A State-by-State Guide to the Most Iconic Foods in America

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Minnesota: Tater Tot Casserole

Minnesota’s most iconic food is the tater tot hotdish, a comforting casserole that’s practically a love language in the Land of 10,000 Lakes. In Minnesota (and much of the Upper Midwest), “hotdish” is the term for a one-pan casserole, and the tater tot hotdish is the state’s crowning glory. The recipe can vary by household, but the classic version layers ground beef (browned and seasoned) with mixed vegetables – often green beans or corn – and creamy soup (like the ubiquitous can of cream of mushroom soup) in a baking dish. The whole thing is then blanketed with a layer of frozen tater tots and baked until the filling is bubbling and the tots on top are crispy golden-brown. The result is the ultimate in cozy, stick-to-your-ribs fare: a mix of textures and flavors with crispy potatoes, savory meat, and creamy sauce. It became popular as an easy, budget-friendly family meal, especially for church suppers and potlucks. To this day, the tater tot hotdish is a point of state pride and nostalgia – Minnesotans might joke about it, but they’ll also be first in line to scoop some onto their plate at any gathering.