Midwestern cuisine showcases a rich variety of regional specialties, from the beloved gooey butter cake to the lesser-known “slinger” dish. Some enthusiasts even argue that Detroit-style pizza rivals the famous New York pies!
If you’re looking to whip up comforting and hearty meals at home, you’re in the right place. These traditional dishes are popular for a reason—no matter your background, you won’t want to miss the unique flavors of these Midwestern favorites.
1) Midwestern Smashed Burger
With some of the country’s leading beef-producing states located in the Midwest, it’s no surprise that the region boasts a vibrant burger culture. One of the most popular styles is the Midwestern smashed burger, which features a thick patty that’s flattened on the griddle to create a crispy crust along the edges. This mouthwatering burger has been perfected by the Steak ‘n’ Shake restaurant chain, a staple in the area. Don’t have access to a griddle? No problem! All you need is a cast-iron skillet and a spatula, and you can start smashing your own Midwestern burgers at home.
2) Chicago-Style Hot Dog
The Chicago-style hot dog isn’t your average frankfurter—it’s a “run through the garden,” as locals say. This Midwestern classic is piled high with toppings, and true enthusiasts are very particular about their order. First comes yellow mustard, followed by bright green relish, chopped onions, sliced tomato, a pickle spear, two sports peppers, and a sprinkle of celery salt. When prepared correctly, you should savor all the toppings in every bite. And let’s not overlook the poppy seed bun—it’s an essential part of the experience!
3) Buckeyes
Buckeye nuts, which come from the Buckeye tree, are considered good luck charms as powerful as four-leaf clovers or rabbit’s feet. Native Americans in Ohio were taken by the resemblance of the round, dark nut with a light brown spot to a deer’s eye, calling it “hetuck,” meaning “buckeye.” Ohio eventually embraced the nickname “Buckeye State,” designated the buckeye tree as its state tree, and named Ohio State University’s beloved football team after the buckeye. Given the special significance of the Buckeye, it was only a matter of time before someone created a snack in its likeness.
Midwestern Buckeyes are sweet, peanut-butter treats coated in chocolate, resembling the appearance of the Buckeye seed. They are often served at weddings, shared during Christmas, and featured at football tailgates.
4) Hotdish
Minnesota’s unofficial state food, the hotdish, is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together three basic components—starch, protein, and vegetables—with a creamy sauce in a single baking dish. While other parts of the country may refer to it as a casserole, Minnesotans insist that it’s much more than that. In fact, it’s a serious matter in the North Star State. Each year, senators and representatives from Minnesota compete in the Minnesota Congressional Delegation Hotdish Off.
In 2019, Representative Tom Emmer emerged victorious with his tater tot masterpiece fittingly named “Hotdish of Champions.” Even former Democratic Presidential candidate Amy Klobuchar participated with her “Gold Medal Curling Hotdish,” featuring cream of mushroom soup and cheddar cheese.
5) Gooey Butter Cake
According to legend, a German baker in St. Louis in the 1930s accidentally mismeasured ingredients while baking a coffee cake, leading to a delightful creation that featured pudding inside a crust. While alternative stories have emerged, one thing remains constant: this cake truly lives up to its name, Gooey Butter Cake. Incredibly sweet and sticky, it has become a beloved dessert staple in the Midwestern region.
6) Jello Salad
Jell-O salad is a versatile dish that’s particularly popular in the Midwest, and it can be prepared as either a sweet or savory treat. Various versions of this dish often make an appearance at potluck dinners, showcasing vibrant colors and commonly garnished with fruits, marshmallows, nuts, whipped cream, tuna, or vegetables.
The key ingredient, gelatin, brings several surprising health benefits, such as improving bone and joint health, strengthening nails and hair, and enhancing brain function. These advantages may help explain the Midwestern region’s widespread love for Jell-O salad.
7) Detroit-Style Pizza
Although all pizzas are delicious, according to a 2019 Esquire article, Detroit-style pizza is “a crispy, cheesy, and greasy masterpiece.”
Detroit was once the thriving center of the American car industry in the mid-1950s, but later suffered from an ailing economy during the latter part of the 20th century. Gus Guerra is credited with inventing this pizza style, by transforming steel pans used for carrying automotive parts into baking dishes to cook his mother-in-law’s Sicilian-style pizza. The pie is topped with Wisconsin cheese and two “racing stripes” of marinara sauce are added after baking, resulting in a crispy-edged, deep-dish delicacy. Buddy’s Pizza, available at several locations throughout Detroit, serves the original Detroit-style pizza.
8) Midwestern Slinger
Ordering a plate of slinger for breakfast can indicate either a hearty appetite or a desire to recuperate from a night out. This dish features a mound of hash browns, over-easy eggs, and sausage patties, topped with chili, American cheese, and raw onion. Served alongside a slice of toast, slinger can be found in various iterations throughout St. Louis, ranging from classic greasy spoon to more upscale versions.
Next, check out these tasty Southwestern recipes you and your family can enjoy! https://www.foodandwine.com/comfort-food/southwesterntex-mex