Wimpie Burgers
Wimpie Burgers offer a savory, tangy flavor with a rich beef base, perfect for hearty gatherings or casual family dinners with a delicious homemade touch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the chopped onions in a skillet.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
- Drain excess fat from the meat and onions.
- Add all remaining ingredients to the skillet.
- Simmer on the stove top for several hours, stirring occasionally.
- Add more hot water during cooking if the mixture becomes dry.
- Serve the meat sauce hot on buns.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing minced garlic along with the onions. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Adjust the sweetness by using less brown sugar or a sugar substitute. For a spicier kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes. This recipe can also be made in a slow cooker for convenience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Wimpie Burgers hot on toasted buns, topped with your favorite condiments like pickles or cheese. They pair wonderfully with classic sides such as coleslaw, potato chips, or a fresh garden salad. For a hearty meal, consider serving alongside Spicy Tennessee Chili or Texas Style Beans for an extra kick.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Wimpie Burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to maintain moisture. You can also microwave individual servings, covered, for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wimpie Burgers contains roughly 261 calories, with 7g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 574mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
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 the Wimpie Burgers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat sauce a day in advance. Simply let it cool and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving. This makes it perfect for parties or busy weeknights.
What can I use instead of Crisco?
If you prefer not to use Crisco, you can substitute it with an equal amount of vegetable oil or butter. Both options will work well to sauté the onions and add flavor to the dish.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat substitute or a mixture of lentils and chopped mushrooms. The cooking process remains the same, and you'll still achieve a delicious and hearty 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).