Name: Loose Meat Tavern Sandwiches: 7 Savory Comfort Delights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 loaf French bread; 1 pound lean ground beef; 2 tablespoons butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 5 oz white cooking wine (or beef broth); 1 teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 75 oz condensed cheddar cheese soup; ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese; Dash of black pepper; Non-stick cooking spray

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Introduction

Loose Meat Tavern Sandwiches are a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. Seasoned ground beef simmers with garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and a creamy cheddar cheese sauce, then gets piled generously into warm French bread and baked until toasty and hot. This meal is not only satisfying but also incredibly quick, taking just 30 minutes from stovetop to table.

Why You’ll Love This Loose Meat Tavern Sandwiches

This recipe is a winner for several reasons. First, it’s a quick and easy meal that can be made in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Second, the combination of flavors—from the savory beef to the creamy cheese sauce—creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love. Third, it’s versatile; you can easily adapt it to make loose meat hoagies or even meat-loaded tavern subs. Fourth, it’s a crowd-pleaser, ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings. Fifth, this recipe uses simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Lastly, what is a loose meat sandwich? It’s a deliciously messy and comforting meal that will become a staple in your household.

Ingredients for Loose Meat Tavern Sandwiches

Gather these items:

1 loaf French bread
1 pound lean ground beef
2 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
5 oz white cooking wine (or beef broth)
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
75 oz condensed cheddar cheese soup
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Dash of black pepper
Non-stick cooking spray

How to Make Loose Meat Tavern Sandwiches Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and break it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned throughout, about 6–8 minutes.
Step 3: Add minced garlic, white cooking wine, onion powder, and a dash of black pepper. Stir to combine and cook for 1 more minute. Drain all excess liquid from the pan.
Step 4: Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, condensed cheddar cheese soup, and shredded cheddar cheese. Reduce heat to low. Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely and the sauce turns smooth and creamy. Cover the skillet and remove from heat.
Step 5: Cut the French bread into 4 equal sections. Slice each section in half vertically to create open sandwich pockets.
Step 6: Fill each sandwich pocket with one quarter of the beef and cheese mixture. Pack it in generously.
Step 7: Spray the outside of each filled sandwich lightly with non-stick cooking spray. Wrap each sandwich tightly in aluminum foil.
Step 8: Place the foil-wrapped sandwiches on a baking sheet. Bake for 10–15 minutes until the bread crisps and the filling steams hot all the way through.

Pro Tips for the Best Loose Meat Tavern Sandwiches

Keep these in mind:

Using lean ground beef helps reduce excess fat, making your sandwiches healthier.
Don’t skip the step of draining excess liquid to keep your sandwiches from becoming soggy.
Feel free to experiment with unique loose meat sandwich toppings like jalapeños or jalapeño cheese for an extra kick.
This method of baking keeps the sandwiches warm and melty without drying them out, ensuring a perfect texture.

Loose Meat Tavern Sandwiches: 7 Savory Comfort Delights - Loose Meat Tavern Sandwiches - main visual representation

Best Ways to Serve Loose Meat Tavern Sandwiches

These sandwiches are best served hot and can be paired with various sides. Consider serving them with crispy potato chips or a refreshing coleslaw for a delightful contrast. You can also offer an array of easy loose meat sandwich ideas such as customizing toppings like pickles, lettuce, or hot sauce to cater to everyone’s tastes.

How to Store and Reheat Loose Meat Tavern Sandwiches

To store leftovers, wrap the sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or foil and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply unwrap the sandwich and place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. These sandwiches are perfect for meal prep; you can make a batch ahead of time for quick lunches or dinners!

Frequently Asked Questions About Loose Meat Tavern Sandwiches

What’s the secret to perfect Loose Meat Tavern Sandwiches?

The secret lies in the balance of seasoning and ensuring the beef is cooked properly without excess moisture. This will prevent sogginess and enhance flavors, making your sandwiches a hit!

Can I make Loose Meat Tavern Sandwiches ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the beef mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. Just heat it up before filling the bread and baking for a quick meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Loose Meat Tavern Sandwiches?

Avoid overcooking the beef or skipping the draining step, as these can lead to soggy sandwiches. Also, be generous with cheese for that creamy goodness!

Variations of Loose Meat Tavern Sandwiches You Can Try

Feel free to customize this recipe! Consider using turkey instead of beef for a lighter option. You can also experiment with different cheeses, or even make a vegetarian version using lentils or mushrooms. Adding a spicy twist with hot sauce or jalapeños can also offer a new flavor profile.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making chocolate oatmeal bars for a sweet treat. If you’re interested in more sandwich ideas, consider our chicken avocado melt sandwich recipe.

For a deeper understanding of the history of loose meat sandwiches, you can visit History.com.