15 American Food Recipes to Savor and Share

15 American Food Recipes to Savor and Share

ByCook Maniac Team Reading Time: 13 minutes

American food is a vibrant mix of flavors and traditions that reflect the diverse culture of the country. From coast to coast, you can find a variety of dishes that showcase regional ingredients and cooking styles.

Whether you’re seeking comfort food or festive treats, American recipes offer something for every palate.

A table set with classic American dishes: burgers, hot dogs, apple pie, and fried chicken

Exploring these recipes allows you to connect with the heart of American cooking. You’ll discover beloved classics like burgers and apple pie, along with regional specialties that highlight local ingredients. Embracing these dishes in your kitchen is a great way to experience a taste of America.

1) Classic Mac and Cheese

A steaming bowl of classic mac and cheese, topped with golden breadcrumbs, sits on a rustic wooden table

Classic Mac and Cheese is a comforting dish that many love. It’s creamy, cheesy, and simple to make, making it perfect for any occasion. You can create it with common ingredients found in your kitchen.

For this recipe, you will need elbow macaroni, butter, flour, milk, and a mix of cheeses like Cheddar and Velveeta. This blend gives your dish a rich flavor that everyone enjoys.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup Cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Velveeta cheese, cubed

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to create a roux.
  4. Gradually add the milk, stirring until thickened.
  5. Remove from heat and mix in the cheeses until melted.
  6. Combine the cheese sauce with the macaroni and pour into a greased baking dish.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden. Enjoy your meal!

2) Chili Cheese Dogs

A platter of chili cheese dogs with crispy buns and melted cheese on top, surrounded by a side of golden-brown fries and a dollop of tangy coleslaw

Chili cheese dogs are a fun and tasty meal perfect for gatherings or just a cozy night in. You get the goodness of hot dogs topped with rich chili and melted cheese. It’s a classic American dish that packs a flavorful punch.

To make these, start with good quality hot dogs and buns. You can grill the hot dogs or bake them in the oven. The combination of warm chili and gooey cheese makes each bite delicious.

Serve them with your favorite toppings like onions or jalapeños for extra flavor. These chili cheese dogs will surely satisfy your cravings!

Ingredients:

  • Hot dogs
  • Hot dog buns
  • Canned chili
  • Shredded cheese
  • Onions or jalapeños (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Place hot dog buns in a baking dish.
  3. Add hot dogs to the buns.
  4. Top with chili and cheese.
  5. Bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

3) Buffalo Wings

A plate of buffalo wings with celery and blue cheese dip on a wooden table

Buffalo wings are a popular American snack that everyone loves. They are crispy chicken wings coated in a spicy sauce. You can enjoy them at parties, sports events, or just for a tasty treat at home.

To make buffalo wings, start by frying the wings in hot oil. This will give them that perfect crispy texture. Then, mix melted butter with hot sauce to create the classic flavor.

Serve the wings with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing for dipping. They are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

Ingredients

  • Chicken wings
  • Butter
  • Hot sauce
  • Celery sticks
  • Blue cheese dressing

Cooking Instructions

  1. Heat oil in a deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Fry chicken wings until golden and crispy, about 10-12 minutes.
  3. In a bowl, mix melted butter with your favorite hot sauce.
  4. Toss the fried wings in the butter and hot sauce mixture.
  5. Serve with celery sticks and blue cheese dressing.

4) Apple Pie

A rustic apple pie cooling on a windowsill, with a lattice crust and steam rising

Apple pie is a classic American dessert that many people love. It’s perfect for gatherings and family dinners. The flaky crust and sweet apple filling make it a favorite treat.

To make a delicious apple pie, you’ll need a few key ingredients. The combination of apples, sugar, and spices creates a warm flavor that fills your home with a wonderful aroma.

Ingredients

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water
  • 6 to 8 apples (peeled and sliced)
  • ¾ cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix flour, salt, and sugar. Add butter and mix until crumbly.
  3. Gradually add ice water until the dough holds together.
  4. Roll out the dough and place it in a pie pan.
  5. Combine apples, sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Pour into the crust.
  6. Top with a second crust and cut slits for steam.
  7. Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce heat to 350°F (175°C) and bake 35-45 minutes until golden brown.

5) Meatloaf

A platter of meatloaf, mashed potatoes, and green beans on a rustic wooden table

Meatloaf is a classic American dish that’s easy to make and full of flavor. It’s perfect for family dinners and can even be enjoyed as leftovers.

To prepare your meatloaf, you’ll need ground meat, breadcrumbs, eggs, and seasonings. You can also add vegetables like onions and carrots to enhance the taste.

Bake your meatloaf in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until it’s cooked through and reaches the right temperature.

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 carrot, grated
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, onion, and carrot.
  3. Shape the mixture into a loaf.
  4. Place on a baking sheet and top with ketchup.
  5. Bake for 1 hour, or until cooked through.

6) Shrimp and Grits

A steaming plate of shrimp and grits, garnished with fresh herbs, sits on a rustic wooden table. A pat of butter melts into the creamy grits, while plump shrimp are nestled on top

Shrimp and grits is a classic Southern dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. This recipe combines creamy grits with savory shrimp, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.

To make the dish, start with high-quality, stone-ground grits to ensure a creamy texture. You’ll cook them in broth and milk for added flavor. Meanwhile, sauté your shrimp with spices for a delicious kick.

Serve the shrimp over the fluffy grits, and enjoy a true taste of the South. This dish is fun to share with friends and family.

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds of jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • ½ cup of water
  • ¼ teaspoon of salt
  • 1 cup stone-ground grits
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons butter

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a saucepan, bring chicken broth, milk, butter, salt, and pepper to a boil.
  2. Slowly stir in grits and reduce heat. Cook until thick, about 15-20 minutes.
  3. In a skillet, add shrimp and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Serve shrimp over grits and enjoy!

7) New York Cheesecake

A classic New York cheesecake sits on a marble countertop, topped with a layer of glistening fruit compote. A slice has been removed, revealing the creamy texture and crumbly graham cracker crust

New York cheesecake is a classic dessert known for its rich and creamy texture. It typically has a graham cracker crust and a smooth filling made with cream cheese, eggs, and sugar.

To make it, you start by preparing the crust. Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar, then press them firmly into the bottom of a springform pan.

Next, mix the cream cheese until smooth, slowly adding sugar and eggs. Pour this mixture over the crust and bake. The cake should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center.

Let it cool and refrigerate for a few hours before serving. It’s delicious on its own or topped with fruit or whipped cream.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/2 cup melted butter
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 4 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup sugar.
  3. Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan.
  4. In a bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth.
  5. Gradually add the remaining sugar and eggs, mixing well.
  6. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  7. Pour the cheesecake filling over the crust.
  8. Bake for 50-60 minutes, until set.
  9. Let cool, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.

8) Potato Salad

A bowl of potato salad surrounded by ingredients like potatoes, mayonnaise, celery, and herbs on a wooden table

Potato salad is a classic American side dish that’s perfect for picnics and barbecues. It brings together tender potatoes, creamy dressing, and crunchy veggies for a delicious taste.

To start, you choose low-starch red boiling potatoes for the best texture. These potatoes cook evenly, so they make a great base.

You can mix in ingredients like mayonnaise, mustard, celery, and onions. This combination gives the salad a nice flavor and crunch.

Don’t forget to chill the salad before serving! This helps the flavors blend well.

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds (900g) red boiling potatoes
  • 1 cup (240ml) mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) mustard
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) vinegar
  • 1/2 cup (75g) chopped celery
  • 1/2 cup (75g) chopped onion
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. Peel and cube the potatoes into 1-inch (2.5 cm) pieces.
  2. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water.
  3. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 10-15 minutes until tender.
  4. Drain the potatoes and let them cool.
  5. In a large bowl, mix mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, celery, and onion.
  6. Add the cooled potatoes and stir gently.
  7. Season with salt and pepper.
  8. Refrigerate for at least 5 hours before serving.

9) BBQ Ribs

A platter of BBQ ribs, glistening with sauce, surrounded by corn on the cob and coleslaw, set on a checkered tablecloth

BBQ ribs are a favorite for many people. They’re juicy, tender, and packed with flavor. You can cook them in the oven for a delicious treat.

To start, gather your ingredients. You will need ribs, barbecue sauce, and some spices for seasoning.

Ingredients

  • 2 racks of pork ribs
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Mix the spices in a bowl.
  3. Rub the spice mix over the ribs.
  4. Place the ribs on a baking sheet and cover with foil.
  5. Cook in the oven for 2 to 2.5 hours.
  6. Remove the foil and brush on the barbecue sauce.
  7. Cook for an additional 30 minutes uncovered. Enjoy!

10) Pulled Pork Sandwiches

A rustic wooden table with a plate of pulled pork sandwiches, coleslaw, and pickles. A side of fries and a cold beer complete the classic American meal

Pulled pork sandwiches are a classic American dish that you can make easily at home. The pork is slow-cooked until it’s tender and full of flavor. You can serve it with your favorite barbecue sauce for extra taste.

Start with a pork shoulder, which is the best cut for this recipe. After seasoning, cook it low and slow in the oven or a slow cooker. This method gives the pork time to become juicy and easy to shred.

You can serve the pulled pork on soft buns, topped with coleslaw if you like some crunch. It’s perfect for family gatherings or game day treats.

Ingredients

  • 4 pounds pork shoulder
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce
  • Buns for serving

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Rub the pork with brown sugar, paprika, and chili powder.
  3. Place the pork in a roasting pan and cover it.
  4. Cook in the oven for 6-8 hours until tender.
  5. Shred the pork with two forks and mix with barbecue sauce.
  6. Serve on buns with your favorite toppings.

11) Jambalaya

A steaming pot of jambalaya simmering on a stovetop, surrounded by colorful ingredients like bell peppers, onions, andouille sausage, and shrimp

Jambalaya is a classic American dish that blends flavors from Creole and Cajun cooking. It’s a hearty, one-pot meal filled with meat, rice, and veggies. Each bite is usually packed with spices, making it truly delightful.

You can use a mix of meats like chicken, sausage, and shrimp. The dish often includes ingredients like tomatoes, bell peppers, and Cajun seasoning. This gives jambalaya its unique taste.

Cooking jambalaya is straightforward. You start by browning your meats, then adding vegetables and spices. Finally, stir in rice and let it all simmer until the rice is cooked through.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound sausage
  • 1 pound chicken
  • 1 cup rice
  • 1 bell pepper
  • 1 onion
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning

Cooking Instructions

  1. Brown the sausage and chicken in a large pot.
  2. Add chopped onion and bell pepper; cook until soft.
  3. Stir in diced tomatoes and Cajun seasoning.
  4. Add rice and chicken broth.
  5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover.
  6. Simmer for about 20 minutes, or until rice is tender.

12) Fried Green Tomatoes

A sizzling skillet of fried green tomatoes with a side of creamy dipping sauce on a rustic wooden table

Fried green tomatoes are a classic American dish. They are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. This tasty treat is perfect as a snack or side dish.

To make them, slice green tomatoes about 1/2 inch thick. Then, coat them in a mixture of flour, cornmeal, and spices. You can add garlic powder and cayenne for extra flavor.

Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, around 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the coated tomato slices in the hot oil. Fry until golden brown on both sides.

You can serve your fried green tomatoes with a dipping sauce or enjoy them plain. They are sure to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients

  • 3 green tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup flour
  • 1/2 cup cornmeal
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Oil for frying

Cooking Instructions

  1. Slice green tomatoes 1/2 inch thick.
  2. Mix flour, cornmeal, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
  3. Heat oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C).
  4. Coat tomato slices in the flour mixture.
  5. Fry slices until golden brown on both sides.
  6. Drain on paper towels and serve.

13) Chocolate Chip Cookies

A plate of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies cooling on a wire rack

Chocolate chip cookies are a beloved American treat. They are soft, chewy, and filled with melted chocolate chips. You can enjoy them warm right from the oven or let them cool for later.

For a simple recipe, start by mixing flour, baking soda, and salt in one bowl. In another bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Add in an egg and some vanilla extract.

Slowly combine the dry ingredients with the wet ones. Finally, fold in the chocolate chips.

Bake your cookies at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for about 10 to 12 minutes. Let them cool on a wire rack for the best taste.

Ingredients:

  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 cups chocolate chips

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
  2. Mix the flour, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
  3. In another bowl, cream the butter and sugars together.
  4. Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and blend well.
  5. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
  6. Fold in the chocolate chips.
  7. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet.
  8. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes.
  9. Let cool on a wire rack.

14) Crab Cakes

A sizzling skillet of golden brown crab cakes, surrounded by a garnish of fresh lemon wedges and sprigs of parsley

Crab cakes are a delicious American dish you can enjoy as an appetizer or a main course. They are often made with fresh crab meat, seasonings, and breadcrumbs. These cakes have a lovely crispy outside and a tender inside.

You can choose different varieties of crab meat, like jumbo lump or backfin, depending on your preference. The key is to combine the meat with the right mix of flavors, including mayo, mustard, and Old Bay seasoning for a classic touch.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound crab meat
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning
  • 1 egg
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Oil for frying

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix crab meat, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, mustard, Old Bay seasoning, egg, salt, and pepper.
  2. Form the mixture into patties.
  3. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat (350°F / 175°C).
  4. Fry crab cakes until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side.

15) Southern-Style Biscuits and Gravy

A plate of flaky, golden biscuits smothered in creamy sausage gravy, served alongside a steaming cup of coffee

Southern-style biscuits and gravy is a beloved comfort food. You’ll enjoy the fluffy biscuits topped with rich, creamy sausage gravy. It’s perfect for breakfast, but many love it for lunch or dinner too.

To make this dish, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Start with homemade biscuits for the best flavor. The gravy is made with sausage, which gives it a delicious taste.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter (cold)
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 pound breakfast sausage
  • 2 cups milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

  2. Mix flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.

  3. Cut in cold butter until crumbly.

  4. Stir in buttermilk until just combined.

  5. Roll and cut into biscuits.

  6. Bake in the oven for about 15 minutes.

  7. In a skillet, cook the sausage until browned.

  8. Add milk and simmer while stirring.

  9. Season with salt and pepper.

  10. Serve gravy over warm biscuits.

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