Big Mac Sloppy Joes Recipe

Quick & Juicy Big Mac Sloppy Joes Recipe for Burger Lovers

Crafting a mouthwatering big mac sloppy joes brings childhood fast-food memories right to your dinner table.

Beef seasoned with classic burger flavors creates an instant crowd-pleaser.

Layers of tangy sauce and melted cheese make this dish irresistible.

We combine ground chuck with special sauce ingredients that echo the iconic sandwich.

Each bite delivers nostalgic comfort mixed with homemade goodness.

Crisp sesame seed buns provide the perfect foundation for this hearty meal.

Dive into this simple recipe that promises to become a new family favorite.

Flavor Variations for Big Mac Sloppy Joes

  • Spicy Mac Attack: Kick up the heat by adding diced jalapeños and a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for those who love a fiery flavor profile.
  • Veggie Mac Makeover: Swap ground beef with plant-based crumbles or finely chopped mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly version that maintains the classic Big Mac taste.
  • Slider Style: Transform the recipe into mini sliders by using smaller buns and creating bite-sized portions perfect for parties or game day gatherings.
  • Breakfast Mac Melt: Top the sloppy joe mixture with a fried egg and serve on toasted English muffins for a morning-inspired breakfast spin on the classic recipe.

What Goes Well with Big Mac Sloppy Joes

  • Crisp Pickle Potato Chips: Crunch on tangy dill pickle-flavored potato chips that echo the pickle chunks in the sloppy joes, creating a complementary texture and zesty flavor profile.
  • Classic Cola Companion: Pour an ice-cold Coca-Cola to match the rich, savory beef mixture and cut through the sauce's creamy tanginess, providing a refreshing contrast.
  • Tangy Coleslaw Side: Serve a creamy, slightly acidic coleslaw that balances the richness of the sloppy joes and adds a cool, crunchy texture to the meal.
  • Dill Pickle Spears: Garnish the plate with cold dill pickle spears that reinforce the classic Big Mac flavor and offer a crisp, briny bite between sloppy joe mouthfuls.

Proper Storage for Big Mac Sloppy Joes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container, keeping the beef mixture and sauce separate from buns. Refrigerate for up to 3 days, ensuring maximum freshness and preventing soggy bread.
  • Transfer cooled beef mixture to a freezer-safe container, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months. Separate buns and sauce to maintain their quality during freezing.
  • Warm the beef mixture in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water to prevent drying. Heat until thoroughly warmed and steaming, about 3-5 minutes.
  • Place beef mixture in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until completely hot.

FAQs About Big Mac Sloppy Joes

  • What is the origin of Sloppy Joes?

Sloppy Joes originated in the United States during the early 20th century, likely created as an affordable and hearty meal during the Great Depression. They became popular as a quick, easy-to-make sandwich that could feed a family inexpensively.

  • Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is an excellent substitute for beef. It’s leaner and works well with the Big Mac sauce flavors. Just ensure you cook it thoroughly and season it well to maintain moisture and taste.

  • How can I make the Big Mac sauce from scratch?

The sauce requires mayonnaise, French dressing, sweet pickle relish, minced white onion, white vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, and paprika. Mixing these ingredients creates an authentic Big Mac sauce flavor that’s creamy and tangy.

  • Recreate Iconic Flavors: Transform the beloved Big Mac into a delightful Sloppy Joe that captures all the classic taste in a new, exciting format.
  • Quick and Simple Preparation: Craft this mouthwatering meal with minimal cooking skills, using basic ingredients and straightforward steps that anyone can master.
  • Perfect for Casual Gatherings: Bring a playful twist to family dinners, game nights, or friendly get-togethers with this crowd-pleasing sandwich that guarantees messy smiles and satisfied appetites.
  • Customize Your Comfort: Easily adjust ingredients to suit personal preferences, making this recipe a versatile option for those who love to put their own spin on classic comfort food.

Ingredients Needed for Big Mac Sloppy Joes

Main Protein:
  • Ground Beef: A classic protein base that provides rich and hearty flavor for the Sloppy Joes.
  • Onion: Adds depth and sweetness to the meat mixture.
Big Mac Sauce Ingredients:
  • Mayonnaise: Creates a creamy and smooth base for the signature sauce.
  • French Dressing: Contributes tanginess and distinctive color to the sauce.
  • Sweet Pickle Relish: Provides a sweet and tangy pickle flavor characteristic of Big Mac sauce.
  • White Onion: Adds sharp and fresh onion flavor to the sauce.
  • White Vinegar: Brings brightness and acidity to balance the sauce.
  • Sugar: Helps to balance and round out the sauce's flavors.
  • Salt, Garlic Powder, Paprika: Enhance and season the sauce with complex, subtle spice notes.
Sandwich Components:
  • Hamburger Buns: Serves as the classic vessel for holding the sloppy joe mixture.
  • Shredded Lettuce: Adds fresh crunch and a classic burger-style texture.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Provides a sharp, melty component that complements the beef.
  • Chopped Pickles: Introduces additional tangy and crunchy elements to the meat mixture.

How to Prepare Big Mac Sloppy Joes

Step 1: Whip Up the Secret Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, French dressing, sweet pickle relish, minced white onion, white vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir everything together until smooth. Pop the sauce in the refrigerator to chill and let the flavors mingle.

Step 2: Brown the Beef Base

Heat a large skillet over medium flame. Toss in ground beef and diced onions, breaking up the meat as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef turns a rich brown color and onions become translucent. Season with a sprinkle of salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.

Step 3: Create the Meaty Mixture

Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Add chopped pickles to the beef. Pour in half of the prepared Big Mac sauce, stirring thoroughly to ensure every bite is packed with tangy goodness. Let the mixture simmer and heat through completely.

Step 4: Build Your Sloppy Masterpiece

Grab your hamburger buns and start layering:
  • Spoon the beef mixture onto the bottom bun
  • Sprinkle shredded lettuce for crunch
  • Add a generous layer of cheddar cheese
  • Drizzle remaining Big Mac sauce for extra flavor

Step 5: Serve and Devour

Top each sandwich with the remaining bun halves. Serve immediately while hot and messy. Get ready to enjoy a delicious twist on the classic Big Mac in Sloppy Joe form.

Key Tips for Big Mac Sloppy Joes

  • Layer extra cheese for a gooey, melty texture that enhances the classic Big Mac flavor profile.
  • Drain beef thoroughly to prevent soggy buns and maintain the perfect sloppy joe consistency.
  • Chill Big Mac sauce beforehand to intensify the tangy, creamy taste and let flavors meld together.
  • Consider using lean ground beef to reduce calories without compromising delicious taste.
  • Toast buns lightly for added crunch and to prevent them from getting too soft under the saucy beef mixture.
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Big Mac Sloppy Joes Recipe

Big Mac Sloppy Joes Recipe


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4.8 from 27 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Classic Big Mac flavors collide with hearty sloppy joes in this irresistible mash-up. Creamy special sauce, melted cheese, and perfectly seasoned beef create a mouthwatering sandwich you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Meat:

  • 1 pound (454 grams) ground beef

Cheese and Produce:

  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) pickles, chopped
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) iceberg lettuce, shredded

Sauce and Condiments:

  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) French dressing
  • 4 teaspoons (20 milliliters) sweet pickle relish
  • 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) finely minced white onion
  • 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) white vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) sugar
  • 1/8 teaspoon (0.6 milliliters) salt
  • 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) paprika

Bread:

  • 4 hamburger buns
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Craft the signature Big Mac sauce by whisking mayonnaise, French dressing, sweet pickle relish, finely diced white onion, white vinegar, sugar, salt, garlic powder, and paprika in a mixing bowl until smooth and well-integrated.
  2. Refrigerate the sauce for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld and develop depth.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and brown ground beef with diced onions, breaking meat into small crumbles until no pink remains and onions turn translucent.
  4. Drain excess fat from the skillet, maintaining the meat’s moisture and preventing greasiness.
  5. Fold chopped pickles into the beef mixture, then incorporate half of the prepared Big Mac sauce, stirring thoroughly to distribute flavors evenly.
  6. Warm the mixture for 2-3 minutes, ensuring all ingredients are heated through and harmoniously blended.
  7. Toast hamburger buns until golden and slightly crisp for added texture.
  8. Layer the bottom bun with a generous scoop of the spiced beef mixture, creating a hearty base.
  9. Sprinkle shredded lettuce and grated cheddar cheese over the meat for fresh crunch and melty richness.
  10. Drizzle remaining Big Mac sauce across the top, ensuring each bite captures the iconic flavor profile.
  11. Crown with the top bun and serve immediately while ingredients are warm and sauce is freshly applied.

Notes

  • Enhance the Big Mac sauce by letting it rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and intensify.
  • Choose lean ground beef (90/10) to reduce excess grease and create a cleaner, more concentrated flavor profile.
  • Customize the heat level by adding a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for those craving extra kick.
  • Consider gluten-free alternatives like lettuce wraps or gluten-free buns for individuals with dietary restrictions.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 610 kcal
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 900 mg
  • Fat: 38 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
  • Trans Fat: 1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 35 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg
Sarah Mitchell

Sarah Mitchell

Content Specialist & Home Cooking Enthusiast

Expertise

  • Making healthy, comforting meals that fit into real-life schedules
  • Planning balanced, single-serving meals for individuals and small families
  • Writing clear, practical food content with a focus on wellness and ease
  • Using seasonal ingredients to bring variety and freshness to everyday meals

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College – Asheville, NC

  • Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Trained in the basics of professional cooking, with a strong focus on home-style meals, seasonal recipe development, and time-saving kitchen techniques for everyday use.

American Fitness Professionals & Associates – Online

  • Program: Nutrition and Wellness Consultant Certification
  • Focus: Studied how to make healthy eating simple, enjoyable, and accessible

Sarah’s passion for food was sparked by weekend trips to the farmers’ market and her belief that healthy meals should never feel boring.
After earning her culinary diploma and becoming a certified Nutrition and Wellness Consultant, she set out to help others fall in love with simple, wholesome cooking.
She’s all about celebrating the small wins in the kitchen: a colorful yogurt bowl, a new twist on a classic dish, or a homemade snack that feels just a little extra special.
Outside the kitchen, Sarah is a gardener at heart, a yoga enthusiast, and a believer that fresh herbs can brighten any meal, and any day.

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