22+ Delicious and Easy Paula Deen Dinner Recipes to Try Tonight

Paula Deen’s recipes are synonymous with Southern hospitality, indulgence, and rich, comforting flavors.

Whether you’re craving crispy fried chicken, creamy macaroni and cheese, or hearty gumbo, Paula’s dishes bring warmth and nostalgia to the dinner table.

With her simple techniques and familiar ingredients, these recipes make it easy to create satisfying meals that feel like a loving hug from the South.

In this collection of 22+ dinner recipes inspired by Paula Deen, you’ll find everything from classic comfort foods to flavorful one-pot meals that are perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Dive into these timeless dishes and experience the delicious essence of Southern cooking in your own kitchen.

22+ Delicious and Easy Paula Deen Dinner Recipes to Try Tonight

Exploring Paula Deen’s dinner recipes is like taking a culinary trip through the heart of the South.

Her dishes bring together bold flavors, rich textures, and comforting ingredients that have stood the test of time.

Whether you’re preparing a simple weeknight meal or a feast for guests, these recipes offer something for every palate and occasion.

Embrace the ease and indulgence of Paula’s cooking and add some Southern charm to your dinner routine.

Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya

This vibrant and flavorful dish is a Southern classic brought to life with tender chicken, smoky sausage, and aromatic spices.

Paula Deen’s take on jambalaya is both comforting and bold, combining hearty ingredients in one satisfying pot.

Perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners, this recipe brings a taste of Louisiana’s rich culinary heritage to your table.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless chicken breasts, cubed
• 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, brown the chicken and sausage over medium heat; remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, sauté bell pepper, onion, and garlic until softened.
3. Stir in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, rice, and Cajun seasoning.
4. Return chicken and sausage to the skillet, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed, about 20 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

This dish offers a flavorful, one-pot meal that captures the essence of Southern cooking, perfect for those who love a little spice and heartiness in their dinner.

Fried Chicken

Paula Deen’s fried chicken is a crispy, golden masterpiece that delivers classic Southern comfort in every bite.

The chicken is seasoned and breaded to perfection, then fried until juicy inside and crunchy outside.

It’s a beloved dish that never fails to satisfy cravings for a true Southern feast.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Soak chicken pieces in buttermilk for several hours or overnight.
2. In a large bowl, mix flour, paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge chicken pieces in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat oil in a deep fryer or skillet to 350°F (175°C).
5. Fry chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 15 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels before serving.

This fried chicken recipe brings the ultimate Southern flavor and crunch, making it a perfect centerpiece for any dinner occasion.

Macaroni and Cheese

A rich and creamy macaroni and cheese recipe that showcases Paula Deen’s signature indulgent style.

This dish features gooey cheese, tender pasta, and a crunchy topping, creating a perfect balance of textures.

It’s an ideal side or main dish for those craving classic Southern comfort food.

Ingredients:

• 16 oz elbow macaroni, cooked
• 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux.
2. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until thickened.
3. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Combine cheese sauce with cooked macaroni and pour into a baking dish.
5. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top and bake at 350°F (175°C) until golden and bubbly, about 20 minutes.

This dish is a comforting, cheesy delight that perfectly complements any Southern meal or stands on its own as a satisfying treat.

Shrimp and Grits

This classic Southern dish gets Paula Deen’s signature twist with creamy, buttery grits topped with flavorful, sautéed shrimp.

The combination of textures and rich seasoning makes it a perfect dinner that’s both comforting and elegant.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups water
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 4 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Bring water to a boil and slowly whisk in grits. Reduce heat and simmer until thickened, stirring occasionally.
2. Stir in butter and cheddar cheese, season with salt and pepper. Keep warm.
3. In a skillet, sauté garlic and green onions in butter, then add shrimp seasoned with Cajun seasoning. Cook until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
4. Serve shrimp over creamy grits, garnished with additional green onions if desired.

This dish delivers a rich and satisfying taste of Southern comfort food, perfect for a special dinner or weekend treat.

BBQ Ribs

Paula Deen’s BBQ ribs are tender, smoky, and glazed with a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce.

This recipe is perfect for backyard cookouts or hearty family dinners where finger-licking ribs are the star of the show.

Ingredients:

• 2 racks pork ribs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper; rub over ribs.
3. Wrap ribs in foil and bake for 2.5 to 3 hours until tender.
4. Remove foil, brush ribs with barbecue sauce, and broil for a few minutes until caramelized.

These ribs are packed with flavor and tenderness, embodying the best of Southern barbecue traditions.

Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes

Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes made with buttermilk, adding a subtle tang and extra richness.

This simple side dish pairs perfectly with many of Paula Deen’s hearty dinners and is a must-have comfort food classic.

Ingredients:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 4 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender; drain well.
2. Mash potatoes with butter until smooth.
3. Stir in buttermilk gradually until creamy and well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

This side is a luscious, comforting addition to any meal, delivering creamy texture and rich flavor that complements Southern-inspired dishes beautifully.

Chicken Pot Pie

A classic Southern comfort dish, Paula Deen’s chicken pot pie features tender chunks of chicken and vegetables enveloped in a creamy sauce and topped with a flaky, buttery crust.

It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for cozy family dinners.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
• 1/3 cup butter
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
• 2/3 cup milk
• 1 package refrigerated pie crusts

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Gradually stir in chicken broth and milk, cooking until thickened.
4. Stir in cooked chicken and mixed vegetables.
5. Pour mixture into a pie dish and cover with pie crust, sealing edges and cutting slits for steam.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes until crust is golden and filling bubbles.

This dish combines rich, creamy flavors with flaky pastry for a comforting meal that satisfies both hunger and nostalgia.

Banana Pudding

A beloved Southern dessert, Paula Deen’s banana pudding layers creamy vanilla custard with fresh bananas and vanilla wafers.

This sweet and luscious treat is a perfect ending to any dinner, offering nostalgia and rich flavor in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 1 package instant vanilla pudding mix
• 2 cups cold milk
• 1 can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 4 cups whipped topping
• 4-5 ripe bananas, sliced
• Vanilla wafers

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk pudding mix and cold milk until thickened.
2. Stir in sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract.
3. Fold in whipped topping gently.
4. In a trifle dish or large bowl, layer pudding mixture, bananas, and vanilla wafers.
5. Repeat layers and finish with pudding topping.
6. Refrigerate for several hours or overnight before serving.

This dessert is creamy, sweet, and perfectly balanced with fresh fruit and crunchy wafers, making it a Southern classic.

Fried Green Tomatoes

A Southern staple, these crispy fried green tomatoes offer a tangy, crunchy appetizer or side dish.

Paula Deen’s version is perfectly seasoned and golden-fried, delivering a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

Ingredients:

• 4-5 firm green tomatoes, sliced
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, combine cornmeal, flour, salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Dredge tomato slices in the mixture, coating both sides.
3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry tomato slices until golden brown on both sides, about 3 minutes per side.
5. Drain on paper towels before serving.

These crispy, tangy slices make a delicious appetizer or side, embodying classic Southern flavor and texture.

Smothered Pork Chops

A hearty Southern favorite, smothered pork chops are seared to perfection and simmered in a rich onion gravy.

Paula Deen’s version brings tender, flavorful meat that melts in your mouth, paired beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or rice.

Ingredients:

• 4 pork chops
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Season pork chops with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Dredge in flour.
2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown chops on both sides. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté onions until caramelized.
4. Add chicken broth to the onions, scraping up browned bits.
5. Return pork chops to the skillet, cover, and simmer until chops are cooked through and tender, about 25 minutes.

This dish offers a comforting, savory experience that captures the essence of Southern home cooking.

Cheesy Grits

Paula Deen’s cheesy grits are creamy, buttery, and full of sharp cheddar flavor, making them a perfect side or base for shrimp, sausage, or vegetables.

This classic Southern dish is simple yet indulgent.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups water
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 4 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Bring water to a boil and slowly whisk in grits. Reduce heat and simmer until thickened, stirring occasionally.
2. Remove from heat and stir in butter and cheese until melted and smooth.
3. Season with salt and pepper.

Rich and creamy, these cheesy grits add a comforting touch to any Southern-inspired meal.

Classic Southern Meatloaf

This traditional meatloaf recipe combines ground beef, breadcrumbs, and spices, baked to juicy perfection and topped with a tangy glaze.

Paula Deen’s meatloaf brings old-fashioned flavor that’s perfect for family dinners.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lb ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup ketchup (for topping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, onion, egg, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Shape into a loaf and place in a baking pan.
4. Spread ketchup on top.
5. Bake for 1 hour or until cooked through.

This classic dish delivers hearty flavor and moist texture, making it a staple of comforting Southern cuisine.

Chicken and Sausage Gumbo

Paula Deen’s chicken and sausage gumbo is a rich, flavorful stew that embodies the spirit of Southern cooking.

This dish combines smoky sausage, tender chicken, and hearty vegetables in a thick, spiced broth, served over steaming rice for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked rice for serving

Instructions:

1. Make a roux by combining flour and oil in a large pot over medium heat, stirring constantly until dark brown.
2. Add onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are soft.
3. Stir in chicken broth and Cajun seasoning.
4. Add sausage and chicken; simmer for 30 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper and serve hot over cooked rice.

This gumbo is a comforting, hearty dish full of bold flavors that capture the essence of Southern tradition.

Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

Paula Deen’s baked mac and cheese is a creamy, cheesy delight with a golden, crispy crust.

This indulgent dish is a perfect comfort food that pairs wonderfully with many Southern entrees.

Ingredients:

• 16 oz elbow macaroni, cooked
• 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
3. Slowly add milk, whisking until sauce thickens.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cheese until melted.
5. Mix cheese sauce with cooked macaroni and pour into a baking dish.
6. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top and bake until bubbly and golden, about 25 minutes.

This rich and creamy dish is a Southern staple that delights every palate.

Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Paula Deen’s buttermilk fried chicken features juicy, tender chicken pieces soaked in buttermilk and fried to a perfect golden crisp.

The seasoned crust locks in flavor and moisture, making it a beloved Southern classic.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Marinate chicken in buttermilk for several hours or overnight.
2. Combine flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Dredge chicken pieces in seasoned flour, shaking off excess.
4. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry chicken until golden and cooked through, about 15 minutes per batch.
5. Drain on paper towels before serving.

This recipe delivers perfectly crispy and flavorful fried chicken that’s sure to be a family favorite.

Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya

This hearty and flavorful dish blends tender chicken and smoky sausage with rice and Cajun spices, creating a vibrant Southern classic.

Paula Deen’s version is rich and satisfying, perfect for a family dinner packed with bold flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless chicken, cubed
• 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown chicken and sausage in a large skillet; remove and set aside.
2. Sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic until soft.
3. Add chicken broth, tomatoes, rice, and Cajun seasoning; stir well.
4. Return chicken and sausage to skillet, bring to boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer until rice is cooked and liquid absorbed.
5. Adjust seasoning and serve hot.

This dish offers a rich, spicy taste of the South that’s both comforting and festive.

Macaroni and Cheese

Paula Deen’s macaroni and cheese is a creamy, cheesy comfort food classic, baked to perfection with a golden breadcrumb topping.

It’s indulgent and perfect as a side or a main dish for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 16 oz elbow macaroni, cooked
• 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour to form a roux.
3. Gradually add milk, stirring until sauce thickens.
4. Remove from heat, stir in cheese until melted.
5. Mix cheese sauce with macaroni, pour into baking dish.
6. Top with breadcrumbs and bake until golden and bubbly.

This recipe delivers creamy, cheesy goodness that’s a staple in Southern kitchens.

Fried Chicken

Paula Deen’s fried chicken is famous for its crispy, flavorful crust and juicy interior.

Marinated in buttermilk and seasoned flour, it’s a quintessential Southern dish everyone loves.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 cups flour
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Marinate chicken in buttermilk overnight.
2. Combine flour with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat chicken pieces in seasoned flour.
4. Fry in hot oil until golden and cooked through.
5. Drain and serve warm.

This recipe brings a crunchy, juicy fried chicken experience that’s classic and irresistible.

Shrimp and Grits

A beloved Southern dish, Paula Deen’s shrimp and grits combines creamy, buttery grits with perfectly sautéed shrimp seasoned with Cajun spices.

This comforting and flavorful dish is ideal for a hearty dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups water
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Bring water to a boil and gradually whisk in grits. Reduce heat and simmer until thickened, stirring occasionally.
2. Stir in butter and cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
3. In a skillet, sauté garlic and green onions in butter, then add shrimp seasoned with Cajun seasoning. Cook until shrimp turn pink.
4. Serve shrimp atop creamy grits, garnished with extra green onions if desired.

This dish perfectly balances creamy and spicy elements, offering a satisfying taste of Southern comfort.

BBQ Ribs

Paula Deen’s BBQ ribs are tender, smoky, and coated in a tangy, sweet barbecue sauce.

This recipe is perfect for summer cookouts or any occasion when finger-licking ribs are desired.

Ingredients:

• 2 racks pork ribs
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup barbecue sauce

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper; rub evenly over ribs.
3. Wrap ribs in foil and bake for 2.5 to 3 hours until tender.
4. Remove foil, brush ribs with barbecue sauce, and broil for a few minutes until caramelized.

These ribs are packed with flavor and perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Buttermilk Mashed Potatoes

Creamy and tangy, Paula Deen’s buttermilk mashed potatoes offer a delicious twist on a classic side dish.

The buttermilk adds richness and depth, making this a perfect accompaniment to any Southern-style meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 4 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Boil potatoes in salted water until tender; drain.
2. Mash potatoes with butter until smooth.
3. Stir in buttermilk gradually until creamy.
4. Season with salt and pepper.

These mashed potatoes are silky, flavorful, and a comforting addition to any dinner table.

Conclusion

The beauty of Paula Deen’s recipes lies in their ability to turn everyday ingredients into extraordinary meals filled with flavor and warmth. These 22+ dinner recipes capture the soul of Southern cooking — generous portions, hearty flavors, and that unmistakable comfort food feeling. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these dishes are approachable, satisfying, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Bring a taste of the South into your home and enjoy the delicious memories these recipes create.