Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich

One of the Midwest’s best-kept secrets is the Maid-Rite loose meat sandwich, and if you know, you know! I love this sandwich, it’s meaty, humble, and delicious. Unlike a typical burger, the loose meat sandwich is a juicy, savory delight that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying. The best part is that you can make them at home easily with just a handful of ingredients!

Maid-Rite is a chain of restaurants where the shining star is the loose meat sandwich. What’s a loose meat sandwich? It’s kind of like a sloppy joe without the slop. It’s drier, and when served with pickles and onions, it’s delish.

It’s a regional favorite and while there are a million ways to make a loose meat sandwich, this Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich is pretty much spot-on. Top it however you like: with mustard, ketchup, pickles or onions. I like it simple with just some good tangy pickles.

What You’ll Love About Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwiches

• They’re meaty, beefy, and not complicated to make. Simple ingredients and ready in under 20 minutes makes this an easy weeknight dinner.
• Top them however you like with all your favorite burger toppings, or keep it simple.
• You can serve loose meat sandwiches between bread or on your favorite kind of bun.

Ingredients

• Ground beef – I like using 80/20 for flavor and fat.
• Beef broth
• Worcestershire sauce
• Mustard powder
• Maggi Sauce – Optional but adds so much flavor and umami.
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Bakery fresh buns
• Dill pickles

How To Make Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwiches

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain off all but 1 tablespoon of the fat.
3. Stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, mustard powder, Maggi Sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder.
4. Simmer the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid has evaporated and the meat is tender.
5. Toast the bakery fresh buns in a separate pan or under the broiler until lightly browned.
6. Spoon the loose meat mixture onto the bottom half of each toasted bun.
7. Top with dill pickles or your favorite toppings and place the other half of the bun on top.
8. Dig in!

Step-By-Step Process

Heather’s Tried-And-True Tips

• Using 80/20 ground beef ensures a good balance of flavor and moisture.
• Feel free to add your favorite toppings like cheese, onions, or ketchup for extra flavor.

Recommended

Make It A Meal

Pair your Copycat Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich with classic sides like crispy french fries or fresh coleslaw. For a refreshing drink, a cold glass of iced tea or lemonade complements the savory sandwich beautifully. This meal is perfect for a casual lunch or dinner that everyone will love.

Storage

Store any leftover meat mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to keep it moist. For longer storage, freeze the meat mixture in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.