These Big Mac Sloppy Joes are a fun twist on the classic burger! Ground beef, tangy pickles, and special sauce come together for a flavor blast that everyone will love.
They’re messy in all the best ways, and who doesn’t enjoy a hearty, delicious meal that you can pile onto a bun? I like to serve mine with fries for a perfect combo! 🍔🍟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is the classic choice, but you can swap it for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative like lentils or black beans for a healthier option.
Sloppy Joe Seasoning Mix: If you don’t have a packet, you can make your own by combining chili powder, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and a bit of brown sugar. It adds a nice kick!
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar slices give that classic taste. However, feel free to switch it up with American cheese for a creamier texture or pepper jack for an extra kick.
Sesame Seed Burger Buns: While sesame seed buns are fun, any sturdy burger bun will do. Try whole wheat or even gluten-free options if needed.
How Do I Make Sure My Sloppy Joe Mixture Is Just Right?
Getting your Sloppy Joe mixture perfect boils down to cooking it to the right consistency. Start with browning the beef well to develop flavor. After draining the fat, add the seasoning and water, and let it simmer. Don’t rush this! Cook until the mix thickens to avoid soggy buns.
- Brown the ground beef fully, breaking it up as you go.
- Use medium heat and follow the packet instructions for the seasoning.
- Taste your mixture before serving; adjust salt and pepper as needed to keep the flavors balanced.
How to Make Big Mac Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sloppy Joe Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet Sloppy Joe seasoning mix
- ½ cup water
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup diced pickles (or sweet relish)
- 4 sesame seed burger buns
For the Special Sauce:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty recipe takes about 20 minutes total—10 minutes for preparation and cooking, and about 10 minutes for assembly and toasting the buns. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner!
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. Cook it while breaking it apart with a spatula until it’s browned all the way through. If there’s excess fat, drain it off before moving to the next step.
2. Prepare the Sloppy Joe Mixture:
Add the Sloppy Joe seasoning mix and water to the skillet with the cooked beef. Stir everything together really well. Follow the packet instructions, usually cooking for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture is nice and thick.
3. Mix the Special Sauce:
While the beef is simmering, grab a small bowl and combine the mayonnaise, mustard, and ketchup. Mix them well to create your special sauce. You can add a little salt and pepper to taste if you like!
4. Toast the Buns:
Toast the sesame seed burger buns in a toaster or a skillet until they’re golden brown. This adds a nice crunch!
5. Assemble Your Sloppy Joes:
To build each Sloppy Joe, start by placing a slice of cheddar cheese on the bottom half of each toasted bun. This will melt slightly from the heat of the filling.
6. Add the Filling and Toppings:
Spoon the Sloppy Joe mixture generously over the cheese. Then, sprinkle the shredded lettuce and top with the diced pickles for that extra crunch and flavor.
7. Drizzle the Special Sauce:
Finish off by drizzling your special sauce over the toppings. Place the top half of the bun on to complete your sandwich.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Big Mac Sloppy Joes immediately while they’re warm. Enjoy all the amazing flavors that remind you of a classic Big Mac but in a fun Sloppy Joe style!
### FAQ for Big Mac Sloppy Joes
Can I Use Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a healthier alternative. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly until it’s no longer pink. You might want to add a bit more seasoning to enhance the flavor since they can be milder than beef.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make vegetarian Big Mac Sloppy Joes, substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat, lentils, or chopped mushrooms. You can follow the same instructions and cook until the mixture is heated through and flavors meld together.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Sloppy Joes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet or microwave until heated through. It’s best to store the buns separately to keep them fresh!
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! The special sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance. Just mix the mayonnaise, mustard, and ketchup, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will save you time during meal prep!
