The Top 28 Most Popular Foods in the USA

Here you will find mouth-watering favourites and the most consumed dishes in America. These dishes include iconic comfort foods and innovative culinary creations that have captured hearts across the country.

Venturing into a new country can be exciting, and one of the most thrilling aspects for many people is discovering the various regional specialties. The United States, a true melting pot, boasts a food culture uniquely influenced by virtually every culture throughout the world, making its food scene remarkably varied.

As Emeril Lagasse famously said, “The quality of the ingredients is so great here, that I’m sure it’s one of the reasons why people love coming to America to eat.”

From the smoky flavours of Southern barbecue to the fresh, innovative dishes of California cuisine, the quality across the country is fantastic. Don’t miss out on classic American comfort food like burgers, fried chicken, and apple pie. Each bite offers a taste of America’s rich culinary heritage.

Whether you’re visiting for a short trip or planning to relocate to the USA, experiencing the local cuisine is a delicious way to connect with the country’s diverse culture. If you need assistance with shipping your belongings, be sure to contact PSS Removals. Now, read further to find out our list of the top 28 popular foods in the USA that you must try.

1. Hamburgers – Often considered a quintessential American food.

Why do Americans love hamburgers so much? First of all, they taste great and are among the most versatile food options available. You can put virtually any toppings between two buns to work in accordance with a specialty all-beef patty. Whether you choose to use a grill, griddle, or simply pan fry the patty is up to you, but you cannot go wrong with a perfect hamburger.

The hamburger bun is unique to America as well. It is sweeter and softer than in other countries. They come with sesame seeds, plain, poppy seeds, and some even have pretzel-style bread. Among the oddest combinations is a doughnut bun. A doughnut is sliced and used as a sweet treat to cut through the savoury nature of the meat. Perfection!

2. Biscuits and Gravy – A staple in Southern breakfasts.

Although Biscuits and Gravy are available in other parts of America, they are best in the South. It takes trial and error to get the exact right consistency to make a proper biscuit. Some southern cooks can practice for years to perfect their biscuit recipe and everyone has a grandmother that made them best.

The gravy that goes on these slices of heaven is a milk based sauce thickened with flour. Yes, it’s heavy. Yes, it’s not healthy, but time and time again, Southerners order biscuits and gravy at restaurants and make them for their own families for breakfast. A great reason to move to America is definitely their biscuit and gravy.

3. Hot dogs – Iconic at sporting events and casual dining.

 

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Hot dogs are the natural accompaniment to a great hamburger and these beauties are sold at every sporting event throughout the country. They are a quick meal and just like the burger, have an endless amount of toppings that can be added. Regionally, hot dog toppings are very different. In the North, its all about the mustard, while southern states often add cool, creamy coleslaw for a slaw dog that simply can’t be beat.

4. Po’ Boy – A New Orleans classic that has broader appeal.

Not all foods in America are considered food for the rich and famous. Enter the Po’Boy, it is a New Orleans treat and the name Po’Boy is adapted from the original Poor Boy Sandwich. The true original was fried oysters on a French baguette. However, the humble sandwich has evolved greatly since the 1800s.

Today, you can get a Po’Boy featuring crawfish, shrimp, beef, and any number of other meats along with various spreads. Lettuce and tomato top off this Lousiana specialty.

5. Chocolate Chip Cookies – A beloved sweet treat nationwide.

There are so many ways to make a cookie, but time and time again, the chocolate chip cookie reigns supreme in America. Bittersweet, milk, white, and bitter chocolate varieties can be used to make this iconic American comfort food. Pair your favourite chocolate chip cookie with a cold glass of milk and you have every American’s child’s perfect snack.

6. Apple Pie – Commonly referred to as “as American as apple pie.”

There is no truer statement! Apple pie runs through the veins of every American. The basic formula for apple pie may be simple, but the variety of apple has got to be just right. Granny Smith Apples tend to be the premier choice for their slightly tart, yet sweet taste, but every cook has their preference.

Almost as important as how the pie tastes is how an Apple Pie looks. The perfect Apple Pie features a thick cinnamon apple interior with perfectly flaky lattice top. The lattice work is supposed to be decorative, but it also aids in cooking the interior of the pie. Vent holes are essential to maintain an Apple Pie’s shape while baking.

7. BBQ Ribs – Popular, especially in Southern and Midwestern states.

 

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The BBQ war is very real in the South and Midwestern states and the king of all meats in the BBQ world is ribs. Many families even have their very own homemade BBQ sauce and keep it as a closely guarded secret. Go ahead and get the BBQ Ribs while visiting America. You won’t regret it.

A little tip when looking for a great BBQ restaurant. If there is a line wrapping around the building, go for it! Chain BBQ Rib restaurants are fine, but the most authentic and best ribs come from years of struggle and dedication to the BBQ craft. Small family owned spots will have the best BBQ Ribs you’ll ever eat.

8. Macaroni and Cheese – A staple comfort food.

This one is very unique to America. We love our casseroles and Macaroni and Cheese certainly falls into the casserole category. Elbow noodles, a homemade cheese sauce, and a bread crumb and cheese topping baked to perfection. Whether eating it as a side or a whole meal, this comfort food is an American staple that will please all the cheese lovers.

9. Pizza (Chicago-style) – Widely enjoyed, though regional preferences vary.

 

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Pizza may be eaten around the world, but only in Chicago is it so robust you have to eat it with a fork. This special type of pizza is baked in a deep dish pan with mountains of gooey provolone, mozzarella, and other cheeses falling out when cut. It takes an average of 45 minutes to properly cook a Chicago Style Pizza, so be patient. It’s worth it!

Chicago Style Pizza is more of an experience than just another food. They are very large and can feed a whole crowd, so bring plenty of people to enjoy your first taste of this incredible American delicacy. Also, do not try to compare types of pizza in Chicago. They only understand Chicago Style. No New York Thin Crust or Crazy California Style Pizza for Chicagoans. The

10. Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich – A classic

Two spreads on one sandwich may sound odd to some, but those people have never had a Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich. Eating one of these after playing with friends is a right of passage in America and Canada.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwiches are so popular there are even complete restaurants devoted to this one food. Inside the walls of these hallowed spaces, you can add additional spreads, toppings, have a grilled version, or even have it deep fried. No, I’m not kidding. It’s true.

11. Buffalo Wings – Popular in bars and at home during sports events.

 

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So, who actually invented the Buffalo Wing? That is up for debate as many claim to be the inventor, but no matter where you believe it came from, you won’t be able to stop eating them. The chicken wing was once the last part of the bird anyone wanted to eat, but thanks to a special spicy sauce, the Buffalo Wing is now the choice cut.

12. Cornbread – Essential in Southern cooking.

You will hear a lot about cornbread, especially in the South. This cornmeal cake is more than just bread, it is an institution and many claim the only way to properly cook cornbread is by using a Cast Iron Skillet to make it more crispy and flavourful.

There is another heated debate on whether or not to add sugar to cornbread. Try the cornbread without the sugar first, and then find out whether you would like it sweeter.

13. Sundae – A Favourite American dessert.

Nothing seems to be simple in America and that includes our ice cream. An ice cream sundae is one of America’s favourite desserts and there is no limit to the number of toppings allowed. Whether you want strawberry, chocolate, butterscotch, caramel, or any other variety of syrups and toppings, you can have it on a sundae.

14. Fried Chicken (Southern style) – Deeply rooted in the South but loved nationwide.

Fried Chicken was born in the South, but loved by all. Everyone has their own recipe they use. Some prefer a wet batter while others simply use seasoned flour and even some who will marinate chicken in buttermilk or pickle juice, but no matter how it is done, a properly fried piece of chicken is fuel for the soul.

When ordering Fried Chicken, you will be asked what piece do you prefer. It’s all good, but the dark meat has more of the flavour from the bird. The breast can be a popular choice, but white meat dries out faster than dark. For your first Fried Chicken experience, order the dark meat. You won’t regret your decision. Also, turnip greens and mashed potatoes and gravy with a biscuit is the ideal meal choice.

15. Clam Chowder – Especially popular in New England.

Pronounced “Chowda” in Boston, Clam Chowder is basically a cream soup featuring clams and potatoes. When made properly, a good Clam Chowder just makes you feel warm and happy inside. There are different varieties, but we don’t talk about those. Keep it classic.

Many say is it is worth living in the East Coast alone for their wonderful Clam Chowder!

16. Pecan Pie – A Southern dessert that has nationwide appeal.

When you are in the market for a true sugar explosion, turn to a Pecan Pie. It is a basic, flaky pie crust with a syrupy soup of corn syrup and pecans congealed by pure magic in the oven. No, there is not a way to make this one healthy or sugar free! Don’t even try.

17. Meatloaf – A common comfort food in American households.

Where did meatloaf come from? That’s a long story, but no matter, it has become a true American staple. Meat along with spices and binders works together to form a loaf of heavenly goodness coated with ketchup. Although there are more gourmet versions, the American classic will always be the best.

18. Red Velvet Cake – Enjoyed across the country, especially on special occasions.

Most people that have made a red velvet cake are horrified by the amount of red dye, but no matter, this is a true Southern classic. Red Velvet Cake is a chocolate cake with enough red dye to brighten up the color a lot! The final addition to this delectable dessert is a cream cheese frosting. Delicious!

19. Sloppy Joe – A popular, easy-to-make sandwich.

Grab some napkins and possibly a bibb for this American treat. Sloppy Joes are a lunchroom staple. Basically, it is a loose ground beef sandwich soaked in BBQ sauce. There is no dignified way to eat a Sloppy Joe and no one is going to judge you for it in America, so dig in!

20. Texas Smoked Brisket – Central to Texas barbecue, enjoyed nationally.

Do not argue with a Texan about where the best Brisket is. They know they own the rights to that. Texas Smoked Brisket takes hours and even days to prepare properly. Brisket is a generally tough cut of meat, but Texans have found a way to make it fall off the bone tender and turned it into an institution.

Pit masters throughout Texas have their own way of smoking the meat and they will not tell you their secrets, so don’t bother asking. Instead, just enjoy the experience of eating Texas Smoked Brisket.

21. Jambalaya – Represents Cajun and Creole cuisine, popular in and beyond Louisiana.

 

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Creole and Cajun cuisine is an experience all its own and Jambalaya is the king of all foods in Louisiana. Jambalaya comes from a unique mix of African, Spanish, and French cuisines. Essentially, it is a mixture of vegetables, meats, and seafood, served over rice.

Each Cajun cook has their own recipe and just like with Texas and their Brisket, don’t bother asking for specifics. Expect there to be bell peppers, onions, and celery.

22. New England Lobster Roll – A regional specialty that’s prized nationwide.

Few people, outside New England may have had a Lobster Roll. This treat was born and raised in Maine and throughout the New England States due to Lobster availability in the area. New England cooks love to think up new ways to eat, prepare, and serve their beloved Lobster, thus the Lobster Roll was born.

Essentially, it is cut up lobster, coated in a light sauce, and placed on a toasted, buttered roll. You are going to want more than one, so don’t hesitate to order a few from any lobster roll stand in New England. Seriously, these are just as popular in New England as hot dogs are throughout the country.

23. Tater Tots – A popular side dish in homes and schools.

Outside of America, Tater Tots are unheard of, but basically, we found another way to utilise the most versatile ingredient in any kitchen, the Humble Potato! Tater Tots are simply minced up potatoes moulded into a small, oblong shape and deep fried.

Kids in public schools learn early on how valuable tater tots are and just like with French Fries, you can add any number of toppings to make them better. Ketchup, Mustard, Chili, and Nacho Cheese are just a few things you can add to make Tater Tots even better than they already are.

24. Green Bean Casserole – A traditional dish often served at Thanksgiving.

You either love Green Bean Casserole or you hate it. There is generally no in between. It is a staple food at the traditional Thanksgiving meal and few people prepare it outside the holiday season. Green Bean Casserole is Green Beans mixed with spices and Cream of Mushroom Soup, topped with Crispy Fried Onions (in a can) and baked until bubbly and good. Green Bean Casserole is an experience you must try while visiting America.

25. Cobb Salad – A mainstay in many American restaurants.

You may not consider a salad as being part of the staple American diet, but one salad makes the list for good reason. A Cobb Salad is not your typical salad, but a meal in itself. Unlike other foods featured on this list, there is no mystery behind the invention of the Cobb Salad.

The first Cobb Salad was made at the Brown Derby Restaurant in LA. Robert Cobb was the proprietor of the restaurant at the time and he was trying to improvise a meal for a customer. Cobb went through the refrigerator looking for ingredients and came up with a salad featuring iceberg lettuce, hardboiled eggs, chicken, bacon, chives, avocado, tomatoes, and cheese. The traditional Cobb is still available, but it has evolved to include a variety of different ingredients including turkey and there is even a seafood version.

26. Fajitas – Popularized in Tex-Mex cuisine and widely enjoyed.

Although you can get Fajitas at any Mexican Restaurant throughout America, it is not actually Spanish in origin. The flavorful fajita was born from Tex-Mex cuisine. Highly spiced meats, peppers, onions, and tomatoes are seared together in an iron skillet. The skillet is brought to your table piping hot and served with flour tortillas, lettuce, tomato, Pico de gallo and avocado.

Shrimp, chicken, and steak are the standard meats available for fajitas, but most menus have an option for all three meats. That delicacy is called Texas Fajitas. Just a little tip for you the next time you crave fajitas in America.

27. Corn Dogs – A staple at American fairs and festivals.

The perfect combination of two American staple foods. Hot Dogs and Cornbread come together beautifully with Corn Dogs. German immigrants in Texas are responsible for this amazing combination. In the 1920s, German sausage was first battered in cornmeal batter and deep fried to golden perfection. To make the food more portable at fairs and festivals, a stick was added and the Corndog as we know it was born.

Different versions of the Corndog are available including one with a sweet pancake batter in place of cornmeal served at breakfast. No matter what version you find, you will truly enjoy the humble Corndog.

28. Doughnuts – A beloved sweet treat available in countless variations across the country.

 

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In America, you can’t go wrong by frying something to golden perfection. Doughnuts are the perfect example of this. Although there are a wide range of different flavours, at its core, doughnuts are a basic yeast risen dough in a round shape with the centre whole cut out of the middle. The whole is essential to help the doughnuts fry faster and more evenly, but there are plenty of recipes that keep the whole doughnut in tact for filling to be added after frying.

If you have never had an American doughnut, you will certainly find them when visiting. Most grocery stores carry fresh doughnuts in their bakery departments and when you need one quickly, doughnut chain restaurants offer them at the drive through. Toppings include standard glaze, specialty flavoured icing, chocolate, cinnamon, coffee, and never neglect the opportunity to try one featuring maple and bacon. It’s an odd combination that simply works.

 Are you looking to relocate to America?

American cuisine presents a delectable variety of choices sure to satisfy your palate. From iconic favourites like hamburgers and hot dogs to unique regional dishes such as Texas brisket and New England clam chowder, there’s something to please everyone.

For those with a sweet tooth, delights like apple pie and chocolate chip cookies taste even more divine in America. You’ll quickly uncover a rich and diverse culinary culture that feels welcoming and familiar.

If you’re considering relocating to America from the UK, handling the move on your own is not the best approach for a seamless transition. Thankfully, PSS International Removals is here to assist you.

We simplify the process by providing expert packing and moving services, including international shipping to the USA and furniture removals. Let us handle the stress of your international move, so you can focus on settling into your new home.