Soul food isn’t just about satisfying your hunger—it’s about feeding your heart and soul with rich, comforting flavors. But enjoying these classics doesn’t mean you have to spend hours in the kitchen every night. With a little planning, you can prepare these soulful dishes ahead of time and savor them all week long. Here are five Southern soul food recipes perfect for meal prep. They’re hearty, flavorful, and reheat beautifully!
What’s on the Menu?
- Smothered Pork Chops — Comfort food at its finest
- Cajun Fried Rice — A spicy twist on a classic
- BBQ Ribs with Coleslaw — Fall-off-the-bone goodness
- Chicken and Andouille Gumbo Casserole — A creative spin on gumbo
- Southern-Style Shrimp Salad — Perfect for light lunches or dinners
Shopping List
Proteins:
- 6 bone-in pork chops
- 1 pound andouille sausage
- 1 rack of pork ribs (about 3-4 pounds)
- 2 pounds chicken thighs
- 1 pound shrimp (peeled and deveined)
Produce:
- 3 large onions
- 2 bell peppers (any color)
- 3 stalks celery
- 4 carrots
- 1 small head of cabbage
- 2 lemons
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Pantry Staples:
- Cajun seasoning
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Flour
- Chicken broth (4 cups)
- White rice (3 cups uncooked)
- Olive oil
- Mayonnaise (1 cup)
- BBQ sauce (1-2 cups)