Watch Paula's Best Dishes

Paula Deen's career took off in the late 1990s when she opened her now-famous Savannah restaurant, The Lady & Sons. But her widespread recognition didn't come until the launch of her popular show on Food Network, Paula's Home Cooking. This led to several spin-offs and specials, one of which is Paula's Best Dishes.

Paula's Best Dishes premiered on Food Network in 2008 and ran until 2012. The show featured Paula Deen showcasing some of her best recipes and cooking tips in the comfort of her own kitchen. Each episode typically featured three to four recipes, with Paula's southern charm and humor shining through as she cooked and chatted with family and friends.

The show's format was fairly straightforward. Paula would introduce herself and the theme for the episode (i.e. "Game Day Favorites" or "Celebration Desserts"), then launch into cooking her dishes. She'd often have someone helping her in the kitchen, such as her sons Jamie and Bobby, her husband Michael, or one of her many friends. As she worked her magic, Paula would share little tidbits about her life or the dish she was making, often with her trademark southern drawl and infectious laugh.

The recipes on Paula's Best Dishes were a mix of classic southern comfort food (think fried chicken, mac and cheese, and biscuits) and more modern fare with a southern twist (like blackened salmon or shrimp and grits). Paula's cooking style was never fancy or fussy - she focused on simple, delicious recipes that anyone could make at home. She wasn't afraid of using butter, cream, or other indulgent ingredients, but often offered substitutions or healthier versions of her recipes as well.

One of the highlights of the show was seeing Paula interact with her guests. She often had family members or personal friends on the show, giving it an intimate, homey feel. Viewers could see the dynamic between Paula and her loved ones, and it was clear that she cherished those relationships. Even when she had celebrity guests on the show, such as Dolly Parton or Robin Roberts, Paula made them feel at home and comfortable in her kitchen.

Another aspect of Paula's Best Dishes that viewers loved was the behind-the-scenes look at Paula's life. She frequently shared stories about her upbringing in Albany, Georgia, and her journey to becoming a chef and television personality. Her passion for food and cooking was palpable, and it was clear that she loved sharing that passion with others.

Of course, no description of Paula's Best Dishes would be complete without mentioning Paula's personality. She was known for her warmth, humor, and contagious positivity. Her catchphrases, such as "Hey, y'all!" and "This is just so good, y'all!" became synonymous with her brand. She wasn't afraid to laugh at herself, either - viewers loved seeing her make mistakes or poke fun at her own cooking.

Ultimately, Paula's Best Dishes was a feel-good show that showcased the best of southern cooking and hospitality. It was a chance for viewers to step into Paula's kitchen and feel like they were part of her family. Whether you were a seasoned cook or just starting out, Paula's recipes and tips were accessible and inspiring. Her legacy in the culinary world is undeniable, and Paula's Best Dishes was just one of many ways that she shared her love of food with the world.

Paula's Best Dishes is a series that ran for 14 seasons (165 episodes) between August 15, 2009 and on Food Network