Meat Cakes

Prep: 15 min Cook: 30 min Cuisine: American

Meat cakes are savory, hearty patties made with ground beef and crunchy saltine crackers, perfect for a comforting meal or casual gathering with bold flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb. ground beef
  • 16 saltine crackers
  • 1 c. milk
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Mix ground beef, crushed saltine crackers, and milk until well combined.
  2. Form the mixture into thick cakes.
  3. Coat the cakes with flour.
  4. Heat oil in a skillet and brown both sides of the cakes.
  5. Reduce heat and simmer the cakes in the oil for 15 minutes on each side.

Tips & Substitutions

For extra flavor, consider adding minced onions or garlic to the beef mixture. If you don't have saltine crackers, crushed breadcrumbs or panko can work as a substitute. Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the cakes to achieve a nice brown crust. If you're looking for more hearty meals, check out other American recipes like Patti'S Chili.

Serving Suggestions

These meat cakes are delicious served with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. You can also pair them with a dipping sauce like ketchup or barbecue sauce. For a comforting meal, serve alongside creamy mac and cheese or roasted vegetables. They also pair beautifully with Beef And Rice Soup for a complete dinner.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover meat cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave them briefly. If you want to maintain the crispiness, reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Meat Cakes contains roughly 2305 calories, with 60g protein, 234g carbohydrates, and 124g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (120% of the Daily Value), iron (119% of the Daily Value), and calcium (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).

2305 kcal 100% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 60g 100% DV
Total Fat 124g 100% DV
Carbs 233.7g 85% DV
Fiber 9.6g 34% DV
Sugar 1.7g 3% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 3000mg 100% DV
Potassium 733.7mg 16% DV
Cholesterol 132.6mg 44% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 74.9mcg 8% DV
Vitamin C 0.2mg
Vitamin D 0.1mcg 1% DV
Calcium 630.6mg 49% DV
Iron 21.4mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber
Contains Milk Wheat/Gluten

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 use a different type of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly. If using ground pork, it will add a different richness to the meat cakes.

How can I ensure my meat cakes hold together while cooking?

To help your cakes hold together better, make sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly and allow them to rest for a few minutes before cooking. If they still seem loose, you can add a bit more crushed crackers or an egg to bind the mixture.

What can I serve with meat cakes to make a complete meal?

Meat cakes go well with various sides. Consider serving them with steamed vegetables, a side salad, or even some baked beans. They can also be enjoyed in a sandwich, topped with your favorite condiments for a casual meal.

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).

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