Big Mac Sloppy Joes

Big Mac Sloppy Joes bring all the iconic flavors of a McDonald’s Big Mac into a fun, family-friendly, one-pan meal! This quick and delicious dinner is suitable for busy weeknights, game days, or casual gatherings. With seasoned ground beef, a homemade copycat Big Mac sauce, and melty American cheese on sesame seed buns, you can enjoy this delightful dish in just 30 minutes — no drive-thru required.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Ground Beef Mixture
• For the McDonald’s Secret Sauce Copycat
• To Assemble (Double Decker Style)
• How to Make Big Mac Sloppy Joes
• Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
• Step 2: Add Onions and Seasonings
• Step 3: Stir in Pickles
• Step 4: Prepare the Secret Sauce
• Step 5: Add Sauce to Beef Mixture
• Step 6: Assemble Your Sloppy Joes
• How to Serve Big Mac Sloppy Joes
• Classic Fries
• Onion Rings
• Coleslaw
• Pickle Chips
• Corn on the Cob
• Simple Green Salad
• How to Perfect Big Mac Sloppy Joes
• Best Side Dishes for Big Mac Sloppy Joes
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Big Mac Sloppy Joes
• Reheating Big Mac Sloppy Joes
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What are Big Mac Sloppy Joes?
• Can I customize my Big Mac Sloppy Joes?
• How long does it take to make Big Mac Sloppy Joes?
• Can I make the secret sauce ahead of time?
• Are Big Mac Sloppy Joes suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy families.
• Family-Friendly: Kids (and adults) will love the familiar taste of Big Macs in a fun format.
• One-Pan Meal: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal and relax afterward.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite toppings or sides for a unique spin.
• Satisfying Flavor: The combination of seasoned beef and rich secret sauce delivers a mouthwatering experience.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious Big Mac Sloppy Joes, you’ll need some essential tools that make the process easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Perfect for browning the beef evenly while allowing enough space to mix ingredients.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining the secret sauce ingredients thoroughly.
• Whisk: Ensures smooth blending of the sauce without clumps.
• Spatula: Great for stirring and serving the Sloppy Joes without making a mess.

Ingredients

For the Ground Beef Mixture

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef (85/15)
• ½ yellow onion, finely chopped
• ¼ cup hamburger pickles, chopped
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon coarse ground pepper
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

For the McDonald’s Secret Sauce Copycat

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup French dressing
• 2 tablespoons sweet relish
• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• 1/8 teaspoon salt

To Assemble (Double Decker Style)

• 8 hamburger buns (with sesame seeds)
• 2 cups iceberg lettuce, shredded
• 12 hamburger pickle chips
• 4 slices American cheese
• Additional secret sauce (optional)

How to Make Big Mac Sloppy Joes

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef for about 3-4 minutes.

Step 2: Add Onions and Seasonings

Add the chopped onions, kosher salt, coarse ground pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook until the beef is fully browned, which should take about 3-4 more minutes.

Step 3: Stir in Pickles

Stir in the chopped pickles and cook for an additional minute to incorporate their flavor into the beef mixture.

Step 4: Prepare the Secret Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together all secret sauce ingredients until smooth and well combined.

Step 5: Add Sauce to Beef Mixture

Add 1 cup of the secret sauce to the beef mixture. Stir to coat evenly while reserving any remaining sauce for assembling sandwiches.

Step 6: Assemble Your Sloppy Joes

To assemble double-decker sandwiches, follow this stacking order:
1. Bottom bun
2. Secret sauce
3. Shredded lettuce
4. Slice of American cheese
5. Beef mixture
6. Middle bun (the bottom of another bun)
7. Secret sauce
8. Shredded lettuce
9. Pickle chips
10. Beef mixture
11. Top bun

Serve immediately with extra sauce on the side if desired!

How to Serve Big Mac Sloppy Joes

Big Mac Sloppy Joes are not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. You can elevate your meal with a few simple additions that complement the flavors of this iconic dish.

Classic Fries

• Crispy and golden, fries are the perfect accompaniment, offering a satisfying crunch alongside your Sloppy Joes.

Onion Rings

• These crispy rings add a delightful texture and flavor contrast, making them an excellent side for your meal.

Coleslaw

• A refreshing coleslaw provides a crunchy and tangy flavor that balances the richness of the Big Mac Sloppy Joes.

Pickle Chips

• Serve extra pickle chips on the side for those who love an added crunch and tanginess with every bite.

Corn on the Cob

• Sweet corn on the cob is a great summer side that pairs well with the savory flavors of the sandwich.

Simple Green Salad

• A light salad with fresh greens adds color and freshness, enhancing your dining experience without overwhelming the main dish.

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How to Perfect Big Mac Sloppy Joes

To ensure your Big Mac Sloppy Joes turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh produce and quality ground beef make all the difference in flavor.
• Balance Your Sauce: Taste your secret sauce as you mix it; adjust sweetness or tanginess based on personal preference.
• Don’t Overcook: Monitor cooking times closely; overcooked beef can become tough, while undercooked meat may be unsafe.
• Opt for Sesame Seed Buns: For authenticity, choose sesame seed buns to replicate that classic Big Mac taste.
• Layer Wisely: Pay attention to stacking order when assembling; this ensures each bite has a balanced mix of flavors.
• Customize to Your Taste: Feel free to add toppings like sliced tomatoes or jalapeños for an extra kick.

Best Side Dishes for Big Mac Sloppy Joes

Pairing your Big Mac Sloppy Joes with the right sides can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. French Fries
   Crispy fries are a classic choice that complements any sandwich beautifully.

2. Sweet Potato Fries
   A healthier alternative, sweet potato fries add a hint of sweetness and pair well with savory dishes.

3. Onion Rings
   Crunchy onion rings bring additional texture and flavor that match perfectly with sloppy joes.

4. Potato Salad
   Creamy potato salad offers a comforting side that balances the richness of the sloppy joes.

5. Macaroni Salad
   This chilled pasta salad is refreshing and helps cool down spicy flavors if you’ve added heat to your sandwiches.

6. Baked Beans
   A hearty option, baked beans provide a sweet and savory contrast that works well alongside sloppy joes.

7. Steamed Broccoli
   For a healthier touch, steamed broccoli adds nutrients without overpowering the main dish’s flavors.

8. Garden Salad
   A simple garden salad adds freshness and lightness, making it an ideal counterbalance to rich sloppy joes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Big Mac Sloppy Joes, it’s easy to overlook certain details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the ground beef properly can lead to bland flavors. Always use salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce for a flavorful mixture.
• Not letting the sauce sit: Rushing the secret sauce can affect its flavor. Allow it to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance its taste.
• Using the wrong buns: Opting for non-sesame seed buns will alter the authentic Big Mac experience. Stick to sesame seed buns for that classic touch.
• Overcooking the beef: Cooking the ground beef too long can make it tough. Aim for a juicy texture by browning it just until cooked through.
• Ignoring storage instructions: Storing leftovers improperly can lead to spoilage. Make sure to store in airtight containers and follow proper refrigeration guidelines.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Big Mac Sloppy Joes in an airtight container.
• They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Big Mac Sloppy Joes

• To freeze, place the beef mixture in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Big Mac Sloppy Joes

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the beef mixture in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a serving on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth and stir until heated thoroughly, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Big Mac Sloppy Joes?

Big Mac Sloppy Joes are a fun twist on the classic Big Mac burger, combining seasoned ground beef with a homemade secret sauce served on buns.

Can I customize my Big Mac Sloppy Joes?

Absolutely! You can add toppings like diced tomatoes or grilled onions, or even swap out ingredients for a unique twist.

How long does it take to make Big Mac Sloppy Joes?

This recipe is quick and easy, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish.

Can I make the secret sauce ahead of time?

Yes! The secret sauce can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Are Big Mac Sloppy Joes suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! They store well and can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for busy weeknights.

Final Thoughts

Big Mac Sloppy Joes are not only delicious but also versatile. They bring all the beloved flavors of a classic burger into an easy-to-make one-pan meal. Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or sides. Enjoy this delightful dish with friends and family!