There are few things more exciting than finding ready-to-eat leftovers in the fridge. But it can be a bit boring to consume the exact same meal twice in a row. When it comes to meat loaf, a simple way to repurpose leftovers is by making comforting meat loaf sandwiches. Last night’s dinner looks totally different when popped on a bun and layered with all sorts of tempting toppings.
These egg-topped sandwiches are so tasty that you might want to double your normal meat loaf recipe in order to make more of them. You can even freeze slices of the meat loaf so it’s easy to thaw and reheat at a later date.
Meat Loaf Sandwich Ingredients
- Leftover meat loaf: Not many recipes call for day-old ingredients, but this sandwich is better for it. Meat loaf actually improves overnight as it rests in the fridge. It becomes firmer and easier to slice, and develops even more rich, savory flavors.
- Onion buns: Meat loaf sandwiches are not dainty tea sandwiches. These are hearty, hefty, heavy-duty sandwiches that demand a bread to match. Onion buns are a good choice, but any crusty, thick-sliced or chewy bread works well.
- Eggs: Egg-topped recipes are fun and decadent. A runny yolk adds richness that takes the sandwich to the next level.
- Red onion and arugula: This is one of many ways to top a meat loaf sandwich. We love how the peppery arugula and spicy onions balance all the savory flavors.
Directions
Step 1: Heat the meat loaf
In a large nonstick skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the meat loaf slices. Cook them until a thermometer inserted in the center reads 165°F and they are crispy, three to four minutes on each side.
Editor’s Tip: Thicker slices take longer to reheat than thin slices. Use that meat thermometer to nail the perfect internal temperature.
Step 2: Build the meat loaf sandwich
Remove the meat loaf from the pan and set each slice on a bottom bun.
Editor’s Tip: Meat loaf juices will seep into the bread a bit, but that’s OK. The hearty bread can take it.
Step 3: Fry the eggs
In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Break the eggs, one at a time, into the pan. Reduce the heat to low. Cook until the whites are set and the yolks begin to thicken, turning once if you like your eggs over easy.
Editor’s Tip: There are several ways to make fried eggs, from sunny-side up with runny yolks to over-hard. Here’s how to fry an egg like a pro.
Step 4: Top the sandwich
Top the meat loaf slices with arugula, red onion and fried egg. Replace the bun tops.
Editor’s Tip: If your egg has a runny yolk, pierce it just before adding the top bun. The ooey-gooey goodness will seep out and flavor the whole sandwich.
What to Put on Meat Loaf Sandwich
A meat loaf sandwich is like a burger; you can add as many (or as few) toppings as you desire. Have some fun with your favorite burger toppings, like ketchup, mayonnaise, barbecue sauce or any kind of mustard (including the coarse, grainy variety). Layer on the salty or sweet pickles. Add caramelized or pickled onions. Include fresh or roasted tomatoes.
When it comes to greens, follow your heart (or your crisper drawer). Instead of arugula, try crisp iceberg or romaine lettuce. Or think outside the box with sauteed kale, spinach or any other leftover cooked greens.
Recipe Variations
- Make it cheesy: You can use any melting cheese, like American, cheddar or provolone cheese. Add the cheese after removing the meat loaf from the pan. Cover the cheese-topped meat loaf with a plate to help the cheese melt faster.
- Make it club-inspired: Fry up a few slices of bacon instead of eggs. Top the sandwich with mayonnaise, mustard, crispy iceberg or leaf lettuce and avocado slices.
- Make it steakhouse-inspired: Skip the eggs and saute sliced mushrooms instead. Keep the other toppings simple, and toast the bread with butter to give it a steakhouse recipe finish.
What to Serve With Meat Loaf Sandwiches
Serve meat loaf sandwiches with hearty meat loaf sides like mashed potatoes, creamed corn or mac and cheese. Or balance out it with a light and easy Caesar salad, oven-roasted vegetables or your favorite pasta salad recipe. Of course, sandwiches always pair well with chips or french fries, so don’t be afraid to keep it classic.
Meat Loaf Sandwich Tips
What is the best bread for meat loaf sandwiches?
Onion buns are our top choice for meat loaf sandwiches, but any hearty bread works well here. Try thick slices of sourdough bread, split rolls like ciabatta, or a short baguette. Gluten-free bread also works (just remember that some meat loaf recipes call for bread crumbs, which may contain gluten).
Can you use any meat loaf recipe in this sandwich?
Our Test Kitchen designed this sandwich around mushroom meat loaf, but you can use any family-favorite recipe. Any of our favorite meat loaf recipes will work well, from the classic beef recipe to turkey meat loaf and lentil meat loaf.
Can you use freshly cooked meat loaf in this meat loaf sandwich recipe?
We usually use leftover meat loaf to make sandwiches, but you can use a hot-from-the-oven loaf, too. A few rules: First, make sure to let the meat loaf rest before slicing into it. This ensures that the meat loaf can set with the proper texture. Second, hot meat loaf won’t be quite as firm as a day-old loaf, so expect a softer bite. It may be juicier and more crumbly, too. Consider toasting your bread so it can handle the extra juices.
