Big Mac Sloppy Joes are a fun twist on the classic burger! They combine ground beef, delicious sauces, and all the Big Mac flavors you love, served on soft buns.
These messy yet tasty sandwiches are perfect for a quick meal. I always end up having extra napkins handy—because who doesn’t love the extra sauce? 🍔
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for balance between flavor and moisture. However, you can switch to turkey or a plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Onion: Finely chopped yellow onion adds a nice sweetness. If you’re short on time, using frozen onion can be a handy substitute. Green onions can work too, for a different flavor.
Dill Pickles: The tanginess of dill pickles is key! If you prefer something less tart, bread-and-butter pickles can also be a fun twist.
Mayonnaise: While mayonnaise adds creaminess, Greek yogurt is a great alternative if you want a healthier option. You could also skip it entirely if you want a lighter mixture.
How Do I Keep My Sloppy Joes From Being Too Runny?
One common concern with sloppy joes is ending up with a watery mess. To ensure a thick and satisfying mixture, here are a few steps to follow:
- Drain the grease from the cooked ground beef. This step is essential to prevent extra liquid.
- Cook the onions until they’ve softened but not caramelized. This keeps the balance of moisture.
- Make sure all ingredients are mixed well without adding too much liquid. If you prefer a thicker mix, add less mayonnaise or ketchup.
Following these tips ensures you’ll have a perfect blend of flavors and textures without excess moisture ruining your meal!
How to Make Big Mac Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sloppy Joe Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup dill pickles, chopped
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
For Serving:
- 4 sesame seed burger buns
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- Additional pickles for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 20 minutes in total—it’s quick to prepare and cook! You’ll spend around 10 minutes on preparation, then about 10 minutes cooking the beef and assembling your tasty Big Mac Sloppy Joes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s nicely browned. Make sure to drain any excess fat from the skillet so your sloppy joes aren’t greasy!
2. Add the Onions:
Once the beef is browned, toss in the chopped onion. Cook for another 3 minutes, until the onion becomes soft and slightly translucent. This will add great flavor to your dish!
3. Mix in the Special Sauce Ingredients:
Now, stir in the chopped dill pickles, mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper. Mix everything well and let it heat through for a couple of minutes, so the flavors combine lovely!
4. Melt the Cheese:
Next, place the cheddar cheese slices on top of the beef mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for about 2-3 minutes. This will help the cheese melt beautifully over the mixture.
5. Toast the Buns:
If you like a little crunch, now’s a good time to toast the sesame seed burger buns lightly. Just pop them in a pan for a few minutes or use a toaster.
6. Assemble Your Sloppy Joes:
To put it all together, grab the bottom half of each bun and scoop a generous amount of your beef mixture onto it. Top with a sprinkle of shredded lettuce and add extra pickles if you wish. It’s all about that Big Mac vibe!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, place the top half of the bun on your assembled sloppy joes and serve them immediately. Grab a napkin—things might get a little messy! Enjoy your Big Mac Sloppy Joes!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just be aware that it may require a bit more seasoning to enhance the flavor, as it’s milder than beef. Cook it the same way as the recipe directs.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. You can follow the same cooking steps, just ensure your meat substitute is heated through and well seasoned!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the beef mixture in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I Use Different Cheese?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese! American cheese or pepper jack can offer a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that cheese thickness might affect melting time, so adjust accordingly.
