Craving the iconic flavors of a Big Mac but looking for something a bit different? These Big Mac Sloppy Joes combine all the delicious elements of a classic Big Mac—juicy beef, special sauce, melty cheese, and pickles—into an easy-to-make, one-pan sloppy joe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. This recipe has all the fun of a fast-food favorite but with a homemade twist that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
To make these flavorful Big Mac Sloppy Joes, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Ground Beef (1 lb, 80/20 blend): The ground beef gives the sloppy joes their juicy, meaty base. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Onion (1 small, finely diced): Onion adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the beef mixture.
- Dill Pickles (1/2 cup, finely chopped): Pickles are a key component of the Big Mac flavor, adding tanginess and crunch to the sloppy joes.
- Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, shredded): Cheddar cheese melts perfectly into the sloppy joes, adding a creamy, cheesy texture.
- Sesame Seed Buns (4-6 buns): Sesame seed buns are a must for capturing that classic Big Mac taste.
For the Special Sauce:
- Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): The base of the special sauce, which brings the creamy texture.
- Ketchup (2 tablespoons): Adds a hint of sweetness and tanginess to the sauce.
- Yellow Mustard (1 tablespoon): Gives the sauce a classic Big Mac flavor.
- Sweet Pickle Relish (2 tablespoons): Adds sweetness and tang to the sauce, balancing the richness of the mayo.
- White Vinegar (1 teaspoon): A touch of vinegar adds acidity and a slight tang.
- Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Paprika adds a bit of color and mild spice to the sauce.
- Garlic Powder (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle garlic flavor to the sauce.
- Onion Powder (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor of the sauce with a mild onion note.
Instructions
Follow these steps to make Big Mac Sloppy Joes that are juicy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor!
- Prepare the Special Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, sweet pickle relish, white vinegar, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until well combined, then set the sauce aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Cook the Beef and Onion: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook, breaking up the beef with a spatula, until the beef is browned and the onion is softened, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Add the Pickles and Cheese: Stir the chopped dill pickles into the beef mixture. Reduce the heat to low and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is creamy.
- Assemble the Sloppy Joes: Toast the sesame seed buns lightly for extra flavor and texture. Spoon the cheesy beef mixture onto the bottom halves of the buns, then generously drizzle with the special sauce. Add the top bun and serve immediately.
- Optional Garnish: For an extra authentic touch, garnish your sloppy joes with shredded lettuce and extra pickles before adding the top bun.
Duration Time
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings)
- Calories: 480
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 950mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Sugars: 6g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
FAQs
1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives if you prefer a lighter option. The cooking time will remain the same.
2. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the special sauce can be made up to 2 days ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to develop even more.
3. What sides go well with Big Mac Sloppy Joes?
Classic sides like French fries, onion rings, or a simple side salad work well. You can also serve these with coleslaw or pickled veggies for added crunch.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store the beef mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving. Assemble the sloppy joes just before eating.
5. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to use other cheeses like American, Swiss, or Monterey Jack for a slightly different flavor.
6. Can I make these sloppy joes gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free buns or serve the sloppy joes on a bed of lettuce instead.
7. How can I make the sloppy joes spicier?
For a spicier version, add a dash of hot sauce or some chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture or the special sauce.
8. Can I freeze the beef mixture?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked beef mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
9. What can I serve these with for a complete meal?
Pair these sloppy joes with crispy fries, tater tots, or sweet potato fries for a full meal. A side of pickles or a light salad would also complement the flavors.
10. Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes! Simply double the ingredients and cook in a large skillet or in batches to feed a crowd.
These Big Mac Sloppy Joes bring all the classic flavors of a Big Mac into a fun and easy-to-make sloppy joe format. Perfect for a quick dinner or a casual gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike! Enjoy the combination of juicy beef, tangy pickles, melty cheese, and that famous special sauce all in one bite.