There’s something incredibly comforting about a homemade Manwich. This easy-to-make dish brings together savory ground beef with zesty seasonings, perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation, you can whip up this delightful meal in no time.
Why make this recipe
Making your own Manwich is not just about creating a delicious sandwich; it’s also about enjoying the process of cooking. You can customize the flavors to your liking and avoid the preservatives found in store-bought versions. Plus, it’s a great way to feed a crowd or have leftovers for quick meals later in the week!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (packed)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 hamburger buns, split and lightly toasted
How to make it
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the tomato sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, vinegar, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 10-12 minutes until thickened.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Toast the hamburger buns cut-side down in a skillet until golden.
- Spoon the Manwich mixture onto the buns and serve immediately.
How to serve it
Serve your homemade Manwich hot, heaped onto toasted hamburger buns. Pair it with a side of crispy fries, potato chips, or a simple salad for a satisfying meal. You can also add toppings like shredded cheese, pickles, or jalapeños for an extra kick.
How to store it
If you have leftovers, store the Manwich filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the filling for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Helpful tips
- Feel free to drain any excess fat from the ground beef after browning for a leaner option.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar according to your taste.
- For a spicier version, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
Optional variations
You can customize your Manwich with different proteins like ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or black beans combined with similar seasonings.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a different type of ground meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat alternative for a vegetarian option.
What can I serve with Manwich?
Manwich pairs well with French fries, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad. You can also enjoy it with crispy potato chips for some added crunch.
How do I know when the Manwich is thick enough?
The mixture should be thick enough to mound on the buns without spilling over. If it’s still too runny after simmering, let it cook a bit longer until it reaches the desired consistency.
