Art'S Michigan Sauce
A savory and spicy Michigan-style sauce with rich tomato and onion flavors, perfect for topping hamburgers or serving over grilled meats. Bold, flavorful, and customizable in heat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients with tomato sauce and raw hamburger in a skillet.
- Simmer on medium heat until hamburger is cooked, about 30 to 60 minutes.
- Hamburger will become very fine and well incorporated into the sauce.
- Add Frank's hot sauce to reach your desired level of hotness.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, sauté the onion before adding it to the skillet. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger if you prefer a leaner option. Adjust the chili powder to your taste for more or less spice. Consider adding bell peppers or mushrooms for extra texture. This sauce pairs beautifully with Sweet-Sour Country Ribs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Michigan sauce over hot dogs, burgers, or as a hearty filling for sandwiches. It also works well with a side of coleslaw or potato salad for a complete meal. For a comforting twist, try it as a topping for baked potatoes or alongside Rodeo Beans for a delicious combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. You can also microwave individual portions on medium power until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Art'S Michigan Sauce contains roughly 15 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheating it will allow the flavors to meld even more, making it taste even better. This is a great time-saver for busy weeknights.
What can I use instead of tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce, you can use crushed tomatoes or even tomato paste mixed with water for a thicker consistency. Adjust the seasoning accordingly, as tomato paste is more concentrated. Alternatively, try a store-bought marinara for a different flavor profile.
Is this sauce spicy?
The spice level can be easily adjusted depending on your taste. Start with a small amount of chili powder and add more as needed. The addition of Frank's hot sauce at the end allows you to customize the heat level to your liking, so feel free to experiment!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).