The loose meat sandwich is a sandwich that originated in Iowa and is iconic in the state. It features seasoned ground beef served loose on a bun, without any binder or condiments. The simplicity of the sandwich highlights the flavor of the beef. While several Iowa restaurants serve their own version of the loose meat sandwich, the most famous is the Maid-Rite sandwich from the restaurant chain Taylor’s Maid-Rite.
What is a loose meat sandwich?
A loose meat sandwich is made with seasoned ground beef that is cooked and served loose in its crumbled form on a bun. The meat is not formed into a patty or held together with any binders or fillers. It is simply the ground beef in its loose, crumbled state. The meat is seasoned, typically with salt, pepper, and spices. The seasoned loose meat is piled high on a soft bun and served plain without traditional burger toppings or condiments.
The simplicity of the sandwich allows the flavor of the seasoned beef to shine. Without toppings or condiments, the taste and texture of the beef become the star. The loose meat is soft, almost melt-in-your-mouth, and full of flavor from the seasoning.
Origin of the loose meat sandwich
The loose meat sandwich originated in Iowa in the 1920s. It was created by Dave Higgin, who operated several food stands in the Midwest. In 1926, Higgin opened his first restaurant in Muscatine, Iowa under the name “Higgin’s Hamburgers.” At Higgin’s Hamburgers, he sold his version of the loose meat sandwich which he called the “Maid-Rite” sandwich.
The origin of the Maid-Rite name is disputed. Some claim it was coined by Higgin’s wife after she took a bite and declared it was “made right.” Others say it refers to the sandwich being handmade on-site. Another theory suggests it was named after the restaurant’s “Maid-Rite” cooking equipment.
Regardless of the name origin, Higgin’s Maid-Rite sandwich became extremely popular. In the 1930s, he began franchising his restaurant to expand across Iowa. The Maid-Rite loose meat sandwich spread quickly as more franchise locations opened. Today, there are over 100 Maid-Rite restaurants in Iowa and other Midwest states.
Taylor’s Maid-Rite sandwich
The most famous version of the Iowa loose meat sandwich comes from the restaurant chain Taylor’s Maid-Rite. Taylor’s Maid-Rite was one of the first Maid-Rite franchise locations opened by Dave Higgin in the 1930s. Based in Marshalltown, Iowa, Taylor’s Maid-Rite has become synonymous with the loose meat sandwich.
The Taylor’s Maid-Rite sandwich features ground beef seasoned with a signature blend of spices cooked on a flat-top grill. It is served loose and uncompacted on a bun. Customers can order it as a “Maid-Rite” for a plain loose meat sandwich or a “Cheese-Rite” with melted American cheese. Taylor’s Maid-Rite has changed little over the years and is considered the standard-bearer of the Iowa loose meat sandwich.
Taylor’s Maid-Rite Loose Meat Sandwich Facts
- Uses fresh 80/20 ground chuck grilled on a flat-top with onions
- Seasoned with a signature blend of 7 spices
- Served on a bun with mustard, onion, and pickles on the side
- Customers can order it “up” for a sandwich topped with ketchup, mustard, onion, and pickles
- Comes in regular or “Big Maid-Rite” size
Taylor’s Maid-Rite has achieved widespread fame and makes the loose meat sandwich synonymous with Iowa. It has been featured on food TV shows, won state fair competitions, and been named the state sandwich of Iowa.
Other famous Iowa loose meat sandwiches
While Taylor’s Maid-Rite is the most iconic, there are several other loose meat sandwiches native to Iowa including:
Canteen Lunch in the Alley
Canteen Lunch has served loose meat sandwiches in Ottumwa, Iowa since the 1920s. Their version features 5 ounce beef patties cooked in mustard and onions for a zesty flavor. It is served on thick-cut white bread.
Ye Olde Tavern
This restaurant originated in Savanna, Illinois but has an Iowa location in Bettendorf. Their loose meat sandwich is called a “tavern” and is served with homemade fries and chicken noodle soup.
NuWay Cafe
NuWay Cafe in Storm Lake, Iowa claims to have invented the loose meat sandwich in the 1930s. Their seasoned loose meat is served with red onion slices and dill pickles.
Larsen’s Pub
Larsen’s Pub in Elk Horn, Iowa serves their loose meat sandwiches with melted American cheese and fried onions. Their meat mixture includes a blend of beef and pork.
Miles Inn
The Miles Inn in Sioux City, Iowa uses a family meat recipe that includes pork and beef cooked in seasoned gravy. The moist sandwich is served wrapped in wax paper.
Saveraid Cafe
This Maquoketa, Iowa restaurant cooks their loose meat in Mueller’s Spicy Chili Sauce for a unique flavor twist. It is topped with mustard, pickles, and onions.
What makes the Iowa loose meat sandwich unique?
There are a few key factors that make the Iowa loose meat sandwich special:
- No binder – The meat maintains a loose, crumbled texture and is not formed into a compact patty.
- Simplicity – Without typical burger toppings, the flavor of the meat shines.
- Thin Bun – A simple thin bun allows the meat to be the focus.
- Regional history – The sandwich has strong ties to Iowa history and culture.
- Family recipes – Many restaurants use proprietary seasoned meat recipes passed down for generations.
The simplicity and focus on flavorful meat are what define the iconic Iowa sandwich. As Taylor’s Maid-Rite declares, it’s “Loose Meat Done Right!”
Cultural impact of the loose meat sandwich
The loose meat sandwich holds a special place in Iowa’s culinary history and culture. Some key facts about its significance include:
- In 2016, the Iowa legislature named the loose meat sandwich the “state sandwich of Iowa.”
- The sandwich is often cited as an originator of the sloppy joe sandwich. Recipes spread from Iowa across the country.
- Taylor’s Maid-Rite loose meat sandwich has been declared an Iowa “state treasure.”
- The sandwich represents Iowa on “food bucket lists” across the country.
- Visitors to the state are encouraged to stop and try an authentic loose meat sandwich.
- Many Iowans who move away crave the simple but flavorful sandwich.
The regionally unique sandwich holds nostalgic importance for Iowans and ties strongly to the state’s pride and culture. Trying a loose meat sandwich is considered a must for any visit to Iowa.
Where to find the best loose meat sandwiches in Iowa
To get an authentic loose meat sandwich experience, visit any of these top restaurants in Iowa:
| Restaurant | Location |
|---|---|
| Taylor’s Maid-Rite | Marshalltown |
| Canteen Lunch in the Alley | Ottumwa |
| Ye Olde Tavern | Bettendorf |
| NuWay Cafe | Storm Lake |
| Larsen’s Pub | Elk Horn |
| Miles Inn | Sioux City |
| Saveraid Cafe | Maquoketa |
At any of these spots, you can try a piece of Iowa history with a deliciously seasoned, simple, and satisfying loose meat sandwich.
How to make your own loose meat sandwich
You can recreate the iconic Iowa sandwich at home with this recipe:
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 or 85/15 lean/fat ratio)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- Dash of cayenne pepper
- 4 hamburger buns
- Condiments like mustard, ketchup, pickles (optional)
Directions
- In a skillet over medium heat, crumble ground beef and sprinkle with onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne. Cook until browned and cooked through, stirring frequently, about 5-7 minutes.
- Divide meat evenly among the 4 buns. Add any desired condiments like mustard, ketchup, pickles.
- Serve warm and enjoy this taste of Iowa!
For even more flavor, try adding some sliced onion to the meat as it cooks. And be sure to serve with a side of fries for the complete experience.
Conclusion
The loose meat sandwich is an Iowa original with a storied history. While restaurants like Taylor’s Maid-Rite have made it famous, the simple, seasoned ground beef on a bun can be found at many diners and drive-ins around the state. The sandwich represents a unique Iowa culinary tradition born out of the early 20th century. Trying an authentic loose meat sandwich is a must for anyone visiting Iowa to truly taste the culture and charm of the heartland state.