If you love Big Macs, you’ll enjoy these Easy Big Mac Sloppy Joes! They mix ground beef with special sauce, pickles, and cheese, all piled on soft buns. Yum!
This recipe is a quick and fun twist on a classic. I like to serve these with some crispy fries on the side, just to make it feel like a fast-food treat at home! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the heart of the dish. I recommend using 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for juicy results. If you prefer, turkey or plant-based meat are great alternatives for a lighter option.
Sesame Seed Hamburger Buns: These buns add a nice crunch and flavor. If you can’t find them, any soft buns or even lettuce wraps will work well for a low-carb version!
Dill Pickle Relish: This adds zing to your Sloppy Joes. If you don’t have any, you can chop up regular pickles or use sweet relish for a different sweet flavor.
American Cheese: It melts beautifully on these sandwiches. For a twist, try cheddar or pepper jack for added flavor. And if you’re dairy-free, there are plant-based cheese options available.
How Do You Make the Perfect Special Sauce?
The special sauce is what makes these Sloppy Joes feel like a Big Mac. To ensure it’s balanced and tasty, follow these steps:
- Measure your ingredients carefully – this sauce is all about the right mix of tangy and sweet.
- Whisk the ingredients together until smooth. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes before serving; this helps flavors meld together!
- Feel free to adjust the ingredients if you want it sweeter or tangier. Taste as you go!
Now you’re all set to make these Easy Big Mac Sloppy Joes a hit at your dinner table! Enjoy creating this quick and fun meal.
Easy Big Mac Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup dill pickle relish
- 1/2 cup Big Mac-style special sauce (see instructions below)
- 4 sesame seed hamburger buns
- 4 slices American cheese
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
For the Big Mac-style Special Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp French dressing (or Catalina dressing)
- 1 tbsp sweet pickle relish
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp paprika
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to cook, so you’ll have delicious Big Mac Sloppy Joes ready in about 25 minutes. Quick and easy for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Special Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, French dressing, sweet pickle relish, white vinegar, sugar, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika until smooth. Set this delicious sauce aside while you work on the rest of the dish.
2. Cook the Beef Mixture:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and chopped onions. Cook them together, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the onions are softened (about 5-7 minutes). Once done, drain any excess fat.
3. Mix in Relish and Sauce:
Stir in the dill pickle relish and about half of your special sauce into the beef mixture. Mix everything well and heat for another 2 minutes. Once it’s heated through, remove it from the heat.
4. Assemble the Sloppy Joes:
If you like, lightly toast the hamburger buns. Start by placing a slice of American cheese on the bottom bun, then laod on a generous amount of the beef mixture on top.
5. Add Toppings:
Add a good handful of shredded lettuce on top of the beef, and don’t forget to drizzle the remaining special sauce over everything.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Place the top bun on your sandwich and serve them immediately. These Easy Big Mac Sloppy Joes pack all the flavor of a classic Big Mac, with the fun of a Sloppy Joe!
Enjoy your meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a healthier alternative and works great in this recipe. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly and season it well to enjoy the same delicious flavor.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
You can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or even cooked lentils for a vegetarian option. Adjust the seasoning to enhance the flavors, and you’re all set!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes! Store any leftover Sloppy Joe mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Can I Freeze the Sloppy Joe Mixture?
Definitely! The Sloppy Joe mixture freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe bag or container. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat when ready to serve!
