When it comes to recipes that find their way into every midwestern home, we’re not talking about anything fancy or pretentious. These are the dishes that bring families together, fill you up, and keep you warm through those endless winters. Whether you’re prepping for a potluck, feeding a bunch of hungry kids, or just need something quick and hearty, these recipes have got you covered.
German Potato Salad
This German Potato Salad is a must-have in midwestern households, especially at potlucks and family gatherings. With tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and a tangy dressing, it’s a dish you’ll love. Ready in under an hour, it’s served warm with a vinegar-based dressing, setting it apart from the usual cold mayo-based potato salad. Simply boil the potatoes, cook the bacon, and toss with apple cider vinegar, mustard, and bacon drippings. Perfect for dinner or a family barbecue, and the leftovers are just as good for days.
Get the Recipe: German Potato Salad
Wisconsin Beer Cheese Soup
This one-pot Wisconsin Beer Cheese Soup gives you a cozy, comforting bowl of sharp cheddar, veggies, and beer, all ready in around 1 hour. Using a Wisconsin lager makes the flavor special, and it’s a recipe many Midwestern families turn to for a warm, hearty meal. You’ll just sauté the onions, carrots, and celery, add some flour, and slowly stir in broth and beer until it simmers and thickens. Then, finish with sharp cheddar for that creamy, rich taste. It’s easy to make and just the thing when you need something filling without much fuss.
Get the Recipe: Wisconsin Beer Cheese Soup
Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
This one-pot take on a classic brings all the flavors you love to the table without the hassle. In about 1 hour, you’ll have browned ground beef and onions, mixed in cabbage, rice, and seasonings, and let it all simmer together for an easy, comforting meal. It’s a dish you’ll find in many Midwestern homes, and it’s perfect for when you want something hearty but simple. Cleanup is easy, and any leftovers store wonderfully in the fridge or freezer, so you’re set for another meal later.
Get the Recipe: Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole
This Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole is a go-to in midwestern homes. Kids enjoy it, and parents love how easy it is to prepare. Ready in under an hour, it’s straightforward to whip up and reheats nicely, making leftovers a breeze for the next day. In the Midwest, we know a good casserole can solve almost any problem — except maybe shoveling the driveway.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole
7-Layer Dip
This 7-Layer Dip is a midwestern favorite for gatherings, whether it’s a game day party, potluck, or snack at home. Ready in just 25 minutes, it features layers of refried beans, guacamole, sour cream and cream cheese, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, green onions, and black olives. Assemble in a 9×13-inch dish and refrigerate until serving. It’s easy to transport and always a hit. Serve with tortilla chips and watch it disappear.
Get the Recipe: 7-Layer Dip
Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup
This Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup is a favorite in midwestern kitchens, perfect for both seasoned and beginner cooks. Just prep your ingredients, add them to your slow cooker, and let it simmer. Cook on low for an all-day simmer or set it to high for a quicker meal. It’s the kind of dish that warms you up, even when it’s freezing outside.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup
Chicken Tater Tot Casserole
This Chicken Tater Tot Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that midwestern families swear by. Ready in less than an hour, it’s not only budget-friendly but also easy to prep in advance. Plus, the leftovers freeze wonderfully. It’s a hit with both kids and adults, making it a go-to recipe for any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tater Tot Casserole
Beer Cheese Dip
This Beer Cheese Dip is a midwestern favorite for a quick and easy appetizer, ready in just 25 minutes. Creamy and full of flavor, it’s a must-have for game days or casual get-togethers. Making it is simple: melt some butter, create a roux with flour, then gradually add milk and beer. Season it up and melt in a trio of cheeses for a smooth, creamy finish. Serve it at your next gathering, or whip it up just because. Leftovers, if there are any, reheat perfectly.
Get the Recipe: Beer Cheese Dip
Twice Baked Potato Casserole
This Twice Baked Potato Casserole is a staple comfort food in midwestern homes. With ingredients like bacon, potatoes, sour cream, and cheddar cheese, it’s simple to make and can be prepared in advance, making it a family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potato Casserole
Shake and Bake Pork Chops
In midwestern households, these Shake and Bake Pork Chops are a beloved weeknight dinner. Ready in just 25 minutes, they offer a flavorful, crispy finish without the need for frying. This recipe is a family favorite and perfect for beginner cooks or anyone looking to get a good meal on the table fast.
Get the Recipe: Shake and Bake Pork Chops
Cabbage and Sausage
In midwestern homes, this Cabbage and Sausage dish is a go-to for a quick, hearty meal. Made in one pan and ready in less than 30 minutes, it’s a simple, filling option that families love. Pair with a slice of crusty bread or a side of mashed potatoes to round out the meal.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage and Sausage
Chili Cheese Dip
This Chili Cheese Dip is a midwestern favorite, perfect for parties and events. Ready in just 30 minutes, it combines straightforward ingredients and is baked in the oven before adding some toppings on top. Whether you’re tailgating in the freezing cold or hosting a cozy indoor gathering, this dip is sure to keep everyone warm and happy.
Get the Recipe: Chili Cheese Dip
Chicken Corn Soup
In midwestern households, corn is a staple ingredient often added to soups for extra flavor. This Chicken Corn Soup combines tender chicken, vegetables, and a flavorful broth, making it a family favorite. Ready in less than an hour, it’s a comforting and quick meal that can be customized based on what you have on hand and your taste preferences. Serve with some slices of crusty bread to round out the meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Corn Soup
Jalapeño Spinach Artichoke Dip
This Jalapeño Spinach Artichoke Dip is a must-have for any gathering, especially in Midwestern homes. Creamy with a little kick, it combines cream cheese, spinach, artichokes, and jalapeños for a dip that’s ready in under an hour. Just mix, bake, and broil until golden and bubbly. Whether it’s game day or a family get-together, this dip is always a hit and easy to pull together when you need something everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Jalapeño Spinach Artichoke Dip
Taco Dip with Cream Cheese
This Taco Dip with Cream Cheese is a staple in midwestern households. It’s a meatless appetizer that you can whip up in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for parties, potlucks, holiday events, or game-day get-togethers. Serve it with veggie slices, crackers, or chips.
Get the Recipe: Taco Dip with Cream Cheese
Loaded Tater Tots
These Loaded Tater Tots are a favorite in midwestern homes, especially for game day parties, casual gatherings, or family dinners. Ready in 35 minutes, they feature crispy tater tots topped with melted cheddar cheese, sour cream, bacon, and green onions. Simply bake the tater tots until golden, season them, add cheese, then top with sour cream, bacon, and green onions. Leftovers store well for the next day.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Tater Tots
Wild Rice Mushroom Soup
This Wild Rice Mushroom Soup is a beloved staple in midwestern kitchens, especially when the weather turns cold. Packed with rich, nutty flavor, it’s as hearty as it is comforting. The rice cooks while you prepare the other ingredients, making it a time-saver and perfect for a quick meal throughout those long fall and winter months. A little warmth goes a long way when it’s freezing outside! And let’s face it, in the Midwest, “cold” is just a state of mind until it hits -20°F.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Mushroom Soup
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