Big Mac Sloppy Joes are a fun, flavorful twist on the classic sloppy joe, inspired by the iconic flavors of the Big Mac. Juicy ground beef is combined with a special sauce, cheese, and topped with pickles and lettuce—all served on a soft bun. This quick and easy dinner is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a fast-food favorite with a homemade touch. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For the Sloppy Joes
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
For the Big Mac Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
For Serving
- 6 hamburger buns
- 6 slices American cheese
- Dill pickle slices
- Shredded lettuce
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Make the Big Mac Sauce
- Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, yellow mustard, white vinegar, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix until well combined. Set aside.
Prepare the Sloppy Joe Filling
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until softened. Add the ground beef, salt, and black pepper. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-6 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, ketchup, and mayonnaise. Reduce the heat to medium and let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes, until slightly thickened.
Assemble the Sloppy Joes
- Toast Buns: While the beef mixture simmers, toast the hamburger buns in a skillet or toaster until golden brown.
- Add Cheese: Place a slice of American cheese on the bottom half of each bun. Spoon the sloppy joe mixture over the cheese, allowing it to melt slightly.
- Top with Sauce and Garnishes: Drizzle the Big Mac sauce over the sloppy joe mixture. Top with dill pickle slices and shredded lettuce. Place the top half of the bun on each sandwich.
- Serve: Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top of the buns for an authentic Big Mac look if desired. Serve warm.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Ground Beef: For the best flavor, use ground beef with a moderate fat content, such as 80/20. This keeps the sloppy joes juicy and flavorful.
- Toast the Buns: Toasting the buns helps prevent them from becoming soggy once the sloppy joe mixture is added.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the beef mixture before serving and adjust the seasoning if necessary. A bit more salt or mustard can enhance the flavors.
Variations
- Turkey Sloppy Joes: Substitute ground turkey for a lighter version of this dish.
- Cheeseburger Sloppy Joes: Add extra cheese to the beef mixture for a cheesier version.
- Bacon Big Mac Sloppy Joes: Cook some chopped bacon and mix it into the beef for a smoky, bacon-flavored twist.
Serving Suggestions
- French Fries: Serve these Big Mac Sloppy Joes with a side of crispy French fries or sweet potato fries.
- Coleslaw: Pair with a creamy coleslaw for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the sloppy joes.
- Potato Chips: Serve with classic potato chips for a quick and easy side.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the sloppy joe mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
How Do I Store Leftover Big Mac Sloppy Joes?
Store any leftover beef mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat as needed and assemble the sandwiches just before serving.
Can I Freeze the Sloppy Joe Mixture?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked sloppy joe mixture. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! While American cheese gives the classic Big Mac flavor, you can use cheddar, Swiss, or any other cheese you prefer.
How Do I Make This Recipe Spicier?
To add some heat, mix in a teaspoon of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
Big Mac Sloppy Joes are a delicious and fun twist on the traditional sloppy joe, bringing all the flavors of a Big Mac to your dinner table. With the special sauce, melted cheese, pickles, and lettuce, these sloppy joes are packed with flavor and are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Gather your ingredients, cook, and enjoy this tasty take on a fast-food favorite!
Happy Cooking!
