These Easy Big Mac Sloppy Joes mix the classic Big Mac flavors with a messy twist! Ground beef, tangy sauce, and cheese come together for a fun and tasty meal.
You know it’s going to be a good night when Sloppy Joes are on the menu! I love piling them high on buns. They’re perfect for a family dinner or casual get-together. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually go for 80/20 ground beef for a nice balance of flavor and moisture. You can swap it with turkey or even plant-based meat if you’re looking for healthier options or a vegetarian version.
Dill Pickles: I love using dill pickles for that classic tang! You can trade them for sweet pickles for a milder taste or even relish if that’s what you have on hand.
American Cheese: While American cheese melts perfectly, feel free to use cheddar or Swiss if you prefer. Just keep in mind that it can change the final taste of your Sloppy Joes.
Sesame Seed Buns: These add a nice crunch. If you’re out of sesame buns, any soft hamburger bun will work. Whole wheat or gluten-free buns can be a great alternative as well!
How Do I Make the Perfect Big Mac-Style Sauce?
The highlight of these Sloppy Joes is the Big Mac-style sauce, so mastering it is key! This sauce is creamy, tangy, and pairs beautifully with the beef. Here’s how to make it easily:
- In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup ketchup, and 2 tablespoons yellow mustard.
- Add 2 teaspoons white vinegar and 1 tablespoon sugar to balance the tanginess. Stir thoroughly.
- Let it sit for a few minutes for the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed!
This simple mix will give your Sloppy Joes that classic Big Mac flavor. Enjoy your meal!
Easy Big Mac Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup diced dill pickles or chopped sweet pickles
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 4 slices American cheese
- 4 sesame seed hamburger buns
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and about 10 minutes of cooking time. You’ll have delicious Big Mac Sloppy Joes ready to serve in just about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onions. Cook, stirring well, until the beef is browned and the onions are soft, about 7-8 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat from the skillet after cooking.
2. Make the Sauce:
While the beef is cooking, grab a small bowl and mix together the ketchup, yellow mustard, mayonnaise, white vinegar, and sugar. This will be your Big Mac-style sauce—tangy and delicious!
3. Combine and Simmer:
Once the beef is cooked, lower the heat and add your sauce mixture to the skillet, along with the diced pickles. Stir to combine everything well and let it simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Prepare the Buns:
While the beef mixture is simmering, slice open your hamburger buns. If you like, you can toast them lightly in a toaster or on a skillet to give them a slight crunch.
5. Assemble Your Sloppy Joes:
On the bottom half of each bun, place a slice of American cheese. Spoon generous amounts of the beef mixture over the cheese, making sure to get some of that yummy sauce in there!
6. Add Toppings and Serve:
Top each sloppy joe with a handful of shredded iceberg lettuce, then place the top bun over the filling. Serve immediately and enjoy the deliciousness!
This recipe brings together the beloved flavors of a Big Mac in a fun, messy, and easy-to-make sloppy joe form. Perfect for all ages and any occasion!
FAQ for Easy Big Mac Sloppy Joes
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a healthier alternative and will work just fine. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly, as it may require a bit longer than ground beef to brown properly.
What Can I Substitute for American Cheese?
If you’d prefer a different cheese, cheddar or Swiss are great alternatives. Keep in mind that cheddar will add a sharper flavor, while Swiss will give a milder taste. Feel free to choose your favorite!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover Sloppy Joe mixture can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave it for a couple of minutes or heat it in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
Can I Make the Sauce in Advance?
Yes! You can make the Big Mac-style sauce up to 3 days ahead of time. Just store it in the refrigerator in a sealed container. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for a quick meal when you’re ready to cook!
