This Easy Big Mac Sloppy Joes recipe brings the classic fast-food taste right to your kitchen! Ground beef, pickles, onions, and a tasty sauce come together for a fun twist on a favorite.
These soft sandwiches are messy, but isn’t that half the fun? I love piling on the toppings so every bite is a flavor explosion. Grab some napkins and enjoy! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using 80/20 ground beef for its balance of flavor and fat. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead, just be mindful it might be a bit dryer.
Onion: Finely chopped white onion adds a nice crunch. If you prefer a milder taste, green onions or even shallots work great as substitutes.
Sweet Pickle Relish: This ingredient gives the dish its signature flavor. If you don’t have relish, try diced dill pickles or homemade pickle slices blended with a little sugar.
American Cheese: It melts beautifully, but feel free to switch it out for cheddar or Swiss for a richer flavor. Just slice it thinly for a quick melt.
Burger Buns: Sesame seed buns are classic here! You can also use whole wheat buns, or for a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free burger buns in stores.
How Do I Perfectly Brown Ground Beef?
Browning ground beef is all about the right temperature and technique. This step adds flavor and a great texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a preheated skillet on medium heat. This ensures quick cooking and prevents the meat from steaming.
- Add the beef in one layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook in batches.
- Break it up gently with a spatula as it cooks. Let it sit for a minute before stirring to form a nice brown crust.
- Once fully browned, drain the fat but don’t rinse the meat, as you’ll want to keep that flavor!
Easy Big Mac Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup finely chopped white onion
- 1/2 cup sweet pickle relish
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 4 slices American cheese
- 4 sesame seed burger buns
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar
- Optional: pickle slices for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and cooking. It’s a quick meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight or when you’re craving something hearty and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet and season it with salt and black pepper. Use a spatula to break the beef apart and cook until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess fat from the pan.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
While the beef is cooking, grab a small bowl and combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, white vinegar, and sugar. Mix it well until you have a creamy sauce that mimics the flavor of a Big Mac special sauce.
3. Combine Ingredients:
Once the beef is cooked, add the finely chopped onion and sweet pickle relish to the skillet with the beef. Stir everything together until the onions are soft and the mixture is heated through, about 2 minutes.
4. Toast the Buns:
While your beef mixture is simmering, toast the sesame seed buns in the oven or a toaster until they are lightly browned and crispy. This will enhance their flavor and keep them from getting soggy from the sauce.
5. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Take the bottom halves of the toasted buns and spread a generous layer of your prepared sauce on each. Top each bun with a slice of American cheese. Now, scoop a good amount of the sloppy joe beef mixture over the cheese.
6. Add Fresh Toppings:
Pile shredded iceberg lettuce on top of the beef mixture for that fresh crunch. Finally, place the top half of the bun to close the sandwich. If you like, add a pickle slice inside for an extra tangy flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Easy Big Mac Sloppy Joes immediately while they’re warm and cheesy. Get ready for some messy, tasty fun! Enjoy!
FAQs for Easy Big Mac Sloppy Joes
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great substitutions for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that the flavor may be a bit milder, so you can add extra seasoning if desired.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, you can replace the ground beef with plant-based meat substitutes like lentils, crumbled tempeh, or a store-bought veggie ground meat. Adjust cooking times as needed based on your substitute choice.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance! Just mix the ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. This way, you’ll have it ready for your next batch of sloppy joes!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover sloppy joe mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet or microwave. For best results, reheat the beef mixture before assembling the sandwiches anew to keep the buns fresh!
