Tavern Sandwiches Recipe | CDKitchen.com (2024)

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Bring the tavern home with these easy sandwiches. Beef simmered in a tangy sauce is served on a bun with pickles and cheese. This recipe makes a big batch and the leftovers are even better!

Tavern Sandwiches Recipe | CDKitchen.com (1)


serves/makes:

ready in:

under 30 minutes

3 reviews
1 comment


ingredients

1 cup water
3/4 cup ketchup
1/4 teaspoon chili powder
2 tablespoons yellow mustard
1/2 large onion, minced fine
1 teaspoon horseradish
1 tablespoon sugar
2 pounds ground beef
salt and pepper, to taste

directions

Combine the water, ketchup, chili powder, mustard, onion, horseradish, and sugar in a large pan over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil and cook for 2-3 minutes.

Crumble the ground beef into the sauce. Bring again to a boil. Cook over medium-high heat for 5 minutes, stirring to break up the beef.

Reduce the heat to a simmer and let cook for 15 minutes. Drain off any excess liquid. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Spoon the mixture onto buns and top with mustard, pickles, and cheese (or other toppings). Serve immediately.

recipe tips


To make sure the beef stays tender, avoid overcooking it once it's added to the sauce.

For a smoky flavor, add a dash of smoked paprika to the sauce.

If you're watching your sodium intake, use low-sodium ketchup and adjust the amount of added salt.

Adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or Worcestershire sauce can deepen the sauce's flavor.

For a creamier texture, stir in a small amount of cream cheese or sour cream just before serving.

Toasting the buns before assembling the sandwiches adds a nice texture contrast.

Serve with a side of coleslaw or potato salad to complement the tangy flavor of the sandwiches.

Add some heat by incorporating diced jalapenos or crushed red pepper flakes.

For a low-carb option, serve the beef mixture in lettuce wraps instead of on buns.

common recipe questions


Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef. The cooking time may vary slightly, so just make sure it's fully cooked before serving.

What type of buns are best for Tavern Sandwiches?

Soft hamburger buns work well, but you can also use brioche buns for a buttery flavor or slider buns for smaller, appetizer-sized sandwiches.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer the mixture for a longer period to reduce the liquid or add a tablespoon of tomato paste to thicken it.

Is there a substitute for horseradish?

If you don't have horseradish, you can use a small amount of wasabi or Dijon mustard for a similar spicy kick. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste. Or, you can omit it if you'd prefer a milder sandwich.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, after bringing the sauce ingredients to a boil and browning the beef separately, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 2-3 hours to meld the flavors together.

What cheese works best with Tavern Sandwiches?

Sharp cheddar cheese complements the tangy sauce well, but you can also use American cheese for a classic melt or pepper jack for a spicy kick.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this recipe reheats well and the flavors continue to develop, making it great for making ahead. Store in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in a microwave.

How should leftovers be stored?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the beef mixture for up to 2-3 months.

Can the beef mixture be used for other dishes?

Yes, the beef mixture can also be served over rice, noodles, or baked potatoes for a different meal option.


nutrition data

335 calories, 24 grams fat, 9 grams carbohydrates, 21 grams protein per serving. This recipe is low in carbs.



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reviews & comments

  1. Jean Dabbs November 9, 2018

    Am I correct in assuming the ground beef is not browned before adding to sauce?

    • CDKitchen Staff Reply:

      That is correct, you crumble the raw beef into the sauce.

  2. Ann REVIEW:
    November 3, 2018

    Have made this recipe many times for family and they love it each and every time. I actually omitted the chili powder, horseradish and mustard. Still comes out very flavorful because of the ketchup being added to it (dilute with water called for in recipe). Very simple, easy and loved by my husband and family. also great because of time factor. Takes so little time to make, especially those times when you're running late and need to prepare something in a hurry and family is waiting to eat.

  3. luna REVIEW:
    August 8, 2013

    I was afraid that boiling the beef was going to make it tough but the sandwiches turned out very good. I didn't prepare it a day ahead of time but did have leftovers that I agree were even better than they were freshly prepared so if you have the time, make it the day before.

  4. Guest Foodie REVIEW:
    May 18, 2012

    Just like Mama used to make & the kids loved it.

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Tavern Sandwiches Recipe | CDKitchen.com (2024)

FAQs

What kind of sandwich is a tavern? ›

A tavern sandwich (also called a loose meat sandwich or loosemeat) is a sandwich consisting of ground beef on a bun, sometimes mixed with sauteed onions, and sometimes topped with pickles, ketchup, mustard, raw onions, and/or cheese.

Why is it called a tavern sandwich? ›

Created in 1920 in Montana, the steam hamburger was a precursor to what we call a tavern today. In 1926, the Maid-Rite restaurant started serving their version in Iowa under the name "loose meat sandwich." The name "tavern" came later after a restaurant that served the sandwich was bought and turned into a tavern.

What is the difference between a tavern and a sloppy joe? ›

A Tavern Sandwich, also known as a Loose Meat Sandwich, is remarkably similar to a Sloppy Joe, but without the tomato sauce or ketchup. Sloppy Joes are a must-try for meat lovers looking for a great, uncomplicated sandwich to enjoy on any occasion.

What is a Marilyn Monroe sandwich? ›

Grilled Thin Sliced Turkey and Pepperoni topped with Marinara Sauce and Melted Mozzarella Cheese on a grilled Ciabatta Bun.

What is a dead Texan sandwich? ›

Description - <b>"Dead Texan"</b> Two Texas toast grilled cheese sandwiches with 1/3 lb. burger, 1 egg, 2 slices of bacon, lettuce, tomato, onion, jalapenos, and peppercorn mayo in between.

Why are they called funeral sandwiches? ›

Funeral sandwiches get their name because, very simply, they are a type of sandwich often served at funerals.

What is a pub sandwich? ›

Layer beef on bottom half of roll. Drizzle beef with more dressing as desired. Continue layering each with tomato, cucumber and lettuce. Cover with top half of roll.

What's the difference between a Maid-Rite and a sloppy joe? ›

While both are made with seasoned ground beef, Sloppy Joes feature a rich tomato-based sauce. The meat mixture is slightly sweet and often enjoyed without additional toppings. Loose meat sandwiches like Maid Rites, on the other hand, have no sauce at all.

What is the fancy name for sloppy Joes? ›

Manwich, slush burger, yum yums, dynamite, spoonburgers, tavern sandwich; a Sloppy Joe can be called by many other names. The most well-known however is Manwich.

What do people in Wisconsin call sloppy Joes? ›

How "hot tamale" became the name for sloppy Joes in these Wisconsin communities is so far a mystery. The name was solidified through decades of Sheboygan and Manitowoc school lunch menus, though "sloppy Joe" has come into use now. And the fight isn't restricted to hot tamales vs. sloppy Joes.

What is the nickname for sloppy Joes? ›

Some other names for sloppy joes include: barbecues, dynamites, gulash, sloppy janes, slushburgers, steamers, wimpies, and yum yums.

What is the secret of good sandwich? ›

Moisture is important. Nobody wants a dry sandwich, so be generous with the sauces and spreads. Freshly-made sandwiches are usually the best sandwiches, but that's not always possible - so think about how well your ingredients are going to last the distance (e.g. if the filling is too wet, will the bread get soggy?)

What is the perfect sandwich? ›

"A good sandwich comes down to the condiments," Fidanza says. "You can use anything—turkey, tuna, vegetables, a hard-boiled egg—as the base of a sandwich. But having good condiments to make them taste better is key, whether that's mayonnaise, mustard, or some kind of relish.

What makes a tavern a tavern? ›

A tavern is typically a more upscale type of bar that also serves food. Taverns often have a more sophisticated atmosphere, and they may offer a wider selection of beers, wines, and spirits. Taverns are also usually more expensive than bars.

Are sloppy joes called taverns? ›

Basically, the sandwiches were just loose ground beef sandwiches (that he called tavern burgers). So a sloppy joe without the tomato sauce. BUT, there were a lot of places selling loose meat sandwiches in the 30s. In 1926, the franchaise Maid-Rite opened up, also in Iowa.

What food was served at taverns? ›

From at least the 14th century, taverns, along with inns and later cabarets, were the main places to dine out. Typically, a tavern offered various roast meats, as well as simple foods like bread, cheese, herring and bacon.

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