
Loose Meat Sandwich Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
- 6 hamburger buns
- Pickles for serving
- Yellow mustard for serving
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef until browned and crumbled, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 5-6 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, brown sugar, salt, pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
- Stir to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Add beef broth and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes until most liquid is absorbed.
- Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Toast hamburger buns lightly.
- Spoon loose meat mixture onto buns.
- Serve with pickles and additional yellow mustard.
Special Notes
This loose meat sandwich is a regional specialty from the Midwest, particularly popular in Iowa. It's similar to a sloppy joe but without the tomato sauce, giving it a more savory, tangy flavor. The key is to cook the meat until it's very finely crumbled and well-seasoned. This sandwich is perfect for feeding a crowd and can be made ahead of time. The meat mixture can be kept warm in a slow cooker for serving at parties. Serve with classic sides like potato chips, coleslaw, or baked beans.