These Big Mac Sloppy Joes are a fun twist on the classic burger! You get all the tasty flavors of a Big Mac, but in a messy, spoonable form. Ground beef, cheese, pickles, and special sauce create a winning combo!
Who needs a plate when you can enjoy these with just a bun? I love serving them at parties or on busy nights. Just whip up the mix and watch everyone dig in with smiles! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef is key for flavor and texture. For a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try crumbled tempeh or lentils sautéed with spices.
Dill Pickles: They add that tangy crunch! If you don’t have dill pickles, sweet pickles or relish works too, but adjust the sugar in your recipe for desired sweetness.
Shredded Iceberg Lettuce: This gives a nice crunch, but any lettuce like romaine or even spinach can work. If you want to skip the greens, you can add more toppings like tomatoes.
American Cheese: It melts well and adds creaminess. If you’re not a fan, cheddar, pepper jack, or even a plant-based cheese can be good alternatives.
How Do I Make Sure My Sloppy Joes are Flavorful?
Getting the flavor just right in sloppy joes is all about the sauce! Here’s how to enhance it:
- Make sure to cook the ground beef until well browned; this adds depth to the flavor.
- When adding ingredients like pickles and sauces, taste and adjust them to your preference. If you like it tangier, add more vinegar or pickle juice.
- Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes after adding the ingredients. This helps the flavors meld together and creates a tastier filling.
How to Make Big Mac Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup dill pickles, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 4 slices American cheese
- 4 sesame seed burger buns
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- 1 tbsp sugar
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes total—10 minutes for preparation and about 10 minutes for cooking. It’s quick and simple, so you can enjoy a delicious meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s nicely browned and cooked all the way through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, drain any excess grease to keep it nice and hearty.
2. Add the Onions:
Now, toss in the finely chopped onion into the skillet with the beef. Cook this mixture for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and fragrant.
3. Make the Sauce Mixture:
Add the chopped dill pickles, mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, white vinegar, and sugar into the skillet. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until everything is heated through. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to your taste!
4. Prepare the Buns:
If you like your buns crispy, give them a light toasting on a separate pan or under a broiler. This is optional, but it adds a nice texture!
5. Assemble the Sloppy Joes:
Start by placing a slice of American cheese on the bottom half of each bun. Then, generously spoon the tasty beef mixture over the cheese, allowing it to melt just a bit.
6. Top and Serve:
Add some shredded lettuce on top of the beef mixture, then finish up by placing the top halves of the buns onto the sandwiches. Serve these delicious Big Mac Sloppy Joes immediately, and enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative to ground beef. Just make sure to cook it until it’s fully browned to ensure the best flavor and texture. You might want to adjust the seasoning slightly since turkey is milder in taste.
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the texture, store the sloppy joe mixture separately from the buns. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. You can re-toast the buns for a few seconds to freshen them up before serving!
Can I Make the Sloppy Joe Mixture Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the sloppy joe mixture a day ahead, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it over medium heat until warmed through before assembling your sandwiches.
What Can I Use Instead of Sesame Seed Buns?
If you can’t find sesame seed buns, any sturdy burger bun will work! You can also use whole wheat, gluten-free buns, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. Just make sure they can hold the mixture well without falling apart!
