Although interest in additive manufacturing (AM) in the food sector has gained increasing attention in recent years, a comprehensive study combining bibliometric and network analyses to map the intellectual landscape of 3D food printing (3DFP) is still lacking. Data were collected utilizing the Scopus database from 2011 to 2024, encompassing a wide range of scientific publications. Key bibliometric indicators, including author influence, affiliation statistics, leading journals, keyword statistics, and three-field plots, were analyzed to highlight leading contributors and emerging themes. Co-citation, citation, and co-authorship network analyses were performed to clarify the collaborative framework and intellectual knowledge driving the advancement of the field. The findings show a steady growth in research output, with significant contributions from China, the USA, and India. Four major thematic clusters were identified i.e., pharmaceutical 3D printing, structured and bio-polymer based material used in 3D printing, the rheological and mechanical properties of food and biomaterials, and the design of edible food inks. The emerging trends for future research were found to be plant-based formulations, AI-assisted printing and sustainable food production for clinical nutrition and space applications. A roadmap for the future development of this emerging interdisciplinary field is provided, along with limitations and implications for further research. Overall, this study provides a thorough knowledge map of 3DFP research along with practical insights that researchers and industry stakeholders can use to strategically position future studies, promote cooperation, and expedite development and commercialization.