American cuisine is influencing the globe. From the mouth-watering street food of New York to the popular dishes of California, everything makes it worth trying. American foods are more than a meal because they represent America’s tradition and rich heritage. No matter whether you are a hardcore traveler or a foodie, trying out the top 10 American foods will be a perfect adventure for your taste buds.
Whether it is the juicy burgers or the fancy sandwiches, every American food has become a classic fast food. These foods have crossed all borders and have been cherished by millions of hearts. So, what are you waiting for? Dive into American cuisine because it is not only about taste but also the slice of culture that gives you the best experience.
If you are someone who has seen those popular American dishes only in pictures, then sit tight. We are going to take you on a journey through the top 10 American foods through this blog, and we are pretty sure they will blow your mind.
1. Hamburgers
Your food choices are reflected in your personality. Just like that, hamburgers are the soul of Americans. Originating in the 19th century somewhere in Texas, the basic hamburger is made with seasoned ground beef patties, ketchup, mustard sauce, onions, tomatoes, lettuce, pickles, and mayonnaise. No matter where you go in America, you can find hamburgers everywhere.
People take hamburger deliveries on the go and enjoy them for breakfast, lunch, and sometimes dinner too. You will find a number of people sitting in the garden and enjoying their burgers. Numerous restaurants serve their own versions of hamburgers. You can stop by any of the places when visiting America and enjoy delicious burgers.
Where to Try: June’s All Day, Austin, Texas, Datz’s, Tampa, Florida, Simon & the Whale, New York
2. Breakfast Sausages
If something is so hearty, homey, and comfy, then it’s definitely breakfast sausages. These savory sausages are a staple food in American cuisine and are made with ground pork. These sausages are the quintessential American breakfast, which goes well with onions, apples, cabbage, and tomatoes. The journey of sausages started somewhere in Europe but soon became a popular food item in America.
Where to Try: Chick-fil-A, McDonald’s, Jack in the Box, Biscuitville
3. Hot Dogs
You must have witnessed hot dogs in most Hollywood movies. The most iconic hot dogs are an emblem of American street food culture. The classic hot dogs are made from a blend of beef and pork and sandwiched between buns, topped with tomatoes, ketchup, and mustard. It’s great to know that hot dogs are closely related to baseball in American culture. Back in time, these sausages were imported from Germany and became popular in America. Now you see every kid, every metropolitan woman, and every professional grabbing their sausages for a perfect American breakfast.
Where to Try: Portillo’s & Barnelli’s Chicago, Kim and Carlo’s
4. Apple Pie
Apple Pie has surely become an iconic symbol of America, but it originated in England in 1381. This American dessert has a home-baked sweetness and reminds you of your childhood days. The apple pie features a flaky pastry crust filled with sweetened, spiced apples, served warm with chilled vanilla ice cream.
From every small to a big celebration, apple Pie is ruling the top position as a traditional American food. Numerous apple pie flavors are available on most American restaurants’ menus, including Dutch Apple Pie, French Apple Pie, Caramel Apple Pie, and the much-appreciated Apple Cranberry Pie.
Where to Try: Moms Apple Pie, Checkers, McDonald’s
5. Pancakes
Let’s talk about one of the most beloved American breakfasts: pancakes. These light, fluffy, and totally delicious pancakes have been around in American food culture for ages. The origin of the pancakes dates back to ancient Greece.
Dutch settlers brought the pancake recipe to America in the late 1700s. Since then, this American food item has become quite popular. You will be surprised to know that these pancakes are called by so many names in America, like flapjacks, griddle cakes, Indian cakes, and even hoecakes.
These thin, flat cakes are prepared from butter, eggs, flour, sugar, and vanilla and cooked on a hot surface. People enjoy these flat cakes with chocolate sauce or maple syrup.
Where to Try: Clinton St. Baking Company, The Original Pancake House – DTC
6. Mac And Cheese
Mac and cheese is hands-down one of the top American foods that is full of cheese. It’s not a dish; it’s an emotion for Americans. This lovely dish is an amalgamation of three cheeses: parmesan, mozzarella, and cheddar. Mac and cheese is all about cooked macaroni noodles covered in cheesy sauce and topped with shaved parmesan.
Did you know that mac and cheese originated in the late 1700s? You heard it right! Mac and Cheese’s origins go back to the 14th century in Italy and medieval England and were brought by Thomas Jefferson to the United States. Many homeowners in America have this classic Mac and Cheese recipe in their hands, but some of the popular American restaurants have their own special ways of preparing it.
Where to Try: Beecher’s Handmade Cheese (Seattle), Cheesetique (Arlington and Alexandria, Virginia),
7. New York Style Cheesecake
You can’t talk about American desserts without referring to the classic New York-style cheesecake. Creamy, rich, and undiluted—all these adjectives fall short of describing the heartwarming cheesecake. This premium culinary brainchild is made with cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and a hint of vanilla, all resting on a buttery cracker crust.
The origin of this dessert traces back to the streets of New York. A chef named Arnold Reuben, owner of Reuben’s restaurant is credited with creating the first New York-style cheesecake. In present times, cheesecake is present in various forms. German cheesecake is made with sour cream. Italian cheesecake is prepared with ricotta, whereas Philadelphia’s cheesecake is known for being lighter and creamier. But Reuben’s cheesecake is a hit in New York and has created a sweet history among dessert lovers.
Where to Try: Angelina Bakery NYC, Benjamin Steakhouse, Posh Pop Bakeshop
8. French Fries
If the burger is the soul of Americans, then fries are the heart. French fries are a beloved American snack. Crispy, golden potato fried sticks are the perfect indulgence to pair with any dish you like. These fries are so crunchy and soft inside that they keep you munching on them.
We think that fries originated in America, but their story actually started in Belgium. The country claims to have invented fries in the late 1600s. Back in time, soldiers during World War I enjoyed fries as a snack with fish. Now, French is a staple in the U.S. and on the top list of the best American foods.
Where to Try: Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, Central Cafe, Bradenton, Florida, Matt’s Red Hots, Fort Myers, Florida
9. Chicken Nuggets
A popular and widely available comfort food in America is chicken nuggets. These crispy bite-sized nuggets are made with juicy boneless chicken coated with batter. Plus, they come with a variety of dipping sauces, including ketchup, BBQ sauce, honey mustard sauce, and ranch sauce.
Chicken nuggets first originated in the United States in the 1950s. Robert C. Baker, a food scientist and professor at Cornell University, invented these amazing crispy bites. His invention became so popular that now every American enjoys it once a week. If you are traveling to any of the U.S.A. cities, it’s a good idea to try these nuggets. They are a true symbol of American culture and will definitely stay on your mind for a long time.
Where to Try: Burger King Chicken Fries, Sonic, Popeyes Nuggets
10. Tacos
Foodies all around the world have a special place for tacos. These tacos are the ultimate American food that originated from Mexico. However, Americans love this way too much just like any other food. Soft tortillas are filled with meat, veggies, and cheese, and topped with salsa. Every bite carries flavors that are to be cherished and remembered.
Tacos come in so many varieties that you can’t count on your fingers. You can find beef, chicken, fish, pork, and even vegetarian tacos. Each has its own unique taste and texture. Tacos, which started as a simple street food, quickly became a go-to meal for everyone.
Where to Try: Xochipilli Taco Bar in Van Nuys, California, Tacos Doña Lena in Houston, Texas, The Craft Taco at SOVA in San Diego, California
Conclusion
In conclusion, we have talked all about the top 10 American foods. The iconic foods of America, like hamburgers, apple pie, and mac & cheese, are tasty and easy to make. So, whenever you get a chance to make or eat American food, remember the rich history of it as you savor every bite.
