Recipes in the Midwest aren’t just food — they’re practically a family tradition passed down alongside the casseroles. These dishes stick around because they’re perfect for feeding a group, easy to make, and always reliable. And after making them a few times, you won’t even need to check the recipe.
German Potato Salad
German Potato Salad is on the table in every Midwestern home, especially at potlucks and family gatherings. This dish brings together tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and a tangy vinegar dressing that sets it apart from the usual cold, mayo-based salads. It’s easy to make — boil the potatoes, fry up some bacon, and mix it with apple cider vinegar and mustard. In under an hour, you’ll have a steaming but comforting side that pairs well with almost any meal. Leftovers (if any) are just as good, so nothing goes to waste.
Get the Recipe: German Potato Salad
Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole
Every Midwestern household has its go-to weeknight dish, and Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole is one of them. It’s quick to make, taking under an hour, and you probably already have the ingredients on hand — canned tuna, egg noodles, and some peas. This casserole is the kind of meal that’s easy to whip up, filling, and something kids and adults enjoy. Plus, it reheats perfectly for the next day, so no need to worry about what’s for lunch. This simple recipe is a lifesaver on busy nights — toss everything in the oven, and you’re good to go.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole
7-Layer Dip
When there’s a gathering, you’ll see 7-Layer Dip on the table in most Midwestern homes. This dip is ready in just 25 minutes and loaded with refried beans, guacamole, sour cream, and cheese flavors. It’s a great dish for parties, potlucks, or any event involving chips. You can prep it ahead and refrigerate it until it’s time to serve — no baking required. It’s easy to transport, too, so if you’re bringing a dish to share, this one’s a perfect choice. The layers give each bite a mix of textures everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: 7-Layer Dip
Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup
In the Midwest, Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup becomes a go-to meal in many homes when the weather turns cold. It’s a dish that’s as easy as it gets — toss your ingredients into a slow cooker and let it do the work. Whether you let it cook all day or speed things up, you’ll end up with a hearty, comforting soup. It’s made with split peas, ham, carrots, and onions, and since it’s all cooked together, the flavors really come through. It’s a great meal for busy days, and it freezes well, so you can save some for later.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup
Shake and Bake Pork Chops
Growing up in the Midwest, you probably had Shake and Bake Pork Chops for dinner more than a few times. These pork chops are ready in 25 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights. Coat the chops in mayo and seasoned breadcrumbs, bake them, and they come out crispy on the outside and tender on the inside without frying. Serve them with some mashed potatoes or veggies, and you’ve got a great meal that doesn’t take all night.
Get the Recipe: Shake and Bake Pork Chops
Chicken Tater Tot Casserole
You’ll likely come across a Chicken Tater Tot Casserole in every Midwestern home. It’s packed with crispy tater tots, tender shredded chicken, and sweet corn, all topped with melted cheese and green onions. This dish comes together in under an hour, which is great for busy nights. It’s budget-friendly and feeds a crowd, making it a perfect choice for families. Plus, the leftovers freeze well, so you can save some for later. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a potluck, this casserole hits the spot.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tater Tot Casserole
Twice Baked Potato Casserole
Twice Baked Potato Casserole is a dish you’ll see on many tables across the Midwest. It’s filled with mashed potatoes, bacon, cheddar, and green onions, making it a comforting and hearty side or main. This dish is great because you can make it ahead of time, and it’s easy to throw in the oven when needed. Perfect for holiday dinners or simple weeknights, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It takes a little time to bake, but the rich flavors and easy preparation make it well worth it. Everyone will be asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potato Casserole
Beer Cheese Dip
Beer Cheese Dip is a staple in Midwestern homes, especially when gatherings or game days roll around. It’s creamy, cheesy, and has just a hint of beer flavor. The best part? It’s ready in about 25 minutes. This dip is simple to make and doesn’t require any fancy ingredients, making it a quick and easy option when you need something fast. Leftovers, if there are any, reheat nicely, so it’s great for snacking the next day too. Serve it with pretzels or veggies, and you have a hit on your hands.
Get the Recipe: Beer Cheese Dip
Cabbage and Sausage
Cabbage and Sausage is a quick, hearty meal perfect for busy families in the Midwest. Ready in less than 30 minutes, it’s a one-pan dish that combines crisp sausage with tender cabbage. This meal is budget-friendly and filling, making it a go-to when you need something simple but hearty. Pair it with some bread or mashed potatoes, and you have a complete meal on the table without much hassle. It’s great for those nights when you don’t have much time but still want to serve a homemade meal.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Sausage
Chili Cheese Dip
Chili Cheese Dip is a must-have for any Midwestern party or casual gathering. It’s cheesy, hearty, and super easy to make — ready in about 30 minutes. Mix some chili and cheese, bake it, and serve it with chips or crackers. It’s the kind of dip everyone enjoys, perfect for tailgating or a cozy night at home. The recipe uses simple ingredients and comes together quickly, so it’s a great choice when you need something last-minute that still feels special.
Get the Recipe: Chili Cheese Dip
Chicken Corn Soup
A pot of Chicken Corn Soup brings everyone together in a midwestern home. It’s a simple mix of chicken, corn, carrots, and potatoes in a light and hearty broth. You can have it ready in less than an hour, making it a great go-to for busy nights when you still want something comforting. You can swap out veggies based on what you’ve got on hand, so there’s no need for last-minute grocery runs. Add some crusty bread, and you have an easy, complete meal that will make everyone feel cozy and well-fed.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Corn Soup
Jalapeño Spinach Artichoke Dip
A gathering in the Midwest wouldn’t be complete without something like Jalapeño Spinach Artichoke Dip. It’s creamy, cheesy, and has just enough jalapeño to give it a little kick without being too much. It’s quick to prep and can go straight from the oven to the table, which makes it perfect for when you’re short on time. Serve it with chips or crackers, and watch how fast it disappears. This dip is a simple way to make sure everyone has something to snack on while you focus on other things.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Spinach Artichoke Dip
Taco Dip with Cream Cheese
This Taco Dip with Cream Cheese is a midwestern favorite for good reason. It’s ready in just 15 minutes, so it’s great when you need something quick that everyone will love. The cream cheese base is smooth, with taco seasoning giving it just the right flavor. Whether you’re hosting a party or need an appetizer for game day, this dip makes things easier. Serve it with chips or veggies, and it’s bound to be a hit. It’s simple, quick, and always a delicious addition to the table.
Get the Recipe: Taco Dip with Cream Cheese
Loaded Tater Tots
You know a midwestern party’s about to get good when someone brings out Loaded Tater Tots. Crispy tots topped with cheddar cheese, sour cream, bacon, and green onions — it’s a combo that’s hard to beat. The whole thing is ready in 35 minutes, and it’s as simple as baking the tots, sprinkling them with cheese, and topping them off with the good stuff. It’s perfect for game days, family dinners, or any time you need something guaranteed to be a hit. And if you’ve got any leftovers (though that’s a big if), they reheat surprisingly well, too.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Tater Tots
Wild Rice Mushroom Soup
Wild Rice Mushroom Soup is a great way to add warmth to the table when it gets cold. The nutty wild rice and earthy mushrooms make it hearty, but it’s still light enough for a weeknight meal. The rice cooks while you handle everything else, so it’s an easy way to save time. It’s the kind of soup perfect for fall or winter when you need something that sticks with you. You can also make a big batch since it tastes even better the next day, making it practical for meal prepping.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Mushroom Soup