Bulgarian Meat Sandwiches, prinzesi

These Bulgarian Meat Sandwiches, known as “Prinzesi” in Bulgarian, are the example of comfort food that bring about our own nostalgic memories with every bite. Found on nearly every street corner in Bulgaria, Prinzesi sandwiches hold a special place in Bulgarian cuisine. The name “Prinzesi” translates to princesses, reflecting their indulgent and beloved status among locals.

Prinzesi sandwiches come in various versions, from baked ham and cheese to egg-feta-cheese and pure cheese varieties. Traditionally served for breakfast each variation shares the same method: baked in the oven to get that warm and gooey center, making them a special part of the Bulgarian culinary tradition.

What stands out

You’ll love this recipe for Bulgarian Meat Sandwiches because it combines savory ground meat, flavorful herbs, and gooey melted cheese with crispy baked baguette slices. It’s straightforward to customize to your taste ensuring each bite is just right. Baking them in the oven fills your kitchen with smells, making it a comforting and satisfying meal suited to breakfast or lunch. Enjoy a taste of Bulgarian tradition and create memorable moments with every bite.

How to Prepare

Preheat oven to 400F (200C).

In a large bowl combine ground meat, egg, salt, oregano, garlic powder, black pepper, and cheese. Mix well using your hands.

Place baguette slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread a thin layer of butter on each slice.

Scoop 4 to 5 heaping tablespoons of the meat mixture onto each slice, spreading evenly.

Bake at 400F (200C) for 20 minutes, or until the meat is cooked. Optionally, broil for the last 1 to 2 minutes until the top is golden.

Enjoy your Bulgarian Meat Sandwiches, prinzesi with hot pepper oil, a green salad or alongside plain yogurt or a yogurt drink (kefir).

Kitchen tip

Please use a baguette, rye, sourdough, or any firmer fresh bread.

Swaps

Remember, if you are changing or adding ingredients you may have to experiment and adjust the quantities.

1. Instead of a baguette, you could use rye, sourdough, or ciabatta. Be sure to use a firm, fresh bread for the best results!
2. We love pork but you can use any ground meat you prefer, such as ground turkey, beef, pork or a mix of your choice.
3. Use your favorite freshly grated cheese such as mozzarella, cheddar, or parmesan.
4. Add finely chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the meat mixture for extra nutrition in your Bulgarian Meat Sandwiches, prinzesi.

Serve it with

• A fresh salad such as our Simple Green Salad
• Roasted vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini
• Some fresh Tzatziki plain yogurt, or yogurt drink (kefir)

Questions

What type of bread should we use for our Bulgarian Meat Sandwiches, prinzesi?

Please use a baguette, rye, sourdough, or any firmer fresh bread. You can purchase a large 12-inch baguette, cut it in half lengthwise, and cut those halves in half.

What type of bread should we avoid?

Soft white bread like Italiano, Villagio, or Wonder Bread will not work for this recipe because it needs to hold up the filling and not become soggy.

How much bread will we need for the Bulgarian Meat Sandwiches, prinzesi?

Have extra bread or sliced bread on hand as you might have more meat filling. Typically, you will need 6 to 8 slices of rye or two larger 9-inch baguettes.

What types of ground meat should we use for the sandwiches?

You can use any ground meat you like such as ground turkey, beef, pork, or a mix of choice. Pork is often preferred, but any ground meat will work.

Can we use sausages instead of ground meat?

Yes, you can use sausages by taking the meat out of the casing. Sausages come pre-seasoned but are typically more fatty.

What type of cheese should we use for these bulgarian Meat Sandwiches?

We like to use Bulgarian cheese, but if that’s not available, we use mozzarella. Any good quality fresh cheese of choice will work, but we suggest you grate it yourself. Please don’t use pre-grated as it will alter the taste and quality.

Can we prepare the ground meat in advance?

Yes, you can mix the ground meat the night before or in the morning and assemble it any time you like. The raw meat filling will stay fresh in the fridge for 1-2 days. The raw meat filling should be stored in the fridge and will stay fresh for 1-2 days.

How should any leftovers be stored?

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container and placed in the refrigerator. The leftovers will stay fresh for up to 2-3 days when properly stored in the refrigerator. Alternatively, feel free to freeze them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, and they will stay fresh for up to 1-2 months.

How should the leftovers be reheated?

Reheat the leftovers in the oven at 350F (175C) until warmed through, or use a microwave for a quicker option (this will result in a soggier sandwich). If frozen, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Ingredients

Makes 4 servings

• 450 grams ground meat, 1 lb (we like pork)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon dry oregano
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup freshly grated Kashkaval cheese, or mozzarella (any cheese that melts well will work)
• 2 9-inch baguettes, or rye bread, cut in half
• 1 tablespoon butter
• hot pepper oil, optional for drizzling on top

Equipment

• Mixing Bowls
• Measuring Cups + Spoons
• Box Grater
• Nakiri Knife
• Cutting Board
• Baking Sheet

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 400F (200C).
2. In a large bowl, add the ground meat, egg, salt, oregano, garlic powder, black pepper, and cheese. Don't forget to measure with your heart, adding more or less of each ingredient, as desired.
3. Use your hands to mix everything really well (don't be afraid to get messy).
4. Take each piece of baguette and lay it flat onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spread on a thin layer of butter and scoop 4 to 5 heaping tablespoons of the meat filling onto each slice. You can distribute it evenly, pressing down with the back of a fork or even use your hands.
5. Make sure that each piece has an even layer of meat on it so that it cooks evenly.
6. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes or until the meat is thoroughly cooked. We recommend using the broiler for the last 1 to 2 minutes to achieve a golden-brown top, but be sure to keep a close eye on it.
7. Enjoy the dish with hot pepper oil on top, a green salad on the side, or Bulgarian-style with refreshing plain yogurt or kefir.