A Southern-Style Thanksgiving Feast (Yes, We Use Real Gravy)
Hey y’all — Let’s Talk Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving in the South isn’t just a meal — it’s a sacred event. From deviled eggs to cobbler, everything on the table should taste like it was passed down, perfected, and prayed over. That means real butter, real gravy, and absolutely no shortcuts (except for that one cousin who brings store-bought pie and lies about it — bless her heart).
Whether you're hosting the whole family, planning a cozy Friendsgiving, or just love doing it up for yourself (as you should!), this Southern-style Thanksgiving menu has everything you need. Think: starters, sides, mains, desserts, and a few hosting tips that’ll make you look like you’ve done this a time or two — even if you haven’t.
Starters
Deviled Eggs (Grandma’s Way)
Creamy, tangy, and dusted with a little paprika — these deviled eggs are always the first to disappear. A little pickle relish gives them that perfect Southern twist.
Pimento Cheese & Crackers
Sharp cheddar, diced pimentos, and a spoonful of mayo come together in a spread that tastes like childhood and potlucks. Always served cold, always on a Ritz.
Cranberry Bourbon Smash
Sweet, tart, and just boozy enough to keep the holiday tension light. This cranberry cocktail gets its kick from fresh citrus and good bourbon. Sip slowly... or don’t.
Main Dishes
Herb Butter Roasted Turkey
Dry-brined for flavor, butter-basted for beauty. This turkey roasts up golden, juicy, and packed with herby goodness. It’s the turkey that gets folks talkin’ — in a good way.
Cornbread Dressing with Sage & Sausage
No stuffing here — it’s cornbread dressing or nothing. Made with day-old cornbread, fresh herbs, sautéed onion and celery, and spicy sausage. It’s moist, savory, and the backbone of a Southern Thanksgiving.
Giblet Gravy
Yes, we use the gizzards. Yes, it’s worth it. This gravy is rich, silky, and full of deep flavor. Pour it on everything but the dessert.
Sides That Steal the Show
Sweet Potato Casserole (Pecan Topping Only)
No marshmallows allowed — this isn’t a kid’s birthday party. We’re topping creamy mashed sweet potatoes with a buttery pecan crumble. Sweet, crunchy, and completely grown-up.
Buttery Southern Mashed Potatoes
No gravy needed — these mashed potatoes hold their own. Creamy, fluffy, and loaded with real butter, they’re the quiet hero of the Thanksgiving plate. Simple, soulful, and absolutely essential.
Southern Baked Mac & Cheese
Sharp cheddar, creamy base, and a golden baked top. Southern mac and cheese should be sliceable, not spoonable — and don’t forget the crispy edges.
Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey
Greens simmered low and slow with garlic, onions, and smoked turkey. Tangy, savory, and just a little spicy — these greens are soul food, period.
Green Bean Casserole (From Scratch)
Fresh green beans, sautéed mushrooms, and a homemade cream sauce topped with crispy shallots. You’ll never open another can again.
Homemade Cranberry Sauce
Orange zest, fresh cranberries, and a splash of Grand Marnier turn this into the cranberry sauce people actually eat. Tart, sweet, and citrusy.
Southern-Style Desserts
Pecan Pie with Bourbon & Brown Butter
This is not your grandma’s pecan pie — unless your grandma was kinda wild. The bourbon brings warmth, the brown butter brings depth, and the filling is gooey perfection.
Pumpkin Pie (Classic, but Elevated)
Creamy, spiced just right, and made with heavy cream for that smooth texture. Serve chilled with whipped cream — because some things are sacred.
Apple Cobbler with Buttermilk Biscuit Topping
Warm, cinnamon-sugar apples baked under golden, fluffy biscuits. Top with vanilla ice cream and watch your guests lose their minds.
Can’t-Do-Withouts
Flaky Butter Pie Crust
No store-bought crusts in this kitchen — just cold butter, loving hands, and a pie dough that flakes like it means it. You’ll taste the difference in every bite.
Buttermilk Biscuits
Tall, tender, and full of buttery layers — these buttermilk biscuits are born to be slathered, stacked, and served with everything on the table.
Hosting Tips with Southern Charm
You’ve got the food — now make it feel special with these little touches.
Set the Table the Night Before
Trust me, you’ll thank yourself when you’re elbow-deep in gravy the next morning.
Decor That Doesn’t Try Too Hard
Magnolia leaves, eucalyptus, mini pumpkins, linen napkins, and candles in mason jars. Chic, Southern, and budget-friendly.
The Music Matters
Otis Redding, a little Dolly, and a soft jazz playlist set the mood better than any store-bought centerpiece.
Start a Gratitude Jar
Place little cards at each setting for guests to write what they’re thankful for. Read them after dessert, or save them for next year.
Final Thoughts Suga
Thanksgiving in the South is about food, family, and feelin’ full — of gratitude and good gravy. Whether you’re following every recipe to a T or adding your own spin, remember this:
If it tastes like you put your foot in it — you did it right.
With butter on my hands and joy in my heart,
Southern Charm Style 🍂
Lilly-
