New Year’s Soul Food Dinner: 5 Heartwarming Recipes

November 27, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Ah, there’s just something magical about a *New Year’s soul food dinner*! It’s more than just a meal; it’s a heartfelt tradition that brings family and friends together to celebrate new beginnings. Growing up, my family always gathered around the table for this feast, and it was a time to reflect on the past year while looking forward to the blessings ahead. Each dish holds significance—like the black-eyed peas for luck and collard greens for prosperity. I can still smell the savory aroma of fried chicken wafting through the house, mingling with the sweet scent of cornbread. Trust me, preparing this dinner is a labor of love that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into the deliciousness of a *New Year’s soul food dinner*! You won’t regret it!

Ingredients List

Collard greens – 2 bunches, washed and chopped
Black-eyed peas – 1 pound, soaked overnight for best results
Cornbread – 1 batch, prepared according to your favorite recipe
Fried chicken – 4 pieces, seasoned to your liking
Macaroni and cheese – 1 pan, made from scratch or your go-to recipe
Sweet potatoes – 4 medium, peeled and ready for boiling
Ham hock – 1 piece, to add rich flavor to the black-eyed peas
Onion – 1 large, diced finely
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced for a fragrant touch
Chicken broth – 4 cups, use homemade or store-bought for convenience

How to Prepare Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! Follow these steps to whip up a *New Year’s soul food dinner* that’s sure to impress and warm the heart.

Preparing the Collard Greens

First things first, wash the collard greens thoroughly under cold water to remove any grit. After that, stack a few leaves, roll them up tightly, and slice them into ribbons. I find this method makes it easier to chop. You want those greens to be nice and tender, so don’t skip on this step!

Soaking and Cooking Black-Eyed Peas

Next, those black-eyed peas need a little love! Soak them overnight in plenty of water. This step is crucial for making them tender and flavorful. When you’re ready to cook, drain the peas and toss them into a pot with the ham hock, diced onion, and enough chicken broth to cover everything. Bring it to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the peas are nice and soft. The ham hock adds such depth—trust me!

Making Cornbread

Time for some cornbread! Preheat your oven according to your favorite recipe. Combine the dry ingredients in one bowl and the wet in another. Mix them together just until combined—don’t overmix! Pour the batter into a greased pan and bake until golden brown on top. A little trick? Adding a touch of honey or sugar can really elevate the sweetness!

Frying the Chicken

For the fried chicken, heat up oil in a deep skillet until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, season your chicken pieces to your liking. Carefully add the chicken to the hot oil, frying until each piece is golden brown and cooked through—about 10-12 minutes per side. Don’t crowd the pan; this helps keep that perfect crispy texture!

Boiling and Mashing Sweet Potatoes

Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into even chunks, then boil them in salted water until tender—around 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash them with a splash of milk and a pat of butter for extra creaminess. A sprinkle of cinnamon can add a lovely touch!

Preparing Macaroni and Cheese

For the macaroni and cheese, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Meanwhile, make a simple cheese sauce by melting butter, then whisking in flour, milk, and your favorite cheeses until smooth. Combine the pasta and sauce, and bake until bubbly and golden on top. You can even throw in some breadcrumbs for added crunch!

Serving the Dinner

Now comes the best part—serving! Plate up each dish while they’re still hot. I love to arrange everything family-style on the table; it makes the meal feel so inviting. Don’t forget to sprinkle a bit of fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. Enjoy every bite and celebrate the new year with this feast!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick preparation: With a little planning, you can have this meal ready to go in just a couple of hours.
Traditional flavors: Each dish is rooted in history and brings a taste of Southern comfort right to your table.
Comforting meal: There’s nothing quite like the warmth of collard greens, sweet potatoes, and macaroni and cheese to wrap you in a cozy embrace.
Celebratory significance: This dinner is more than just food; it’s a way to usher in the new year with hope and good fortune.
Family friendly: Everyone—from kids to grandparents—will love the hearty, delicious flavors of this spread.
Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite sides or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your *New Year’s soul food dinner* turns out as amazing as it sounds! Here are some pro tips to keep in mind:

Prep Ahead: Do as much prep work as you can the day before. Chop your veggies and soak the black-eyed peas overnight. This way, you’ll save time and stress on the big day!
Season Generously: Don’t be shy with your seasonings! Soul food is all about bold flavors, so taste as you go, especially for the black-eyed peas and chicken. Adjust salt and spices to your preference.
Monitor Oil Temperature: When frying chicken, use a thermometer to check the oil temperature. If it’s too hot, your chicken will burn on the outside but remain raw inside. Too cool, and you’ll end up with greasy chicken. Aim for that sweet spot around 350°F (175°C).
Texture Check: When making macaroni and cheese, make sure your cheese sauce is smooth and creamy before mixing it with the pasta. If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk to get that luscious texture!
Let it Rest: After frying the chicken, let it rest on a wire rack instead of paper towels. This prevents it from getting soggy and keeps that crispy skin intact!
Presentation is Key: When serving, a little garnish goes a long way. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can brighten up the plate and make everything look extra appetizing.
Embrace Customization: Don’t hesitate to make this dinner your own! Whether it’s adding your favorite spice blend or swapping sides, make it a reflection of your family’s tastes.

With these tips in hand, you’re on your way to creating a memorable and delicious *New Year’s soul food dinner*! Happy cooking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve got leftovers from your *New Year’s soul food dinner*! Lucky you! Storing them properly is key to enjoying those delicious flavors again. Here’s how to keep everything fresh:

Cooling First: Let all your dishes cool down to room temperature before packing them away. This helps prevent condensation, which can make your food soggy.
Airtight Containers: Store each dish in airtight containers to maintain freshness. I love using glass containers since they keep food well and are microwave-safe!
Separate Storage: If possible, store items like fried chicken separately from moist dishes like collard greens and macaroni and cheese. This helps maintain the texture of the fried chicken.
Labeling: Don’t forget to label your containers with the date! This way, you can keep track of how long everything has been stored.

Now, for reheating:

Microwave: For a quick reheat, pop individual portions in the microwave. Use a microwave-safe cover to prevent splatters. Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
Oven: For dishes like macaroni and cheese or collard greens, reheating in the oven is best to retain texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until hot.
Fried Chicken: To bring back that crispy goodness, reheat fried chicken in the oven. Place it on a wire rack over a baking sheet to keep it crispy. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Sweet Potatoes: If you’ve mashed sweet potatoes, you can reheat them in a saucepan over low heat. Add a splash of milk or a bit of butter to help them regain their creamy texture.

By following these storage and reheating tips, you’ll ensure that your leftovers taste just as delightful as the first time around. Enjoy every bite of your delicious *New Year’s soul food dinner*!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to a *New Year’s soul food dinner*, it’s important to enjoy every delicious bite while being mindful of nutrition. Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, and the following data is an estimate based on typical values.

Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: Approximately 650
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 1200mg
Carbohydrates: 75g
Fiber: 12g
Protein: 30g
Sugar: 8g

Enjoy your meal, and remember that the love and tradition behind the food is what truly counts!

FAQ Section

Can I make the black-eyed peas without a ham hock?
Absolutely! If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can simply use vegetable broth and add some smoked paprika or liquid smoke for that rich flavor. They’ll still be delicious!

What can I substitute for collard greens?
If you can’t find collard greens, you can use kale or mustard greens as a substitute. They’ll bring a similar texture and flavor, although each has its unique twist.

Can I prepare the macaroni and cheese ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the macaroni and cheese the day before and keep it in the refrigerator. Just bake it just before serving for that warm, gooey goodness!

How do I ensure my fried chicken stays crispy?
To keep your fried chicken crispy, let it rest on a wire rack after frying. This allows air to circulate around it and prevents sogginess.

Is this *New Year’s soul food dinner* suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely! You can prep all components in advance and store them separately. Just reheat them when you’re ready to enjoy this comforting meal again!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.