Discover what our most famous FLOTUSes liked to eat.
18 First Ladies’ Favorite Foods
Updated on Aug. 22, 2024
From American food and thrifty dinners to global flavors and healthy eating, First Ladies have had a wide range of tastes when it comes to cooking.
Curious about what their husbands liked to eat? Check out U.S. Presidents’ favorite foods.
Martha Washington: Cured Meat
Martha Washington managed the kitchen and menus at Mount Vernon and played a vital role in making sure the plantation ran smoothly. She also oversaw the curing of meats, and was especially proud of their smoked hams. We recommend our sugar-glazed ham when you’re in the mood for a planation-style breakfast.See if her husband liked cured meat, too. These were George Washington’s favorite foods.
Abigail Adams: Indian Pudding
One dessert John and Abigail were fond of was Indian Pudding, a baked custard pudding made with cornmeal. It’s a warm, comforting dessert perfect for fall, just like our Pumpkin Pie Pudding.
Dolley Madison: Dolley Madison Cake
Dolley Madison was known for her hospitality and had a knack for entertaining during her days as First Lady. She was a good baker and often made a drippy caramel layer cake. If you like hers, you’ll probably also like our spice cake with caramel sauce.
Butter Pecan Cake
This irresistible butter pecan cake features multiple layers, plenty of toasted buttery pecan crunch and a thick layer of buttercream frosting. In a word, it's delicious. Serve with a scoop of vanilla or maple ice cream to complement this decadent southern dessert.
Eleanor Roosevelt: Scrambled Eggs
Mrs. Roosevelt was down-to-earth in the White House kitchen. She prided herself on coming up with seven-and-a-half-cent meals that were more appropriate during the Great Depression. She was also known to whip up her own scrambled eggs, which she and FDR thoroughly enjoyed.
Bess Truman: Ozark Pudding
Mrs. Truman is known for her Ozark Pudding, which is like a macaroon-inspired pecan pie. She made hers with apples but pears work well, too. For another delectable apple dessert, check out our apple torte.
Mamie Eisenhower: Leftovers
Like Eleanor Roosevelt, Mamie Eisenhower was thrifty in the kitchen. She had a knack for turning leftovers into another sufficient meal. As she used to say, she could “squeeze a dollar until the eagle screamed.” Try turning leftovers into a casserole, like we do.
Jacqueline Kennedy: Poached Salmon
Jackie Kennedy brought class and French style to the White House kitchen. But one of her favorite (and most common) presidential menus was poached salmon, lamb and haricots vert, followed by some sort of ice cream dessert.Here are more of Jackie Kennedy’s favorite foods and how to order her wedding cake for dessert.
Pat Nixon: Meat Loaf
President Nixon was a big fan of his wife’s meat loaf. It was served about once a month while they lived in the White House. Her version was made with ground beef, white bread and a little marjoram. If you like it jazzed up, try our bacon-topped meat loaf.
Betty Ford: Waffles
Betty Ford and her family liked simple American food. She was was very cost-conscious and put an emphasis on budget-friendly meals. Sunday’s breakfast consisted of waffles with pure maple syrup, strawberries and orange juice.
Nancy Reagan: Red Velvet Cheesecake
We’re not sure which foods Nancy Reagan liked best, but if we had to choose one to represent her, it would be red velvet ANYTHING! Mrs. Reagan was always a vision in red, whether in a gown or pants suit.
Barbara Bush: Quiche
Mrs. Bush knew a thing or two about making good food. Her mushroom quiche not only delighted her husband but also impressed many home cooks who follow her recipe—it’s a lot like this one.Discover more of Barbara Bush’s favorite foods.
Hillary Rodham Clinton: Lamb
The Clintons’ White House chef lucked out when he interviewed for the job because he prepared Hillary’s favorite meat: lamb! She was excited about the culinary scene in the White House and advocated for a mix of American food and global cuisine, as well as healthy menus.
Laura Bush: Cowboy Cookies
Laura Bush kept it simple in the kitchen. And in regards to baking, she’s famous for her cowboy cookies. Her entry into Family Circle’s Presidential Cookie Bake-Off gave them national recognition.
Michelle Obama: Garden Vegetables
This former FLOTUS was known for promoting healthy eating and fighting child obesity. Her famous White House garden was filled with an array of nutritious vegetables that make healthy eating more enjoyable.
Apple Pie Steel-Cut Oatmeal
I absolutely love this slow-cooked oatmeal. The steel-cut oats have so much flavor and texture. My family sprinkles toasted pecans on top whenever possible. —Angela Lively, Conroe, Texas
Jill Biden: Parmesan Chicken
Dr. Jill Biden understands the importance of gathering with loved ones around the dinner table. And her Chicken Parmesan recipe, which she shared with Parade magazine, is a family favorite.
