11 Midwest Sandwiches That Keep The Tradition Strong

The Midwest knows how to keep things steady; especially when it comes to sandwiches. These classics didn’t need to reinvent anything to stay relevant. They’re proof that in this region, tradition isn’t just respected, it’s eaten daily.

Fried Pork Tenderloin Sandwich

Indiana’s oversized breaded tenderloin sandwich is a rite of passage for Midwestern diners. Big, crunchy, and unapologetically old-school; it’s stayed true for a reason. Get the recipe here.

Runza

Nebraska’s Runza is as comforting as it gets. A golden roll filled with ground beef, cabbage, and onions, it’s simple food that’s never fallen out of favor. Get the recipe here.

Horseshoe Sandwich

Springfield, Illinois’ Horseshoe is the definition of a Midwest meal; hearty, hot, and unapologetic. Piled with fries and cheese sauce, it’s been earning loyalty since the 1920s. Get the recipe here.

Loose Meat Sandwich

Iowa’s loose meat sandwich doesn’t need flash; it’s flavor in its purest form. Just beef, onions, mustard, and a soft bun. The old-timers got it right the first time. Get the recipe here.

Hot Beef Sandwich

Minnesota’s open-faced Hot Beef Sandwich is the Sunday standard. Layers of bread, mashed potatoes, and roast beef covered in gravy; it’s tradition on a plate. Get the recipe here.

Olive Burger

Michigan’s Olive Burger proves the Midwest’s flair for balance. Briny, creamy, and beefy, it’s been a diner menu mainstay for decades; and isn’t going anywhere. Get the recipe here.

Jucy Lucy

Born in Minneapolis, the Jucy Lucy oozes nostalgia; literally. A molten core of cheese hidden inside the patty keeps this burger in the Midwest hall of fame. Get the recipe here.

Polish Boy

Cleveland’s Polish Boy doesn’t compromise. Sausage, fries, coleslaw, and barbecue sauce all in one bite; it’s messy, proud, and perfectly Midwest. Get the recipe here.

Onion Burger

Oklahoma’s onion burger was born in the Depression and never lost relevance. It’s crispy-edged proof that great ideas come from hard times and hot griddles. Get the recipe here.

Cudighi Sandwich

From Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, this spicy Italian sausage sandwich is family tradition on a bun. It’s stayed local for a century and that’s part of the charm. Get the recipe here.

Fish Fry Sandwich

Wisconsin’s Friday fish fry sandwich is more than a meal; it’s community ritual. Lightly battered fish on a bun with tartar sauce, it closes out the week right every time. Get the recipe here.