Maid-Rite Sandwiches – The Iconic Loose Meat Sandwich of the Midwest
Maid-Rite Sandwiches are a Midwest staple featuring seasoned loose ground beef served on a soft bun with pickles, onions, and mustard. Juicy, flavorful, and nostalgic, this simple yet hearty sandwich is a timeless comfort food that embodies true Midwestern tradition.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 hamburger buns
- Dill pickles and mustard (for serving)
Instructions
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it begins to brown.
- Break the meat into fine crumbles using a spatula.
- Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent.
- Stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer on low heat for about 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Toast the hamburger buns lightly.
- Spoon the loose beef mixture onto each bun.
- Top with pickles and a little extra mustard if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy the authentic taste of Iowa’s finest sandwich.
Notes
- Use ground beef with some fat content for the best flavour and texture.
- Do not drain the beef completely; a little moisture keeps the sandwich juicy.
- Simmering helps the flavors deepen and the meat absorb seasoning.
- For an authentic Maid-Rite experience, skip cheese and ketchup.
- Soft hamburger buns or steamed buns enhance the texture perfectly.