Top 25 Must-Try American Foods

In this list, we’re diving into the top 25 must-try American foods that showcase the country’s culinary heritage.

These dishes range from classic comfort foods that have been enjoyed for generations to regional specialties that capture the essence of local cultures.

Whether you’re a visitor to the US or a local looking to explore more of your country’s cuisine, this list will guide you through some of the most iconic and beloved American dishes.

Get ready to go on a tasty adventure that will take you from the bustling streets of New York to the sunny shores of California, from the deep South to the heartland of the Midwest.

These 25 dishes aren’t just meals – they’re a bite of American history and culture.

So, grab a napkin, bring your appetite, and let’s dig into the best of American cuisine!

Iconic American Eats, Dishes You Can’t Miss 

1. Hamburger

The hamburger is an iconic American food that has become a global favorite.

At its core, it’s a ground beef patty seasoned with salt and pepper, grilled or fried to perfection, and served in a soft bun.

The classic toppings include a slice of melted cheese (making it a cheeseburger), crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, and tangy pickles.

Condiments like ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise add extra flavor.

The beauty of the hamburger lies in its customizability – from adding bacon or avocado to switching up the type of cheese or bun.

Often served with a side of crispy french fries, the hamburger is a satisfying meal that embodies the casual, convenient nature of American cuisine.

• Key components: Beef patty, bun, cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles
• Customizable: Endless topping and condiment options
• Cultural significance: Symbol of American fast food globally

2. Hot Dog

The hot dog is a quintessential American street food that’s become a staple at ballparks, backyard barbecues, and street carts.

It consists of a grilled or steamed sausage served in a partially sliced bun.

The classic New York-style hot dog is topped with yellow mustard and sauerkraut, while Chicago-style includes mustard, relish, onions, tomato slices, pickle spear, sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt.

The hot dog’s portability and customizability have contributed to its enduring popularity.

From chili cheese dogs to corn dogs (battered and deep-fried hot dogs on a stick), there are countless regional and personal variations on this simple yet beloved food.

• Basic elements: Sausage in a bun
• Popular toppings: Mustard, ketchup, onions, relish
• Cultural impact: Associated with American sports events and casual dining

3. Macaroni and Cheese

Macaroni and Cheese, affectionately known as “mac and cheese,” is a beloved American comfort food.

This dish combines cooked macaroni pasta with a rich, creamy cheese sauce, often made with cheddar cheese.

While simple stovetop versions are common, baked variations add an extra layer of indulgence with a crispy breadcrumb or additional cheese topping.

The origins of mac and cheese in America date back to Thomas Jefferson, who encountered the dish in Europe and brought the recipe home.

Today, it’s a staple in households across the country, appearing on both kids’ menus and in gourmet restaurants with fancy additions like truffle oil or lobster.

The combination of tender pasta and gooey, melted cheese makes this dish the ultimate in comfort food.

• Main ingredients: Elbow macaroni, cheese sauce
• Variations: Stovetop or baked, various cheese blends
• Popularity: Enjoyed by both children and adults as a comfort food

4. Buffalo Wings

Buffalo Wings, despite their name, have nothing to do with buffalo.

These spicy chicken wings originated in Buffalo, New York, hence the name.

The wings are deep-fried until crispy, then tossed in a spicy sauce typically made from hot sauce and butter.

They’re traditionally served with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing to cool the heat.

The contrast between the crispy, spicy wings and the cool, creamy dip is what makes this dish so addictive.

Buffalo wings have become a staple of American bar food and are particularly popular during sporting events.

The flavor has become so beloved that “buffalo” sauce is now used on everything from pizza to cauliflower for vegetarian options.

• Key components: Chicken wings, spicy sauce, blue cheese dip
• Origin: Buffalo, New York
• Cultural impact: Popular bar food and game day snack

5. Barbecue Ribs

Barbecue Ribs are a cornerstone of American barbecue culture, particularly in the South.

These can be either pork or beef ribs, slow-cooked until the meat is tender enough to fall off the bone.

The ribs are usually seasoned with a dry rub before cooking, then basted with barbecue sauce during the final stages for a sticky, caramelized exterior.

The sauce can vary widely by region – from the vinegar-based sauces of North Carolina to the sweet, tomato-based sauces of Kansas City.

Barbecue ribs are often served with classic sides like coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread.

The combination of smoky, tender meat and sweet, tangy sauce makes barbecue ribs a messy but delicious American favorite.

• Types: Pork or beef ribs
• Cooking method: Slow-cooked, often smoked
• Regional variations: Different barbecue sauce styles across the US

6. Apple Pie

“As American as apple pie” is a common phrase for a reason – this dessert is deeply ingrained in American culture.

A traditional apple pie features a flaky, buttery crust filled with sliced apples tossed with sugar, cinnamon, and sometimes nutmeg or allspice.

The pie is then topped with either another layer of crust (making it a “double-crust” pie) or a crumbly streusel topping.

When baked, the apples become tender and the sugars caramelize, creating a delicious filling.

Apple pie is often served warm, sometimes with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top (à la mode).

While its roots are in European cuisine, apple pie has become a symbol of American home cooking and is often associated with comfort, nostalgia, and national pride.

• Key components: Pastry crust, spiced apple filling
• Serving style: Often served warm, sometimes with ice cream
• Cultural significance: Symbol of American culture and home cooking

7. Chicken and Waffles

Chicken and Waffles is a dish that perfectly embodies the American love for combining sweet and savory flavors.

It consists of crispy fried chicken served atop fluffy waffles, often drizzled with maple syrup or honey.

The origins of this dish are debated, with some tracing it to Southern soul food traditions and others to Harlem jazz clubs of the 1930s.

The combination might seem unusual at first, but the contrast between the crunchy, savory chicken and the soft, sweet waffles creates a delightful flavor experience.

Some versions include a spicy honey drizzle or hot sauce to add another flavor dimension.

Chicken and Waffles has gained popularity across the country and is now a brunch favorite in many restaurants.

• Main elements: Fried chicken, waffles, syrup
• Flavor profile: Combination of sweet and savory
• Serving occasion: Popular for brunch or as a comfort food

8. Clam Chowder

Clam Chowder, particularly the New England variety, is a creamy soup that captures the flavors of the sea.

This hearty dish combines tender clams with potatoes, onions, and sometimes celery in a rich, dairy-based broth.

The New England version is known for its thick, creamy white base, while Manhattan clam chowder has a tomato base.

Often served in a bread bowl, it’s the perfect way to warm up on a chilly day, especially in coastal New England.

The soup’s creamy texture, combined with the briny flavor of the clams and the heartiness of the potatoes, makes for a satisfying meal.

Clam chowder is more than just soup – it’s a taste of New England’s maritime history and a beloved comfort food across the country.

• Key ingredients: Clams, potatoes, cream (for New England style)
• Regional variations: New England (cream-based) vs. Manhattan (tomato-based)
• Serving style: Often in a bread bowl

9. Fried Chicken

Fried Chicken is a Southern staple that’s become beloved nationwide.

Pieces of chicken are coated in seasoned flour or batter, then deep-fried to crispy, golden perfection.

The result is a dish with a crunchy exterior and juicy interior.

The seasoning can vary, but often includes a blend of salt, pepper, paprika, and other spices.

Fried chicken is typically served with sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, and biscuits.

It’s a versatile dish, enjoyed hot as a main course or cold as a picnic food.

The popularity of fried chicken has led to countless variations, including Nashville hot chicken, which adds a spicy coating, and Korean fried chicken, which often features a sweet and spicy glaze.

• Key elements: Chicken pieces, seasoned coating, deep-frying
• Common sides: Mashed potatoes, coleslaw, biscuits
• Cultural impact: Associated with Southern cuisine, now popular nationwide

10. Grilled Cheese Sandwich

The Grilled Cheese Sandwich is a simple yet beloved American classic.

At its most basic, it consists of cheese (usually American or cheddar) melted between two slices of buttered bread, grilled until golden brown and crispy.

The beauty of the grilled cheese lies in its simplicity and the contrast between the crispy exterior and the gooey, melted cheese inside.

While the classic version is delicious on its own, there are endless variations – adding tomato, bacon, avocado, or using artisanal breads and cheeses.

Grilled cheese is often paired with tomato soup, creating a comforting meal that’s especially popular on cold days. Its ease of preparation and universal appeal make it a go-to comfort food for many Americans.

• Basic ingredients: Bread, cheese, butter
• Cooking method: Grilled or pan-fried
• Popular pairing: Often served with tomato soup

11. Pot Roast

Pot Roast is a classic American dinner that embodies the concept of a hearty, home-cooked meal.

This dish involves a tough cut of beef (usually chuck roast) slow-cooked with vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and onions in a flavorful broth.

The long, slow cooking process transforms the tough meat into tender, falling-apart beef, while the vegetables absorb the rich flavors of the meat and broth.

Often served with its own gravy, pot roast is the kind of meal that evokes memories of Sunday family dinners.

It’s a favorite for cooler months, providing warmth and comfort in every bite.

The one-pot nature of this dish also makes it convenient for busy families, offering a complete meal with minimal cleanup.

• Main components: Beef roast, root vegetables, broth
• Cooking method: Slow-cooked, often in a Dutch oven
• Cultural significance: Symbol of traditional family dinners

12. Meatloaf

Meatloaf is a quintessential American comfort food that has graced dinner tables for generations.

This hearty dish is made by mixing ground meat (typically beef, but sometimes combined with pork or veal) with breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings, then shaping it into a loaf and baking it.

The result is a tender, flavorful main dish that’s often topped with a tangy ketchup or barbecue sauce glaze.

Meatloaf gained popularity during the Great Depression as a way to stretch meat further, and it’s remained a beloved family meal ever since.

It’s typically served with sides like mashed potatoes and green beans.

While the basic recipe is simple, many families have their own special variations, making meatloaf a dish that often carries sentimental value.

• Key ingredients: Ground meat, breadcrumbs, eggs, seasonings
• Popular toppings: Ketchup glaze, barbecue sauce
• Cultural significance: Symbol of home-cooked American meals

13. Cornbread

Cornbread is a staple of Southern cuisine that’s found its way onto tables across America. Made primarily from cornmeal, it has a slightly sweet, nutty flavor and a unique, grainy texture.

Cornbread can be baked in a skillet for a crispy crust or in a baking pan for a softer version.

It’s often served alongside chili, barbecue, or as a side dish for holiday meals.

In the South, cornbread is typically less sweet and may include ingredients like bacon drippings for extra flavor.

Northern versions tend to be sweeter and more cake-like. Variations include adding jalapeños for a spicy kick, cheese for extra richness, or corn kernels for texture.

Whether crumbled into a glass of buttermilk or used to sop up the last bits of stew, cornbread is a versatile and beloved part of American cuisine.

• Main ingredient: Cornmeal
• Regional variations: Southern (less sweet) vs. Northern (sweeter)
• Serving suggestions: With chili, barbecue, or as a side dish

14. New York-Style Pizza

New York-style pizza is characterized by its thin, crispy crust and wide, foldable slices.

The base is typically topped with a light layer of tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese, with various additional toppings available.

What sets New York pizza apart is its size (usually 18 inches in diameter) and the technique used to eat it – folded in half lengthwise, allowing for easy consumption on the go.

This style of pizza evolved from Neapolitan-style pizza brought by Italian immigrants, adapting to local tastes and the fast-paced New York lifestyle.

The combination of a crispy yet pliable crust, tangy sauce, and gooey cheese makes it a beloved staple of New York City’s food scene and a must-try for visitors.

• Distinctive features: Thin, crispy crust, large slices
• Eating technique: Often folded in half
• Cultural impact: Symbol of New York City’s fast-paced food culture

15. Philly Cheesesteak

The Philly Cheesesteak is an iconic sandwich that originated in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

It consists of thinly sliced beefsteak and melted cheese (traditionally Cheez Whiz, though provolone and American cheese are also popular) served on a long, crusty roll.

Many versions include sautéed onions, and some add bell peppers or mushrooms.

The magic of a great cheesesteak lies in its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients.

The combination of juicy, flavorful beef and gooey melted cheese creates a mouthwatering experience.

Ordering a cheesesteak in Philly often involves a specific lingo, adding to its cultural charm.

It’s a staple of Philadelphia street food and a must-try for visitors to the city.

• Key components: Thinly sliced beef, melted cheese, long roll
• Popular additions: Sautéed onions, bell peppers, mushrooms
• Regional pride: Strongly associated with Philadelphia’s food culture

16. Chicken Pot Pie

Chicken Pot Pie is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chunks of chicken and vegetables in a creamy sauce, all encased in a flaky, buttery crust.

The filling typically includes carrots, peas, and potatoes, though variations can include other vegetables.

The sauce is rich and velvety, often made with chicken broth and cream.

This hearty mixture is then topped with pastry and baked until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

When cut into, the crisp top gives way to the steaming, creamy interior.

Chicken Pot Pie is a complete meal in itself, offering a satisfying blend of protein, vegetables, and carbs in every bite.

It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a cold day.

• Main components: Chicken, mixed vegetables, creamy sauce, pastry crust
• Texture: Crispy pastry exterior with creamy, chunky filling
• Serving style: Often baked and served in individual portions or as a large pie

17. Jambalaya

Jambalaya is a flavorful one-pot dish that originated in Louisiana, reflecting the state’s rich culinary heritage.

This hearty meal combines rice with a variety of meats, which may include chicken, sausage, and shrimp, along with vegetables and spices.

The dish is heavily influenced by Spanish paella and French jambalaia, showcasing the multicultural roots of Creole cuisine.

There are two main styles: Creole jambalaya, which includes tomatoes, and Cajun jambalaya, which doesn’t.

The result is a spicy, satisfying meal that’s become popular far beyond its Louisiana roots.

The combination of protein, rice, and vegetables makes it a complete meal in one dish.

• Key ingredients: Rice, meat (often sausage and shrimp), vegetables, Cajun spices
• Styles: Creole (with tomatoes), Cajun (without tomatoes)
• Cultural significance: Represents the melting pot of Louisiana cuisine

18. Lobster Roll

The Lobster Roll is a seafood sandwich native to New England, particularly popular in Maine.

It consists of chunks of tender lobster meat lightly dressed with mayonnaise and sometimes seasoned with lemon juice and herbs.

This mixture is then stuffed into a toasted, top-split hot dog bun.

Some variations use drawn butter instead of mayonnaise, known as a Connecticut-style lobster roll.

The simplicity of the dish allows the sweet, delicate flavor of the lobster to shine.

Lobster rolls are typically served cold, making them a refreshing summer meal, often accompanied by potato chips or french fries.

This dish represents the best of New England’s coastal cuisine, offering a taste of luxury in a casual, handheld format.

• Main ingredient: Chunks of lobster meat
• Variations: Maine-style (with mayo) vs. Connecticut-style (with butter)
• Serving style: In a toasted, top-split roll, often with a side of chips

19. Chicago Deep-Dish Pizza

Chicago Deep-Dish Pizza is a hearty, knife-and-fork pizza style that originated in the Windy City.

Unlike its thin-crust counterparts, this pizza is baked in a deep pan, creating a high edge that allows for generous layers of cheese, chunky tomato sauce, and toppings.

The crust is usually two to three inches tall and has a buttery, biscuit-like texture.

Due to its depth, this pizza requires a longer baking time, which is why the cheese is typically placed under the sauce to prevent burning.

The result is a pizza that’s more like a savory pie, loved for its substantial nature and rich flavors.

It’s a must-try for visitors to Chicago and has gained fans across the country.

• Distinctive features: Tall crust, layered toppings with sauce on top
• Texture: Thick, hearty, almost casserole-like
• Regional pride: Strongly associated with Chicago’s food culture

20. Biscuits and Gravy

Biscuits and Gravy is a hearty Southern breakfast dish that’s gained popularity across the United States.

It features soft, flaky buttermilk biscuits smothered in a thick, creamy gravy made with sausage drippings, flour, and milk.

The dish originated as a way to make use of every part of an animal and provide a filling meal for laborers.

Today, it’s beloved for its rich, comforting flavors and ability to satisfy even the heartiest appetite.

While traditionally a breakfast food, biscuits and gravy can be enjoyed any time of day.

It’s a staple in Southern diners and has found its way onto menus across the country, offering a taste of Southern comfort no matter where you are.

• Key elements: Buttermilk biscuits, sausage gravy
• Origin: Southern United States
• Meal timing: Traditionally breakfast, but enjoyed throughout the day

21. Shrimp and Grits

Shrimp and Grits is a classic Southern dish that combines creamy, stone-ground grits with succulent shrimp in a flavorful sauce.

Originally a humble fisherman’s breakfast in the coastal South, it has evolved into a beloved comfort food and a staple of fine dining Southern cuisine.

The grits are cooked slowly until creamy and often enriched with cheese and butter.

The shrimp are typically sautéed with bacon, garlic, and sometimes mushrooms, creating a savory sauce that complements the mild grits perfectly.

Green onions are often sprinkled on top for a fresh contrast.

This dish beautifully represents the coastal South’s culinary tradition, blending land and sea ingredients into a harmonious, satisfying meal.

• Main components: Creamy grits, sautéed shrimp
• Flavor enhancers: Often includes bacon, garlic, green onions
• Cultural significance: Represents the evolution of Southern coastal cuisine

22. Gumbo

Gumbo is another jewel in the crown of Louisiana cuisine.

This thick stew typically starts with a dark roux (a mixture of flour and fat), which gives the dish its distinctive flavor and color.

Okra, a key ingredient, lends its thickening properties and unique taste.

Gumbo can include a variety of meats and seafood, such as chicken, sausage, shrimp, and crab.

Served over rice, it’s a warming, satisfying meal that’s especially popular during cooler months.

Gumbo reflects the diverse cultural influences in Louisiana, with elements from African, French, and Native American cuisines.

The result is a complex, flavorful dish that’s become synonymous with Louisiana cooking.

• Key components: Roux, okra, various meats and seafood
• Serving style: Over rice
• Cultural importance: Embodies the multicultural heritage of Louisiana

23. Chicken Fried Steak

Chicken Fried Steak, despite its name, contains no chicken.

It’s a dish of tenderized beef steak coated with seasoned flour and pan-fried, much like fried chicken.

The result is a large, crispy cutlet that’s typically smothered in creamy country gravy.

This hearty dish is a staple of Southern and Texan cuisine, often served with mashed potatoes and green beans.

The origins of chicken fried steak are debated, but it’s believed to have been influenced by German and Austrian immigrants who brought wiener schnitzel to Texas.

The combination of crispy, savory meat and rich, peppery gravy makes this a beloved comfort food throughout the South and beyond.

• Main components: Breaded beef steak, country gravy
• Common sides: Mashed potatoes, green beans
• Regional significance: Popular in Southern and Texan cuisine

24. BLT Sandwich

The BLT (Bacon, Lettuce, and Tomato) sandwich is a simple yet satisfying American classic.

It consists of crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomato slices sandwiched between two pieces of toasted bread, often spread with mayonnaise.

The beauty of the BLT lies in its perfect balance of flavors and textures – the salty, crunchy bacon, the cool, crisp lettuce, and the juicy, tangy tomato all come together in harmony.

While the basic recipe is straightforward, variations might include avocado (creating a BLAT), different types of bread, or additional condiments.

The BLT is a popular lunch option and a staple of diners and cafes across America, appreciated for its simplicity and delicious combination of ingredients.

• Key ingredients: Bacon, lettuce, tomato, toasted bread
• Optional addition: Mayonnaise
• Appeal: Simple yet satisfying combination of flavors and textures

25. Reuben Sandwich

The Reuben is a hearty sandwich that’s a staple in American delis, especially in the Northeast.

It consists of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing, all grilled between slices of rye bread.

The origins of the Reuben are disputed, with claims from both Omaha, Nebraska, and New York City.

Regardless of its birthplace, the Reuben has become a beloved sandwich across the country.

The combination of salty corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melty cheese, and creamy dressing creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

The sandwich is typically grilled until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted, making for a warm, satisfying meal.

It’s a go-to choice for those seeking a hearty, flavorful sandwich with a bit of a kick.

• Key components: Corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, Russian dressing, rye bread
• Preparation: Grilled until bread is crispy and cheese is melted
• Variations: Rachel sandwich (uses turkey instead of corned beef)

Conclusion

What makes these dishes truly American isn’t just their origin, but the way they’ve evolved and been embraced across the country.

They tell the story of immigration, innovation, and the blending of cultures that defines the American experience.

Each bite is a taste of history, a reflection of regional pride, and a testament to the country’s love affair with good food.

Every state, every city, and even every family has its own special dishes and culinary traditions.

So, consider this your starting point for exploring the vast and varied world of American food.

Whether you’re planning a cross-country road trip or just looking to expand your culinary horizons at home, we hope this list has inspired you to try some new American dishes.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab a fork (or your fingers) and start exploring the delicious world of American cuisine. Your taste buds will thank you!