North America
Food of United States
The 11 most iconic national dishes of United States — real photos, key ingredients and tasty facts behind every plate.
Americas
Hamburger
A grilled or fried ground-beef patty served in a sliced bun, usually with cheese, pickles, onion and sauces. It is one of the most recognizable American foods worldwide.
Did you know?
Although inspired by Hamburg-style beef, the hamburger sandwich took shape in the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Hot dog
A cooked sausage in a soft bun, commonly topped with mustard, relish, onions or sauerkraut. Its salty, smoky flavor and portability made it a classic ballpark and street food.
Did you know?
Hot dogs became closely tied to American baseball culture in the early 20th century and remain a staple at stadiums.
Barbecue ribs
Pork or beef ribs are slow-cooked over wood or charcoal until tender, then finished with a spice rub or sticky barbecue sauce. Regional styles vary, but the smoky, sweet-savory taste is unmistakably American.
Did you know?
American barbecue has major regional traditions, including Memphis, Kansas City, Texas and the Carolinas, each with distinct sauces and smoking methods.
Fried chicken
Chicken pieces are seasoned, coated in flour or batter, and deep-fried until crisp and juicy. It is especially associated with Southern cooking and comfort food.
Did you know?
Southern fried chicken developed from a blend of Scottish frying techniques and West African seasoning traditions in the American South.
Apple pie
A baked pastry pie filled with sliced apples, sugar and warm spices, often served with ice cream. Its buttery crust and sweet-tart filling made it a lasting American symbol.
Did you know?
The phrase 'as American as apple pie' became popular in the 20th century, even though apple pie itself has older European roots.
Clam chowder
A rich soup of clams, potatoes and aromatics, most famously in the creamy New England style. It has a briny, hearty flavor that reflects the cooking of the Northeastern coast.
Did you know?
New England clam chowder was important enough to inspire an 1836 anti-tomato protest in Maine, where tomato-based versions were considered heresy.
Macaroni and cheese
Tender macaroni is coated in a creamy cheese sauce and often baked until bubbling and golden. It is one of the best-known American comfort dishes.
Did you know?
Thomas Jefferson helped popularize macaroni in the United States after encountering pasta dishes in Europe and serving a baked version at the White House.
Buffalo wings
Chicken wings are deep-fried and tossed in a spicy butter-and-hot-sauce coating, then usually served with celery and blue cheese dressing. They are messy, tangy and strongly associated with American sports bars.
Did you know?
Buffalo wings were first created in Buffalo, New York, at the Anchor Bar in 1964.
Pancakes
Fluffy griddle cakes are served stacked with butter and maple syrup, often alongside bacon or fruit. Their soft texture and sweet, buttery taste make them a classic American breakfast.
Did you know?
American pancakes are typically thicker and fluffier than many European versions because they use chemical leavening such as baking powder.
Scrapple
A Mid-Atlantic breakfast specialty made by cooking pork scraps with cornmeal into a loaf, then slicing and frying it. It is especially associated with Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland.
Did you know?
Scrapple descends from German-American food traditions, especially the Pennsylvanian adaptation of panhas.
Burgoo
A thick regional stew from Kentucky and surrounding states, traditionally made in large outdoor batches. Recipes vary widely and may combine several meats and vegetables.
Did you know?
Burgoo is closely linked with Kentucky political rallies, community gatherings, and barbecue events.