31 Classically Delicious American Foods in 2025

There are mixed opinions on what exactly American food is and which dishes are most popular. This is because America is a melting pot with diverse influences, cities and regional cuisines that all impact American food culture. The typical American meal is never quite typical, as it varies by region, neighborhood and even family. Each subgroup brings its own special flavors to the pot, and this results in a wide variety of delicious dishes that are all worth trying.

What is the best American food? That's definitely up for debate, but we will show you some of the most popular stereotypical American foods. If you're wondering which pantry items are must-haves if you're serving American food for dinner, lunch or breakfast? We’re here to give you some ideas about how to pick American dishes and how this multicultural country approaches food. Here are some classically delicious American food ideas worth trying for your next meal. 

Jump to Section 

• Top 10 American Foods
• Traditional American Foods
• American Food for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
• American Food FAQs

Top 10 American Foods

We'll kick off our culinary adventure with a quick list of the classic top 10 American foods. We judge "American foods" by how embedded the foods are in the culture and menu of the country, not from their origins. In fact, many of what is considered truly American-based foods began in other countries and continents and were brought over by immigrants many years ago. View our quick list below and then venture on for a longer description and many more choices.

1. Hamburgers

The quintessential American food is a juicy ground beef patty served on a bun with lettuce, tomato and pickle. Some people prefer theirs served with cheese, and grilling burgers over an open flame is a popular summertime pastime. 

2. Hot Dogs 

Whether at the ballpark or stopping by a hot dog stand in New York or Chicago, a hot dog is a popular American food that’s an easy grab-and-go item for lunch or dinner. In its most simple form, it's an American sausage laid in a bun. Popular garnishing includes caramelized onions, lettuce, tomato and mustard. It's another popular BBQ food. 

3. Apple Pie 

Nothing is as American as warm apple pie. With a flaky crust and sweet filling made with fresh spiced apples, this is a classic American food and dessert that you can find on dinner tables and 4th of July dessert tables nationwide. 

4. Fried Chicken

Chicken coated in seasoned batter and deep-fried to perfection easily makes the top 10 list of favorite American dishes. The interior is juicy, the exterior is golden brown, and the flavor is tough to beat. It's a top menu item for flavorsome Kwanzaa foods and one of the top competitors is Korean fried chicken with it's double-fried goodness.  

5. Barbeque 

There is plenty of disagreement about whether Southern or Northern barbeque is best, but there is no denying that this activity is an American classic. Multiple items deserve top spots for best BBQ foods, but slow-cooked meats like pork or beef ribs that are perfectly seasoned with rubs and sauces are the most popular American food everyone raves about. 

6. Cornbread

This slightly sweet bread pairs perfectly with a hot bowl of chili or your favorite barbeque. It’s a crumbly comfort food that everyone loves. There are differences depending on where you come from. Southern cornbread is traditionally made with less sugar and smaller amounts of flour, while northern cornbread is much sweeter and more cake-like. Try both and decide for yourself. 

7. Pancakes 

Fluffy, buttery and topped with plenty of maple syrup, pancakes are a popular American food that families enjoy at breakfast or any time of day. Add whipped cream and fruit topping for a special treat. 

8. Buffalo Wings

For a delicious finger food idea that you can enjoy spicy or mild, try one of the many varieties of Buffalo wings. This American food is a classic tailgate food idea or just for some summertime fun. 

9. Macaroni and Cheese 

Creamy, cheesy and comforting macaroni and cheese is a favorite American food for dinner or as a side. Preparing and customizing it as a stovetop meal or baked dish is easy — there's a big debate about what cheese is best, but a popular solution is to chuck in several types to make it extra oozy.

10. Clam Chowder

Made with clams, onions and potatoes, clam chowder is a creamy American food that is especially popular in New England. Fresh-from-the-sea clams are a must when preparing this soupy dish. 

Traditional American Foods

Now, we'll dig deeper into the best American food, with a fuller explanation of each dish, including the history and taste profile. 

1. Hamburgers with Fixings 

Whether grabbing a quick bite at the Golden Arches of McDonald's or preparing a meal for friends in your backyard, nothing speaks to the American food culture quite like a hamburger with all the fixings. It's up for debate who first placed a ground beef patty between two slices of bread, but the origins are said to be from Hamburg steak, an import from Germany. The popular chain White Castle was the first to mass produce the classic burger, and McDonald's revolutionized the burger industry with its assembly-line production.

While you can still get your burger snatched quickly from fast food chains, the art of the burger has become something quite artisanal and competitive. From expensive Wagyu burgers to gluten-free bunless burgers, there is something for everyone. For a classic, top your ground beef, turkey or veggie patty with crisp lettuce, fresh tomato, a slice of onion, bread and butter pickles and sharp cheddar cheese for a tasty, handheld treat that will please everyone.

Elevate your game and bring the joy of this simple dish to your plate when taking cooking classes in your city. If you're in the States, you can learn all about the best techniques to creating the best American classics with cooking classes in Minneapolis, Tampa, San Antonio or Baltimore.

2. Pizza 

A grand pizza pie is one of the best American food options for a family dinner or large party. While it may have been invented in Naples, Italy, America has put its own spin on things. Whether you choose thick Chicago style or a thin and foldable New York variety, top your pie with pepperoni, fresh vegetables, a tangy tomato sauce and plenty of cheese for a crowd-pleasing dish perfect for occasions where you want to eat while you mingle. Encourage your family and friends to enjoy homemade pizza more often with an Ooni pizza oven, the perfect option when searching for unique gifts for foodies. 

3. Meatloaf

This classic American comfort food is typically made with fresh ground beef, savory breadcrumbs, eggs for binding and seasonings like pungent garlic or sweet onions. With origins in Germany (Hackbraten or minced meat roast), Sweden (Köttfärslimpa) and Denmark (Farsbrød), immigrants brought their meatloaf recipes to the United States in the 1800s. It became really popular during the Great Depression (1930s) and World War II (1940s) due to its cost-effectiveness.

Meatloaf can be prepared in advance and cooked in the oven or a slow cooker. It also freezes well for people who are fans of meal prepping. This makes it the ideal choice for families with busy schedules. Topped with ketchup or a savory glaze, it’s a filling classic American food. 

4. S’Mores 

Making and enjoying s’mores evokes nostalgia and brings people together. It is a favorite American food, whether sitting around a campfire or roasting your s’mores over a tabletop flame. Combining gooey toasted marshmallows, melted rich chocolate and crunchy and sweet graham crackers creates the ideal balance of textures and flavors that appeal to children and adults. 

Originally called “Some More,” the delicious treat first appeared in the 1927 Girl Scouts handbook, "Tramping and Trailing with the Girl Scouts." The name "Some More" reflected how irresistible they were — because people always wanted some more! Over time the name changed to S'Mores but the recipe remained the same. 

5. Hot Dogs 

Hot dogs are portable, cost-effective, and a classic American food deeply rooted in the country’s history, culture and culinary identity. According to History Cooperative, they were first developed in Frankfurt, Germany and brought to America in the 1860s. The portable dish is comprised of a sausage, bun and toppings. It thrives at ballparks, on street carts and atop the grill at summer barbecues. Their versatility makes them popular. This American food can be topped with tangy mustard, sweet ketchup or spicy chili. Some people even add sauerkraut and enjoy regional specialties like Chicago-style or Coney Island variations of the hot dog.

6. Clam Chowder

Reflecting the USA’s coastal heritage, clam chowder is a delicious and filling American food with a creamy broth, tender clams and hearty potatoes and onions. The dish is especially popular in New England during the colder months. Still, variations like the Manhattan clam chowder with a tomato base show how this dish is versatile and influenced by different regions.

Interestingly, the word "chowder" likely comes from the French word "chaudière," referring to a large pot used for cooking stews. This shows the deep European roots of this now classic American dish, coming from French and British immigrants who brought seafood stew traditions to New England colonies in the early 1800s.

7. Macaroni and Cheese 

Families love macaroni and cheese for its comforting simplicity, creamy texture and rich flavor. The dish’s roots date back to Thomas Jefferson, who brought back macaroni from France and, along with his cousin Mary Randolph who published one of the first American mac and cheese recipes in "The Virginia Housewife" in 1824, popularized it. Macaroni and cheese is an affordable American food and versatile. You can bake the dish or cook it on the stovetop and add ingredients such as jalapenos, bacon or breadcrumbs to change the flavor and texture. 

8. Potato Salad

When you think of outdoor picnics and summertime barbeque in American backyards, potato salad is a dish that often comes to mind. This versatile side dish pairs well with barbeque, hamburgers, hot dogs and fried chicken. The tangy treat is served cold and made with ingredients such as potatoes, mayonnaise, mustard, pickles, eggs and fresh seasonings. This makes it incredibly customizable, allowing families to adapt it to their tastes. 

9. Cornbread

With roots in Native American cuisine, cornbread was adapted by early settlers using cornmeal, a readily available staple. This made it a nourishing and affordable addition to their afternoon or evening meals. Today, it is a cornerstone of Southern cooking and a beloved accompaniment to chili, barbecue and fried chicken dishes. Its versatility allows regional variations, from sweet Northern-style cornbread to savory skillet-baked Southern cornbread with jalapeno spice. Easy to prepare, cornbread’s rich golden hue and crumbly buttery texture evoke feelings of comfort during mealtimes. 

10. Fried Chicken 

The tender, juicy center and crunchy, flaky exterior make fried chicken a favorite American food. The origins of this dish are deeply rooted in Southern cooking, with a flavor profile influenced by African, Scottish and American culinary traditions. Fried chicken's appeal lies in its versatility — perfect for casual family dinners, picnics, fast food grab-and-go meals or festive gatherings. The aroma of fried chicken alone can bring people together around a dinner table. 

11. Chicken and Dumplings 

Nothing says comfort food like a hearty, creamy bowl of chicken and dumplings. This American food classic, with origins in Southern and Appalachian cuisine, epitomizes homemade goodness with tender chicken, flavorful broth, fresh vegetables and pillowy dumplings. It started out as a cheap, satisfying meal for farmers and laborers, but has become an American classic. The meal is especially popular in colder months. Simmer this economical meal all day long in a crockpot to bring a people-pleasing and appetite-inspiring aroma to your home. 

12. Fried Okra 

Fried okra has a rich flavor, crispy texture and strong ties to Southern cuisine. This makes it a popular American food for appetizers or side dishes. The cornmeal coating fries up perfectly, providing the dish with a golden brown exterior that perfectly complements okra's mild and slightly earthy flavor which is enhanced by seasoning mildly with just a bit of salt and pepper. 

13. Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich 

Sometimes, the simplest dishes are the most popular, which is undoubtedly the case with a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Whether you choose crunchy or creamy peanut butter, grape or strawberry jam, white or wheat bread, this American food classic is ideal for a school lunchbox or a weekend lunch paired with a glass of milk. 

14. Poke Bowls 

Originating in Hawaii, poke bowls have become a favorite American food for families looking for healthier options. This dish reflects the islands’ multicultural heritage, combining fresh, cubed raw fish like tuna or salmon with a base of rice or greens topped with various herbs and seasoning. This creates a vibrant yet balanced flavor. With colorful toppings such as avocado, seaweed and pickled vegetables, the dish adds visual appeal to any table. 

15. Chili 

Hailing from the American Southwest region and influenced by Native American, Spanish, and Mexican cuisines, chili is a popular dish with bold flavors that warm the belly. The combination of meat, chili peppers and spices (particularly in Chili con Carne or "chili with meat") is easily tailored to local ingredients and a family’s preferences. Most chefs prepare chili in a slow cooker, allowing the element of time to bring the flavors together in a spicy yet creamy and balanced culinary profile which is far from other types around the world like Chinese Sichuan Hot Pot and Mapo Tofu, Indian Vindaloo or Thai Tom Yum. 

16. Reuben Sandwich 

The Reuben sandwich is a traditional American sandwich with hearty ingredients, bold flavors and an impressive history. Thought to have originated in the early 20th century, this deli classic borrows from the culinary traditions of Eastern European immigrants. The sandwich combines tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, creamy Swiss cheese and a zesty spread of Russian or Thousand Island dressing, all grilled between slices of buttery rye bread.

Check to see which origin story of the Reuben you believe more:

• Origin Story #1: Reuben Kulakofsky, a Lithuanian-Jewish grocer in Omaha, invented the sandwich in 1925 for his poker game group at the Blackstone Hotel. The hotel’s owner, Charles Schimmel, loved it so much that he put it on the menu. The recipe was submitted to a national sandwich contest in the 1950s and launched into widespread popularity.
• Origin Story #2: Arnold Reuben, a German-Jewish deli owner in NYC, invented the sandwich at Reuben’s Delicatessen in 1914. Some say he made it for a Broadway actress who wanted something hearty after a late-night show. But, the original Reuben’s Deli sandwich had turkey, not corned beef.

17. Roast Beef Sandwich 

Rooted in deli culture and home cooking from Jewish and Italian immigrants in cities like New York and Chicago, the roast beef sandwich is an American food showing a love of cured and roasted meats. Delis began serving thinly sliced roast beef on rye bread, often with mustard in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Beyond Arby's, it was Kelly’s Roast Beef, founded in 1951 in Revere Beach, Massachusetts, that's often credited with popularizing the modern fast-food-style roast beef sandwich. With piled-high roast beef on a bun, often served with BBQ sauce, cheese, or mayo.

The roast beef sandwich is an American food that showcases thinly sliced, juicy roast beef as its star ingredient. The tender meat pairs beautifully with toppings like tangy horseradish sauce, melted cheese, garden fresh lettuce and tomatoes. Warm or cold on crusted bread, it’s a satisfying meal.

18. Pierogies

Brought to the USA by Eastern European immigrants, particularly Poland and Ukraine, pierogies are popular in America, especially in Pennsylvania and the Midwest. These potato-filled pillowy pockets are filled with cheese and sometimes meat and sautéed with butter and onions to golden perfection. Whether served as a main dish or a side, they’re a crowd-pleaser and ideal for lunch or dinner. 

19. Red Beans and Rice

Fans of Creole cuisine consider red beans and rice a classic American food favorite. This dish originated in Louisiana, where it became a frequent choice for dinner on Mondays, often made with leftover ham bones or sausage. The dish consists of tender red beans simmered with onions, garlic, bell peppers and a spice medley including cayenne, thyme and paprika. The beans are served over fluffy white rice. 

20. Shrimp and Grits 

Shrimp and grits originated in the Lowcountry of South Carolina and Georgia and is a popular comfort food. Creamy, buttery cornmeal grits provide a warm, hearty base, while fresh-from-the-sea shrimp sautéed in a mixture of garlic and other spices add a sweet yet salty flavor. This classic dish showcases the heart and soul of Southern cuisine and is ideal for breakfast, lunch or dinner. 

21. Spaghetti and Meatballs 

While Italy is known for its pasta, spaghetti and meatballs has transformed into a favorite American food on tables across the USA. The meal is a comforting blend of the tangy, slightly sweet tomato sauce, the juicy, well-seasoned meatballs infused with garlic and herbs, and the mild, starchy goodness of al dente spaghetti. It is easy to prepare, cost-effective and a filling choice for small family dinners or large gatherings. 

22. Eggs Benedict

Reportedly originating in the late 19th century in New York City, eggs Benedict combines the elegance of poached eggs and creamy hollandaise sauce with the hearty base of toasted English muffins and savory Canadian bacon. The flavor balances the buttery richness of the hollandaise, the slight tang of the toasted muffin and the smoky saltiness of the bacon. The finishing touch is the silky yolk of the perfectly poached egg.

23. French Fries 

With origins tracing back to Belgium or France, French fries quickly became a staple side item for another popular American food, the hamburger. Their crispy exterior and puffy potato center offer the perfect texture to bite into. Whether enjoyed plain, dipped in ketchup or loaded with cheese and bacon, French fries are a universally loved treat for all ages. 

24. Classic Milkshake 

Nothing quite says nostalgia like a classic vanilla, strawberry or chocolate milkshake. This makes it a favorite American food when served alongside a burger or alone as a sweet dessert treat. The sweet, frosty treat is refreshing in the hottest months of summer and often topped with whipped cream and a cherry. 

25. Jambalaya 

Originating in Louisiana, jambalaya is a Creole and Cajun one-pot dish that blends cultural influences, including French, Spanish and West African cuisines. The hearty stew combines savory meats like chicken, sausage and shrimp with aromatic vegetables, rice and smoked spices. It’s Southern food at its finest and perfect for feeding a crowd. 

26. Gumbo 

Enjoy a hearty stew made with a flavorful roux as its base, often combined with a variety of proteins like shrimp, crab, chicken, or sausage, and served over fluffy white rice. Gumbo is a complex and savory medley of flavors, characterized by the earthy depth of the roux, the aromatic kick of spices and the briny sweetness of seafood or the smokiness of sausage. Okra or filé powder adds a subtle thickness and unique flavor to the Louisiana soul food dish.

27. Apple Pie 

The timeless appeal of apple pie makes this a beloved American food that is popular for many occasions. The flavor of this dessert is a balance of sweet and tart, with the tender, spiced apples melding perfectly with a buttery, flaky crust. Cinnamon, nutmeg and a hint of vanilla enhance the apples’ natural sweetness, creating a rich, aromatic filling. Served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it is comforting and home-like. 

28. Corn on the Cob 

Corn on the cob provides a nostalgic reminder of all we love about summer picnics and backyard barbeques. This American food is sweet with a smokey char and ideal as a side item for a steak, seafood or barbeque. A sprinkle of salt, a pat of butter or a squeeze of lime make it perfect for family meals. 

29. Corned Beef and Cabbage 

Discover an American food that families love for its comforting flavors, hearty nature and cultural significance, particularly around St. Patrick's Day. Corned beef and cabbage’s roots trace back to Irish immigrants, symbolizing Irish-American heritage and family traditions. The flavor of this slow-cooked dish is a perfect balance of savory, tender corned beef and the mild, slightly sweet taste of cabbage.

30. Steak and Baked Potato 

A hearty steak can fill anyone’s stomach, and that’s why a steak and baked potato meal is a popular American food on dinner tables across the country. Whether a juicy ribeye, tender filet mignon or flavorful New York strip, the steak is grilled or pan-seared, offering a rich, savory flavor. The baked potato complements the steak with its fluffy, starchy interior and crisp, salted skin, providing a satisfying contrast in texture.

31. Large Pretzels 

Visit any sporting event or small-town carnival in the USA and you are likely to find large pretzels. With a golden-brown, crispy exterior that gives way to a warm, soft and slightly salty interior, the pretzel is an iconic and beloved American food originating from Germany and found everywhere during Oktoberfest. The dough is enhanced with a subtle malt sweetness, and a sprinkle of coarse salt adds a satisfying crunch to every bite.

American Food for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

1. Biscuits and Gravy

A southern classic, biscuits and gravy is a dish that you’ll find in many diners across America. The hearty, fluffy biscuit is smothered in creamy, sausage dippings gravy and seasoned with black pepper. It’s a savory and slightly spiced combination that is often served alongside another classic American food, eggs and bacon. 

2. Chocolate Chip Cookies

Bring joy to your day with sweet, warm chocolate chip cookies. This American food classic is often enjoyed alongside a sandwich for lunch or as an after dinner treat. The combination of gooey chocolate chips and the crisped outer edge of the cookie is comforting and indulgent. Served with a glass of milk, it’s a favorite treat anytime of day. 

3. Fluffernutter Sandwiches

Made with peanut butter and marshmallow, the fluffernutter sandwich is a sweet treat and a popular American lunch option. It’s easy to pack for a quick bite on the go when you need a meal in a hurry, so it's ideal for the busy American lifestyle. 

4. Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Warm, gooey and satisfying, the grilled cheese sandwich is a classic choice for lunch in America. The crisp toasted bread compliments the layers of cheese inside, and the meal pairs perfectly with a bowl of tomato soup.

5. Veggies in Ranch Dressing

As a simple side for lunch or appetizer before dinner, a plate of fresh vegetables and creamy ranch dressing is a popular choice in America. The dressing pairs perfectly with the crunch of celery, baby carrots or crisp cucumbers. This American food classic is easy to prepare in advance and a lovely addition to any charcuterie board ideas. 

6. Midwestern-style Casserole

Get your day off to the right start with a Midwestern-style casserole. Combining eggs, sausage, cheese, vegetables and potatoes, the American food is savory, satisfying and perfect for entertaining a crowd and a potluck classic. Because many Midwestern families prepare casserole dishes the night before, it becomes an easy, stress-free breakfast option for busy mornings or family gatherings.

7. Chicken Fried Steak

Chicken fried steak is Southern comfort food that features a tender piece of beef, typically a tenderized cube steak, breaded and fried to crispy perfection, much like fried chicken. The crispy, golden coating contrasts with the juicy, tender meat. It is often served with creamy gravy, which adds richness and enhances the dish’s savory flavor. This American food is beloved for its balance of textures — crispy on the outside and tender on the inside — and its ability to pair well with classic side dishes like mashed potatoes, green bean casserole or cornbread. 

8. Turkey Dinner

If you're searching for Thanksgiving meal ideas, the turkey dinner always comes to mind. Consisting of a tender, golden brown turkey breast paired with sides like mashed potatoes, green bean casserole and sweet potato pie, this dinner is iconic American food and popular across the country, especially during the holidays. 

9. Bacon and Eggs

Whether you visit a diner or prepare breakfast at home, bacon and eggs are often on the menu in America. This simple yet filling breakfast food is a classic choice whether you scramble your eggs or serve them poached or sunny side up. Finish the meal with a warm biscuit or a side of flapjacks for a distinctly American food classic. 

American Food FAQs

What Is Traditional American Food?

Traditional American foods pull from diverse culinary influences, reflecting the country's multicultural history and regional diversity. Some popular dishes, such as Tex-Mex tacos or Cajun and Creole cuisine, have roots in Indigenous, European, African and other global cuisines. Other American food choices, such as hamburgers and hotdogs, are more iconic and classic. 

What Is the Most Popular Food in the USA?

Pizza is the most popular American food because it is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner and on many occasions. Across the USA, you can find regional pizza dishes, including thin-crusted New York-style pizza, Chicago deep dish and square-shaped Detroit-style pizza. 

What is American food? It’s a rich tapestry woven from different cultures, regional traditions and a shared love for flavors that unites people. It is also uniquely USA!  From the simplicity of a backyard burger to the creamy comfort of clam chowder, each dish tells a tale of innovation, adaptation, flavor and celebration. American food embodies the nation's spirit and brings joy by inviting people to enjoy life's simpler things. Whether it’s a hot dog at a ballgame, s’mores by the campfire, or gumbo on a snowy afternoon, America’s favorite dishes are more than just a meal — they are a connection to history, family and the memories we make, together.

For even more fun foodie ideas, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!