Big Mac Sloppy Joes are a fun twist on a classic! Imagine all the flavors of your favorite burger packed into a messy yet tasty sandwich.
With ground beef and a delicious special sauce, these are quick to whip up for dinner. Plus, what’s not to love about loading up on cheese and pickles? Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the base of the dish. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or plant-based ground meat.
Onion: I recommend using yellow onions for their sweetness when cooked. If you’re out, shallots work nicely, or you can skip the onion altogether for a milder flavor.
Pickles: Dill pickles add tanginess. You can exchange them for sweet pickles or relish if you like it sweeter. For a spicy kick, try jalapeño slices!
Mayonnaise: While mayonnaise adds creaminess, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute for a healthier twist. It gives a similar texture with a bit more protein.
Chedar Cheese: I love cheddar for its meltiness. Swiss or American cheese can be great alternatives, or you could leave it off for a dairy-free version.
How Do I Ensure My Sloppy Joes Don’t Turn Out Soupy?
Getting the right texture for sloppy joes is key. After browning the beef, make sure to drain excess fat to avoid a watery mix. When you add the other ingredients, stir well but don’t let it simmer too long. You want the mixture moist but not drenched.
- Browning the beef should take about 5-7 minutes; you’ll know it’s done when there’s no pink left.
- After mixing in other ingredients, heat through for about 3-5 minutes but keep an eye on it, stirring often.
If you like a thicker sauce, consider adding a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water to the mixture or reduce the amount of mayonnaise. Happy cooking!
How to Make Big Mac Sloppy Joes?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup pickles, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 sesame seed hamburger buns
- 1 cup shredded lettuce (for garnish)
For The Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a fun weekend gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Ground Beef:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the ground beef. Use a spatula to break the meat into smaller pieces as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is fully browned. Afterward, carefully drain any excess fat from the skillet.
2. Sauté the Onions:
Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet with the cooked beef. Sauté the mixture for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
3. Make the Sauce:
Now it’s time to add the fun ingredients! Stir in the chopped pickles, mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard, white vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything well until it’s combined and heated through—this should take about 2-3 minutes.
4. Melt the Cheese:
Place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of the beef mixture. Allow it to melt slightly as you prepare the buns.
5. Toast the Buns (Optional):
If you like your buns a bit crispy, you can toast them now! Simply place them cut-side down on a skillet or toaster until golden brown.
6. Assemble the Sloppy Joes:
To assemble, take the bottom half of each bun and spoon a generous amount of the beef mixture onto it. Make sure to get that gooey cheese on there!
7. Add the Toppings:
Top the beef mixture with a handful of shredded lettuce for that fresh crunch. Then, place the top half of the bun on to finish your Sloppy Joe.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Big Mac Sloppy Joes immediately, garnished with extra pickles if you like. Enjoy this tasty twist on a classic dish!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitution for ground beef and will still provide a tasty dish. Just remember to cook it until it’s thoroughly browned, and you might want to add a bit more seasoning since turkey is milder in flavor.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
You can easily make these sloppy joes vegetarian by using plant-based ground meat or cooked lentils instead of ground beef. Follow the same sautéing and mixing instructions, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian version!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Sloppy Joes?
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the beef mixture in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until hot. As for the buns, it’s best to store them separately to keep them fresh.
Can I Add Extra Toppings to My Sloppy Joes?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your sloppy joes with additional toppings like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or even a drizzle of barbecue sauce for extra flavor. Just keep it balanced to avoid soggy buns!
