The Famous Tastee Sandwich: A Culinary Homage to Lincoln, Nebraska

My earliest memories of Lincoln, Nebraska, are inextricably linked to the distinct aroma that wafted from Tastee Inn & Out. Not the burgers, though those were good too. It was the Tastee sandwich, a concoction of spiced ground beef, piled high on a soft bun. I remember summer evenings, the car windows down, eagerly awaiting the little white bag that held this savory treasure, its warmth radiating through the paper. It wasn’t just a sandwich; it was a symbol of home. To this day, the scent of simmering onions and Worcestershire sauce instantly transports me back to those carefree days.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yields: Approximately 5 pounds
• Serves: About 25 sandwiches
• Dietary Type: Not specified, contains meat

Ingredients

• 4 ounces Heinz ketchup
• 3 teaspoons prepared mustard (heaping)
• 3 teaspoons creamed horseradish (heaping)
• 3 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 5 teaspoons salt (heaping)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 5 lbs ground beef (85/15 recommended)
• 1 cup ground onion
• 1 teaspoon Accent seasoning (MSG)

Equipment Needed

• 8-ounce cup or jar
• Flat-bottom aluminum kettle
• Wooden spoon
• Straining spoon

Instructions

1. Begin by creating the spice base. In an 8-ounce cup or jar, combine the ketchup, prepared mustard, creamed horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. The mixture should fill the cup; if not, top it off with additional ketchup until the cup is full.

2. Thoroughly stir the ingredients together until everything is completely mixed and the spices are evenly distributed. This is your Tastee sandwich flavor foundation!

3. Place the ground beef in a flat-bottom aluminum kettle. This type of kettle helps to ensure even cooking and prevents scorching.

4. Pour the spice mixture you just created directly onto the ground beef in the kettle.

5. Fill the same cup or jar with warm water. Rinse the inside of the cup, ensuring you capture any remaining seasoning clinging to the sides, and then pour the water into the kettle. This step helps to extract every bit of flavor from the spice blend.

6. Measure out one cup of finely ground yellow onions and add them to the kettle. The finer the grind, the better the onion flavor will distribute throughout the meat.

7. Add one heaping teaspoon of Accent seasoning (MSG) to the kettle. This enhances the savory notes of the sandwich.

8. Using a wooden spoon, thoroughly stir and mix all the ingredients in the kettle. Make sure the spices, onions, and seasoning are evenly incorporated throughout the ground beef.

9. Place the kettle on your stovetop over low heat. Stir constantly with the wooden spoon for approximately 15 minutes, or until the meat is finely broken apart. This prevents the meat from clumping together and ensures even cooking.

10. After 15 minutes, increase the heat to medium and bring the mixture to a boil.

11. Let the mixture boil for 25 minutes, stirring every few minutes with the wooden spoon. This prevents the mixture from sticking to the bottom of the kettle and helps to avoid lumps. During this stage, the flavors will meld together beautifully.

12. Once the boiling process is complete, use a regular metal straining spoon to portion out the meat onto buns.

13. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Tastee sandwich!

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Beef Selection: While the recipe calls for 85/15 ground beef, you can adjust the fat content to your liking. A leaner ground beef will result in a drier sandwich, so you may need to add a touch more water during cooking.
• Onion Preparation: Grinding the onions finely is key to achieving the authentic Tastee sandwich flavor. If you don’t have a grinder, you can use a food processor or finely mince them by hand.
• Spice Adjustment: Feel free to adjust the spice levels to your preference. If you prefer a spicier sandwich, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or increase the amount of horseradish.
• Kettle Size: Make sure you use a kettle that is large enough to accommodate all of the ingredients without overflowing.
• Stirring is Key: Don’t skimp on the stirring! Consistent stirring during the cooking process is essential for preventing sticking and ensuring even cooking.
• MSG: While Accent seasoning (MSG) is a part of the original recipe, some people may prefer to omit it. If you choose to do so, consider adding a pinch of mushroom powder or nutritional yeast to boost the umami flavor.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Tastee sandwich immediately on your favorite buns. Plain buns are classic, but sesame seed or onion rolls also work well. Consider offering a side of dill pickles or potato chips for a traditional Nebraska experience.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the meat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. The meat can also be frozen for longer storage (up to 2 months). Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	203.3 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	122 g	60%
Total Fat	13.7 g	21%
Saturated Fat	5.3 g	26%
Cholesterol	61.7 mg	20%
Sodium	591.1 mg	24%
Total Carbohydrate	2 g	0%
Dietary Fiber	0.2 g	0%
Sugars	1.4 g	5%
Protein	17.1 g	34%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy Tastee: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the spice mixture for a spicier sandwich.
• Vegetarian Tastee: While not the original, you can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
• Sweet Tastee: Some variations include a touch of brown sugar or molasses for a slightly sweet flavor profile.
• Bun Variations: Experiment with different types of buns, such as brioche or pretzel rolls, to add a unique twist.
• Topping Options: Consider adding toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, chopped onions, or a dollop of sour cream.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the meat mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

Q: Can I freeze the Tastee sandwich filling?
A: Absolutely! Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q: What if I don’t have Accent seasoning (MSG)?
A: While it’s part of the original recipe, you can omit it. Consider adding a pinch of mushroom powder or nutritional yeast to enhance the savory flavor.

Q: Can I use a different type of ground meat?
A: While ground beef is traditional, you can experiment with ground turkey or chicken. Keep in mind that these alternatives may require slightly different cooking times.

Q: How can I prevent the meat from sticking to the kettle?
A: Constant stirring, especially during the boiling process, is crucial for preventing sticking. Also, ensure the kettle has a flat bottom for even heat distribution.

Final Thoughts

This recipe is more than just a set of instructions; it’s a journey back in time, a taste of nostalgia, and a celebration of simple, comforting flavors. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the unique taste of the Famous Tastee Sandwich for yourself. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations and make it your own. Share your creations and memories with others and let the Tastee sandwich tradition live on! Pair it with a cold root beer and enjoy the true Nebraska experience.