American food is an amalgam of culinary contributions from multiple cultures around the world. Despite the differences in origins and cooking styles, food that is considered American is characteristically hearty and has a taste that is appreciated by most people worldwide. Here are a few classic American meals to sink your teeth into.

5 Popular American Foods

1. Half-Pound Burger

A bigger twist on the usual hamburger, half-pound burgers are ideal for people who prefer more meat than bun in their sandwich. Often served with lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickle in between, half-pounders can also come with a variety of add-ons, like cheese, jalapeno slices, and bacon strips. Pair yours with a side of fries and ketchup for a hearty meal.

2. Club Sandwich

Short for clubhouse, a club sandwich has several variations that differ in meat and veggies but is always prepared with toasted white bread. This American food, which originated in New York, is a two-layered sandwich with slices of chicken or turkey dressed with mayonnaise and filled with cheese, ham, bacon, lettuce, and tomato in between. It goes well with a dinner salad as a healthier meal option.

3. Grilled Cheese

Another all-time American food favorite, grilled cheese is a basic sandwich comprised of bread and cheese. While it may include butter or mayonnaise, it is either grilled or toasted to melt the slices of cheese inside. It often tastes best with a side salad or a bowl of soup for a hearty meal.

4. Reuben Sandwich

The classic Reuben is a toasted sandwich with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing. Like burgers, it comes in several variations when ingredients are switched out for another, such as smoked meats or grouper instead of corned beef or coleslaw rather than sauerkraut. It is best paired with onion rings or French fries to balance out the taste.

5. Chicken Fried Steak

Contrary to its name, this popular American food doesn’t have any chicken in it and was only named so because of how it is cooked. A chicken fried steak has a slice of beefsteak covered in seasoned breading and pan-fried like breast cutlets. Topped with cream gravy, it is often served with mashed or whipped potatoes on the side.

When you’re craving some good old American food or waffles hot off the griddle, drop by Belgian Waffle & Pancake House. Located in Branson, MO, they have been offering tasty diner meals—from breakfast to dinner and any meal in between—since 1976. Call (417) 334-8484 in March to place an order for carry-out anywhere in Taney County. You can also check out their website to view other menu options.