Iowa Style Loose Meat Sandwiches

Savor the nostalgic flavors of the Midwest with these hearty Iowa Style Loose Meat Sandwiches! A local favorite, these sandwiches feature perfectly seasoned ground beef infused with beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and a hint of mustard for a savory, tangy kick. Unlike traditional burgers, the meat is finely crumbled and simmered to juicy perfection, making every bite richly satisfying. Serve the savory filling on soft hamburger buns, optionally topped with crisp pickle slices and a drizzle of mustard for added zest. Ready in just 40 minutes, this recipe is perfect for easy weeknight dinners, game-day spreads, or casual gatherings. Pair these mouthwatering sandwiches with fries or a salad for a deliciously satisfying meal that channels comfort food at its best!

Nutriscore Rating: 63/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 2 pounds Ground beef
• 1 medium Yellow onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup Beef broth
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon White vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon Yellow mustard
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon Garlic powder
• 8 Soft hamburger buns
• 8 Pickle slices (optional for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon Prepared yellow mustard (optional for topping)

Directions

Step 1

In a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up into fine crumbles with a wooden spoon or spatula.

Step 2

Add the chopped onion to the skillet. Continue cooking until the ground beef is browned and the onions are softened, about 8-10 minutes.

Step 3

Drain off any excess grease from the skillet, if necessary.

Step 4

Return the skillet to medium-low heat and pour in the beef broth. Stir to combine the broth with the beef mixture.

Step 5

Add the Worcestershire sauce, white vinegar, granulated sugar, yellow mustard, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 6

Simmer the beef mixture over low heat, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The liquid should mostly cook off, leaving the meat moist but not soupy.

Step 7

Toast the hamburger buns lightly, if desired.

Step 8

Spoon a generous amount of the loose meat mixture onto the bottom half of each bun. If using, top the meat with pickle slices and a drizzle of yellow mustard.

Step 9

Cover with the top half of the bun and serve immediately. Pair with chips, fries, or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1895 grams (1895.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3121

Total Fat 178.10g	228%
Saturated Fat 68.50g	343%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 602mg	201%
Sodium 8441mg	367%
Total Carbohydrate 206.40g	75%
Dietary Fiber 13.10g	47%
Total Sugars 39.70g
Protein 191.30g	383%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 531mg	41%
Iron 30mg	169%
Potassium 3368mg	72%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 50.2%

Protein: 24.0%

Carbs: 25.9%