These Big Mac Sloppy Joes are a fun twist on a classic! They combine all the tasty flavors of a Big Mac in a messy, easy-to-eat sandwich. Think beefy goodness, special sauce, and cheese!
Who doesn’t love a meal that encourages you to get a bit messy? I like to pile mine high with pickles and extra onions. Just grab some napkins—you’re going to need them! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for a good balance of flavor and juiciness. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works great too, but might require more seasoning for added flavor.
Pickles: Dill pickles bring a nice tang to the dish. If you’re not a fan, try using sweet pickles or even relish for a different taste. You could also leave them out if you’re looking to simplify the ingredients.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is classic here, but feel free to experiment with pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor. Just make sure it’s shredded for easy melting!
Buns: Sesame seed buns add a nice touch, but any sturdy burger buns will do. Whole wheat or brioche buns are also great alternatives for more flavor or a healthier option.
How Do I Ensure My Beef Mixture is Packed with Flavor?
Mixing spices and sauces into your beef is key for taste! First, cook your ground beef until it’s nicely browned—this adds depth. Then, add finely chopped onions and let them soften, which sweetens them up. The garlic and onion powders help boost the flavor, but don’t forget to season generously with salt and pepper.
- Cook beef until browned, then add onions for sweetness.
- Mix in your spices, ketchup, mustard, and pickles to create a flavorful sauce.
- Let it simmer for a few minutes; this melds all those great tastes together.
How to Make Big Mac Sloppy Joes?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup onions, finely chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 2 tbsp mustard
- 1/2 cup diced pickles
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembling:
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 sesame seed hamburger buns
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of cooking time. So, you can have delicious Big Mac Sloppy Joes ready in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook it until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet so your mixture isn’t greasy.
2. Add Onions and Seasonings:
Next, add the finely chopped onions to the beef. Cook and stir for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are softened. Now, sprinkle in the garlic powder and onion powder, along with the ketchup, mustard, and diced pickles. Mix everything well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to let those flavors blend together. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
3. Toast the Buns:
While the beef mixture is simmering, you can prepare the buns. If you like them a little crispy, toast the sesame seed hamburger buns lightly in a separate pan or in a toaster. This adds a nice texture!
4. Assemble the Sloppy Joes:
Now it’s time to put everything together. Start by taking the bottom half of each bun and adding a generous scoop of the beef mixture on top. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the meat, and then add a handful of shredded lettuce to give it that fresh crunch.
5. Finish with Mayonnaise:
For the final touch, spread some mayonnaise on the top half of each bun. Then, place it on top of the loaded bottom half to complete your Big Mac Sloppy Joe!
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Your delicious Big Mac Sloppy Joes are ready to be served! Enjoy them hot and dig in. They make for a great meal that everyone will love!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef to make a leaner version of the Sloppy Joes. Just be aware that it may take a bit longer to cook through, and you might want to add a bit more seasoning since these meats can have a milder flavor.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for plant-based ground meat or lentils. If using lentils, cook them beforehand, then mix them with the sauce ingredients in step 3. This will ensure you still get that hearty texture and delicious flavor!
Can I Make the Beef Mixture Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture a day in advance! Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stove until warmed through before assembling your Sloppy Joes.
What Should I Do With Leftover Sloppy Joe Mixture?
Leftover Sloppy Joe filling can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just make sure to let it cool fully before freezing. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove before serving on fresh buns or over rice!
