There’s something irresistibly charming about British cuisine that has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of many Americans. British foods offer a delightful blend of tradition, taste, and nostalgia, and these are the 20 quintessential British foods that Americans simply can’t get enough of.
Fish and Chips
“Triple-cooked, with curry sauce and locally sourced,” is the best way to eat fish and chips, according to The Guardian. Fish and chips are the ultimate British comfort food, and Americans love them—there’s nothing quite like biting into a perfectly fried piece of fish with a golden, crispy batter and a side of chunky chips.
Shepherd’s Pie
A hearty dish made from minced lamb (or beef in cottage pie) topped with creamy mashed potatoes, Shepherd’s Pie has found a special place on American dinner tables. This comforting meal is perfect for family gatherings or a cosy night in, and the rich meat filling, often cooked with onions, carrots, and peas, is wonderfully complemented by the fluffy buttery potato.
Bangers and Mash
Another British staple that Americans adore is Bangers and Mash. This simple yet flavourful dish consists of sausages (the “bangers”) served with mashed potatoes (“mash”) and often accompanied by onion gravy and peas. The sausages are usually made from pork and are bursting with flavour, while the creamy mash provides a perfect balance.
Yorkshire Pudding
Yorkshire pudding, traditionally served with roast beef, has gained a following in America for its unique taste and texture. These puffed-up delights are made from a simple batter of eggs, flour, and milk and baked until golden and crispy on the outside yet soft and airy on the inside.
Full English Breakfast
The full English breakfast is an epic start to the day that Americans have embraced with gusto. This hearty meal typically includes eggs, bacon, sausages, baked beans, tomatoes, mushrooms, black pudding, and toast. It’s a feast that provides a bit of everything, catering to both sweet and savoury cravings.
Cornish Pasties
Portable, savoury pastries that have become quite popular in the USA, Cornish pasties originated from Cornwall. They’re filled with a delicious mixture of beef, potatoes, onions, and swede, all encased in a golden, flaky crust. They’re perfect for a quick lunch or a snack on the go, and Americans love them for their convenience.
Sticky Toffee Pudding
Sticky toffee pudding is a beloved British dessert that has made a sweet impact across the pond. This rich, moist sponge cake is made with finely chopped dates and covered in a luscious toffee sauce and is often served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of custard.
Scones with Clotted Cream and Jam
Scones, with clotted cream and jam, are a quintessential part of British afternoon tea that Americans have grown to love. These tender, crumbly pastries are split open and generously topped with thick, velvety clotted cream and sweet strawberry jam—perfect for a leisurely afternoon snack.
Beef Wellington
Beef Wellington is a show-stopping dish that has captured the hearts of American foodies. This gourmet entrée features a tender beef fillet coated in a layer of pâté and duxelles (a finely chopped mushroom mixture), all wrapped in puff pastry and baked to perfection. The result is a succulent, flavourful masterpiece.
Toad in the Hole
A comforting, homestyle dish that Americans have embraced for its simplicity and flavour, Toad in the Hole consists of sausages baked in a batter, similar to Yorkshire pudding, until puffed and golden. Often served with onion gravy and vegetables, it’s a hearty meal that’s easy to prepare and satisfying to eat.
Ploughman’s Lunch
The ploughman’s lunch is a traditional UK meal that has become popular in the USA for its simplicity and versatility. This cold meal typically includes crusty bread, a selection of cheeses, pickles, cold meats, and a salad. It’s a perfect option for a light yet satisfying lunch.
Scotch Eggs
A unique and tasty snack that Americans can’t get enough of, Scotch eggs consist of a boiled egg encased in sausage meat, coated in breadcrumbs, and deep-fried until crispy. They’re often enjoyed cold and make a great addition to picnics or party platters.
Black Pudding
Black pudding, a type of blood sausage, might sound unusual, but it has found a dedicated following in the USA. Made from pork blood, fat, and oatmeal, this savoury treat is often served as part of a full English breakfast. Its rich, earthy flavour and unique texture make it a distinctive addition to any meal.
Treacle Tart
A classic British dessert that has won over many Americans with its sweet, sticky goodness is treacle tart. It’s made with shortcrust pastry filled with a mixture of golden syrup, breadcrumbs, and lemon juice. This tart is both simple and delightful and is often served with a dollop of clotted cream or a scoop of ice cream.
Haggis
Haggis, a traditional Scottish dish, has intrigued and delighted many across the pond. Made from sheep’s offal (heart, liver, and lungs) mixed with oatmeal, suet, and spices and encased in a sheep’s stomach, haggis is known for its rich, savoury flavour. Often served with “neeps and tatties” (turnips and potatoes), it celebrates Scottish heritage.
Victoria Sponge Cake
Victoria sponge cake, named after Queen Victoria, is a beloved British cake that has become a hit in the USA. This classic cake consists of two layers of light, airy sponge cake sandwiched together with a layer of jam and whipped cream. It’s a simple yet elegant dessert that is perfect for any occasion.
Sausage Rolls
A popular British snack that has made its way into American hearts and stomachs is the sausage roll. This delicious pastry is made by wrapping sausage meat in puff pastry and baking until golden and crispy. It’s perfect for a quick snack, a party appetiser, or even a light meal.
Mince Pies
Mince pies are a festive favourite that Americans have eagerly adopted, especially during the holiday season. These small, sweet pies are filled with a mixture of dried fruits, spices, and suet, known as mincemeat. Often enjoyed with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dollop of cream, mince pies are a delightful treat that brings a taste of British Christmas traditions to American celebrations.
Eton Mess
Charming American travellers with its simplicity and deliciousness, Eton Mess dessert is a mix of crushed meringue, whipped cream, and fresh strawberries, creating a sweet, creamy, and slightly crunchy treat. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for summer gatherings or whenever you crave a light, fruity dessert.
Pimm’s Cup
Pimm’s Cup is a refreshing British cocktail that has gained popularity in the USA, especially during warmer months. This drink is light, fruity, and perfect for summer sipping, made with Pimm’s No. 1 (a gin-based liqueur), lemonade, and a mix of fresh fruits and herbs. Often served in a tall glass over ice, Pimm’s Cup is a favourite at picnics, barbecues, and outdoor events, no matter which country you’re from.
