Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Loose Meat Tavern Sandwich Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: KimEasy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x
  • Category: Sandwich
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

A savory, nostalgic sandwich featuring seasoned loose ground beef piled high on a soft bunโ€”simple comfort food reminiscent of classic tavern-style sloppy joes without the sauce.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped (about 1/2 cup)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter (optional, for richer flavor)
  • 4 soft hamburger buns
  • Pickle slices (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter (if using).
  2. Add the chopped onion and sautรฉ for 3โ€“4 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until no longer pink, about 6โ€“8 minutes.
  5. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  6. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1โ€“2 more minutes to meld flavors.
  7. Toast the hamburger buns lightly, if desired.
  8. Scoop a generous portion of the meat mixture onto the bottom half of each bun.
  9. Top with pickle slices, then cap with the top bun.
  10. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

  • Ground beef with a bit more fat adds richer flavor; drain if too greasy.
  • Customize seasonings by adding a splash of BBQ sauce or a dash of hot sauce.
  • For cheeseburger-style, place a slice of cheddar on the meat in the skillet and allow to melt.
  • Leftover meat rewarms wellโ€”serve it over fries or as a filling for tacos.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 sandwich
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 550 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg