Description
A comforting, messy American classic made with tender beef, slow-braised in a tangy tomatillo reduction and caramelized onions. Served on hearty starchy buns, this recipe captures the soul of cafeteria favorites without artificial shortcuts, using fresh, honest ingredients for a stick-to-your-fingers flavor experience.
Ingredients
3 large onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 pounds ground beef or cubed brisket
1 teaspoon coarsely ground smoked paprika
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
2 cups tomato puree (or tomatillo reduction)
1 teaspoon lemon zest
Salt and black pepper, to taste
10 starchy buns (like potato rolls), split and toasted
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deeply caramelized.
In a separate pan, brown the beef or brisket over medium-high heat until no longer pink. Season with half the smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Stir in caramelized onions, remaining paprika, tomato puree, cider vinegar, and lemon zest. Simmer for 20 minutes, allowing flavors to emulsify.
Serve the mixture onto split, toasted buns and press gently to fill. Serve immediately.
Notes
For tender meat, use a meat thermometer to ensure brisket reaches 200°F (93°C) without overcooking.
Substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian option.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 40
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Stovetop/Braising
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg