Thanks to its history of colonialism and immigration, the U.S. is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines. This has led to some amazing, iconic foods that everyone should try. From regional specialties and fusion dishes to classic comfort food, here are 19 American dishes you’ve got to taste at least once.
Cheesesteak
This iconic sandwich hails from Philadelphia and features thinly sliced ribeye steak, melted cheese (Cheez Whiz or provolone), and grilled onions served on a long bread roll. Some people add mushrooms, peppers, or hot sauce, but the original combination is delicious enough to be a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Buy one from a street vendor in Philly for an authentic experience!
Chili
This spicy, hearty stew of ground beef, beans (kidney, pinto, or black), tomatoes, and a blend of spices is a versatile main course or side dish. Traditionally served with cornbread or tortillas, it is frequently topped with extras like sour cream, cheddar cheese, and cilantro. You can often request a spice level that suits your palate, too.
Fried Chicken
The origins of this popular southern food are contested, and the BBC says both Scottish and African immigrants claim to have imported it. Either way, it was made popular by West African people living in the South and is crispy, juicy, and flavorful. Succulent meat and a crispy, savory coating are essential; enjoy it solo or with mashed potatoes or biscuits and gravy.
Mac and Cheese
According to a survey by YouGov, 80% of Americans enjoy this gooey, cheesy pasta dish, which is a classic comfort food. It’s prepared by combining macaroni noodles with a creamy cheese sauce (usually made with cheddar or a combination of cheeses) and then topped with breadcrumbs. It is infinitely customizable with extra vegetables or proteins.
New York-Style Pizza
Italy may have invented pizza, but Italian immigrants in New York made it their own. Forget deep pan; pizza in the Big Apple is served in wide slices on a thin crust with plenty of cheese and a few simple toppings (such as pepperoni). The crust is strong enough to be folded, thus making the slice easy to eat on the go without breaking apart or losing any precious cheese!
Funnel Cake
The carnival-style atmosphere of a state fair is perfect for trying a classic fried American dessert—the funnel cake! If you have a sweet tooth, you’re in for a treat—batter is piped into hot oil to make a light, airy pastry that is cooked until crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. The whole thing is covered in powdered sugar and served warm. Delicious!
Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich
While finding one in a tourist hotspot might not be easy, you may be offered one when you visit an American home. This unusual sandwich is a lunchbox staple in the U.S. and a childhood favorite. Creamy peanut butter and sweet jelly (usually grape or strawberry) are spread on soft, white bread for a surprisingly satisfying combination of flavors.
Reuben Sandwich
A hot and savory delight, the Reuben is made by placing corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing on rye bread, then grilling the whole thing until the cheese melts and the bread is golden. History Nebraska asserts that it was invented by a Lithuanian grocer in Omaha and has since become a beloved deli staple across the country.
Mud Pie
If you like rich, decadent, and chocolatey desserts, you simply must try a Mississippi Mud Pie! Made with a chocolate cookie crust filled with creamy chocolate pudding and topped with fluffy whipped cream, it isn’t the most slimming option. Nevertheless, it’s guaranteed to please a chocoholic and has a wonderful combination of crunchy, smooth, and creamy textures.
Chicken Fried Steak
This southern comfort food features a tenderized poultry cube steak smothered in seasoned flour and pan-fried until golden brown before being covered in creamy white gravy. It’s often served with mashed potatoes, green beans, and a buttermilk biscuit. It’s a substantial, tasty meal with simple ingredients that complement each other well.
Pot Roast
This tender, home-cooked beef dish can’t be rushed, so you may have to cook it yourself or pre-order it at a specific restaurant. Typically, chuck roast is simmered in a slow cooker for several hours alongside vegetables like potatoes, carrots, onions, and celery in a flavorful broth. The meat becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender while the vegetables soak up all the tasty juices.
Root Beer Float
A quintessential American beverage, the root beer float is a simple combination of sassafras-flavored root beer and vanilla ice cream. The sweet, creamy ice cream, typically served to float on top, complements the fizzy, slightly spicy flavor of root beer, creating an unusual but deliciously refreshing treat, perfect for a hot summer’s day.
