Big Mac Sloppy Joes bring the delicious flavors of a classic burger right to your dinner table! Ground beef, savory seasonings, and a tangy sauce come together in a fun, messy way.
These are perfect for a family meal or a game night, and the best part? You can pile on all your favorite toppings! I love adding extra pickles because they give it that big bite feel. Yum!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using 80/20 ground beef for its balance of flavor and moisture. If you’re looking for lower fat options, ground turkey or chicken works well too, but they can dry out more easily, so keep an eye on cooking times.
Onion: Finely chopped yellow onions add great sweetness. If you’re not a fan of onions, feel free to use green onions for a milder taste or skip them altogether!
Dill Pickles: The pickles give that classic Big Mac flavor. If you don’t have dill pickles, try sweet pickles or relish for a different twist. You can also use chopped jalapeños for some heat.
Ketchup & Mustard: The combo of sauces is key for flavor. I prefer good-quality ketchup to enhance the taste. If you want to switch things up, swap regular mustard for Dijon for an added kick!
Cheddar Cheese: Classic cheddar is perfect here, but feel free to use American cheese for that gooey feel or even pepper jack for a spicy touch.
How Do I Make Sure My Sloppy Joes Are Full of Flavor?
To pack the most flavor into your Big Mac Sloppy Joes, focus on well-cooking your ground beef and onion first. This step is crucial for developing taste. Here’s how:
- Cook the beef and onion over medium heat. Stir frequently to break up the meat, ensuring even cooking.
- Once browned, drain any excess fat but keep some for flavor. Add the rest of the ingredients to the skillet while the heat is still on.
- Mix everything thoroughly and allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes. This lets all the flavors meld together, ensuring every bite is tasty!
Toast your buns for a crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the juicy filling! This little step makes a big difference.
How to Make Big Mac Sloppy Joes?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sloppy Joe Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup dill pickles, chopped
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 4 sesame seed burger buns
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and cook. In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a tasty and satisfying meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef and Onion:
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and the chopped onion over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the beef is browned and the onion is tender, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s too much fat in the skillet, make sure to drain it off.
2. Add Flavorful Ingredients:
Once the beef and onion are cooked, stir in the ketchup, yellow mustard, chopped dill pickles, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This will help blend all those delicious flavors together.
3. Prepare the Buns:
While the meat is simmering, you can prepare the burger buns. If you like, lightly toast them in a toaster or on a pan. This step is optional but adds a nice crunch!
4. Assemble Your Sloppy Joes:
To put everything together, start by placing a slice of cheddar cheese on the bottom half of each bun. Then, add a generous scoop of the sloppy joe mixture on top of the cheese. This creates a melty, tasty layer!
5. Top with Lettuce and Finish:
Finally, add some shredded lettuce on top of the sloppy joe mixture for a fresh crunch. Cap it with the top half of the bun.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Big Mac Sloppy Joes warm, and enjoy this fun twist on a classic favorite! Perfect for a quick dinner or a casual gathering.
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative. Just remember that it might require a bit less cooking time, so keep an eye on it to prevent it from drying out. Aim for a golden brown color as your indicator of doneness.
What Can I Substitute for Dill Pickles?
If you don’t have dill pickles, you can use sweet pickles for a different flavor, or try finely chopped green olives for a briny kick. If you’re looking for a crunch without the pickle flavor, diced cucumbers work too!
How Do I Store Leftover Sloppy Joe Mixture?
Store the leftover sloppy joe filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. Always check for seasoning before serving again, as flavors can mellow in the fridge.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or cooked lentils for a hearty texture. Just season as directed, and feel free to add more veggies to enhance the dish!
