Loose Meat Sandwiches

Loose Meat Sandwiches

Loose Meat Sandwiches (Easy Midwest Classic)

If you’ve ever watched Roseanne, you might remember their loose meat sandwich shop — that’s what first inspired me to make this recipe! I had never tried a “real” loose meat sandwich before. (UPDATE: I have had a loose meat sandwich at Maid-Rite! The verdict? Delicious and this recipe is spot-on!) After testing a few versions at home, I finally found one that’s absolutely delicious.

These loose meat sandwiches taste like a cross between sloppy joes and sliders — all the flavor without the mess! They’re hearty, savory, and perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a game-day meal.

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What Is a Loose Meat Sandwich?

A loose meat sandwich is made with seasoned ground beef served on a soft hamburger bun — similar to a sloppy joe, but without the tomato sauce. The meat is cooked in broth with simple seasonings, giving it a juicy texture and rich beefy flavor. It’s a Midwest favorite, especially in Iowa and Nebraska.

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Ingredients

• 2 lbs. ground beef

• 1 cup chopped onion

• 1 ½ cups beef broth

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon pepper

• 8 hamburger or sub buns

Optional toppings: ketchup, mustard, dill pickles, or sliced cheese

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Instructions

1. Brown the beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess grease and return the beef to the skillet.

2. Add onion: Stir in the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

3. Simmer: Add the beef broth, salt, garlic powder, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until most of the liquid has evaporated.

4. Steam the buns: Open the buns and place them cut-side down over the hot beef mixture. Cover the skillet for 1 minute to let the buns steam.

5. Assemble and serve: Spoon the loose meat onto buns and add your favorite toppings like ketchup, mustard, and pickles.

Makes 8 sandwiches.

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Tips & Variations

• Add cheese: Try topping with American or cheddar cheese for a “cheeseburger loose meat” version.

• Make it ahead: The meat mixture can be cooked in advance and reheated — great for meal prep or parties.

• Try mini buns: Serve on slider rolls for appetizers or kids’ lunches.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and budget-friendly

• Uses simple pantry ingredients

• Classic comfort food flavor

• Perfect for family dinners or tailgates

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These homemade Loose Meat Sandwiches bring a taste of the Midwest right to your kitchen — easy, flavorful, and totally satisfying. Once you try them, you’ll see why this old-fashioned sandwich is still a favorite today!

I know you will love this sandwich recipe also!

This recipe was adapted from Food.com

Loose Meat Sandwiches