Big Mac Sloppy Joes are a fun twist on the classic burger! These tasty sandwiches mix ground beef, special sauce, pickles, and cheese, all piled on soft buns. Yum!
They’re super easy to make, and let’s be real—who doesn’t love a meal that’s messy and delicious? I always add extra pickles for that extra crunch. Just be ready for napkins! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for just the right balance of flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, lean turkey or chicken can work well too.
Dill Pickles: These add a nice crunch and tanginess. If you’re not a fan, sweet pickles or pickled jalapeños could be used for a different twist.
Mayonnaise: Traditional mayo gives creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter version, try Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo to keep it dairy-free.
American Cheese: It’s classic for this recipe! But feel free to substitute with cheddar or Swiss for a different flavor. Just keep it melty!
Sesame Seed Hamburger Buns: These add great texture and flavor. Whole wheat or gluten-free buns are good alternatives if you need something different.
How Do I Get the Perfect Beef Mixture for My Sloppy Joes?
Getting that flavorful beef mixture is key! Start by cooking the beef and onions together. This allows the onions to soften and flavors to blend nicely. Drain excess fat afterward to prevent greasiness.
- Browning the beef over medium heat takes about 5-7 minutes. You want it fully cooked but not overdone.
- Add in all your sauce ingredients and spices. Stir them in well and let everything simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together deliciously.
How to Make Big Mac Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup dill pickles, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For Assembling:
- 4 slices American cheese
- 4 sesame seed hamburger buns
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook, for a total of 30 minutes. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a delicious meal any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef and Onion:
In a large skillet, heat over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep it nice and lean!
2. Mix in Flavorful Ingredients:
Now, stir in the chopped dill pickles, mayonnaise, yellow mustard, ketchup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together really well. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes so all the flavors can blend beautifully.
3. Toast the Buns:
While your beef is simmering, it’s time to toast the buns! You can do this on a skillet or pop them in a toaster, just until they’re golden brown and a little crispy. This adds a great texture!
4. Assemble Your Sloppy Joes:
Now, let’s put it all together! Place a slice of American cheese on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Then, scoop a generous amount of the beef mixture right on top of the cheese. This is where the magic happens!
5. Add Fresh Toppings:
Sprinkle a handful of shredded lettuce on top of the beef mixture, adding a nice crunch. Finally, cover each with the top half of the bun.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Big Mac Sloppy Joes are ready! Serve immediately while they’re warm and enjoy this tasty twist on a classic favorite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner option. Just make sure to cook it until it’s no longer pink, similar to ground beef. You might want to increase the seasoning slightly since turkey can be a bit milder in flavor.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. Cook them the same way and proceed with the rest of the recipe. Just make sure to use vegetarian-friendly mayonnaise as a substitute!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time. Cook it, let it cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it in a skillet or microwave before assembling your Sloppy Joes.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place the beef mixture in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the beef mixture for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Store the buns separately to keep them from getting soggy!
