Big Mac Sloppy Joes are a fun twist on a classic! They mix ground beef, tangy sauce, and pickles, all piled high on a soft bun. It’s like your favorite burger in a messy, tasty form!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a good Sloppy Joe? I have a blast making these for game nights. You can pile on the cheese and serve with fries—it’s a win-win for everyone at the table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the show! You could also use ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that these options might change the flavor a bit.
Onions: I recommend using yellow onions since they have a nice balance of sweetness and flavor once cooked. If you’re in a hurry, frozen diced onions can save you time!
Pickles: Diced dill pickles add a great tang. If you’re not a fan of dill, try sweet pickles or even relish for a different flavor profile.
Cheddar Cheese: While I love classic cheddar for this recipe, feel free to swap it out for pepper jack for a little kick, or mozzarella for a milder taste.
Special Sauce: The mix of mayo, ketchup, and relish is perfect, but you can also use a store-bought burger sauce if you’re short on time. Some people even add a dash of hot sauce for extra zest!
How Do I Cook the Beef Perfectly Without Making a Mess?
Cooking the ground beef correctly is vital for achieving a tasty sloppy joe. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use medium heat to ensure even cooking without burning.
- Break the beef apart as it cooks with a spatula for uniform texture.
- Once browned, drain excess fat to keep your sloppy joes from becoming greasy.
- Don’t rush – let it brown nicely, as this adds to the flavor.
The result should be flavorful, tender beef that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients, making your Big Mac Sloppy Joes a hit! Enjoy making your meal with these quick tips!
How to Make Big Mac Sloppy Joes?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Sloppy Joe Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/4 cup diced pickles
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembling:
- 4 sesame seed hamburger buns
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- Special sauce (mix of mayonnaise, ketchup, and a little relish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes around 20 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the filling and another 10 minutes assembling your sloppy joes. Quick and tasty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet, add the ground beef and cook over medium heat. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Keep cooking until it’s nicely browned. If there is too much fat in the pan, drain it out to keep your dish tasty!
2. Add the Onions:
Once the beef is browned, toss in the diced onions. Cook them together for about 3-4 minutes until the onions start to soften. This will add a great flavor to your mixture!
3. Mix in the Flavors:
Now it’s time to add all the tasty ingredients! Stir in the pickles, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and some salt and pepper. Mix everything well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to warm through and blend all the flavors. Yum!
4. Toast the Buns:
While the filling is simmering, if you like, lightly toast the hamburger buns in a toaster or on a hot skillet. This gives them a nice crunch!
5. Assemble Your Sloppy Joes:
Grab your toasted buns and place a slice of cheddar cheese on the bottom half of each bun. Then, scoop a generous amount of the beef mixture right on top of the cheese. The cheese will get gooey and delicious!
6. Add the Toppings:
Next, sprinkle a handful of shredded lettuce on top of the sloppy joe mixture. Finally, drizzle your special sauce over everything for that extra Big Mac touch!
7. Finish and Serve:
Place the top half of the bun on each sandwich and get ready to dig in! Serve these delightful Big Mac Sloppy Joes immediately and enjoy every bite. You’re going to love them!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter option. Just be aware that they can be a bit drier than beef, so you might want to add a splash more of Worcestershire sauce or a bit of extra ketchup to keep the mixture moist.
What Can I Substitute for the Special Sauce?
If you’re looking for a substitute, you can mix mayonnaise with ketchup and a dash of mustard for a simpler version. You could also add a bit of hot sauce for a spicy kick or use a store-bought burger sauce if you prefer!
How Do I Store Leftover Sloppy Joe Mixture?
Store any leftover sloppy joe mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by using plant-based ground meat or lentils. If using lentils, cook them according to package instructions before adding them to the mix. Adjust seasonings to taste since they can be milder than beef.
