11 Southern Christmas Dinner Menu Ideas to Explore

This time of year is all about family, food, and fun customs. If you want to make your Christmas table taste like the South, you're in for a treat. A Southern Christmas dinner is more than just a meal; it's a celebration of hearty foods, rich tastes, and family recipes that have been passed down for generations. These Southern Christmas dinner meal ideas will help you make a holiday feast that's as warm and welcoming as the South itself, whether you're having a big party or a small family dinner.

1. Honey-Glazed Ham

No Southern Christmas menu is complete without a succulent ham glazed to perfection. This dish is the star of the table, offering a mix of sweet and savory flavors that pair beautifully with almost any side dish. To achieve that signature Southern flair, the glaze often includes ingredients like honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and a hint of bourbon.

Also, it's important to highlight that ham is not only traditional but also practical—it serves a crowd and tastes even better as leftovers. For added Southern authenticity, serve it alongside red-eye gravy, a coffee-infused sauce that brings out the ham’s smoky notes.

Zulay Says: Using a sharp knife, score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern before applying the glaze. This allows the flavors to seep in deeply and creates a stunning presentation.

2. Fried Chicken

Who says fried chicken is just for summer picnics? In the South, this golden, crunchy dish is a year-round favorite, and it shines on the Christmas dinner table. Seasoned with a perfect blend of spices and fried to crispy perfection, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Fried chicken also offers the ultimate comfort food experience. Its satisfying crunch and juicy interior provide a delightful contrast to other softer sides like mashed potatoes or macaroni and cheese.

Zulay Says: For an extra layer of Southern flair, marinate the chicken in buttermilk overnight. This not only tenderizes the meat but also enhances the flavor. Serve with hot sauce for a zesty kick.

3. Cornbread Dressing

Forget plain stuffing—cornbread dressing is where it’s at in a Southern Christmas dinner menu. Made from crumbled cornbread mixed with sautéed onions, celery, chicken broth, and a medley of herbs, this dish is baked until golden brown and irresistibly fragrant.

Cornbread dressing is a staple that brings warmth and nostalgia to the table. It’s a soulful dish that showcases the South’s ingenuity in transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary.

Zulay Says: Add cooked sausage or oysters for a unique twist that elevates this classic side to new heights.

4. Collard Greens

Slow-cooked collard greens with smoked turkey or ham hocks are a quintessential Southern Christmas side dish. Rich, hearty, and packed with smoky flavor, they’re a must-have for any festive spread.

Do you know that collard greens symbolize wealth and prosperity in Southern culture, making them a meaningful addition to the holiday table? Plus, their earthy flavor provides a nice balance to richer dishes like mac and cheese or fried chicken! 

Zulay Says: Cook the greens low and slow for at least two hours to let the flavors meld. A dash of hot sauce or vinegar at the end adds a tangy finish.

5. Sweet Potato Casserole

This dish blurs the lines between side and dessert—and we’re not complaining. Made with mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, butter, and warm spices, it’s typically topped with either marshmallows or a crunchy pecan streusel.

The creamy, sweet base and contrasting topping make it a standout on any Christmas dinner menu. It’s a dish that both kids and adults adore!

Zulay Says: Add a splash of orange juice or zest to the sweet potato mixture for a citrusy twist that brightens the flavors.

6. Macaroni and Cheese

Southern-style mac and cheese isn’t just a side dish—it’s a labor of love. Made with a blend of cheeses, heavy cream, and seasonings, then baked to golden perfection, it’s the epitome of comfort food.

It’s a dish everyone looks forward to, often competing with the ham for the title of "most popular dish." The creamy interior and crispy topping make it impossible to resist.

Zulay Says:  Use a mix of cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan for depth of flavor. A sprinkle of paprika on top adds both color and a subtle smoky flavor.

7. Pecan Pie

When it comes to Southern Christmas desserts, pecan pie reigns supreme. This rich, gooey pie with a buttery crust and nutty topping is the perfect sweet ending to a festive meal.

The combination of sweet syrup and crunchy pecans creates a dessert that’s as satisfying as it is indulgent. Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

Zulay Says: Use toasted pecans to enhance their flavor and add a splash of bourbon to the filling for a grown-up twist.

8. Buttermilk Biscuits

No Southern meal is complete without biscuits, and Christmas dinner is no exception. These fluffy, buttery delights are perfect for mopping up gravy or spreading with honey butter.

Biscuits are versatile and universally loved. They add a touch of homemade charm to the meal and pair beautifully with every dish on the table.

Zulay Says: Keep the butter and buttermilk cold for the flakiest biscuits. Brush the tops with melted butter right out of the oven for a golden finish.

9. Coconut Cake

This towering white cake with layers of coconut frosting and shredded coconut is a visual and culinary delight. It’s the perfect dessert to complement a Southern Christmas dinner.

The light, fluffy texture, and tropical flavor make it a refreshing choice amidst richer dishes. Its snowy appearance also adds to the festive atmosphere.

Zulay Says: Use fresh coconut for the best flavor and texture. A cream cheese frosting base enhances the cake’s tangy-sweet profile.

10. Deviled Eggs

Kick off your meal with a platter of deviled eggs. These creamy, tangy bites are easy to prepare and endlessly customizable. Deviled eggs are a nostalgic favorite that’s always a hit at gatherings. Their small size makes them perfect for snacking before the main meal.

Zulay Says: Add a sprinkle of paprika or a dash of hot sauce on top for a burst of flavor and color.

11. Cheese Grits Casserole

This creamy, cheesy casserole is the ultimate Southern comfort food. Made with stone-ground grits, butter, and sharp cheddar, it’s a hearty side that complements any main dish. Cheese grits are a quintessential Southern dish, and this casserole version takes them to the next level with a rich, custard-like texture.

Zulay Says: Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt and flavor. Add a touch of garlic powder or smoked paprika for extra depth.

How to Make the Perfect Southern Christmas Menu?

A Southern Christmas dinner is more than just a collection of recipes—it’s a celebration of togetherness, tradition, and unforgettable flavors. But planning the ultimate Southern Christmas menu can seem daunting, so with a little organization and a touch of Southern flair, you can create a meal that’s both delicious and deeply meaningful. Here's how to craft a menu that will leave your guests talking long after the last bite.

Step 1: Start with Appetizers

Appetizers are the prelude to your meal, setting the stage for the feast ahead. In Southern cuisine, the focus is on bold flavors and comforting textures that spark the appetite.

Appetizers set a welcoming tone and give guests something to enjoy while you’re finishing the main course. A table filled with traditional Southern starters creates a warm and festive atmosphere.

My favorite appetizer is the Deviled Eggs. These creamy, savory bites are a must-have at any holiday gathering. Customize them with a sprinkle of paprika, a dash of hot sauce, or even a topping of crispy bacon for an extra kick.

Step 2: Feature a Show-Stopping Main Dish

The main dish is the centerpiece of your Southern Christmas dinner menu, and it’s all about making a statement. Choose something hearty, flavorful, and visually stunning to anchor the meal.

The main dish is the highlight of the meal, so choose something that reflects the heart and soul of Southern cooking. A visually appealing dish also elevates the festive vibe of your table setting. You can never go wrong with these: 

• Honey-Glazed Ham: Glazed with a mixture of honey, brown sugar, and a touch of mustard or bourbon, this classic dish is as beautiful as it is tasty. Its sweet and savory notes make it a perfect pairing for any side dish.
• Fried Chicken: Crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and seasoned to perfection, fried chicken brings soul food to the table in a way few dishes can.
• Roast Turkey with Cornbread Stuffing: For those who prefer poultry, a juicy turkey with Southern-style cornbread stuffing is a fantastic alternative.

Step 3: Add Soulful Sides

No Southern Christmas dinner menu is complete without a selection of rich, comforting sides. These dishes add depth and variety, ensuring every plate is a perfect blend of flavors. 

Southern sides bring balance and richness to the meal. Their flavors and textures complement the main dish and provide options for everyone at the table.

• Collard Greens: Slowly simmered with smoked ham hocks or turkey, these greens are infused with smoky, savory goodness.
• Mac and Cheese: Creamy, cheesy, and baked to golden perfection, this side is a perennial favorite that pairs with anything on the table.
• Cornbread Dressing: Made with crumbled cornbread, chicken broth, and aromatic seasonings, this dish is the epitome of Southern comfort food.

Step 4: End on a Sweet Note

Dessert is the grand finale of your Southern Christmas menu, and it’s your chance to wow your guests with something truly indulgent. Southern desserts are known for their decadence and homemade charm.

Ending the meal with a dessert that’s both delicious and visually stunning leaves a lasting impression on your guests. It’s the sweet goodbye to a memorable evening.

• Pecan Pie: A rich filling made with brown sugar, butter, and crunchy pecans, all nestled in a flaky crust—this pie is a Southern classic.
• Sweet Potato Pie: A creamy, spiced filling that rivals pumpkin pie but with a unique Southern twist.
• Red Velvet Cake: Layers of velvety cocoa-flavored cake paired with tangy cream cheese frosting make this dessert unforgettable.

Why a Southern Christmas Dinner Stands Out?

The magic of a Southern Christmas dinner menu lies in its rich flavors, comforting dishes, and emphasis on family traditions. These recipes bring people together, making every bite a celebration.

So, whether you’re a seasoned Southern cook or trying out these recipes for the first time, let the flavors of the South make your holiday table unforgettable.

Zulay's Final Thoughts

Crafting the perfect Southern Christmas dinner menu is all about embracing tradition, hospitality, and flavors that warm the soul. By balancing appetizers, a show-stopping main dish, soulful sides, and a sweet finale, you’ll create a dining experience that embodies the heart of Southern holiday traditions. So grab your apron, gather your family, and let the magic of a Southern Christmas dinner unfold at your table.

Let Us Know Your Favorites!

What are your go-to Southern Christmas dishes? Share your tips, traditions, and favorite recipes in the comments below. Don’t forget to tag @ZulayKitchen on social media and show off your holiday spread!