The Comfort Foods That Define Utah’s Unique Culinary Scene

A recent article from AOL took a flavorful road trip across America by highlighting what it called the “most delicious signature meal” from every state. The article explored the regional foods, drinks, desserts, and comfort meals that have become culinary calling cards for states from Alabama to Wyoming.

Now, let me just say right now that to me the signature meal would be some kind of breakfast. Ask my family. If there is a meal that I would most likely want to go out for, it would be breakfast. When our kids were growing up, three times a year, dad would be in the kitchen whipping up a breakfast that would rival any breakfast buffet. Yes, even the cruise ships. But, the writers in the AOL article had a different take.

For Utah, the list leaned heavily into classic Beehive State comfort food and burger-joint culture. The featured meal included a pastrami burger with fry sauce, funeral potatoes, a thick milkshake, and, naturally, Jell-O. According to the article, Utah’s pastrami burger became popular through local burger restaurants that layered sliced pastrami on top of traditional hamburgers, creating a uniquely Utah fast-food favorite.

Why Doesn't Every Place Have This?

Frankly, I have a hard time disagreeing with this choice. Before I moved to Utah, I had never tried or even heard of a pastrami burger. But now, if it's on the menu where we are, and if it's not why isn't it, I'm most likely going to order it.

The article also highlighted funeral potatoes, the cheesy potato casserole that has become almost synonymous with Utah gatherings, potlucks, and family events. Combined with Utah’s famously enthusiastic relationship with Jell-O — particularly lime-flavored varieties — the meal paints a picture of a state proud of hearty comfort food and sugary nostalgia. Utah has long been associated with high per-capita Jell-O consumption, something that has become a running joke both inside and outside the state.

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Across the country, the article showcased how food traditions often reflect local history and culture. Arizona received recognition for Sonoran hot dogs and fry bread, Louisiana for gumbo and beignets, Pennsylvania for cheesesteaks, and Texas for brisket and chili. Some states focused on seafood traditions, while others leaned into barbecue, farm staples, or desserts tied to local agriculture.

The Utah selection may spark debate among residents, especially considering the state’s growing culinary diversity. Some Utahns might argue that Dutch oven cooking, scones with honey butter, raspberry shakes from Bear Lake, or even green Jell-O with shredded carrots deserve consideration. Still, the pastrami burger remains one of Utah’s most recognizable food creations and a staple at many locally owned burger restaurants throughout the state.

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As with most “best food” lists, opinions are certain to vary. But one thing is clear: if you order a pastrami burger in Utah and ask for extra fry sauce, nobody will question whether you’re a local.