These Big Mac Sloppy Joes are a fun twist on the classic burger! Packed with seasoned beef, special sauce, cheese, and pickles, they’re a messy delight that everyone will love.
They’re like a burger and a sandwich made a cute little baby! I love serving them with crispy fries on the side for a perfect meal that always satisfies my cravings. 🍔
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for a juicy Sloppy Joe. If you prefer leaner meat, turkey or chicken works well, too! Vegetarian crumbles can substitute if you’re looking for a meatless option.
Yellow Onion: Yellow onions add sweetness, but white or red onions are good alternatives. If you want a milder flavor, try using green onions or shallots instead.
Pickle Relish: If you don’t have pickle relish, you can chop some dill pickles finely to mimic the flavor. Sweet relish could also work for a different twist.
Ketchup and Mustard: These are classic condiments, but you can use BBQ sauce instead of ketchup for a smoky flavor. Fancy mustard or even mayonnaise can add a creamy touch.
Cheddar Cheese: While I love classic cheddar, Monterey Jack or Swiss cheese can add a nice twist. For a spicy kick, pepper jack is a fun option.
How Do I Cook Ground Beef Without it Getting Greasy?
Cooking ground beef can sometimes lead to a greasy mess, but with a little care, you can keep it neat. Here’s what to do:
- Start with a hot skillet on medium heat. This helps brown the beef quickly.
- Break the meat apart with a spatula as it cooks. This helps it cook evenly and reduces clumping.
- Once browned, drain the excess fat in a colander or spoon it out using a ladle. Only keep the fat you need for flavor.
- By draining during cooking, your Sloppy Joes stay flavorful but not overly greasy.
How to Make Big Mac Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup pickle relish
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp mustard
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 sesame seed hamburger buns
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- Optional: additional pickles for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and then around 20 minutes cooking and assembling your delicious Big Mac Sloppy Joes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef and Onion:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion to the skillet. Cook them together until the meat is fully browned and the onion has softened, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, carefully drain it off to keep your Sloppy Joes from being greasy.
2. Make the Sloppy Mixture:
Next, stir in the pickle relish, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper into the browned meat mixture. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes, giving the flavors a chance to blend nicely.
3. Melt the Cheese:
As you finish the simmering, place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of the beef mixture. Cook this for about a minute until the cheese is melted and gooey, which will add a lovely touch to your Sloppy Joes.
4. Toast the Buns:
While the cheese is melting, take your sesame seed hamburger buns and toast them lightly. You can do this on a skillet or in an oven until they’re golden brown. This step is great for adding a little crunch!
5. Assemble Your Sloppy Joes:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Spread a nice layer of mayonnaise on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Spoon the cheesy beef mixture generously on top. Finally, add some shredded lettuce and any additional pickles on top if you like.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Place the top half of the bun over your delicious fillings and serve these Big Mac Sloppy Joes immediately while they’re warm. Enjoy the tasty treat!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute that will result in a lighter dish. Just be sure to season it well since turkey can be a bit milder in flavor. You might want to add a touch more Worcestershire sauce or spices to enhance the taste.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
You can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with a plant-based alternative, like lentils, black beans, or a meat substitute product like Beyond Meat. Adjust the seasoning to enhance the flavors of your chosen substitute!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze them, divide the mixture into portions and place them in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Make the Beef Mixture Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat it in the skillet over medium heat until warmed through before assembling your Sloppy Joes.
