Fair Favorites for Foodies

July 30, 2025

By Gretchen Westdal Centers

For some, 11 days of the Iowa State Fair just isn’t long enough. The sights, sounds, smells and smiles that Iowa’s great get-together elicits make it a favorite summer pastime that’s hard to say goodbye to each year. Luckily, many of the culinary delights that bring fairgoers back year after year can be recreated at home! Whether you’re looking for a showstopper to bring to an upcoming get-together or a little weeknight meal inspiration, these recipes will have you in a blue-ribbon sort of mood.

 

Hot Beef Sundae | Iowa Beef Industry Council

The hot beef sundae is an iconic staple of the Iowa State Fair and for good reason. Hearty mashed potatoes serve as the foundation for savory beef tips and gravy, all topped with creamy cheddar cheese and bright cherry tomatoes. It’s an ideal meal to serve a crowd. This recipe even includes a version that serves 100! Or, you can keep it intimate and prepare a serving for four. Pull this one out on a cold winter day for a filling, warming meal that brings back memories of the fair. Recipe and photo credit: Iowa Beef Industry Council

Get the recipe here: Hot Beef Sundae

 

Bacon Wrapped Ribs | Iowa Pork Producers Association

There’s an unwritten rule when it comes to cooking: when in doubt, add bacon. The Iowa State Fair knows this rule and is an ardent proponent of anything bacon wrapped. That’s why these bacon-wrapped ribs are a delectable way to indulge in some favorite pork products. With only five ingredients — baby back ribs, barbecue rub, vegetable broth, bacon and barbecue sauce — you can easily wow a crowd. These smoky, aromatic ribs are the perfect dish to serve at a fall tailgate or anytime you find yourself craving a fair favorite. Recipe and photo credit: Iowa Pork Producers Association

Get the recipe here: Bacon Wrapped Ribs

 

Tofu Empanada | Soy Connection by U.S. Soy 

One of the best things about walking around the fair is that you can often do it while enjoying a delicious bite of food. While you may not think of a tofu empanada as typical fair fare, these tasty pockets of veggies and plant-based protein are not only delicious but also provide a healthful serving of vitamins and nutrients. Tofu is nestled in a bright and vibrant sofrito, a staple in Spanish, Latin American and Caribbean cuisine. It often consists of finely chopped or puréed vegetables and herbs, including onions, garlic and peppers. You can purchase sofrito premade or make it easily at home. The empanada filling is enclosed in a savory dough, making these an easy lunch or dinner on the go. Recipe and photo credit: Soy Connection by U.S. Soy

Get the recipe here: Tofu Empanada

 

Cheesy Turkey Walking Tacos | National Turkey Federation

If you’re enough of a multitasker, any taco can be a walking taco. But if you prefer to have all the tasty bites neatly contained, try this cheesy turkey walking taco recipe. It brings fairground fun straight to your kitchen and beyond. This easy, crowd-pleasing dish is packed with bold, satisfying taco flavors and rich in protein from turkey. Set out the ingredients and let everyone customize their creation. It’s a fun and interactive meal for all ages. Perfect for game day, tailgates or casual get-togethers, these handheld bites are portable, flavorful and totally customizable. Want to switch things up? Try using your favorite chips as the base for a delicious twist! Recipe and photo credit: National Turkey Federation

Get the recipe here: Cheesy Turkey Walking Tacos

 

Loaded Potato Scotch Eggs | Incredible Edible Egg

This loaded potato Scotch egg recipe combines two staples of many fair favorites: the humble egg and potato. These blank canvases are transformed into countless creative dishes, and this one is no exception. While the name might make it sound ingredient-heavy, it’s quite simple, especially if you have leftovers. A mouthwatering blend of mashed potatoes, bacon, cheese and onions forms the outer layer of the Scotch egg. Once the egg is enrobed in this mixture, it’s quickly fried to golden-brown perfection. To make it even more delicious, whisk together mustard, crème fraîche and vinegar for a tangy, zesty finish. Recipe and photo credit: Incredible Edible Egg

Get the recipe here: Loaded Potato Scotch Egg

 

Homemade Custard Ice Cream | U.S. Dairy

Throughout the fair, you can find a plentiful assortment of frozen treats to keep you cool on hot August days. And this homemade custard ice cream could easily be one of those fairground favorites. Custard differs from traditional ice cream which is created by the higher milkfat content and the use of eggs. It also has a softer consistency than regular ice cream, making it ideal to serve fresh. If custard stays in the freezer too long, it can harden. With this vanilla-based custard, you can get as creative as our beloved fair food vendors — adorn it with whatever toppings your sweet tooth desires. Recipe and photo credit: U.S. Dairy

Get the recipe here: Homemade Custard Ice Cream