These Big Mac Sloppy Joes give you all the tasty fun of a Big Mac, but in a messy and easy format. Ground beef, special sauce, pickles, and cheese make every bite delicious!
Who doesn’t love a good sloppy joe? The best part is that you can pile it high—just don’t forget the napkins! I always serve mine with crispy fries on the side. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for a good balance of flavor and juiciness, but you can swap it for ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter dish or a meat-free option.
Onion: Finely chopped onion adds flavor and sweetness. If you prefer a milder taste, consider using sweet onions like Vidalia or even scallions for a freshness kick.
Dill Pickles: They give that tangy crunch. If you’re not a fan, try sweet pickles or even relish. You can also add chopped olives for a different twist.
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess to the mix. You could use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo for a lighter take or if you’re avoiding eggs.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to experiment with pepper jack for a spicy kick or a plant-based cheese for dairy-free alternatives.
How Do You Cook the Perfect Sloppy Joe Filling?
Getting the Sloppy Joe filling just right is crucial for the flavor and texture. Start by cooking the beef and onions in a large skillet over medium heat. Here’s how:
- Cook until the beef is nicely browned and onions are soft, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain excess fat for a cleaner taste.
- Add in your pickles, mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, vinegar, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together well.
- Let it simmer for about 5 minutes; this allows the flavors to marry beautifully. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Don’t rush this step! The longer the mixture simmers, the better it tastes. Trust me, you’ll want that flavor to come through in every bite.
How to Make Big Mac Sloppy Joes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Sloppy Joe Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup dill pickles, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tbsp white vinegar
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 sesame seed burger buns
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to cook, for a total of about 25 minutes. It’s a quick and tasty meal that brings a fun twist to traditional Sloppy Joes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef and Onions:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and chopped onions. Let them cook together until the beef is browned and the onions are soft, which will take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, be sure to drain any excess fat to keep your Sloppy Joes nice and healthy!
2. Mix in the Flavors:
Now it’s time to add some zing! Add the chopped dill pickles, mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, white vinegar, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes until it’s heated through. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
3. Toast the Buns:
While that savory beef mixture is simmering, take a moment to toast your sesame seed burger buns. Just put them in a toaster or on a skillet until they are lightly golden. This adds a nice crunch to your Sloppy Joes!
4. Assemble the Sloppy Joes:
Let’s put it all together! Start by placing a slice of cheddar cheese on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Then, spoon the warm beef mixture generously over the cheese. Don’t be shy—heap it on!
5. Add the Final Touches:
Top each beef mixture with a handful of shredded lettuce for some extra crunch and freshness. It’s wonderfully colorful!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Finish up by covering each Sloppy Joe with the top half of the bun. Serve them immediately while they’re warm, and enjoy your delicious Big Mac Sloppy Joes!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. Just keep in mind that they may cook a little faster, so watch the skillet to avoid overcooking, and consider adding a bit more seasoning to enhance the flavor.
How to Store Leftover Sloppy Joes?
Store any leftover sloppy joe mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. You can also freeze the mixture for up to 2 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative. You may also want to add some diced mushrooms or bell peppers for added texture and flavor!
What’s the Best Way to Toast the Buns?
For a perfectly toasted bun, you can either use a skillet over medium heat with a little butter for added flavor, or place them under the broiler for a minute or two—just keep a close eye on them to prevent burning!
