Ultimate Cheesy Horseshoe Sandwich
Discover the magic of the Ultimate Cheesy Horseshoe Sandwich, a beloved creation from Springfield, Illinois that will tantalize your taste buds! This mouth-watering sandwich features a juicy hamburger patty placed atop thick Texas toast, all smothered in a luscious homemade cheese sauce crafted from either creamy Velveeta or sharp cheddar cheese. Topped with crispy golden French fries, this dish is a hearty meal perfect for family gatherings or casual lunches. The legend of the Horseshoe Sandwich began with a clever chef who transformed leftover ingredients into an unforgettable flavor sensation. This updated recipe maintains the spirit of the original while delivering an indulgent experience that will leave your family craving more. Whether you choose to enjoy the full-size sandwich or opt for the smaller 'pony shoe' version, prepare for a satisfying culinary journey with every bite!
6
Servings
667
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Ground Beef
1.5 lbs (Form into 6 evenly-sized hamburger patties)
Frozen French Fries
1 (28 oz) package (Cook according to package instructions)
Texas Toast
6 pieces (Toast until crispy)
Butter
1/4 cup (Melted)
Flour
1/2 cup (For thickening the sauce)
Milk
4 cups (Gradually added to the sauce)
Velveeta Cheese or Sharp Cheddar Cheese
2 lbs Velveeta or 1.5 lbs sharp cheddar (Cubed for melting in sauce)
Evaporated Milk
1 (12 oz) can (Whisk into the cheese sauce)
Worcestershire Sauce
2-3 teaspoons (Added to cheese sauce for flavor)
Hot Sauce
2-3 dashes (To taste in cheese sauce)
Salt and Pepper
To taste (Used for seasoning)
Instructions
1
For the sandwich, shape the ground beef into six evenly-sized hamburger patties, seasoning them to taste with salt and pepper.
2
In a large skillet or grill, cook the patties over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until cooked through and nicely browned. Make sure to flatten the patties evenly for uniform cooking.
3
Keep the cooked burgers warm on a plate covered with foil.
4
Cook the frozen French fries according to the package instructions until golden brown and crispy. Keep them warm as well.
5
Meanwhile, toast the Texas toast in a toaster or on a skillet until crispy and golden. Set aside.
6
For the cheese sauce, melt the butter in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly until bubbly and slightly golden.
7
Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and is smooth.
8
Transfer the sauce to a large microwave-safe bowl. Gradually whisk in the evaporated milk until fully incorporated and smooth.
9
Add the cubed Velveeta or shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the bowl. Microwave the mixture in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, for about 6-9 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
10
Once the cheese sauce is smooth, stir in the Worcestershire sauce and hot sauce to taste. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
11
To assemble the sandwiches, start with a slice of toasted bread at the bottom, followed by a hamburger patty, a generous pour of cheese sauce, and a heaping pile of crispy French fries on top. Finish with another slice of toast if desired.
12
Serve immediately for the best experience. Enjoy your Ultimate Cheesy Horseshoe Sandwich!
Nutrition Information
42g
Fat
50g
Carbs
33g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Ultimate Cheesy Horseshoe Sandwich?
The Ultimate Cheesy Horseshoe Sandwich is a regional specialty from Springfield, Illinois, featuring a hamburger patty on Texas toast, covered in a homemade cheese sauce and topped with crispy French fries.
Where did the Horseshoe Sandwich originate?
The Horseshoe Sandwich originated in Springfield, Illinois, created by a chef who transformed leftover ingredients into a unique flavor sensation.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to produce 6 servings.
What kind of cheese is best for the Horseshoe sauce?
You can use either 2 lbs of creamy Velveeta or 1.5 lbs of shredded sharp cheddar cheese for a luscious, creamy sauce.
What is the difference between a Horseshoe and a Pony Shoe?
A 'pony shoe' is simply a smaller version of the full-size Horseshoe sandwich, usually using one slice of bread and one patty instead of two.
What are the nutritional values per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 667 calories, 42g of fat, 50g of carbohydrates, and 33g of protein.
What bread is traditionally used for a Horseshoe Sandwich?
Thick Texas toast is traditionally used, toasted until it is golden and crispy.
How do you prepare the hamburger patties?
Shape 1.5 lbs of ground beef into six evenly-sized patties, seasoning them with salt and pepper before cooking.
How long should you cook the hamburger patties?
Cook them over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are cooked through and nicely browned.
How do you thicken the cheese sauce?
The sauce is thickened by making a roux with 1/4 cup melted butter and 1/2 cup flour, cooked for 5 minutes before adding liquids.
What liquids are used in the cheese sauce?
The sauce uses 4 cups of regular milk and one 12 oz can of evaporated milk for a smooth, rich consistency.
How is the cheese melted in this recipe?
The cheese is added to the milk mixture and microwaved in 1-minute intervals for about 6-9 minutes, stirring in between.
What flavorings are added to the cheese sauce?
Worcestershire sauce (2-3 teaspoons) and a few dashes of hot sauce are added to give the sauce its signature flavor.
What type of French fries should I use?
The recipe calls for one 28 oz package of frozen French fries, cooked according to package instructions until crispy.
In what order is the sandwich assembled?
Start with a slice of toasted bread, add a hamburger patty, pour over the cheese sauce, and top with a pile of French fries.
Can I use homemade French fries?
Yes, while the recipe suggests frozen fries for convenience, you can certainly use homemade golden brown fries.
How should the Horseshoe Sandwich be served?
It should be served immediately while the fries are crispy and the cheese sauce is warm and melty.
Is the hot sauce mandatory in the cheese sauce?
No, the hot sauce is added 'to taste,' so you can omit it if you prefer a milder sauce.
How much ground beef do I need for 6 people?
You will need 1.5 lbs of ground beef to make six evenly-sized hamburger patties.
Can I prepare the components in advance?
You can cook the burgers and make the sauce ahead of time, but keep them warm to ensure the best texture upon assembly.
What makes the Horseshoe Sandwich a 'hearty meal'?
The combination of high-protein beef, thick bread, and heavy potato toppings smothered in cheese makes it extremely filling.
Can I use other meats for this sandwich?
While this recipe uses hamburger patties, variations often use ham, chicken, or even steak.
Why is evaporated milk used in the recipe?
Evaporated milk helps create a smoother, more stable cheese sauce that is less likely to break or become grainy.
How do I ensure the hamburger patties cook evenly?
Flatten the patties evenly during the shaping process and before placing them on the grill or skillet.
Can I use a stove instead of a microwave for the sauce?
Yes, you can melt the cheese into the sauce on the stovetop over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
What is the primary category for this recipe?
This recipe falls under American Cuisine, specifically classified as comfort food or a hearty lunch sandwich.
How much butter is required for the roux?
The recipe requires 1/4 cup of butter to be melted before adding the flour.
Is salt and pepper added to the sauce or the meat?
Both; salt and pepper are used to season the beef patties and can be used to adjust the seasoning of the cheese sauce.
What kind of milk should I use?
The recipe calls for 4 cups of milk to be whisked into the roux, followed by a can of evaporated milk.
What is the best way to keep the French fries warm?
Keep them in a warm oven or on a heated tray until you are ready to assemble the sandwiches.