10 Famous Indiana Foods (Most Popular Dishes)

These famous Indiana foods are part of what makes the state so special!

If you’re from Indiana, then you know that our state is famous for a few things.

There’s the Indianapolis 500, the Basketball Hall of Fame, and some of the best corn in the country. 

But when it comes to food, Indiana is known for a few signature dishes.

From breaded tenderloins to sugar cream pie, these are the foods that you’ll find on every Indiana menu. 

So if you’re ever in the Hoosier state, be sure to order one of these iconic dishes.

You might just find that it’s the best meal you’ve ever had.

10 Famous Indiana Foods

1. Breaded Pork Tenderloin Sandwich

This sandwich is the perfect combination of savory and sweet, with a crispy exterior and a juicy, tender interior. 

The pork tenderloin is coated in a breading made from breadcrumbs and cornmeal, giving it a satisfying crunch with every bite. 

The sweetness comes from a honey mustard sauce that is usually brushed on before the sandwich is grilled. 

Serve the sandwich on a bed of fresh greens, with grilled onions and pickles on the side.

Trust me, this sandwich will have you coming back for more!

2. Sugar Cream Pie

Sugar cream pie is a delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

The recipe is simple and only requires a few ingredients, but the results are truly amazing. 

The pie is made with a combination of heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract, and the filling is incredibly rich and creamy. 

The pie crust is perfectly flaky and golden brown, and the entire pie is covered in a generous amount of yummy vanilla-based cream. 

It’s best served cold, and it can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. 

3. Southern Indiana BBQ Pork

BBQ pork is a Southern Indiana specialty that is not to be missed.

This dish is made with a slow-cooked pork shoulder that’s smoked and then finished on the grill. 

The result is a tender and juicy piece of meat that is infused with the flavors of hickory smoke and BBQ sauce. 

While the exact recipe varies from cook to cook, the key ingredients are always the same: pork, BBQ sauce, and hickory smoke. 

Served up on a soft bun with a side of coleslaw, BBQ pork is the perfect meal. 

4. Chicken and Waffles

Chicken and waffles is a dish that is as delicious as it is unorthodox.

It combines two classic comfort foods, fried chicken and pancakes, into one tantalizing meal. 

The key to success is in the perfect balance of flavors.

The savory chicken is complemented by the sweet waffles, and the two are held together by a rich syrup. 

This dish is perfect for anyone who loves bold flavors and wants to try something new. 

5. Indiana Sweet Corn

Indiana sweet corn is simply corn on the cob that has been picked at the peak of ripeness.

It’s then cooked in boiling water for just a few minutes. 

The result is tender, juicy kernels that are bursting with sweetness. 

For those who like a little bit of heat, the classic way to enjoy Indiana sweet corn is to slather on some butter and sprinkle on some salt. 

But for those who prefer their corn au natural, this dish is just as delicious. 

6. Country-Fried Steak

Country-fried steak is the perfect comfort food. It’s often made with beef, but it can also be made with chicken or pork. 

The meat is breaded and fried, then covered in gravy made from the pan drippings.

It’s usually served with mashed potatoes, green beans, and cornbread. 

The flavors of country-fried steak are rich and savory, with a hint of sweetness from the gravy.

If you’re looking for a hearty meal that will stick to your ribs, then look no further than country-fried steak. 

7. Southern Indiana Style Fried Catfish

There’s nothing quite like a plate of Southern-fried catfish to make your mouth water. 

The succulent fish is first coated in a crispy cornmeal batter, then fried to perfection.

The result is a dish that is both flavorful and moist, with a hint of heat from the cayenne pepper in the batter. 

And when served with hush puppies and coleslaw, it makes for a truly memorable meal. 

8. Reuben

The Reuben is a sandwich that’s hearty, flavorful, and satisfying.

This classic deli sandwich features corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and dressing between two slices of rye bread. 

The combination of flavors is truly irresistible.

The salty corned beef, the sharp Swiss cheese, the tangy sauerkraut, and the creamy dressing all work together to create a truly unique flavor experience. 

And trust me, once you try a Reuben, you’ll be hooked.

9. Dutch Baby

A Dutch baby is a deliciously puffy pancake that’s soft on the inside and crispy on the outside. 

It’s traditionally flavored with maple syrup and served with powdered sugar.

But there are endless possibilities when it comes to toppings. 

I personally love to top mine with fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream.

If you’re feeling extra indulgent, you could even add a drizzle of maple syrup. 

The best thing about Dutch babies is that they’re so quick and easy to make. 

So if you’re ever in the mood for a special breakfast or brunch, give them a try!

I guarantee you’ll be hooked after just one bite.

10. Butterscotch Pie

Butterscotch pie is a dessert that combines the rich flavors of butter and brown sugar with the creamy texture of custard. 

The result is a pie that is both deeply flavorful and utterly irresistible.

If you’ve never tried butterscotch pie, then you are missing out on one of the great culinary delights of life. 

And if you’re looking for the perfect way to enjoy it, then I suggest serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. 

The cold creaminess of the ice cream balances out the richness of the pie, making for a truly heavenly experience.