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When the first hints of Southern heat linger in the air, I find myself craving a warm, comforting bowl of collard greens. There’s something truly special about the way these hearty greens simmer with smoky bacon, infusing the kitchen with an irresistible aroma that wraps around you like a cozy blanket. This Classic Southern Collard Greens Recipe transforms a humble ingredient into a show-stopping side dish that pairs wonderfully with any meal. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just want to elevate your weeknight dinner, these collard greens are sure to impress. With each tender bite, you’ll experience a perfect balance of savory and slightly bitter flavors, making it a staple at my table and in countless Southern homes. Let’s get started on bringing this tradition to your kitchen!

Why choose this Southern Style Collard Greens Recipe?

Comforting and Hearty: Nothing beats the warmth of collard greens simmered with bacon, creating a dish that’s both soulful and satisfying.
Versatile Delight: This recipe complements a range of meals, from fried chicken to cornbread, making it a go-to side dish for any occasion.
Quick and Easy: With simple steps, you’ll enjoy flavorful greens in under an hour, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering.
Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vitamins and fiber, this dish not only tastes incredible but also contributes to your health.
Tradition Passed Down: Embrace the heritage of Southern cooking while creating memories with loved ones around the dinner table.

Southern Style Collard Greens Ingredients

For the Greens
• Collard Greens – A large bunch provides the main structure; ensure they are cleaned and chopped for the best results.
• Bacon – This ingredient adds a smoky flavor; for a vegetarian option, consider smoked mushrooms as a delightful substitute.

For the Aromatics
• Onion – A medium-sized diced onion brings sweetness; sautéing it enhances its depth of flavor.
• Garlic – Use three minced cloves to elevate the overall taste profile of your Southern Style Collard Greens.

For the Cooking Liquid
• Chicken or Vegetable Broth – Provides moisture and a flavorful base; choose based on your diet preference for meat or vegetarian.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – A tablespoon introduces necessary acidity to balance the greens’ bitterness.

For the Seasoning
• Red Pepper Flakes – Optional but delightful; adjust for your heat preference to add a little kick.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing the overall taste; be sure to season to your liking for the perfect finish.

How to Make Southern Style Collard Greens

Cook the Bacon: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s crispy and golden brown. Remove the bacon from the pot, leaving the delicious drippings behind for flavor.
Sauté the Onions: Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté in the bacon drippings for about 5 minutes, or until translucent and fragrant. This step adds a lovely sweetness to your greens.
Add Garlic: Toss in the minced garlic and cook for one more minute, stirring frequently. You want the garlic to become fragrant but not burnt, keeping those flavors bright.
Incorporate the Greens: Gradually add the cleaned and chopped collard greens to the pot, stirring well until they begin to wilt down, about 3–5 minutes. This is where the magic begins!
Pour in the Broth: Add your choice of chicken or vegetable broth along with the apple cider vinegar. If you enjoy a little heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes. Bring everything to a boil.
Simmer to Perfection: Reduce the heat and let everything simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour. You’ll know they’re done when the greens are tender and vibrant, absorbing all those lovely flavors.
Finish with Bacon: Stir in the reserved crispy bacon and season with salt and pepper to taste before serving hot. This step adds that final touch of savory goodness!

Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of extra red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Southern Style Collard Greens are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can wash and chop the collard greens up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can prepare the bacon, onions, and garlic, storing them separately, so they’re ready to go on cooking day. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the prepared aromatics, incorporate the greens, broth, and vinegar, then simmer until tender. This approach saves you valuable time on busy weeknights while ensuring your collard greens remain just as delicious and comforting as if made fresh that day!

What to Serve with Classic Southern Collard Greens?

As you prepare to savor these richly flavored greens, let’s elevate your meal experience with perfect pairings.

Cornbread: The slightly sweet and dense texture of cornbread beautifully complements the savory richness of collard greens; a classic Southern pairing.
Fried Chicken: Crispy fried chicken with its juicy interior works wonderfully alongside the tender greens, creating the ultimate comfort food experience. The crunchy exterior balances the softness of the greens.
Pork Chops: Juicy, seasoned pork chops add a delightful heartiness, while the greens provide a smoky contrast, making every bite a flavor celebration.
Smoked Sausage: Adding smoked sausage introduces an extra layer of flavor, harmonizing perfectly with the spices in the greens for a satisfying meal.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes add a luxurious texture, allowing you to savor every bite, while the greens bring their unique depth to the plate.
Sweet Tea: This quintessential Southern beverage pairs well with the meal, balancing the dish’s savory notes with its refreshing sweetness.
Peach Cobbler: To end on a sweet note, serve peach cobbler; its warm spices and tender fruit contrast beautifully with the greens’ savory essence.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a crisp freshness that cleanses the palate and complements the rich flavors of the collard greens.
Grilled Shrimp: For seafood lovers, the smoky finish of grilled shrimp enhances the greens while adding a light element to your meal.
Biscuit: Fluffy biscuits are perfect for soaking up the broth of the collard greens, creating a homely and satisfying finish to your meal.

Tips for the Best Southern Style Collard Greens

Crispy Bacon: Make sure to cook the bacon until it’s crispy before removing it. This enhances the flavor of the greens and adds a delightful texture.
Fresh Greens: Always use fresh collard greens. Older, wilted greens can take longer to cook and may have a bitter taste.
Control the Spice: If using dried red pepper flakes, start with a small amount. You can always add more, but it’s hard to take spice away.
Braising Time: Adjust the simmering time based on the freshness of the collard greens. They should be tender but not mushy for your Southern style collard greens recipe.
Dutch Oven Preferred: A Dutch oven is ideal for this dish as it provides even heat distribution, which results in perfectly cooked collard greens.

How to Store and Freeze Southern Style Collard Greens

Fridge: Store leftover collard greens in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their flavor and texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze collard greens in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Allow them to cool completely before sealing to avoid ice crystals.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Stir occasionally to ensure even warming.

Wrap for Freshness: If you prefer not to freeze, consider wrapping the greens tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before refrigerating to keep them fresh longer.

Southern Style Collard Greens Variations

Feel free to make this recipe your own and explore a world of flavors with these delightful twists!

Vegetarian Delight: Replace bacon with sautéed Swiss chard or smoked mushrooms for a rich, savory option that keeps it plant-based.
Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños for those who love a bit of heat in their greens.
Smoky Flavor: Introduce smoked sausage or ham hocks for an extra layer of smokiness that will warm your soul.
Flavor Boost: Sprinkle in cumin or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to elevate the overall flavor profile.
Creamy Twist: Stir in a dash of heavy cream or vegan cream for a rich, luxurious texture that’s simply irresistible.
Herbal Infusion: Add fresh herbs like thyme or oregano towards the end of cooking for a refreshing herbal finish that enhances the dish.
Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted pecans or walnuts for an added crunch and a nourishing boost of healthy fats.
Fruitful Addition: Toss in diced apples or raisins during the last few minutes of cooking for a sweet contrast to the savory greens.

Southern Style Collard Greens Recipe FAQs

How do I choose and select collard greens?
Absolutely! When selecting collard greens, look for fresh bunches with vibrant, dark green leaves. Avoid any with yellowing or dark spots, as they indicate age. The greens should feel crisp to the touch, and the stems should be firm. If you’re shopping, aim for a large bunch that feels heavy, indicating a good amount of moisture.

What is the best way to store leftover collard greens?
Leftover collard greens can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their beautiful color and texture. To reheat, I often prefer using the stovetop; just add a splash of broth to help them steam back to life, keeping them moist and flavorful.

Can I freeze collard greens?
Yes, you can! To freeze your delicious Southern Style Collard Greens, let them cool completely after cooking. Then, place them in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally.

What should I do if my collard greens are too tough?
If your collard greens turn out tough, don’t worry—this can happen with older greens. I recommend cooking them longer during the simmering stage. You might want to add a splash more broth to ensure they cook down well. If you’re using fresh greens, ensure to cut them into smaller pieces to help them soften faster.

Are there any dietary concerns with collard greens?
Very! While collard greens are a healthful option packed with vitamins, if you or your guests have specific dietary restrictions, be mindful of the bacon. For vegetarians, substitute with smoked mushrooms, or simply omit it altogether. Always taste and season to ensure it’s suitable for everyone at your table.

How can I serve collard greens for a festive occasion?
Serving collard greens is all about presentation! I suggest plating them in a large, shallow bowl to showcase their vibrant color. You could even sprinkle some additional crispy bacon or a few red pepper flakes on top for visual appeal and a hint of spice. They pair wonderfully with Southern staples like fried chicken, cornbread, or barbecue, making them a fantastic addition to any festive occasion!