Fourth of July Holiday Menu Inspiration

Nothing says “Southern” quite like a gathering filled with delicious food, lively conversations, and the spirit of celebration. This 4th of July, treat your guests to a mouthwatering spread featuring classic Southern flavors and recipes from SouthernKissed.com. From creamy pimento cheese to smoky ribs and homemade ice cream, here are 13 recipes (a baker’s dozen!) that will make your Independence Day feast unforgettable.

Appetizer

Village Tavern’s Pimento Cheese: Dive into the South’s favorite spread with this creamy, tangy pimento cheese. Perfect for spreading on crackers or enjoying with crisp veggies, it sets the tone for a delicious gathering.

Pimento cheese in a glass dish surrounded by veggies and crackers.

Southern Side Dishes

BBQ Baked Beans: Sweet, savory, and packed with flavor, these BBQ baked beans are a must-have side dish. Slow-cooked with bacon and a tangy barbecue sauce, they complement any grilled feast.

Skillet of bbq baked beans with ground beef and bacon.

Pineapple Coleslaw: This refreshing twist on traditional coleslaw features sweet pineapple chunks and a creamy dressing, adding a tropical flair to your picnic table.

Vinegar Cole Slaw: Tangy and crunchy, this vinegar-based cole slaw cuts through rich barbecue flavors and adds a bright contrast to your plate.

Spoon with vinegar slaw being held over a glass bowl.

Cornbread

Easy Jalapeno Cornbread: Spicy jalapenos add a kick to this moist and flavorful cornbread. Serve it warm with a pat of butter for a true Southern experience.

BBQ Sauces

Alabama White Barbecue Sauce: A Southern specialty, this creamy and tangy sauce is perfect for basting grilled chicken or drizzling over ribs. Its unique flavor profile will impress your guests.

Carolina BBQ Sauce: This vinegar and mustard-based sauce adds a zesty kick to any grilled meat. It’s a staple in Carolina barbecue traditions and a crowd-pleaser at any cookout.

Main Course

Smoked Ribs: Tender, juicy, and infused with smoky flavor, these ribs are slow-cooked to perfection. They’re sure to be the star of your 4th of July barbecue.

Desserts

Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream: Cool down with this creamy and indulgent homemade vanilla ice cream. It’s the perfect sweet treat to enjoy alongside your favorite summer desserts.

Cup of homemade vanilla ice cream made with simple ingredients

Easy Banana Pudding: This classic Southern dessert features layers of vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and creamy pudding. It’s comfort in every spoonful.

Old-Fashioned Tea Cakes: These soft and buttery cookies are a Southern classic. Enjoy them with a glass of sweet tea or as a delightful bite-sized treat.

Non-Fried Ice Cream: Indulge in the crunchy goodness of non-fried ice cream, featuring a crispy coating and creamy center. It’s a fun and festive way to end your 4th of July celebration.

Two ice cream balls on a plate with a fork.

Classic Southern Beverage

Southern Sweet Tea: No Southern gathering is complete without sweet tea. Brewed to perfection and sweetened just right, it’s a refreshing way to quench your thirst on a hot summer day.

Celebrate this 4th of July with these Southern-inspired recipes that capture the essence of good food and great company. Whether you’re enjoying smoky ribs, tangy slaws, or sweet desserts, these dishes are sure to create lasting memories at your festive gathering. From our Southern kitchen to yours, here’s to a delicious and memorable Independence Day!

Enjoy your Southern 4th of July feast filled with flavors that bring friends and family together in true Southern style.