Big Mac Sloppy Joes mix the yummy flavors of a classic Big Mac into a fun, messy sandwich! Ground beef, special sauce, pickles, and cheese come together for a treat everyone will love.
Who needs forks when you’ve got a sloppy Joe? I can’t help but smile when I pile on those toppings. Perfect for a busy night when you want something quick and tasty!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using lean ground beef for less grease, but you can also try ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be a bit different!
Onion: A yellow onion works best for recipes like this, bringing a sweet flavor. If you’re out, white onions or even green onions can be used instead.
Pickles: Dill pickles are great for that tangy crunch, but sweet relish is a handy substitute if you like something a bit sweeter. You could even try cucumber slices for a fresh twist.
Cheese: For that classic taste, American cheese is perfect, but if you’re looking to mix it up, cheddar or provolone can give a nice flavor. Just ensure it melts well!
Buns: Sesame seed buns add a nice touch, but feel free to use whole grain, brioche, or even gluten-free buns depending on your diet.
How Do You Get The Cheese to Melt Perfectly?
Melting cheese might seem simple, but there’s a trick to it! When you’ve added the cheese on top of the beef mixture, reduce the heat and cover the skillet for a minute. This traps steam and helps the cheese melt perfectly without burning.
- Place the cheese slices on the beef mixture.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook on low heat for 1-2 minutes.
- Once melted, give it a gentle stir to blend it in.
This way, you’ll get that gooey cheese every time! Enjoy!
How to Make Big Mac Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup pickles, diced
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup ketchup
For the Assembly:
- 8 slices American cheese
- 4 sesame seed hamburger buns
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a delicious meal ready in around 25 minutes! Quick and easy for a tasty dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Beef:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep it from being greasy.
2. Adding the Veggies:
Next, toss the finely chopped onion into the skillet with the beef. Sauté the mixture for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and fragrant.
3. Mixing in the Sauce:
Now it’s time to add the flavor! Stir in the diced pickles, mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook this mixture for 2-3 more minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
4. Melting the Cheese:
Place a slice of American cheese on top of the beef mixture in the skillet. Cover the skillet for a minute to help the cheese melt. Stir gently to incorporate the melted cheese into the mixture.
5. Toasting the Buns:
While the cheese is melting, grab another pan and toast your sesame seed buns until they’re lightly golden. This adds a nice crunch!
6. Assembling the Sloppy Joes:
Once the cheese is melted and the buns are toasted, it’s time to assemble! Spoon the cheesy beef mixture onto the bottom half of each bun.
7. Adding the Finishing Touches:
Top each beef-filled bun with a generous helping of shredded lettuce, then place the top half of the bun on. Get ready for some tasty bites!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Big Mac Sloppy Joes are ready to eat! Serve them immediately and enjoy a hearty, delicious meal with family and friends!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef in this recipe. Just be aware that these meats may cook a bit differently, so keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking. You might also want to add a touch more seasoning to enhance the flavor.
What Can I Substitute for American Cheese?
If you don’t have American cheese, you can use cheddar, mozzarella, or any other cheese that melts well. Just slice it thinly to help it melt quickly over the beef mixture. For a non-dairy option, try using a plant-based melting cheese.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Sloppy Joe mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. Keep the buns separate to maintain their texture! If you want to freeze it, you can freeze the beef mixture for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
