Big Mac Sloppy Joes are a fun twist on the classic burger. With savory ground beef, tangy pickles, and melting cheese, they bring all the flavors of a Big Mac to a hearty, messy sandwich!
These are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that feels like a special treat. I love serving them with crunchy fries on the side—because, let’s be real, who doesn’t want fries with their sloppy joe? 🍟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This dish gets its heartiness from ground beef. You can use lean beef for less fat or even ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you’re plant-based, try lentils or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat.
Onion: Finely chopped onion adds flavor. Yellow onions are great here, but you could use red onions for a sweeter taste or even shallots for something milder.
Pickles: Finely chopped pickles give that classic Big Mac taste. If you’re not a fan, try dill relish or chopped olives as an alternative for a tangy kick.
Mayonnaise: This creaminess is essential, but for a lighter version, use Greek yogurt. Some like adding a touch of Dijon mustard for extra flavor.
Cheese: American cheese melts beautifully, making it a favorite here. If you prefer a stronger flavor, you could switch to cheddar or pepper jack cheese.
What’s the Best Way to Brown Ground Beef?
Browning ground beef is a crucial step to build flavor in your Sloppy Joes. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use medium heat to prevent burning the beef while allowing it to cook evenly.
- Break the beef into smaller pieces as it cooks with a spatula for even browning.
- Cook until all pink is gone, and the beef gets a nice brown color. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Don’t forget to drain excess fat after cooking; it keeps the dish from being greasy.
How to Make Big Mac Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup pickles, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembling:
- 4 slices American cheese
- 4 sesame seed hamburger buns
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 5 minutes to cook, making the total time around 20 minutes from start to finish. Quick and tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef and Onion:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook them together until the beef is fully browned and the onion is soft. This should take around 5-7 minutes. Once it’s done, carefully drain any excess fat from the skillet.
2. Mix in the Flavor:
Now it’s time to add the fun ingredients! Stir in the chopped pickles, mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until it’s fully combined and looking delicious.
3. Let it Simmer:
Reduce the heat to low and allow your mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes. This will help all the flavors blend together. Don’t forget to stir occasionally so it doesn’t stick to the pan!
4. Toast the Buns:
While the beef is simmering, you can toast your sesame seed buns. You can do this in a separate skillet over low heat or in a toaster until they are lightly golden and warm. This adds a nice texture!
5. Assemble Your Sloppy Joes:
Now for the fun part! Start by placing a slice of American cheese on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Then, take a generous spoonful of the beef mixture and place it right on top of the cheese. The warm beef will melt the cheese slightly—yummy!
6. Finish with Lettuce:
Top off the beef mixture with a handful of shredded lettuce, then add the top half of the bun to complete your Big Mac Sloppy Joe. Isn’t it looking great?
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your Sloppy Joes warm, with extra pickles on the side or any sides you love. Dig in and enjoy your tasty creation!
Can I Substitute Ground Turkey for Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you want a leaner option. The flavor will be slightly different, but you can add a bit more seasoning if desired. Just be careful not to overcook the turkey, as it can become dry.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Big Mac Sloppy Joes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them up in a skillet on low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to keep the mixture moist.
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?
If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or leave it out entirely for a tangier flavor. Both options will work well in keeping the sauce creamy while adding their unique taste.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by using a meat substitute like lentils, black beans, or a plant-based ground meat. Just be sure to adjust the seasonings to enhance flavor, and follow the same cooking steps!
