9 Midwest Comfort Foods Everyone Should Make

Gray Frame Corner
Gray Frame Corner

Hot Dish: A classic Midwest casserole dish made with layers of meat, vegetables, and starch such as tater tots or pasta, all topped with a creamy sauce and baked until bubbly and golden brown.

Chicken and Noodles: A hearty and comforting dish made with tender chicken simmered in a rich broth with thick egg noodles, carrots, and celery, often served over mashed potatoes or alongside biscuits.

Fried Cheese Curds: A popular Midwest appetizer made by coating fresh cheese curds in seasoned flour or batter and frying them until golden and crispy, resulting in gooey, melty goodness.

Cornbread: A staple of Midwest cuisine, cornbread is a sweet and savory quick bread made with cornmeal, flour, sugar, eggs, and milk or buttermilk, often served warm with butter or honey.

Jello Salad: A unique Midwest dish that combines flavored gelatin with fruit, nuts, marshmallows, or other ingredients, creating a colorful and sweet side dish or dessert often served at potlucks and family gatherings.

Potato Soup: A creamy and comforting soup made with potatoes, onions, celery, carrots, and broth, often flavored with bacon or ham and garnished with cheese, green onions, or sour cream.

Pork Tenderloin Sandwich: A Midwest favorite, this sandwich features a breaded and fried pork tenderloin served on a soft bun with toppings such as lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and mustard or mayonnaise.

Walleye Pike: A freshwater fish native to the Midwest, walleye pike is often battered and fried or grilled and served with lemon wedges and tartar sauce, providing a delicious and quintessential Midwest dining experience.

Apple Pie: A classic American dessert, apple pie is a Midwest favorite made with tender, flaky crust and a sweet and spiced apple filling, often served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate comfort food indulgence.