15 Midwest Recipes Everyone Should Try at Least Once

If you’ve ever been anywhere in the Midwest, you know there’s a lot more than meets the eye. From the beautiful landscape to the friendly people, it’s a favorite destination among many travelers.

One of the best things about the Midwest is the food. For instance, if you’ve ever been to Chicago, you know the famous deep-dish pizza. Or how about Cincinnati chili in Ohio? There’s a lot to be discovered when visiting the Heartland of America. Let’s get into it and unearth 15 Midwest recipes that we think everyone should try at least once. While this isn’t a complete list, these are still some of the most popular dishes, beloved by both residents and travelers alike.

Easy Goulash

This easy and tasty recipe is not only a favorite among Midwesterners, but for people all around the country and world. Originating in Hungary, goulash, contains macaroni, beef, tomatoes, and various seasonings making this dish simple and perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Tater Tot Casserole

Who doesn’t love tater tots? We definitely know it’s a favorite side dish that your little ones ask for again and again. Well, no need to serve tater tots on the side anymore. This tater tot casserole is a complete meal with ground beef, vegetables, cheese, cream of mushroom soup, and—of course—tater tots.

Pigs in a Blanket

Pigs in a blanket are easy appetizers that are a fan favorite at potlucks, book clubs, and work parties. Nearly everyone loves these little morsels of deliciousness. But did you know that it’s a popular dish in the Midwest? Not that you need another reason to enjoy hotdogs and cheese wrapped in crescent rolls.

Corn Dog

Corndogs are an American favorite! You enjoy them at the county fair, reach for them at sporting events, and keep them stocked in your freezer when the kiddos request them (which, in our experience, is quite often). So, the fact that they made this list is no surprise.

Cincinnati Chili

Also known as Skyline Chili, Cincinnati Chili is typically used as a topping on hot dogs and (yes) spaghetti. The meat sauce is often Mediterranean-spiced, so it tastes different from what you would expect from regular chili. And it’s still delicious all the same!

Upside Down Deep Dish Pizza

You know you’re in Chicago when you can get your fill of deep-dish pizza. While this recipe may not be your typical Chicago-style pizza, it’s a great take on the Midwestern classic that everybody knows and loves—and we’re sure you’ll love it too.tktkt

Italian Beef

Of course, we had to throw a crockpot recipe into the mix. And what better to represent an easy slow cooker dish than Italian beef sandwiches? This sandwich is as famous in the Midwest as it is delicious. Plus, it’s easy to throw together and makes amazing leftovers.

Baked Potato Soup

If you love a delicious loaded baked potato with your meal (and who doesn’t?), we are willing to bet this one will become your favorite. Baked potato soup is not just a Midwest dish anymore; it’s something you can find in many restaurants across the country. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, and you can use your leftover baked potato, if you have any, to create this recipe.

Meatloaf

We love a good meatloaf. While there are different ways to make it, we are fans of the classic recipe mom used to make for Sunday night dinner. It’s an American classic that brings back memories for nearly every child. This recipe is simple to make and gives delicious leftovers.

Scalloped Potatoes

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Puppy Chow

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Cherry Pie

Nothing says summer like cherry pie. It’s a tasty Midwestern dish that you can eat by itself or top with creamy ice cream. We think the latter makes it that much tastier. And because we’re all about simplistic recipes here, this cherry pie includes just five ingredients and takes almost no time to put together.

Plum Kuchen

If you’ve never heard of Kuchen, you’re not alone. It’s not a dessert that you hear about often. But it’s just as delicious, we’ll promise that. Kuchen is German for cake, and while it didn’t originate in the Midwest, it’s a popular dessert among residents.

Gooey Butter Cake

With a name like gooey butter cake, what more could you want? This dessert was made famous in St. Louis and is still a favorite. It includes ingredients like cream cheese and yellow cake mix. While it may sound like a birthday cake, it’s anything but, and you don’t even need the frosting. You’ll thank us later.

Boiled Custard

Last but not least on our list is boiled custard. It’s the perfect comfort food and just as delicious as it sounds. There are a few variations of custard, such as frozen, baked, and boiled, but all are a delightful treat. This recipe asks for four ingredients, which will have you returning for more.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©MSPhotographic/Shutterstock.com.