Maid-Rite Copycat (Loose Meat Sandwiches)

The classic Maid-Rite is a loose meat sandwich made with perfectly seasoned, tender slow-cooked ground beef served on a warm slightly sweetened bun. We have tried to replicate it for years and at long last, we have the perfect crock pot recipe and it is one to keep!  If you have never tried one, run (do not walk) to your kitchen and make this!

A few years ago Chad and I traveled to Iowa for his high school reunion.  It was a much anticipated trip.  I have wanted to see Iowa for years, not just for the corn (although I would fly out just for that).  Ever since I first met him he had spoke of his favorite places in Cedar Rapids, so we had a long list of things to see and do.  Visiting a Maid-Rite restaurant was at the top of the list.

I remember hearing all about Maid-Rite's in just about every conversation about Iowa for as long as I have know him.  Interestingly, Maid-Rite has been an Iowa tradition since 1926 (and a mid-west staple for many years).  A Maid-Rite is a loose meat sandwich made with perfectly seasoned tender slow cooked ground beef served on a warm bun. 

First of all, it is definitely NOT a sloppy joe.  It is an unformed burger, featuring beef slow cooked in seasoning liquid leaving you with the most tender seasoned beef.  Simply served on a warm slightly sweet bun.  It is the most spectacular simple sandwich you will ever sink your teeth into.  Truth be told, I didn't 'get it' until I had my first sandwich.

Many family members have tried to replicate the magic that is the Maid-Rite.  Many have failed.  My father-in-law like the rest of Chad's family, grew up on Maid-Rite's Loose Meat Sandwiches and a few months back he informed my husband that at long last, he had a recipe that was the best Maid-Rite he had ever eaten, perhaps better than the original.

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