These Big Mac Sloppy Joes give you the yummy taste of a Big Mac in a fun, messy way! They’re made with juicy beef, tangy pickles, and creamy special sauce all piled on a bun.
You’ll love how quick they are to whip up—perfect for busy nights when you want something tasty without a lot of fuss. Just grab some fries on the side, and you’ve got a feast! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish. You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or even plant-based ground meat if you’re looking for a vegetarian meal. I often use 80/20 beef for the right balance of flavor and moisture.
Onion: Diced onions add a great flavor base. If you’re not a fan, try using shallots or green onions instead. They offer a different sweetness and texture that can be enjoyable.
Dill Pickles: Diced dill pickles add crunch and tang. If you’re not into pickles, consider using chopped olives or capers for a briny punch, or omit them entirely if you prefer a more classic flavor.
Cheese: American cheese melts beautifully, but you can use cheddar or pepper jack if you want a stronger flavor. I love the gooeyness of American, but it’s fun to mix and match based on what you have.
How Do I Make the Beef Mixture Extra Tasty?
Getting that flavorful beef mixture just right is key for these Sloppy Joes! Start by cooking the beef until it’s well-browned; this adds a rich, deep flavor. Don’t rush this process—take about 5-7 minutes to let the beef and onions caramelize.
- Once the beef is browned, drain the fat for a cleaner taste.
- Mix in the diced pickles and sauces—this is where the magic happens! Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes so all the flavors meld together.
Adding sugar helps balance the acidity of the vinegar and ketchup, making your Sloppy Joes even more delicious! Adjust salt and pepper to your taste for that perfect finishing touch.
How to Make Big Mac Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 1/4 cup dill pickles, diced
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 2 tbsp mustard
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp vinegar
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
To Assemble:
- 4 slices American cheese
- 4 sesame seed burger buns
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- Optional: additional pickles for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and another 15 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy meal ready in about 30 minutes. Perfect for a busy night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef and Onion:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Make sure to drain any excess fat so your mixture isn’t greasy.
2. Make the Sauce Mixture:
Next, add the diced pickles, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined. This creates the delicious, tangy sauce that makes these sloppy joes special!
3. Simmer the Mixture:
Let the mixture cook for another 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend together and the sauce to thicken slightly. Stir occasionally so it doesn’t stick to the pan.
4. Toast the Buns:
While the meat mixture is simmering, toast the sesame seed burger buns in a toaster or on a dry skillet until they are golden brown. This adds a nice crunch to your sloppy joes!
5. Add Cheese:
Once the meat mixture is ready, place a slice of American cheese on top of the beef. Allow it to melt slightly, which adds a wonderful creamy flavor to your sandwich.
6. Assemble the Sloppy Joes:
To put it all together, take the bottom half of each toasted bun and scoop on a generous portion of the beef mixture. Top it with shredded lettuce and any additional pickles if you like a little extra crunch.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Finally, place the top half of the bun on each sandwich and serve them right away. Enjoy your delicious Big Mac Sloppy Joes—perfect for any meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean substitute. Just be aware that it may require a little extra seasoning to mimic the rich flavor of beef. You might want to add a bit more salt or Worcestershire sauce to enhance the taste.
What If I Don’t Have Dill Pickles?
No worries! If you don’t have dill pickles, you can use sweet pickles or relish for a different twist. You can also chop up some cucumbers and add a squeeze of lemon juice and salt to mimic the tangy flavor of dill pickles.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Sloppy Joe mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the mixture for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative or finely chopped mushrooms and bell peppers for a hearty veggie option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
