Big Mac Sloppy Joes (with big mac sauce) Recipe

Imagine biting into a nostalgic, crave-worthy burger but with a casual, comforting twist: that’s the magic of Big Mac Sloppy Joes (with big mac sauce). This recipe blends juicy ground beef, a luscious homemade Big Mac sauce, melty cheese, and all the classic fixings you adore, all tucked between soft sesame seed buns. Each bite is a fun, flavor-packed nod to the fast-food icon, but with the ease and personal touch of a home-cooked meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every element in these Big Mac Sloppy Joes (with big mac sauce) plays a crucial role, from the creamy, tangy sauce to the fresh crunch of iceberg lettuce. These ingredients might be simple, but together, they deliver bold flavor and pure comfort.

• Mayonnaise: Forms the rich, creamy base for the quintessential Big Mac sauce.
• Sweet relish: Brings sweet, tangy notes that balance the savory richness of the beef and sauce.
• Yellow mustard: Adds a sharp, zesty kick to the sauce, echoing those classic burger flavors.
• White vinegar: Gives brightness and zip, cutting through the creaminess of the sauce.
• Paprika: Offers subtle smokiness and beautiful color—you’ll miss it if you skip it!
• Dehydrated (granulated) onion: Adds subtle onion flavor without overpowering the sauce.
• Garlic powder: Lends background warmth and savoriness to the mix.
• Ground beef (85% lean): Juicy, flavorful, and with just enough fat to keep things luscious.
• Cooking onion (finely diced, divided): Half simmers with the beef, half gives bright crunch over the top.
• Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning both the beef and the sauce perfectly.
• Ground black pepper: Adds welcome bite and complexity to every layer.
• Worcestershire sauce: Deepens the beefy, umami dimension of the sloppy joe mixture.
• American cheese slices: Melts beautifully, wrapping everything in gooey goodness.
• Sesame seed hamburger buns: The classic choice, giving you that familiar flavor and fluffy texture.
• Shredded iceberg lettuce: Chilled and crisp, it’s the best way to add freshness and crunch.
• Pickle chips: Deliver tang, texture, and that perfect Big Mac brininess.

How to Make Big Mac Sloppy Joes (with big mac sauce)

Step 1: Whip Up the Big Mac Sauce

Start off by mixing the secret weapon: the Big Mac sauce itself! In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet relish, yellow mustard, vinegar, paprika, dehydrated onion, and garlic powder. Give it a good stir until everything is fully combined and creamy. Don’t skip this step—the sauce is what takes Big Mac Sloppy Joes (with big mac sauce) from good to unforgettable! Set aside and resist sneaking tastes.

Step 2: Sizzle Your Beef and Onion

Grab your largest skillet and set it over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, half the diced onion, salt, and pepper. Cook, breaking up the beef as you go, until it’s no longer pink and the onions are softened. This base is hearty, comforting, and the start of so many happy memories.

Step 3: Add Big Mac Flavor to the Beef

Pour in the Worcestershire sauce for savory depth, followed by half a cup of your freshly made Big Mac sauce. Stir to generously coat the beef and infuse that crave-worthy tang. Suddenly, your kitchen will smell like the world’s best burger joint!

Step 4: Make Things Super Cheesy

Tear up one slice of American cheese and mix it into the hot beef until it melts and turns the mixture irresistibly creamy. This helps the filling stay rich and gooey, so every bite of your Big Mac Sloppy Joes (with big mac sauce) oozes with decadence.

Step 5: Toast and Prep Your Buns

Reduce the heat on the skillet to low to keep everything warm. Now, grab four hamburger buns and remove their tops—you’ll use those as the middles, so you’ll have eight bottom buns and four tops. Lightly toast them for a golden touch and just the right amount of sturdiness.

Step 6: Assemble Layer by Layer

Lay out four bottom buns on your tray. Smear on a generous layer of Big Mac sauce, pile on some shredded lettuce, and sprinkle with a bit of the remaining raw diced onion for crunch. Add a full slice of American cheese to each, then top with a heaping 1/3 cup of the beef mixture. This layering is what gives that classic Big Mac vibe in every single bite.

Step 7: Add the Middle Buns and Repeat

Place the four reserved bottom buns on top as the “middle” buns. Repeat that glorious assembly: more Big Mac sauce, lettuce, onions, and a new layer of pickles—about four chips per sandwich does the trick. Then, heap on another 1/3 cup of beef mixture.

Step 8: Finish with the Top Bun

Cap each stack with a sesame-seed-topped bun. Press down gently, grab a napkin (or two), and your Big Mac Sloppy Joes (with big mac sauce) are ready for the spotlight!

How to Serve Big Mac Sloppy Joes (with big mac sauce)

Garnishes

The right garnishes can turn your Big Mac Sloppy Joes (with big mac sauce) from tasty to unforgettable. Scatter a little extra shredded lettuce over the top for an icy-cold, crisp bite. Give a final sprinkle of raw diced onion and serve with a couple of extra pickle chips on the side for anyone who’s “Team More Pickles.”

Side Dishes

Pair these beauties with simple classics: think crispy oven fries, a chunky potato salad, or a pile of crunchy potato chips. For something fresher, a zingy coleslaw or tangy pickle salad balances the richness of the sloppy joe filling perfectly. The sides should let your Big Mac Sloppy Joes (with big mac sauce) remain the star of the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Feel like mixing it up? Serve your Big Mac Sloppy Joes (with big mac sauce) open-faced for a fun, knife-and-fork sandwich. Or turn small slider buns into mini versions for parties and game nights. You can even use the filling on top of tater tots or loaded fries for an outrageous, crowd-pleasing twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Big Mac Sloppy Joes (with big mac sauce), good news: the meat mixture stores beautifully! Transfer any cooled beef filling to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store the sauce and other sandwich elements separately for the best texture when you serve them next.

Freezing

The beef mixture can easily be frozen for later cravings. Cool completely, then seal in a freezer-safe bag or container. It’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and assembling your unforgettable Big Mac Sloppy Joes (with big mac sauce).

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the beef mixture on the stove over low heat, or use the microwave in short bursts, stirring often so it stays luscious and creamy. If it seems a bit thick, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up. Freshen up the sauce and toppings and build your sandwiches just before serving for that “fresh from the skillet” experience.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe with ground turkey or chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken is a great alternative if you’re looking to cut back on red meat. Just be sure to choose a version with a little fat for juiciness, and cook until no longer pink. The flavors in the Big Mac Sloppy Joes (with big mac sauce) will shine just as brightly.

Is there a substitute for American cheese?

Yes! You can use cheddar, Swiss, or even Monterey Jack in your Big Mac Sloppy Joes (with big mac sauce). American cheese gives the most authentic taste and melt, but feel free to experiment with your favorites.

What type of buns work best?

Classic sesame seed hamburger buns are the way to go for maximum Big Mac nostalgia. If you want heartier sandwiches, brioche buns or potato rolls are delicious and sturdy options.

How spicy is the Big Mac sauce in this version?

The sauce in these Big Mac Sloppy Joes (with big mac sauce) is tangy and creamy, not spicy. If you want a little heat, try adding a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the sauce mixture.

Can I make the Big Mac sauce ahead of time?

Definitely! The flavors actually develop even more if you make the sauce a day ahead. Store it in the fridge in a sealed jar for up to a week, and your Big Mac Sloppy Joes (with big mac sauce) will be ready to build in a flash.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for a dinnertime upgrade that’s pure fun and flavor, these Big Mac Sloppy Joes (with big mac sauce) are absolutely worth putting on your must-try list. They’re messy, satisfying, and guaranteed to please anyone who loves a classic burger with a homemade twist. Grab a stack of napkins, invite your favorite people, and make some delicious memories tonight!

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