Crumbleburgers

In my little suburban, growing-up neighborhood in the 1950s, there was a food fad called “crumbleburgers” that was a favorite sandwich (besides PB&J) during my Boy Scout and “church kid” years. All the moms made them—my mom’s version was really great.

I don’t know if crumbleburgers are exactly the same thing as “sloppy joes” or not. As I remember, they were simplicity itself: ground beef and Heinz Chili Sauce. I don’t remember if my mom added fresh onion and bell pepper like I have. It doesn’t matter. It’s the memory that counts.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground chuck (80-85% fat content)
• 1 medium yellow onion
• 1 green bell pepper
• 1 bottle (1/2 cups) Heinz Chili Sauce
• salt and pepper

How to

1. Heat the skillet to medium-high and add 1 tablespoon oil.
2. Add ground beef and break it up into crumbles as you cook for 8-10 minutes until thoroughly browned with no pink remaining.
3. While the beef is cooking, create 1/4″-1/2″ dice from the onion and green pepper.
4. Lower heat to medium, stir in diced onion and pepper and cook 8-10 minutes until vegetables are very soft and golden.
5. Lower heat, add Chili Sauce, and simmer for 20-30 minutes, covered.
6. Spoon over hamburger bun(s) to create an open-face sandwich. Nutrition info below doesn’t include a bun.