Intro
Americans have a well-known love of hearty, comforting food — dishes that warm you up and evoke memories. When you think of classic American fare, images of fried chicken, cheeseburgers, or a slice of pie often come to mind. A recent nationwide customer survey from early 2025 ranked the nation’s favorite foods, and the results offer a few surprises.
Familiar favorites like hamburgers and fried chicken scored highly, but neither claimed the top spot. Below is a clear, concise rundown of the top 10 foods, based on awareness and likeability reported in the survey.
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#10: Apple Pie
Percent of Americans familiar with it: 97%
Percent who like it: 79%
Apple pie remains a beloved American dessert for good reason. The balance of sweet and tart apple filling with a flaky, buttery crust makes it a timeless comfort food. A warm slice topped with vanilla ice cream is a classic combination that continues to resonate with many.
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#9: Corn on the Cob
Percent of Americans familiar with it: 98%
Percent who like it: 80%
Corn on the cob is a summertime staple for many, evoking backyard cookouts, fairs, and family gatherings. Simple preparations—freshly boiled or grilled and finished with butter and salt—make it a nostalgic and satisfying choice for a wide audience.
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#8: Steak and Fries
Percent of Americans familiar with it: 98%
Percent who like it: 80%
A juicy steak with a side of crispy fries is a satisfying, familiar pairing. It combines rich, savory flavors with a pleasing texture contrast, making it a dependable go-to for many who want a filling, indulgent meal.
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#7: Hash Browns
Percent of Americans familiar with it: 98%
Percent who like it: 81%
Hash browns are a beloved breakfast item for many. Whether shredded, formed into patties, or served country-style, their crispy exterior and tender interior make them crave-worthy. They pair well with eggs, bacon, or simply ketchup, which helps explain their broad appeal.
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#6: Cheeseburger
Percent of Americans familiar with it: 99%
Percent who like it: 82%
Though it placed sixth, the cheeseburger remains a ubiquitous favorite. When executed well—quality beef, melted cheese, fresh bun—it’s tough to beat. It’s a versatile dish that can be simple or gourmet, and many people enjoy it regularly.
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#5: Grilled Cheese
Percent of Americans familiar with it: 98%
Percent who like it: 83%
Grilled cheese is comfort food at its simplest: crunchy bread and gooey melted cheese. Served with tomato soup or enjoyed on its own, it appeals across generations and is often associated with childhood meals and cozy afternoons.
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#4: Fried Chicken
Percent of Americans familiar with it: 98%
Percent who like it: 83%
Crisp, golden fried chicken remains a perennial favorite. Its satisfying crunch and juicy interior make it a popular choice for family dinners and social gatherings. Pair it with coleslaw, biscuits, or a drizzle of hot honey to elevate the experience.
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#3: Hamburgers
Percent of Americans familiar with it: 98%
Percent who like it: 83%
The classic hamburger, plain or dressed up, scored slightly higher than the cheeseburger. Its iconic status is well deserved: versatile, portable, and endlessly adaptable. From backyard patties to diner-style burgers, it’s a central part of American food culture.
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#2: Mashed Potatoes
Percent of Americans familiar with it: 98%
Percent who like it: 84%
Mashed potatoes narrowly missed the top spot. Their fluffy, buttery texture and creamy flavor make them a favorite side dish, especially during holiday meals. They deliver comfort and familiarity, which helps explain their high ranking.
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#1: French Fries
Percent of Americans familiar with it: 99%
Percent who like it: 85%
French fries claimed the top position. They’re versatile, universally appealing, and come in many forms—shoestring, curly, waffle, or steak-cut—so there’s a style for nearly every taste. Fries pair well with burgers, chicken, sandwiches, and even as a standalone snack, which contributes to their broad popularity.
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Summary
This list highlights a few clear trends: familiar comfort foods dominate, and potato-based items in particular are extremely popular. Fries and mashed potatoes together took two of the top three spots, showing a widespread affection for simple, satisfying starches.
Some traditional favorites like pizza did not appear on this particular top-10 list, which may surprise many readers. Still, the results reflect varied tastes and the enduring appeal of classic American dishes.
What do you think of these rankings? Did your favorite make the list or place higher or lower than you expected? Share your thoughts where comments are available.
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