20 Most Famous Foods in Texas

Texas food is one of the most unique, flavorful, and diverse cuisines in America. From Tex-Mex favorites like tacos and enchiladas to classic Southern dishes like fried chicken and barbecue, the famous foods in Texas consist of a little bit of everything for every foodie out there.

The interesting blend of flavors and influences in Texas’s food culture sets it apart from other states and makes it an exciting destination for any food lover.

What’s Special About Foods From Texas?

The Texas food scene draws heavy influence from its history, culture, and geographical location. You will notice a focus on big, bold flavors featuring a mix of Tex-Mex, Southern, and Southwestern cuisine.

Texas is known for its love of barbecue, with slow-smoked meats being a staple in many areas. Beef, in particular, plays a role in some of the famous foods from Texas, such as Texas chili and chicken-fried steak.

But don’t sleep on the Tex-Mex cuisine, because it’s truly something special. The fusion of Mexican and American flavors is also a major player in the Texas food scene, with dishes like fajitas, enchiladas, and tacos being popular.

In addition to these mainstays, Texas also has a thriving food truck and craft beer scene, showcasing the state’s creativity and innovation in the culinary world.

These are iconic foods in Texas that you can seek out to explore some of the best the state has to offer when it comes to gastronomy.

Texas Barbecue Beef Brisket

This is the quintessential Texas-style brisket. Even my husband’s six-generation Texas family is impressed by it! Grilling with wood chips takes a little extra effort, but I promise you’ll be glad you did. Each bite tastes like heaven on a plate. —Renee Morgan, Taylor, Texas

Texas Twinkies

This appetizer is similar to jalapeno poppers, but the recipe calls for meat and barbecue sauce, making the dish a bit more hearty. Texas Twinkies are a great tailgate snack, cookout app or even a side dish if you like to add heat to your weeknight dinners.

Chicken-Fried Steak & Gravy

As a child, I learned from my grandmother how to make these chicken-fried steaks. I taught my daughters, and when my granddaughters are older, I’ll show them, too. —Donna Cater, Fort Ann, New York

Pressure-Cooker Easy Pork Posole

Looking for a meal in a bowl? Sit down to a Mexican classic full of cubed pork, sliced sausage. hominy and more. It all goes into the pressure cooker, so you can come home at night and dinner is ready in a flash. —Greg Fontenot, The Woodlands, TX

Texas Toast Garlic Bread

Why have regular garlic bread when you could have buttery, herby Texas toast instead?

Green Chile Brunch Bake

It’s easy to make this ahead of time in a 13×9-inch pan. It is filling, is perfect for a crowd and helps out busy parents. —Trista Thinnes, Fort Worth, Texas

Slow-Cooked Barbecued Beef Sandwiches

Chuck roast makes delicious shredded beef sandwiches after simmering in a rich, homemade sauce all day. The meat is tender and juicy and takes minutes to prepare for a weeknight dinner or potluck.—Tatina Smith, San Angelo, Texas

Dr Pepper Sheet Cake

When we visited the Dr Pepper museum in Dublin, Texas, I bought a Dr Pepper cake mix. It was so delicious that I decided to come up with my own sheet cake version. It’s become a family favorite. —Karen Daigle, Burleson, Texas

Daughter’s Apple Crisp

My mom’s apple crisp is the best in all of Texas, honest! I tweaked it slightly, though, and now I spend less time in the kitchen and more time catching up with my spry 92-year-young mother. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas

Texas Jalapeno Jelly

A jar of this sweet and spicy jelly is always warmly appreciated. To add an extra southwestern accent, I trim the lid with a snappy bandanna print fabric. —Lori McMullen, Victoria, Texas

Easy Shrimp Tacos

I love preparing these easy shrimp tacos. Hatch chiles are a staple ingredient in my home state of Texas, and this was the very first recipe that I conquered with them. Mix and match your favorite toppings—salsa and avocado would be perfect additions. —Deborah Jamison, Austin, Texas

Handy Sausage Biscuits

These are similar to old-fashioned biscuits made from scratch, but they’re even better thanks to the tasty sausage throughout. It’s almost impossible to stop eating them. I like to serve these biscuits with an egg dish or soup. —Nancy Parker, Seguin, Texas