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A Southern Soul: Easy Recipes & Stressfree Entertaining Ideas

I’m Donya, the life behind A Southern Soul. I share recipes that are easy to make and full of flavor using simple ingredients. You'll find meal plans for family dinners along with inspiration for entertaining.

Croc Pot Ribs
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Did You Miss These?

Hey Reader! I love seeing what y’all are making. Whether it’s something quick for dinner or a dessert for Sunday supper, there are a few recipes that keep popping up again and again. So if you missed them the first time—or just need a little inspiration—here’s what readers are loving right now: Crock Pot Chicken Thighs Try This Recipe BEST Caprese Pasta Salad Try This Recipe Zucchini Cheese Bread Try This Recipe Grandma's Apple Crisp Try This Recipe Make Life Easy Learn how to make this...

Grilled Sweet Potatoes

Hey Reader! You know I love any excuse to fire up the grill, and these sweet potatoes are a favorite at my house. They’re smoky, a little spicy, and so simple to make. I throw them on the grill alongside whatever else I’m cooking—BBQ chicken, pork tenderloin, even slaw dogs—and they always disappear fast. Easy, unfussy, and full of flavor—just the way I like it. Grilled Sweet Potatoes Try This Recipe Pin For Later What You're Loving... 5-Ingredient Crock Pot Buffalo Chicken No Bake Ranch Fire...

Southern Fried Squash

Hello Reader! If you’ve ever wondered how to get that perfect crunch, I’ve got you covered. I’m sharing my tried-and-true recipe for Southern Fried Squash, plus my best tip for keeping it crispy every time. And if you’re looking for a lighter twist, I even included an air fryer method! Serve it up as a side with your favorite meal or make it the star of your appetizer spread. However you enjoy it, this dish is all about good food and gathering together. Crispy Golden Southern Fried Squash Try...

Carolina Gold Sauce

Hey Reader! Sometimes it’s not about the recipe—it’s about the sauce. Whether it’s homemade BBQ sauce, hot honey, or a simple vinaigrette, a good sauce can turn basic ingredients into something memorable. Here’s one I make again and again. It’s fast, foolproof, and works with just about anything in the fridge: Carolina Gold BBQ Sauce Make It! P.S. This is a great one to double and keep in the fridge for quick lunches and easy dinners all week. What to Serve With This Sauce Crock Pot Pulled...

Midweek Menu Meal Plan

Hey Reader! Every Southern table has those tried-and-true dishes — the ones that bring everyone running when they hit the table. This week’s menu is filled with recipes just like that. They’re simple enough for a weeknight, but taste like you spent all day in the kitchen. From slow-cooked chicken that falls off the bone to a warm chocolate cobbler that feels like a hug in a bowl, these are the flavors that make memories. Go ahead and bookmark this one — you’ll be making it again and again....

How To Cook Bacon In The Oven

Hey Reader! If you love bacon but hate the mess, I’ve got something for you! I just updated one of my most-loved tips: how to cook bacon in the oven. This method gives you crispy, delicious bacon without the stovetop splatter—and cleanup is a breeze. It’s perfect for: ✔ Breakfast for the family ✔ Meal prep ✔ Adding to salads, sandwiches, and recipes You’ll find step-by-step instructions, storage tips, and reheating advice all in one place. How To Cook Bacon In The Oven Try This Recipe Pin For...

Hey Reader! When the evenings turn warm, I can’t wait to head outside and gather on the porch. There’s just something special about sharing good food in the open air. To make it simple for you to do the same, I’ve rounded up 20+ of my favorite recipes for porch season—the ones I go back to time and time again. So, invite some friends, open the door and enjoy! 20+ Recipes To Make Porch Season Delicious and Effortless Pin For Later What You're Loving... Slow Cooker Mexican Shredded Beef...

Summer Entertaining Recipes

Hey Reader! The best gatherings are the ones where everyone feels welcome, even the cook. Over the years, I’ve figured out a few ways to entertain without making myself crazy. I keep the food simple, make what I can ahead of time, and always have something cold to sip and something salty to snack on. If you're hosting soon—or just want to have a few tricks up your sleeve—these recipes are some of my best for feeding a group without fuss: Easy Stuffed Mushrooms These little bites are loaded...

Hey Reader! Not every day calls for a big production in the kitchen. Some days, you just need to get dinner on the table—fast, easy, and without a second trip to the store. This week has been one of those weeks for me. So I’m leaning on my reliable standbys. Recipes I know by heart. Ingredients I already have. And meals that feel comforting but don’t take a whole evening to pull together. White Ravioli Casserole (Lazy Lasagna) Try This Recipe If you’re in the same boat, here are a few of my...

Homemade Spaghetti Sauce

Hey Reader! Some of my best meals come from not going to the store. When the pantry’s stocked and the fridge still has a few odds and ends, I can always pull something together—no stress, no fuss. These are a few of the ingredients I always have on hand, and how I turn them into dinner: 🍅 Canned Tomatoes → soups, sauces, and baked pastas 🌽 Cornmeal → cornbread, grits, and crusts for casseroles 🫘 Beans → quick chili, taco bowls, or creamy dips 🍝 Pasta → always ready for a weeknight meal If...