Big Mac Sloppy Joes are a fun twist on a classic! They mix ground beef with tasty burger sauce, pickles, and a sprinkle of cheese, all piled on a soft bun.
These messy bites guarantee a big smile on everyone’s face! I like to serve them with some crispy fries on the side—perfect for any meal or party!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the base for your sloppy joes. You can swap it for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.
Onions: Diced onions add flavor and sweetness. If you’re not a fan of onions or need a substitution, try shallots or even green onions for a milder taste.
Pickles: Diced pickles give that tangy crunch. If you have sweet pickles at hand, they work too! Or, try chopped jalapeños for extra heat.
Cheddar Cheese: Melting cheddar on top is a must! You can use American cheese for a classic taste, or even swiss or pepper jack for a twist.
Special Sauce: This sauce is what brings the Big Mac flavor! If you’re short on mayo, Greek yogurt is a healthier swap, and it’ll give it a nice tang.
How Do I Properly Brown Ground Beef Without Making it Greasy?
Getting that perfect browned ground beef is crucial for flavor. Here’s how I do it:
- First, heat your skillet on medium-high and add the ground beef. Don’t overcrowd the pan; it’s key for browning!
- Let it sit without stirring for a few minutes to develop a nice crust. Then, break it apart and continue cooking until browned.
- Always drain the excess fat afterward, but keep a little for flavor if desired.
This technique will ensure you get that rich, savory taste in your Big Mac Sloppy Joes!
How to Make Big Mac Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sloppy Joe Mix:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup diced pickles
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp mustard
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Assembly:
- 4 sesame seed burger buns
- 4 slices of cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
For the Special Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp relish
- 1 tsp onion powder
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and another 15 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy meal that’s ready in about 30 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a casual gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef and Onions:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onions to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the onions are soft and translucent, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, drain any excess fat from the pan to keep your Sloppy Joes from being greasy.
2. Mix in the Flavorings:
Now it’s time to add some flavor! Stir in the diced pickles, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper. Mix everything together well. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until everything is heated through and nicely combined.
3. Prepare the Special Sauce:
While the meat mixture is simmering, let’s whip up the special sauce. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, relish, and onion powder. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly blended. This sauce will add that special touch to your sandwiches!
4. Toast the Buns:
If you like your buns a little crispy, now’s the time to toast them! Lightly toast the sesame seed burger buns in a separate skillet or a toaster for added crunch and warmth.
5. Assemble the Sloppy Joes:
It’s assembly time! Start with the bottom half of each burger bun. Place a slice of cheddar cheese on each bun, followed by a generous scoop of the tasty sloppy joe mixture. Don’t be shy—load it up!
6. Add Lettuce and Sauce:
Top everything off with a handful of shredded lettuce to give it some crunch. Finally, drizzle the special sauce over the lettuce. Yum!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Place the top bun on your sandwiches and they’re ready to serve! Enjoy your Big Mac Sloppy Joes while they’re warm and tasty. Perfect for a fun meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just make sure to cook it until it’s well browned, which might take a couple of minutes longer than ground beef due to its lower fat content.
Can I Make the Special Sauce in Advance?
Yes, you can! The special sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using to combine the ingredients again.
How Should I Store Leftover Sloppy Joes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. If the mixture thickens, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up!
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
Feel free to get creative! You can add diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, or even crispy bacon for extra flavor. Avocado slices also make a delicious addition for some creaminess!
