie crust to fit a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Fill the pie crust with the peach mixture and dot with milk.
6. Fold the pie crust edges up over the filling to form a crust.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
8. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes

Blackberry Jam-Filled Hand Pies

These bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking on-the-go or as a sweet addition to any gathering. The combination of flaky pastry, tangy blackberries, and gooey jam is sure to delight.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups blackberries, fresh or frozen
– 1/4 cup blackberry jam
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Add butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add water, stirring until dough forms.
4. Roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into 3-inch squares.
5. Place a spoonful of blackberry jam in the center of each square. Top with another square and press edges together to seal.
6. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) and sprinkle with granulated sugar.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. Allow to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Sweet Tea-Brined Fried Catfish

Sweet Tea-Brined Fried Catfish Recipe

Experience the magic of Southern comfort food with this sweet and tangy twist on classic fried catfish.

Ingredients:
• 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
• 1 cup sweet tea (brewed strong, cooled)
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together sweet tea, buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the catfish fillets to the brine mixture, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight (8-12 hours).
3. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 350°F.
4. Remove the catfish from the brine, allowing any excess liquid to drip off.
5. Dredge the catfish fillets in flour, shaking off excess.
6. Fry the catfish for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes

Country-Style Baked Beans with Molasses

This classic recipe combines the sweetness of molasses with the simplicity of baked beans, creating a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for family gatherings or casual meals.

Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or baking dish, combine soaked and drained beans, chopped onion, minced garlic, ketchup, molasses, brown sugar, mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 6-8 hours, or overnight.
5. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes to caramelize the beans.

Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (or overnight) + 30 minutes

Summary

Get cozy with these 20 hearty country recipes that will warm your belly and your soul. From classic comfort foods like chicken pot pie and beef stew to Southern staples like fried chicken and peach cobbler, there’s something for everyone. Try slow-cooked ribs or country-style green beans with bacon, or indulge in sweet treats like blackberry jam-filled hand pies. These comforting recipes are sure to become new family favorites. So go ahead, grab a plate, and dig in – your taste buds will thank you!