50+ Flavorful New Year’s American Recipes to Celebrate in Style

As we prepare to bid farewell to the old year and welcome in a new one, food becomes an essential part of the celebration.

Whether you’re hosting a grand New Year’s Eve bash or a cozy New Year’s Day gathering, American cuisine offers an abundance of delicious and festive recipes to mark the occasion.

From indulgent appetizers and decadent main dishes to sweet treats and comforting sides, the possibilities are endless.

With a mix of traditional favorites and creative twists, your New Year’s feast is sure to impress. In this blog, we’ve compiled a collection of 50+ New Year’s American Recipes that will elevate your celebration and set the tone for the year ahead.

Whether you’re looking for savory or sweet, hearty or light, these recipes are perfect for any gathering.

Get ready to discover mouthwatering dishes that range from comforting classics like cornbread and roast beef to exciting new ideas like shrimp and grits or sparkling desserts.

Let’s make this New Year’s celebration unforgettable with the best American recipes to ring in the new year.

50+ Flavorful New Year’s American Recipes to Celebrate in Style

The New Year is a time to reflect, celebrate, and look forward to what’s to come, and what better way to mark the occasion than with a fantastic spread of food?

With 50+ New Year’s American Recipes, you’ll find something for everyone at your celebration, whether you’re cooking for a small group or a large crowd.

These recipes are filled with festive flavors that’ll make your New Year’s Eve and Day unforgettable.

From rich, savory dishes to light, refreshing options, each recipe is designed to delight your guests and make the evening even more special.

So, grab your apron, get into the kitchen, and prepare to create some delicious memories as you welcome the new year with a table full of amazing food.

Classic New Year’s Day Black-Eyed Peas

Black-eyed peas are a traditional dish served on New Year’s Day in the American South, believed to bring good luck and prosperity in the coming year. This recipe features tender black-eyed peas simmered with onions, garlic, and savory spices, creating a flavorful, hearty dish. Perfectly paired with cornbread or served as a side to a main course, it’s a dish full of warmth and tradition.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb dried black-eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ham hock (or 1 cup cooked ham, diced)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the soaked black-eyed peas, chicken broth, ham hock, bay leaf, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours or until the peas are tender.
4. If using a ham hock, remove it and discard the bone, then chop the meat and return it to the pot. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions if desired.

Classic black-eyed peas symbolize prosperity and good fortune, and this dish provides both in terms of flavor and tradition. Whether enjoyed as a stand-alone dish or alongside cornbread, this recipe delivers comforting goodness that helps ring in the New Year with a sense of hope and positivity. Its rich, savory flavor makes it a crowd-pleaser and a wonderful way to start the year off right.

Southern Style Hoppin’ John

Hoppin’ John is another popular New Year’s dish from the American South, made with black-eyed peas and rice. It is typically served as a sign of good luck and a symbol of abundance. This Southern classic features tender peas, smoky sausage, and a blend of aromatic spices, all atop a bed of fluffy rice. It’s easy to prepare, filling, and perfect for a family gathering.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb dried black-eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
• 2 cups long-grain white rice
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 smoked sausage, sliced (or 2 turkey sausages)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Hot sauce (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and sauté until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.
3. Add garlic, thyme, paprika, bay leaf, and black-eyed peas. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
5. In a separate pot, cook the rice according to package instructions.
6. Once the peas are tender, stir the cooked sausage back into the pot. Season with salt, pepper, and hot sauce (if desired).
7. To serve, spoon the rice onto plates and top with the hoppin’ John mixture. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Hoppin’ John is a flavorful dish that brings warmth and comfort, making it a wonderful choice for a New Year’s meal. The combination of savory sausage, tender peas, and aromatic vegetables makes this dish a rich and satisfying tradition. It’s believed to bring good fortune, so why not enjoy this dish with loved ones and set the tone for a lucky and prosperous year ahead?

New Year’s Day Bourbon Pecan Pie

Pecan pie is an iconic American dessert, and this version adds a bit of bourbon for a rich, complex flavor. The smooth, sweet filling is perfectly balanced with the nuttiness of the pecans and the depth of bourbon, making it a decadent way to celebrate the New Year. Whether served as a sweet end to a festive meal or as a treat to share with friends, this pie is a showstopper.

Ingredients:

• 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade)
• 1 1/2 cups light corn syrup
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 4 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups pecan halves

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the corn syrup, brown sugar, bourbon, eggs, butter, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
3. Stir in the pecans, making sure they are evenly coated with the syrup mixture.
4. Pour the mixture into the pie crust and spread the pecans evenly.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the pie filling is set and slightly puffed. The edges should be golden brown, and the center should jiggle slightly when shaken.
6. Let the pie cool to room temperature before serving.

This Bourbon Pecan Pie offers a perfect blend of sweetness, nuttiness, and warmth from the bourbon, creating a dessert that is both comforting and elegant. It’s a wonderful way to cap off any New Year’s celebration, adding a touch of indulgence to the festivities. With its rich flavors and classic appeal, this pie is sure to become a beloved New Year’s tradition in your household.

New Year’s Day Collard Greens with Ham

Collard greens are another beloved New Year’s dish, particularly in the South, where they are traditionally cooked with ham to bring in good fortune. The dish is hearty, savory, and satisfying, with the smoky flavor of the ham infusing the greens as they simmer. This recipe is perfect for a healthy, flavorful addition to your New Year’s Day meal, as collard greens symbolize prosperity and abundance for the year ahead.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs fresh collard greens, washed and chopped
• 1 lb ham hock or 1 1/2 cups cooked ham, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking for 5 minutes until softened.
2. Add the diced ham or ham hock and cook for another 3 minutes until the ham starts to brown slightly.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the collard greens, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Stir well.
4. Cover the pot and let the greens simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until they are tender and the flavors have melded.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot with cornbread or over rice.

Collard greens with ham are a timeless New Year’s dish that brings both flavor and tradition to the table. The tender greens are infused with the smoky ham, creating a comforting, savory dish that perfectly complements other New Year’s staples like cornbread. Whether you’re celebrating in the South or just enjoying a good luck meal, this dish embodies abundance and prosperity, making it a meaningful way to start the year.

Classic New Year’s Day Roast Pork with Apples

Roast pork is a New Year’s tradition in many cultures, symbolizing prosperity and a fresh start. This recipe pairs tender roast pork with caramelized apples, adding a sweet and savory element to the dish. The juicy pork roast is seasoned with fragrant herbs and roasted to perfection, while the apples bring a burst of flavor and color. It’s a hearty, festive entrée for a New Year’s Day feast.

Ingredients:

• 3 lb pork loin roast
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 large apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
• 1/4 cup apple cider
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rub the pork loin roast with olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper. Place the roast on a rack in a roasting pan.
3. Roast the pork for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Baste the roast occasionally with its own juices.
4. While the pork roasts, heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced apples and cook for 5-7 minutes until they start to soften.
5. Add the apple cider and brown sugar to the skillet, stirring to combine. Simmer the apples for another 10 minutes, until the mixture thickens and the apples are tender.
6. Once the pork is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
7. Serve the sliced pork with the caramelized apples on top.

This Roast Pork with Apples is a perfect main course for New Year’s Day, offering a delightful balance of savory pork and sweet, caramelized apples. The dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it ideal for a festive gathering. With its warm, comforting flavors, it’s a great way to usher in the New Year and celebrate family, friends, and good fortune.

New Year’s Day Shrimp and Grits

A Southern classic, shrimp and grits is the perfect dish to start the New Year with a bang. The combination of juicy shrimp and creamy grits is a true comfort food that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. This recipe features seasoned shrimp cooked in a buttery sauce, served on a bed of creamy, cheesy grits. It’s a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup grits
• 4 cups water or chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or chicken broth to a boil. Stir in the grits, reduce the heat to low, and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes, until the grits are tender and creamy.
2. Once the grits are cooked, stir in the butter, heavy cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Add the garlic, smoked paprika, and lemon juice to the shrimp, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
5. To serve, spoon the creamy grits onto plates and top with the shrimp and their sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley.

Shrimp and grits is a dish that feels both indulgent and comforting, making it a fantastic choice for New Year’s Day. The creamy grits are the perfect base for the smoky, flavorful shrimp, creating a balance of textures and flavors that are sure to please any crowd. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying a cozy meal at home, shrimp and grits offers a delicious taste of the South that’s perfect for welcoming in the new year.

New Year’s Day Cornbread with Honey Butter

Cornbread is a staple in many American homes, especially on New Year’s Day. It’s a comforting, versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with savory main courses like collard greens, ham, or roast pork. This recipe offers a moist, slightly sweet cornbread with a rich, buttery finish from the addition of honey butter. It’s an excellent way to kick off the year with warmth and flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon honey (for the cornbread)

For the Honey Butter:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9-inch cast iron skillet or baking dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, vegetable oil, and honey.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared skillet or baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. While the cornbread bakes, make the honey butter by combining the softened butter, honey, and cinnamon (if using) in a bowl. Stir until smooth and creamy.
7. Let the cornbread cool for a few minutes before serving with the honey butter.

This Cornbread with Honey Butter is a perfect addition to your New Year’s Day spread. The slightly sweet cornbread is balanced with the richness of honey butter, creating a flavor-packed side that complements savory dishes beautifully. Whether you’re serving it alongside greens, meats, or enjoying it on its own, this cornbread is a must-try for ringing in a lucky and delicious New Year.

New Year’s Day Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers are a colorful and hearty dish that can be enjoyed on New Year’s Day. These peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, vegetables, and spices, then baked to perfection. They make a great main course or side dish and are customizable to suit your taste. This recipe is comforting, satisfying, and perfect for a festive New Year’s meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 large bell peppers, tops cut off and seeds removed
• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish large enough to hold the peppers upright.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until softened.
3. Add the ground beef or turkey to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
5. Stuff the bell peppers with the meat and rice mixture, packing it tightly.
6. Place the stuffed peppers in the prepared baking dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the peppers, and return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Stuffed bell peppers are a delicious and vibrant New Year’s Day dish that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. The combination of tender peppers, seasoned meat, and melty cheese makes for a hearty, satisfying meal that will please the whole family. Perfect for a cozy New Year’s celebration, these stuffed peppers are sure to bring both flavor and joy to the table.

New Year’s Day Cranberry Sauce with Orange and Cinnamon

Cranberry sauce is a classic holiday side dish, but adding orange and cinnamon gives it a fresh twist, making it a festive addition to any New Year’s Day meal. The tartness of the cranberries balances perfectly with the citrusy sweetness of the orange and the warm, aromatic flavor of cinnamon. This sauce is perfect for pairing with meats like turkey or ham or enjoying as a refreshing side to brighten your New Year’s spread.

Ingredients:

• 1 bag (12 oz) fresh cranberries, rinsed
• 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange juice, sugar, water, and cinnamon stick. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cranberries will begin to pop, and the sauce will thicken.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and discard the cinnamon stick. Stir in the orange zest and vanilla extract.
4. Allow the cranberry sauce to cool to room temperature before serving. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
5. Transfer to a serving dish and refrigerate until ready to serve.

This Cranberry Sauce with Orange and Cinnamon is a delightful way to add a touch of freshness and spice to your New Year’s meal. The bright citrus flavor and warm cinnamon notes create a perfectly balanced sauce that enhances any dish, from roasted meats to stuffing or even as a spread for bread. It’s an easy-to-make, flavorful side that will elevate your New Year’s feast and bring festive cheer to the table.

New Year’s Day Baked Mac and Cheese

Mac and cheese is a beloved comfort food in the United States, and it’s a perfect choice for New Year’s Day gatherings. This baked version offers a creamy, cheesy filling with a crunchy golden crust on top, making it an irresistible side dish for any celebration. The combination of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and a hint of mustard powder gives the dish a depth of flavor that’s sure to satisfy guests and family alike.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb elbow macaroni
• 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to make a roux.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk, Dijon mustard (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the sauce thickens and starts to simmer, about 5 minutes.
5. Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, then pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
7. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

Baked Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food for New Year’s Day, offering a rich and cheesy dish that’s sure to please everyone. The crispy breadcrumb topping adds the perfect texture to this creamy, velvety macaroni and cheese. This dish is easy to prepare and guarantees a crowd-pleasing addition to your New Year’s feast, ensuring your celebration is filled with warmth and indulgence.

New Year’s Day Roast Pork with Apple and Onion

Roast pork is a traditional dish enjoyed on New Year’s Day, symbolizing abundance and prosperity. This version is roasted with sweet apples, onions, and a variety of herbs, creating a deliciously savory and slightly sweet flavor profile. The apples caramelize as they cook, infusing the pork with their sweetness and providing a delightful contrast to the rich, savory meat. It’s a perfect dish to serve as a main course at your New Year’s celebration.

Ingredients:

• 3 lb pork loin roast
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
• 2 apples, cored and sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Rub the pork loin with olive oil, salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
2. In a roasting pan, arrange the sliced apples and onions. Place the seasoned pork loin on top of the vegetables.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, white wine (if using), brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Pour this mixture over the pork and vegetables.
4. Roast the pork in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C), basting occasionally with the pan juices.
5. Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
6. Serve the sliced pork with the caramelized apples and onions from the pan.

This Roast Pork with Apple and Onion is an ideal centerpiece for your New Year’s Day meal, combining tender, juicy pork with the natural sweetness of apples and onions. The savory herbs and the slight tang from the apple cider vinegar enhance the flavors of the dish, creating a perfect balance of tastes. This flavorful roast will bring a touch of sophistication and comfort to your celebration, leaving everyone satisfied and ready to welcome the new year.

New Year’s Day Southern Collard Greens

Collard greens are a traditional Southern dish often served on New Year’s Day, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune. Slow-cooked to perfection with a rich, smoky broth, this dish is full of flavor and nutrients. The greens are tender and infused with the savory flavors of ham hocks, onions, and garlic, making them a hearty and satisfying side dish. Pair these collard greens with other Southern-inspired dishes for a delicious, festive New Year’s meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs collard greens, washed and chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 smoked ham hock (or 1 cup diced ham)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the ham hock (or diced ham) and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the collard greens, one handful at a time, stirring until all the greens are added.
4. Season with red pepper flakes (if using), vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Cover the pot and simmer the greens for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the greens are tender and the broth is rich.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding sugar for a touch of sweetness if desired.
7. Serve hot with cornbread or other Southern sides.

Southern-style Collard Greens are a comforting and flavorful dish that brings good fortune and prosperity to your New Year’s Day spread. The slow-cooked greens absorb the smoky, savory flavors from the ham hock, while the addition of vinegar gives them a tangy kick. This dish is a perfect way to celebrate tradition and bring a taste of the South to your New Year’s table. Whether served alongside cornbread or roast meats, these collard greens are sure to be a crowd favorite.

New Year’s Day Shrimp and Grits

Shrimp and grits is a classic Southern dish that combines tender shrimp with creamy, buttery grits for a truly comforting meal. This dish is perfect for a New Year’s Day brunch or dinner, offering both rich flavors and a satisfying texture. The shrimp is seasoned with a blend of spices and served on a bed of cheesy grits, creating a balanced and indulgent dish. It’s an ideal way to kick off the new year with something both flavorful and luxurious.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups water
• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Toss the shrimp in the spice mixture until well-coated.
2. Cook the shrimp in the skillet for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Stir in the grits and reduce the heat to low. Cook according to package instructions, stirring occasionally.
4. Once the grits are cooked, stir in the butter, cheddar cheese, and heavy cream until the grits are creamy and smooth.
5. Serve the shrimp on top of the grits, garnished with fresh parsley.

Shrimp and Grits is the perfect blend of Southern comfort and New Year’s decadence. The creamy grits provide a rich base, while the spicy shrimp adds a punch of flavor that elevates this dish to a crowd-pleasing favorite. Whether you serve it for brunch or dinner, this dish will bring warmth, comfort, and a touch of elegance to your New Year’s Day celebration.

New Year’s Day Cornbread

Cornbread is a staple in Southern and soul food kitchens, and it’s often served on New Year’s Day for good luck and prosperity. This recipe offers a moist, buttery cornbread with a slight sweetness and a crumbly texture. It’s the perfect complement to dishes like collard greens, roast pork, or chili. Simple to prepare yet full of flavor, cornbread is a must-have side for any New Year’s Day meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish or a cast-iron skillet.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and honey (if using).
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish or skillet and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let the cornbread cool slightly before serving.

This classic cornbread recipe is perfect for ringing in the new year, providing a slightly sweet, buttery complement to any savory dish. The texture is wonderfully crumbly, yet soft, making it the perfect accompaniment to your New Year’s Day feast. Whether you serve it alongside greens, pork, or chili, this cornbread will be a hit at the table and is sure to bring warmth and comfort to your celebration.

New Year’s Day Roast Beef with Horseradish Sauce

Roast beef is a classic American dish, and it makes a bold, flavorful centerpiece for any New Year’s Day meal. This recipe features a perfectly roasted beef tenderloin, seasoned with garlic, thyme, and rosemary, and served with a zesty homemade horseradish sauce that adds a delightful kick. The beef is tender and juicy, making it an impressive dish to serve when you want to make your celebration feel extra special.

Ingredients:

• 3 lb beef tenderloin roast, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Rub the beef tenderloin with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the beef on a rack in a roasting pan. Roast for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 125°F (52°C) for medium-rare. Adjust cooking time for your preferred level of doneness.
3. While the beef roasts, prepare the horseradish sauce by combining the sour cream, horseradish, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice in a bowl. Stir until well mixed and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Let the beef rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
5. Serve the sliced roast beef with the horseradish sauce on the side.

This Roast Beef with Horseradish Sauce is an elegant and flavorful addition to your New Year’s Day spread. The beef is perfectly roasted, tender, and juicy, while the creamy horseradish sauce adds a delightful contrast with its spicy tang. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that will make your New Year’s celebration feel extra special and is sure to impress your guests with its bold flavors and elegant presentation.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!