The Best Recipes from Every State (2024)

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The Best Recipes from Every State (1)

ByKatie Bandurski

Taste of Home's Editorial Process

Updated: Mar. 02, 2022

    It's time to take your taste buds on a road trip. We found the best recipes from every state—all submitted by local home cooks. In these collections, you'll find both iconic regional dishes and treasured family recipes.

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    Alabama

    Residents of Alabama know that nothing beats home-cooked Southern fare. Throughout the Heart of Dixie, you’ll find baked grits, homemade biscuits, green tomato pie, cornbread and more.

    These are our best recipes from Alabama.

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    Alaska

    Get a taste of the Last Frontier without traveling way up North. You’ll find Alaskan recipes that call for fresh-caught salmon, highbush cranberries and other local ingredients.

    These are our best recipes from Alaska.

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    Arizona

    As a state on the border, it’s no surprise that Arizona has put its own twist on enchiladas, tamales and other Mexican favorites. Throughout the Grand Canyon state, you’ll find recipes with Southwest flair and a whole lot of flavor.

    These are our best recipes from Arizona.

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    Arkansas

    Headed to the Natural State? Keep your eye out for Southern favorites, like fried okra, biscuits and gravy or pecan-crusted catfish.

    These are our best recipes from Arkansas.

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    California

    California is the king of fresh flavors. After all, the Golden State is known for its abundant citrus crop, buttery avocados and fresh-from-the-ocean seafood. From San Diego to Sacramento, you’ll find recipes that call for these flavorful ingredients.

    These are our best recipes from California.

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    Colorado

    Get a taste of the Rocky Mountain State by indulging in green chili recipes and lots of lamb.

    These are our best recipes from Colorado.

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    Connecticut

    Clam pizza? Don’t knock it until you try it. This Connecticut classic—along with juicy cherry pie and bean dishes—give you a version of New England cuisine.

    These are our best recipes from Connecticut.

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    Delaware

    For a true taste of the First State, plan to put crab, peaches and chicken on the menu. These ingredients are abundant across the state.

    These are our best recipes from Delaware.

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    Florida

    Take your taste buds on a vacation with recipes from the Sunshine State. You’ll find grilled mains, fresh-caught seafood and plenty of puckery citrus flavors.

    These are our best recipes from Florida.

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    Georgia

    Georgia is known for its fresh peaches, but you’ll also find recipes that call for pecans, green tomatoes and Coca-Cola in this Southern state.

    These are our best recipes from Georgia.

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    Hawaii

    Say Aloha to Hawaiian fare. You’ll find recipes that call for tropical flavors, such as pork, pineapple and coconut.

    These are our best recipes from Hawaii.

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    Idaho

    You can prepare to find potato recipes in Idaho, but the Gem State is known for other fresh flavors, too. Keep your eye out for huckleberry pie, morel mushrooms and honey.

    These are our best recipes from Idaho.

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    Illinois

    You don’t have to be from Chicago to love Italian beef,giardiniera or deep-dish pizza. You’ll find these Illinois staples (and more!) all across the Land of Lincoln.

    These are our best recipes from Illinois.

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    Indiana

    Did somebody say sugar cream pie? You’ll find this iconic dish, plus persimmon pie, corn dogs, popcorn and more across the Hoosier State.

    These are our best recipes from Indiana.

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    Iowa

    Iowa is much more than a flyover state—and these comfort food classics prove it. Throughout the Hawkeye state, you’ll find recipes that call for iconic crops, such as corn, pork and beef.

    These are our best recipes from Iowa.

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    Kansas

    Toto, you know you’re in Kansas when you see bierocks, ribs, and pie on the menu. Enjoy these favorites (and many more!) all across the Sunflower State.

    These are our best recipes from Kansas.

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    Kentucky

    Home to hot browns and whiskey, Kentucky offers a taste of Southern culture. Indulge in recipes like coconut pecan pie, Mamaw’s strawberry cake and squash casserole.

    These are our best recipes from Kentucky.

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    Louisiana

    As the home to New Orleans, Louisiana is known for its Creole, Cajun and Southern fare. You’ll find local favorites—like jambalaya, beignets and cornbread—that are easy to make at home.

    These are our best recipes from Louisiana.

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    Maine

    Bordering Canada, Maine is one of the coldest states in the U.S. Stay warm and indulge in these recipes for creamy casseroles and hot soups. In the summer, take advantage of the Pine Tree State’s bountiful blueberry crop and make a pie or tart.

    These are our best recipes from Maine.

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    Maryland

    We hope you’re hungry for fresh seafood—you’ll find lots of it in Maryland. Crab cakes are the state’s specialty, but you’ll also find an assortment of comfort foods and family-friendly favorites.

    These are our best recipes from Maryland.

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    Massachusetts

    If you want to eat like a resident of the Bay State, look to these recipes that call for seafood, apples and other fresh ingredients. You’ll also find local favorites like Boston baked beans.

    These are our best recipes from Massachusetts.

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    Michigan

    In the heart of the Midwest, the Great Lakes State is known for producing bountiful fruit crops. You’ll find recipes that call for apples, cherries and blueberries; plus classic comfort foods.

    These are our best recipes from Michigan.

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    Minnesota

    It’s a hot dish—not a casserole—don’t cha know? You’ll find many variations of this creamy, tater-tot-topped dinner throughout the North Star State. Wild rice soup and Swedish-inspired recipes are other popular favorites.

    These are our best recipes from Minnesota.

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    Mississippi

    Nestled in the heart of the South, the Magnolia State is known for its delicious soul food and down-home country cooking. Throughout Mississippi, you’ll find recipes that call for catfish, sweet potatoes and pecans.

    These are our best recipes from Mississippi.

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    Missouri

    Have you ever been to the Show-Me State? Then you know it has a lot of delicious food to offer. You’ll find recipes that speak to several portions of the state, such as Ozark Mountain Berry Pie and KC-style barbecue.

    These are our best recipes from Missouri.

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    Montana

    Montana is known for its meat, peaches and delectable baked goods. Throughout the Treasure State, you’ll find local recipes that honor these favorite dishes.

    These are our best recipes from Montana.

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    Nebraska

    Stuffed beef sandwiches? Nebraska natives understand how delicious this German-Russian dish is. You’ll find recipes for these sandwiches—plus many other favorites—all across the Cornhusker State.

    These are our best recipes from Nebraska.

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    Nevada

    It’s difficult to pin down specific foods that make Nevada famous, but the state’s entertainment hub, Las Vegas, has no shortage of ethnic dishes. You’ll find representations of different cooking styles all across the Silver State, including Mexican recipes, Southern favorites and much more.

    These are our best recipes from Nevada.

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    New Hampshire

    Fall flavors take center stage in New Hampshire cuisine. Across the state, you’ll find recipes that call for apples, pumpkin and maple.

    These are our best recipes from New Hampshire.

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    New Jersey

    Have you ever had a Jersey-style hot dog? Trust us, they’re delicious. Throughout New Jersey, you’ll find this classic recipe—plus other Garden State favorites.

    These are our best recipes from New Jersey.

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    New Mexico

    Spices rule the Southwestern recipes of New Mexico. You’ll find twists on all sorts of Mexican favorites, dominated by jalapenos, green chilies and lime.

    These are our best recipes from New Mexico.

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    New York

    There’s no shortage of iconic New York foods. From bagels to pastrami sandwiches and buffalo wings to cheesecake, these recipes are sure to transport you to the Big Apple (and beyond!).

    These are our best recipes from New York.

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    North Carolina

    Hungry for some quality Southern cooking? Head to North Carolina where you’ll find recipes for fried chicken, barbecue and peach-y desserts.

    These are our best recipes from North Carolina.

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    North Dakota

    With strong German and Scandinavian influences, plus bountiful local crops, North Dakota’s famous foods are a must-try. Look for knoephla soup, Swedish rice rings, rhubarb desserts and freshly caught walleye.

    These are our best recipes from North Dakota.

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    Ohio

    From Cincinnati to Cleveland—and everywhere in between—you’ll find classic Ohio cuisine. chili, German dishes, and those chocolate-covered peanut butter balls put the Buckeye State on the map.

    These are our best recipes from Ohio.

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    Oklahoma

    Ah, Oklahoma! Where the wind comes sweepin’ down the plains. This state is known for its twists on Southern cuisine. You’ll find fried okra, biscuits with gravy, corn bread and other comfort foods.

    These are our best recipes from Oklahoma.

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    Oregon

    Oregon’s state fruit is the pear, but you’ll also find marionberries, cherries and cranberries throughout the Beaver State. Look for pies, cookies and breads that incorporate these fresh fruits.

    These are our best recipes from Oregon.

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    Pennsylvania

    Whether you’re chowing down on a Philly cheesesteak or an Italian delicacy, enjoy these recipes from across the Keystone State.

    These are our best recipes from Pennsylvania.

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    Rhode Island

    When you’re situated right on the ocean, fresh seafood is a given. Enjoy Rhode Island delicacies, like stuffed clams and chowder, all across the Ocean State.

    These are our best recipes from Rhode Island.

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    South Carolina

    Fresh seafood or Southern flair? Get the best of both worlds in South Carolina. Throughout the Palmetto State, you’ll find fresh crab, juicy peach cobblers, cheesy grits and more.

    These are our best recipes from South Carolina.

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    South Dakota

    Similar to North Dakota, you’ll find that rich German dishes and local produce define the cuisine of the Mount Rushmore State. Look for kuchen, fresh walleye and garden-grown vegetables.

    These are our best recipes from South Dakota.

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    Tennessee

    In true Southern fashion, you’ll find plenty of comfort food in the Volunteer State. Corn bread, fried chicken, sweet potatoes and pretty pies line dinner tables all across Tennessee.

    These are our best recipes from Tennessee.

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    Texas

    Just like everything else in Texas, the food is big on flavor. Throughout the Lone Star State you’ll find a lot of Mexican-inspired dishes as well as classic Southern comfort foods.

    These are our best recipes from Texas.

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    Utah

    Can you really claim to be from Utah unless you love funeral potatoes? We didn’t think so. This creamy casserole made with potatoes, cream soup and crunchy topping is enjoyed at all sorts of occasions. In the Beehive State, you’ll also find recipes that call for some of Utah’s signature crops, such as corn, apples and peaches.

    These are our best recipes from Utah.

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    Vermont

    Vermont is known for many famous foods (looking at you Ben & Jerry’s!), but perhaps no item is as iconic as maple syrup. After all, the state produces millions of gallons of the stuff every year. Throughout the Green Mountain State, you’ll find lots of maple recipes, plus a few local favorites.

    These are our best recipes from Vermont.

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    Virginia

    If you want to eat like a Virginia local, indulge in peanuts, crab and oysters. You’ll find recipes that call for these staples across the entire state.

    These are our best recipes from Virginia.

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    Washington

    The Pacific Northwest is known for its fresh seafood and bountiful apple crop. Throughout the Evergreen State, you’ll find recipes for apple pie, grilled salmon, crab cakes and more.

    These are our best recipes from Washington.

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    West Virginia

    West Virginia is right on the border between the South and the Northeast, so locals borrow flavors from both regions. You’ll find recipes for biscuits, stews, pies and more.

    These are our best recipes from West Virginia.

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    Wisconsin

    Say cheese! The Badger State is known for its signature ingredients: cheese, bratwurst and beer. You’ll find these staples all across the state, as well as dishes that pay homage to Wisconsin’s German roots.

    These are our best recipes from Wisconsin.

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    Wyoming

    Residents of Wyoming know that you need fuel for a long day on the ranch, so head on over to the Cowboy State and indulge in steak, giant cookies and other farm-fresh favorites.

    These are our best recipes from Wyoming.

    Originally Published: September 04, 2018

    Author

    Katie Bandurski

    As Taste of Home's senior shopping editor, Katie connects readers with the best gifts, kitchen gear and home items on the market. An avid foodie and a holiday enthusiast, Katie is an expert at cultivating meaningful moments. Before joining the shopping team, Katie worked as a digital staff writer at Better Homes & Gardens and on the Taste of Ho...

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    The Best Recipes from Every State (52)

    The Best Recipes from Every State (2024)

    FAQs

    What food should everyone know how do you make? ›

    17 Dishes Every Home Cook Should Know How to Make, According to Chefs
    1. 01 of 17. Eggs. Victor Protasio. ...
    2. 02 of 17. Rice. Diana Chistruga. ...
    3. 03 of 17. Roast Chicken. Julia Hartbeck. ...
    4. 04 of 17. Bolognese. Photo and Styling by Julia Gartland. ...
    5. 05 of 17. Baked Fish. Maxwell Cozzi. ...
    6. 06 of 17. Fresh Pasta. ...
    7. 07 of 17. Steak. ...
    8. 08 of 17. French Fries.
    Mar 11, 2024

    What are 3 benefits pros to preparing one dish meals like this one? ›

    Combining many nutritional elements in a single dish saves prep and cooking time, is easier to store and clean up after, and is often every bit as tasty as something more complex and fancy.

    How to make the best food? ›

    10 Simple Tips to Make Food Taste Better
    1. Don't Prepare Garlic and Onions in Advance. ...
    2. Don't Seed Tomatoes. ...
    3. Keep Fats Tasting Fresh. ...
    4. Strike Only When the Pan Is Hot. ...
    5. Never Discard the Fond. ...
    6. Season with Sugar, Too. ...
    7. Bloom Spices and Dried Herbs in Fat. ...
    8. Brown Breads, Pies, and Pastries.

    What state is number 1 for food? ›

    Introduction
    #StateMost Foodie States
    1Colorado175
    2Florida153
    3Arkansas152
    4California151
    40 more rows

    What's the #1 food the US is known for? ›

    popularity is the % of people who have a positive opinion of a american dish. Find out more
    • 1 Mashed potatoes86%
    • 2 French Fries86%
    • 3 Hamburgers85%
    • 4 Cheeseburger83%
    • 5 Grilled Cheese82%
    • 6 Steak and Baked potato82%
    • 7 Hash browns82%
    • 8 Fried Chicken82%

    What is one food that everyone likes? ›

    Here is the top 10:
    • Pizza.
    • Burger.
    • Ramen.
    • Paella.
    • Pierogi.
    • Moussaka.
    • Boeuf Bourgignon.
    • Eisbein.
    May 24, 2023

    What are the 5 most eaten foods in the world? ›

    The most commonly eaten foods vary depending on cultural preferences, but globally, staples like rice, wheat, corn, and potatoes are among the most consumed. Other commonly eaten foods include vegetables, fruits, meat (such as chicken, pork, and beef), fish, and dairy products like milk and cheese.

    What is the number one popular food in the world? ›

    Rice is the staple food of more than half the world's population, and it's been that way for centuries. It's cheap, it's filling, and it can be easily grown in a variety of climates. Rice is so important to so many people that it's no surprise that it's the world's most-eaten food.

    What is the healthiest way to cook? ›

    Choose to steam, bake, grill, braise, boil or microwave your foods, rather than deep fry them. Use non-stick cookware. Microwave or steam your vegetables instead of boiling them to retain the nutrients.

    Is homemade food cheaper than store bought? ›

    For those who want a quick and easy answer: It's generally cheaper to cook food at home than eat out. The reason so many people can get stuck on the question is the human psychology variable. People don't always spend wisely, and it isn't as if prices are always the same at a supermarket or a fast food restaurant.

    Is it cheaper to cook your own food? ›

    Determining how much your time is worth and how much money you save can be difficult. It's also important to note that some meals at home are much quicker to prepare than the time you'd spend waiting in line at a restaurant. So according to the data, it's pretty clear you will save money cooking your own grub.

    What is the secret of good cooking? ›

    Add a small pinch of salt every time a new ingredient is added to the dish, so that flavors have time to build. The earlier you start seasoning, the deeper and more concentrated the flavors will become in the final product. When cooking meats, make sure to salt and tenderize with a fork the night before.

    How to cook good food for cheap? ›

    31 Insanely Smart Ways To Save Money When You Cook
    1. Respect the whole roasted chicken. ...
    2. Cook less meat, in general. ...
    3. Cook dried beans instead of buying canned. ...
    4. Learn to love eggs. ...
    5. Use your slow cooker. ...
    6. Buy big cuts or packages of meat and stretch it out over multiple meals.
    Apr 5, 2015

    What state has some of the best food? ›

    Here are the top 20 states for foodies:
    • California.
    • Florida.
    • Texas.
    • Illinois.
    • Arizona.
    • Nevada.
    • New Jersey.
    • Iowa.
    Dec 20, 2023

    What are the top 10 most popular foods? ›

    10 most popular dishes in the world
    • Tortilla | Country: Mexico. ...
    • Yakiniku | Country: Japan. ...
    • Croissant | Country: France. ...
    • Tacos | Country: Mexico. ...
    • Ramen | Country: Japan. ...
    • Burger | Country: America. ...
    • Sushi | Country: Japan. ...
    • Pizza | Country: Italy.

    What is the most popular food in the states? ›

    As of Q3 2022, hamburgers, mashed potatoes, and cheeseburgers were the most popular American dishes in the United States. About 84 percent of respondents had a positive opinion of each of the three dishes.

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