15 Classic Midwest Comfort Foods That Everyone Should Try

The Midwest is known for its hearty, comforting dishes that are perfect for any season. Whether it’s a cold winter night or a summer potluck, Midwest comfort foods always hit the spot. These classic recipes have been passed down through generations, each one delivering warmth, flavor, and a sense of home.

Chicken and Wild Rice Soup

To make a rich Chicken and Wild Rice Soup, you’ll need diced chicken breast, wild rice, carrots, celery, onions, chicken broth, heavy cream, and butter. Sauté the veggies in butter until soft, then add the chicken and wild rice. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer until the rice is tender. Stir in the heavy cream to make the soup rich and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of thyme for a comforting bowl of warmth that’s perfect for chilly nights.

Tater Tot Hotdish

For a classic Tater Tot Hotdish, combine browned ground beef, frozen mixed vegetables, cream of mushroom soup, and shredded cheese. Spread the mixture in a casserole dish, then layer frozen tater tots on top. Bake in the oven at 350°F for 45 minutes until the tots are crispy and golden. This dish is an easy-to-make, all-in-one comfort meal that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. The creamy filling and crispy topping make it an irresistible Midwest favorite.

Cornbread Casserole

Cornbread Casserole is a simple yet delicious side dish made with cornbread mix, canned creamed corn, sour cream, eggs, and melted butter. Mix all the ingredients in a bowl, then pour into a greased baking dish. Bake at 350°F for about 40 minutes until golden brown and set in the middle. The result is a moist, sweet, and savory casserole that pairs perfectly with chili or barbecue. It’s a Midwest classic that’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Jello Salad

For a refreshing and nostalgic treat, Jello Salad combines flavored gelatin, whipped topping, and fruit like pineapple or strawberries. Simply prepare the gelatin according to the package instructions and let it partially set. Stir in the fruit and whipped topping, then refrigerate until firm. This colorful, sweet dish is a staple at Midwest potlucks and family gatherings. It’s light, fluffy, and offers a burst of fruity flavor in every bite.

Beef Stroganoff

Beef Stroganoff is a hearty and creamy dish made with tender beef strips, onions, mushrooms, and egg noodles, all coated in a sour cream sauce. Start by browning the beef and sautéing the onions and mushrooms in butter. Add beef broth and let it simmer before stirring in the sour cream for a rich sauce. Serve the mixture over cooked egg noodles for a filling meal. This comforting dish is perfect for a cold evening and brings a touch of classic Midwest warmth to the table.

Ham and Bean Soup

Ham and Bean Soup is a slow-cooked favorite made with ham, dried beans, carrots, celery, onions, and chicken broth. Soak the beans overnight, then simmer them with diced ham and vegetables in a large pot. Add chicken broth and let everything cook together until the beans are tender and the flavors meld. This simple yet flavorful soup is perfect for using up leftover ham and warming you up on a chilly day. A slice of crusty bread on the side makes it even better.

Runza

Runza is a traditional Midwest sandwich stuffed with ground beef, cabbage, onions, and cheese, all wrapped in dough. Brown the beef with the onions and cabbage, then stuff the filling into rolled-out dough squares. Add a sprinkle of cheese before sealing the dough. Bake until golden brown and enjoy this portable, hearty meal. Runzas are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner and are packed with savory goodness.

Buckeyes

Buckeyes are a Midwest classic sweet treat made from peanut butter, powdered sugar, and chocolate. Mix peanut butter with powdered sugar to form a dough, roll into balls, and freeze them. Once frozen, dip each ball into melted chocolate, leaving the top exposed to resemble a buckeye nut. Let the chocolate harden before serving these delicious bite-sized treats. Perfect for holidays or just as a sweet snack, they capture the simple pleasures of Midwest desserts.

Chicken Pot Pie

Chicken Pot Pie is a creamy and comforting dish made with diced chicken, peas, carrots, and a flaky pie crust. Cook the chicken and vegetables in a savory gravy made from chicken broth and cream, then pour the filling into a pie crust. Top with another layer of crust and bake until golden brown. This hearty pie is a classic comfort food that warms you from the inside out, making it a family favorite in the Midwest.

Meatloaf

Midwest Meatloaf is a deliciously moist dish made with ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, and ketchup. Mix everything together with some seasonings like garlic and onion powder, shape it into a loaf, and bake at 350°F for an hour. Halfway through, brush ketchup on top for a tangy glaze. Slice and serve with mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort food meal. It’s simple, filling, and reminds everyone of home-cooked dinners.

Wisconsin Beer Cheese Soup

For Wisconsin Beer Cheese Soup, you’ll need cheddar cheese, beer, butter, flour, milk, chicken broth, and carrots. Begin by cooking the carrots in butter until soft, then add flour to make a roux. Stir in the beer, broth, and milk, letting the mixture thicken. Add the cheddar cheese and stir until melted. This creamy, rich soup pairs perfectly with pretzel bread or crusty rolls for a taste of Midwest comfort with a hint of Wisconsin’s brewing heritage.

Cincinnati Chili

Cincinnati Chili is a unique take on traditional chili, featuring ground beef, tomato sauce, and a blend of spices like cinnamon and allspice. Simmer the beef with the spices, then serve it over spaghetti and top with shredded cheddar cheese, onions, and beans. This chili is known for its distinct flavor and is often enjoyed as a layered dish. It’s a Midwest favorite that’s both flavorful and filling, making it perfect for feeding a crowd.

Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders

For Hot Ham and Cheese Sliders, layer thinly sliced ham and Swiss cheese on small slider rolls, then brush the tops with a mixture of melted butter, Dijon mustard, and poppy seeds. Bake at 350°F until the cheese melts and the tops are golden brown. These bite-sized sandwiches are perfect for parties, game days, or just a quick weeknight meal. The buttery, savory flavors make these sliders a Midwest classic that everyone loves.

Dutch Apple Pie

Dutch Apple Pie is a Midwest favorite with a crumbly streusel topping and a sweet apple filling. Toss sliced apples with sugar, cinnamon, and a little flour, then pour into a pie crust. Top with a mixture of butter, sugar, and flour to create the streusel, then bake until golden and bubbling. This pie is perfect for fall gatherings or holiday meals, offering a sweet and crunchy bite in every slice.

Pierogies

Pierogies are a delicious dumpling filled with mashed potatoes, cheese, and onions. To make them, roll out dough and cut it into circles. Add a spoonful of filling to each circle, fold in half, and seal the edges. Boil the pierogies until they float, then pan-fry in butter until golden brown. These comforting dumplings are a staple in many Midwest homes, especially in areas with strong Polish heritage.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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