SPG$ Maid-Rite Sandwiches
The Maid-Rite sandwich, born in Iowa in the 1920s, is a loose meat sandwich that delivers all the juicy satisfaction of a burger—without the patty. Traditionally served with minimal seasoning, the classic version relies on the rich flavor of simmered ground beef. This recipe takes that humble foundation and amplifies it with Revolution Barbecue’s SPG$ seasoning, a bold blend of kosher salt, cracked black pepper, garlic, onion, pure cane sugar, and a hint of smoked paprika. The result is a craveable mix of savory, garlicky, and slightly smoky flavors that cling to each morsel of ground beef. To maintain balance with the robust seasoning, we use low-sodium beef broth and finish the sandwich on a soft, toasted bun with optional toppings like pickles and mustard. It’s a flavor-forward homage to a Midwest classic.
SPG$ Loose Meat Sandwiches (Iowa Maid-Rite Style with Barbecue Flair)
6
10 minutes
15 minutes
450
American
Main Dish
These SPG$ Maid-Rite sandwiches are a barbecue-inspired take on the iconic loose meat sandwich made famous in Iowa diners. Instead of a simple salt-and-pepper blend, this recipe leans into Revolution Barbecue’s SPG$ seasoning to bring savory depth, a touch of sweetness, and a subtle smokiness. Simmered with yellow mustard, Worcestershire, and soy sauce in low-sodium beef broth, the ground beef becomes tender and juicy while staying well-balanced in flavor. Toasting the buns provides textural contrast, and optional toppings like pickles and onions add brightness. Whether you’re craving nostalgic comfort or serving a crowd, this recipe delivers satisfying flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
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Two pounds ground beef (80% lean, 20% percent fat)
- One cup yellow onion, finely chopped
- Three-fourths cup low-sodium beef broth
- One tablespoon yellow mustard
- One tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- One tablespoon soy sauce
- Two teaspoons brown sugar
- Two teaspoons Revolution Barbecue SPG$ seasoning
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- Six hamburger buns, lightly toasted
- Dill pickle chips (optional)
- Yellow mustard (optional)
- Diced white or yellow onion (optional)
Directions
- Brown the Beef and Onions: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion together until the beef is browned and fully crumbled, about seven to nine minutes. Do not drain the fat.
- Add the Seasonings: Stir in the low-sodium beef broth, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and Revolution Barbecue SPG$ seasoning until evenly combined.
- Simmer the Mixture: Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for ten to fifteen minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the liquid has reduced and the meat mixture is saucy but not soupy.
- Toast the Buns: While the beef simmers, toast the hamburger buns in a dry skillet or under the broiler until golden and warm.
- Assemble and Serve: Spoon a generous portion of the loose meat onto each bottom bun. Top with optional mustard, diced onion, and pickle chips if desired, then close with the top bun and serve immediately.
