Big Mac Sloppy Joes Recipe

Fast & Flavorful Big Mac Sloppy Joes Recipe For The Family

Burger lovers constantly seek that perfect handheld meal that delivers maximum flavor and satisfaction.

This Big Mac sloppy joes recipe captures the legendary taste of everyone’s favorite fast food burger in a messy, delectable sandwich.

Ground beef sizzles with familiar special sauce ingredients, creating a mouthwatering twist on the classic sloppy joe.

Sesame seed buns cradle the rich, tangy meat mixture that mimics the iconic burger’s flavor profile.

Crisp lettuce and melted cheese add layers of texture and richness to every bite.

You’ll want to have napkins ready for this indulgent meal that transforms a simple weeknight dinner into a crave-worthy experience.

Grab your ingredients and prepare for a flavor explosion that will become an instant family favorite.

Storage Advice for Big Mac Sloppy Joes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, keeping meat and sauce mixture separate from buns to prevent sogginess.
  • Package cooled Sloppy Joe mixture in freezer-safe containers or bags, removing excess air. Freeze for up to 2-3 months, thawing overnight in refrigerator before reheating.
  • Warm meat mixture in microwave-safe dish, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Toast buns separately to maintain crispness, then reassemble sandwich.
  • Gently reheat meat mixture in skillet over medium-low heat, adding splash of water if needed to prevent drying. Warm buns in oven or toaster for best texture.

FAQs

  • What ingredients make the special sauce unique?

The special sauce combines mayonnaise, French dressing, sweet pickle relish, minced onion, white vinegar, sugar, and salt. This blend creates a tangy, creamy condiment that mimics the classic Big Mac sauce flavor.

  • Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives. The seasoning and cooking method remain the same, allowing for flexibility in dietary preferences.

  • How can I make the Sloppy Joes less messy?

Toast the buns well and use a slotted spoon when serving to drain excess liquid. This helps reduce the “sloppy” factor while maintaining the delicious flavor profile of the dish.

Big Mac Sloppy Joes Highlights

  • Savor Comfort: Indulge in a warm, creamy potato dish that wraps you in pure comfort food bliss.
  • Minimal Prep Magic: Create a stunning breakfast with just a few simple ingredients and basic cooking techniques.
  • Family-Pleasing Perfection: Watch everyone dig into this cheesy, golden-brown potato casserole that satisfies all ages.
  • Versatile Meal Champion: Perfectly suited for weekend brunches, holiday gatherings, or a cozy family breakfast that feels special.

Ingredients for Big Mac Sloppy Joes

Meat Base:
  • Ground Beef: A classic protein that provides the hearty foundation for the Sloppy Joe mixture.
Sauce and Seasoning Components:
  • Ketchup, Mustard, Worcestershire Sauce, Brown Sugar: A combination of condiments that creates a rich, tangy, and sweet flavor profile for the Sloppy Joe mixture.
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Special Sauce Ingredients:
  • Mayonnaise, French Dressing, Sweet Pickle Relish, Minced Onion, White Vinegar, Sugar: A creamy and zesty blend that mimics the iconic Big Mac sauce.
Cheese and Topping Ingredients:
  • Cheddar Cheese: Provides a sharp and melty layer of flavor to the Sloppy Joes.
  • Shredded Lettuce, Dill Pickle Slices: Fresh toppings that add crunch and brightness to the dish.
Bread Base:
  • Hamburger Buns: A soft and toasted carrier for the Sloppy Joe mixture and toppings.

How to Make Big Mac Sloppy Joes

Step 1: Brown The Beef And Onions

In a big skillet, toss ground beef and finely chopped onions over medium-high heat. Cook until beef turns brown and onions become soft and translucent.

Drain away any extra grease from the pan.

Step 2: Create Saucy Flavor Base

Mix in these ingredients to create a tasty sauce:
  • Ketchup
  • Mustard
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Brown sugar
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Simmer the mixture for 10 minutes until it thickens and develops rich flavors.

Step 3: Whip Up Special Sauce

In a small mixing bowl, blend together:
  • Mayonnaise
  • French dressing
  • Sweet pickle relish
  • Minced onion
  • White vinegar
  • Sugar
  • Salt

Stir until ingredients combine smoothly and set aside.

Step 4: Toast The Burger Buns

Set oven to broil.

Split hamburger buns and place them cut-side up on a baking sheet. Toast under broiler for 1-2 minutes until edges turn golden brown.

Step 5: Layer Cheese And Meat

Place a slice of cheddar cheese on bottom bun half. Spoon hot beef mixture over cheese.

Add another cheese slice on top of meat.

Step 6: Add Fresh Toppings

Sprinkle shredded lettuce and dill pickle slices over the cheesy meat.

Drizzle special sauce generously.

Step 7: Complete The Sloppy Joe

Crown your creation with the top bun half.

Serve with extra special sauce on the side for dipping.

Tips for Big Mac Sloppy Joes

  • Select 80/20 ground beef for richer taste and juicier texture, ensuring maximum flavor in your Sloppy Joes.
  • Simmer the mixture slowly to develop deep flavors and prevent watery results, stirring occasionally to maintain thickness.
  • Use room temperature cheese slices for even melting and better coverage on the bun, creating a more uniform cheesy experience.
  • Adjust condiment quantities to taste, using more or less of each ingredient to match your preferred Big Mac sauce profile.
  • Watch buns closely under the broiler to prevent burning, aiming for a golden-brown color that adds crunch without charring.

Variations on Big Mac Sloppy Joes

  • Veggie Lovers' Joe: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or finely chopped mushrooms for a vegetarian version that maintains the signature Big Mac flavor profile.
  • Low-Carb Lettuce Wrap: Swap hamburger buns with large lettuce leaves for a keto-friendly alternative that cuts down on carbohydrates while keeping the classic sloppy joe taste.
  • Turkey Lean Joe: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey to create a lighter, lower-fat option that still delivers the same zesty Big Mac-inspired flavor.
  • Gluten-Free Friendly: Use gluten-free hamburger buns or grain-free alternatives like cauliflower rolls to make the recipe accessible for those with gluten sensitivities.

Pairing Suggestions for Big Mac Sloppy Joes

  • Elevate Your Meal: Perfect Pairings for Big Mac Sloppy Joes
  • Crisp Pickle Chips: Serve crunchy dill pickle chips alongside the Sloppy Joes to complement the tangy pickle flavor already in the recipe and add extra texture.
  • Swap Cold Fries: Pair with golden french fries sprinkled with seasoned salt for the ultimate fast-food inspired side that echoes the Big Mac's classic accompaniment.
  • Sweet Potato Crunch: Bake crispy sweet potato wedges seasoned with paprika and garlic powder to balance the rich, savory Sloppy Joe mixture with a slightly sweet counterpoint.
  • Refreshing Cola Float: Create a classic diner-style dessert by serving a cold cola float with vanilla ice cream as a nostalgic and refreshing finish to the meal.
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Big Mac Sloppy Joes Recipe

Big Mac Sloppy Joes Recipe


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4.6 from 17 reviews

  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Indulgent Big Mac Sloppy Joes bring classic burger flavors to a hearty sandwich, merging iconic McDonald’s taste with comforting home-style cooking. Melted cheese, special sauce, and sesame seed buns create a mouthwatering experience you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Meat:

  • 1 pound (1 lb) ground beef

Sauce Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons mustard
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar

Aromatics and Seasonings:

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high temperature and thoroughly brown ground beef with onions, ensuring meat is completely cooked and onions are translucent.
  2. Drain excess grease from the skillet to reduce fat content and prevent soggy mixture.
  3. Incorporate ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, salt, and pepper into the meat, creating a rich and tangy flavor profile.
  4. Reduce heat and simmer the mixture for 10 minutes, allowing ingredients to meld and sauce to thicken.
  5. While meat simmers, prepare special sauce by whisking mayonnaise, French dressing, sweet pickle relish, minced onion, white vinegar, sugar, and salt until smooth and well-combined.
  6. Position oven rack to broil setting and preheat to high temperature.
  7. Split hamburger buns and arrange cut-side up on a baking sheet, then broil for 1-2 minutes until edges turn golden and crisp.
  8. Layer a slice of cheddar cheese on the bottom half of each toasted bun.
  9. Generously spoon the seasoned meat mixture over the cheese, ensuring even distribution.
  10. Add a second cheese slice atop the meat mixture for extra richness.
  11. Garnish with crisp shredded lettuce and tangy dill pickle slices.
  12. Drizzle special sauce across the open-faced sandwich for signature Big Mac flavor.
  13. Crown with toasted bun top and serve immediately with additional sauce for dipping.

Notes

  • Select lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and create a cleaner, more flavorful mixture.
  • Drain fat thoroughly after browning meat to prevent soggy, oily sloppy joes.
  • Customize the special sauce by adjusting vinegar or sugar levels to match personal taste preferences.
  • For gluten-free option, serve over lettuce wraps or use gluten-free hamburger buns instead of traditional buns.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 288 kcal
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 420 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 13 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 19 g
  • Cholesterol: 65 mg
Maya Thompson

Maya Thompson

Culinary Content Creator & Nutrition Enthusiast

Expertise

Healthy single-serving recipes, Meal prepping for individuals, Integrating nutrition into everyday cooking, Vegetarian and plant-based cuisine​

Education

The Chef’s Academy at Harrison College
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Nutrition, meal planning, and culinary techniques for healthy living.


Maya found her passion in the kitchen by mixing good food with good energy. After earning her culinary degree at The Chef’s Academy at Harrison College, she made it her mission to keep cooking simple, wholesome, and packed with flavor.
At Steelhead Diner, Maya shares easy, healthy recipes built for real life. For Maya, great food seems like a celebration of everyday moments, made better one fresh bite at a time.

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