Made Rites, also known as "loose meat sandwiches," are a Midwestern classic originating in Iowa. Unlike burgers, the ground beef isn't formed into patties but instead is crumbled and simmered with seasonings and sauce. This recipe provides a simple, flavorful version using ground beef and Heinz 57 steak sauce for a tangy twist. Often served on hamburger buns with pickles or onions, this hearty and satisfying sandwich is a nostalgic comfort food that's quick to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs ground beef
- 3 tbsp Heinz 57 Steak Sauce
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup water
- 8 hamburger buns
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Drain off any excess fat.
Step 2: Add Ingredients
- Add Heinz 57 steak sauce, salt, pepper, and water to the skillet.
Step 3: Simmer
- Stir all ingredients together.
- Simmer on low heat for 30 minutes.
Step 4: Serve
- Scoop the loose meat mixture onto hamburger buns.
- Serve warm, optionally with pickles, onions, or cheese.
Tips
- Add finely chopped onions while browning the beef for extra flavor.
- Substitute part of the water with beef broth to make the mixture richer.
- Add a splash of vinegar or Worcestershire sauce if you don’t have Heinz 57.
- Serve on soft hamburger buns or slider rolls.
- Mix in a tablespoon of mustard for tangier filling.
- Add cheese slices for “cheesy loose meat” sandwiches.
- Stir in a pinch of garlic powder or paprika.
- Make ahead, the filling reheats very well.
- Freeze leftovers flat in freezer bags for quick meals later.
Nutrition
Calories: 26kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 18gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 7.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.8gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 65mgSodium: 710mgPotassium: 240mgSugar: 1gVitamin A: 20IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 1.8mg
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