People love to claim that the USA doesn’t have a real food culture, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. While American cuisine may not be as ancient as that of Europe or Asia, it has developed its own unique and beloved dishes over time. From coast to coast, you’ll find foods that are undeniably American-born and deeply rooted in the country’s history.
So, the next time someone says the USA has no culinary tradition, hit them with these 12 delicious, all-American classics.
Cobb Salad
The Cobb salad was created in Los Angeles in 1937 when Bob Cobb, the owner of The Brown Derby restaurant, tossed together whatever ingredients he could find in the fridge for a late-night meal. The mix of lettuce, tomato, crispy bacon, hard-boiled eggs, avocado, blue cheese, and chicken was such a hit that it became a permanent menu item.
Today, this hearty salad is a staple on menus across the country, proving that even a simple salad can become legendary.
Jerky
Jerky is the ultimate American snack—portable, protein-packed, and perfect for road trips or hiking. While many believe it evolved from Native American pemmican, the modern version is a dried, salted meat snack that has been a favorite for centuries.
Whether it’s beef, turkey, or even exotic meats like bison, jerky is an American staple that proves snacking can be both practical and delicious.
Chicken Fried Steak
Imagine crispy, golden-fried breading around a juicy steak, topped with a creamy, peppery gravy—that’s chicken-fried steak, and it’s comfort food at its best. While its origins are debated, Texas claims it as its own, with influences from German and Austrian immigrants who brought schnitzel to the region.
Served with mashed potatoes and black-eyed peas, this dish is southern soul food perfection.
Macaroni and Cheese
Think mac and cheese is Italian? Think again. While pasta may have originated in Italy, this ultra-creamy, cheesy dish is all-American. The legend goes that Thomas Jefferson fell in love with a noodle dish in Europe and brought the idea home. His cousin, Mary Randolph, then included the first written recipe for macaroni and cheese in an 1824 cookbook.
The rest is history. Today, it’s one of the most beloved comfort foods in the USA.
Buffalo Wings
There’s nothing more American than a plate of saucy, spicy Buffalo wings. This classic bar food was invented in 1964 at Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York, when Teressa Bellissimo fried up some wings and tossed them in hot sauce, butter, and vinegar.
Now, Buffalo wings are a game-day essential, and the USA’s love for them is unmatched.
Popcorn
Popcorn has been a part of American history for thousands of years. Native Americans were already popping corn as early as 3600 BC, and by the 1800s, it had become a popular snack at fairs and carnivals.
Today, popcorn is synonymous with movie theaters, and whether you like it buttery, cheesy, or caramel-coated, it’s one of America’s favorite snacks.
S’mores
Nothing says American camping trip like s’mores. The combination of toasted marshmallow, melted chocolate, and crunchy graham crackers has been a favorite fireside treat for generations.
Even though they aren’t well-known outside the USA, they remain a must-have for every bonfire and summer cookout.
Lobster rolls
New England is famous for its lobster rolls, and for good reason. This sandwich is a perfect balance of simplicity and indulgence, featuring fresh chunks of lobster meat tossed in butter or mayo and stuffed into a soft, toasted bun.
While other countries might question the lobster-and-bread combo, Americans know that a proper New England lobster roll is pure seafood heaven.
Chocolate-chip cookies
America gave the world the chocolate chip cookie, and we couldn’t be more grateful. The story goes that in the 1930s, Ruth Wakefield accidentally created the first batch at her Toll House Inn in Massachusetts.
Fast forward to today, and chocolate chip cookies are one of the most popular cookies in the world. Thank you, Ruth, for this delicious mistake.
Chicago-style pizza
Pizza may have originated in Italy, but Chicago made it its own. Unlike traditional thin-crust pizza, Chicago-style pizza is deep-dish, with a thick, buttery crust, chunky tomato sauce, and layers of cheese.
Created in the 1940s at Pizzeria Uno, this pizza is so thick and hearty, it’s practically a meal on its own.
Hot dogs
Hot dogs may have German roots, but they became a true American classic thanks to Charles Feltman, a German immigrant in New York. He’s credited with putting sausages into buns to create a portable, mess-free meal.
But it was Nathan Handwerker’s Coney Island hot dog stand that made them a nationwide phenomenon. Today, hot dogs are a staple at ballparks, backyard barbecues, and street carts across the country.
Banana split
Banana splits are a classic American dessert, but no one can agree on who actually invented them. Some say David Strickler made the first one in Pennsylvania in 1904, while others credit Ernest Hazard in Ohio in 1907.
Regardless of its origins, this over-the-top sundae—featuring a banana, scoops of ice cream, whipped cream, chocolate sauce, and cherries—is an all-American indulgence.
Conclusion
Next time someone claims America doesn’t have its own cuisine, remind them of these 12 iconic dishes. From hearty comfort foods to legendary snacks, the USA has built a rich and diverse food culture that’s loved around the world.
The article was inspired by CNN and first appeared on Spatula Desserts.
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