Big Mac Sloppy Joes are a fun twist on a classic dish! Packed with juicy beef, tangy pickles, and special sauce, they offer all the flavors of your favorite burger in one messy, delicious bite.
These Sloppy Joes are perfect for a quick dinner when you want something hearty. I love to serve mine with potato chips—every bite is a tasty reminder of those late-night fast food runs! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the heart of the dish. You can use lean ground beef for a healthier option. If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey or chicken works well too, or even plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
Onion: Finely chopped onion adds sweetness and texture. If you’re not an onion fan, finely chopped bell peppers can be a great substitution.
Pickles: These offer a nice crunch and tang. If you don’t like pickles, consider using relish or chopped olives for a different flavor. Sweet pickle relish can add a unique twist!
American Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully, but if you prefer another option, try Cheddar or Monterey Jack for a bit more flavor.
Hamburger Buns: Sesame seed buns are classic, yet any soft hamburger buns work too. If you want to cut carbs, consider lettuce wraps instead of buns.
How Can I Make Sure the Beef is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the beef just right is key for great Sloppy Joes. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat your skillet to medium heat before adding ground beef.
- Break up the beef with a spatula as it cooks to ensure even browning. Cook until all pink is gone.
- Don’t forget to drain excess fat afterward for a less greasy filling.
By following these steps, your beef will have a great texture and flavor to support the sauces and toppings!
How to Make Big Mac Sloppy Joes?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup pickles, chopped
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp mustard
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices American cheese
For Assembly:
- 4 sesame seed hamburger buns
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- Optional: additional pickles for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing and cooking the ingredients, with about 5 minutes to assemble the sandwiches. It’s quick, tasty, and perfect for a family dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it, stirring occasionally, until it’s fully browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s done, drain any excess fat to keep the mixture nice and lean.
2. Sauté the Onion:
Next, add the chopped onion to the skillet with the ground beef. Sauté it for about 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft and fragrant. This will add wonderful flavor to your sloppy joes.
3. Mix in the Flavorful Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the fun stuff! Stir in the chopped pickles, ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Give it a good mix and let it simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes. This allows all the flavors to come together nicely!
4. Toast the Buns:
While your beef mixture is simmering away, take a moment to toast your hamburger buns. You can do this on a griddle or pop them in the oven for a few minutes until they’re warm and slightly crispy. A little toast adds a nice crunch!
5. Add the Cheese:
Once the beef mixture is ready, place a slice of American cheese on top of each sloppy joe mixture in the skillet. Allow the cheese to melt slightly—this only takes about a minute. The melty cheese will make your sloppy joes even more delicious!
6. Assemble Your Sloppy Joes:
Now, it’s time to build your sandwiches! Take the toasted bottom half of a bun and add a generous scoop of the beef and cheese mixture. Don’t be shy—load it up!
7. Add Toppings:
Top your sloppy joe with a handful of shredded lettuce and any additional pickles you like. This adds a refreshing crunch that pairs perfectly with the rich filling.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, place the top half of the bun on your creation and serve warm. Enjoy your tasty Big Mac Sloppy Joes with friends or family. They’re sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef. Just make sure to cook it until it’s browned and no longer pink. You might want to add a bit more seasoning since turkey can be less flavorful than beef, so consider adjusting the salt and pepper to taste.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
You can easily make vegetarian Big Mac Sloppy Joes by substituting the ground beef with cooked lentils, chopped mushrooms, or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat. Prepare it in the same way by following the original instructions but simmering just a bit longer to ensure everything blends well.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. If the mixture seems a bit dry, you can add a splash of ketchup or a bit of water while reheating.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time! Cook it as directed, let it cool, and then store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat it, and toast the buns fresh before assembling your sloppy joes for the best texture.
