This Easy Big Mac Sloppy Joes recipe mixes the classic burger flavors with a fun twist. Ground beef, special sauce, pickles, and cheese all come together in a yummy, messy delight!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for a nice balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well too.
Dill Pickle Relish: This adds a tangy crunch! If you don’t have relish, chopped dill pickles or sweet pickles can be good substitutes. Adjust the quantity based on your taste!
American Cheese: It melts beautifully, but feel free to use cheddar or pepper jack for a bit of a kick. Just note, it won’t have the same creamy texture as American.
Sesame Seed Hamburger Buns: The sesame buns add an authentic touch. If these aren’t available, any soft burger bun will work, or even a toasted hoagie roll for a different twist!
How Do You Make the Special Sauce Just Right?
Creating the special sauce is simple but important for achieving that Big Mac flavor. Here’s how to get it just right:
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, white vinegar, and sugar.
- Mix well until smooth. Taste and adjust if you like more tang (add a bit more vinegar) or sweetness (add more sugar).
- Feel free to add a dash of garlic powder or paprika for an extra layer of flavor!
This sauce is perfect not just for this recipe but also for dipping fries and other sandwiches!
Easy Big Mac Sloppy Joes Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup dill pickle relish
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 4 slices American cheese
- 4 sesame seed hamburger buns
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, and it’s sure to please the whole family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion to the pan. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s done, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
2. Make the Special Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, white vinegar, and sugar. Stir until everything is well combined. This sauce is what gives your sloppy joes that classic Big Mac flavor!
3. Combine Beef and Relish:
Add the dill pickle relish to the cooked beef mixture in the skillet. Stir well to combine everything. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to your taste!
4. Toast the Buns:
While the beef is cooking, toast your hamburger buns lightly. This will add a nice crunch and help hold up the juicy filling.
5. Assemble Your Sloppy Joes:
Start by placing a slice of American cheese on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Then, scoop a generous portion of the beef mixture over the cheese. Add a drizzle of the special sauce on top of the beef.
6. Finish with Lettuce:
Top it all off with a handful of shredded iceberg lettuce for that fresh crunch. Finally, place the top bun on each sloppy joe and get ready to enjoy!
Serve your Big Mac inspired sloppy joes immediately and enjoy the delicious flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative and will work perfectly in this recipe. Just be sure to add a little more seasoning to enhance the flavor since turkey is milder than beef.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sloppy joe mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warm. Assemble on fresh buns when you’re ready to serve!
Can I Make the Special Sauce in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the special sauce a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely. Just give it a good stir before using!
What Can I Serve with Sloppy Joes?
Sloppy Joes pair well with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with crispy fries, a simple salad, or coleslaw. You can also make it a fun family meal by setting up a toppings bar with extra pickles, onions, or cheese!
