Big Mac Sloppy Joes are a fun twist on a classic! They combine tasty ground beef with all the flavors of a Big Mac, like special sauce, cheese, and pickles, all in a messy, delicious bun.
These are perfect for when you want a quick meal that feels like comfort food. I can’t help but smile as I pile on the toppings and enjoy each bite—definitely a crowd-pleaser!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option, or swap it for ground turkey or chicken for lighter flavor. I find that ground beef gives it that classic sloppy joe taste.
Dill Pickles: The crunch and tang of dill pickles enhance the dish. If you prefer less tang, sweet pickles can be a tasty substitute, or try chopped olives for a different twist.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is my favorite cheese for this recipe because it melts nicely. Swiss or American cheese also works well for a creamier texture, so feel free to mix it up!
Hamburger Buns: Sesame seed buns add a traditional touch, but you can use any burger bun you have on hand. Brioche buns are great for a bit of sweetness.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from the Beef and Onion Mixture?
Cooking the ground beef with onions is key for flavor. Make sure to cook it until browned, as this brings out that rich taste. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat your skillet over medium heat. This helps cook evenly without burning.
- Add the ground beef and onions, breaking the beef into smaller pieces as it cooks.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the beef is fully browned and the onions are soft. This caramelization adds depth to your sloppy joes.
- Always drain excess fat to avoid a greasy mix.
How to Make Big Mac Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sloppy Joe Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup dill pickles, chopped
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 6 sesame seed hamburger buns
- 6 slices of cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- Optional: extra pickles for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes cooking and preparing the filling, and another 10 minutes toasting the buns and assembling your sloppy joes. It’s quick, easy, and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is nicely browned and the onion is soft and translucent. Make sure to drain any excess fat from the skillet before moving on.
2. Make the Sloppy Joe Mixture:
Now it’s time to add some flavor! Stir in the chopped dill pickles, ketchup, mayonnaise, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything together really well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors come together beautifully.
3. Toast the Buns:
While the sloppy joe mixture is simmering, you can toast your sesame seed hamburger buns. You can do this in a toaster or heat them in a skillet on the stove until they’re lightly golden. This adds a nice crunch!
4. Assemble Your Sloppy Joes:
Now for the fun part! On each bottom bun, place a slice of cheddar cheese. This will get all melty from the hot beef mixture. Then, spoon a generous amount of the sloppy joe filling over the cheese on each bun.
5. Add the Toppings:
Next, sprinkle some shredded lettuce on top of the sloppy joe mixture. If you’re a fan of pickles, feel free to add extra pickles as well! They add a great crunch.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Finally, place the top half of the bun over your creation. Your Big Mac Sloppy Joes are ready to eat! Serve them immediately and enjoy a delicious twist on a classic favorite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef in this recipe. It will give you a leaner option while still maintaining delicious flavor. Just be sure to cook the turkey thoroughly, as it can take a little less time than beef.
What Can I Use Instead of Dill Pickles?
If you’re not a fan of dill pickles, you can substitute with sweet pickles or relish for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, chopped banana peppers or even jalapeños can add a nice twist to your sloppy joes!
How Do I Store Leftover Sloppy Joe Filling?
Store any leftover sloppy joe filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or beef broth if it seems dry. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just thaw and reheat when ready to serve!
Can I Prep This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sloppy joe mixture a day in advance. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it on the stove while toasting your buns for a fresh meal!
