Easy Big Mac Sloppy Joes Recipe with Special Sauce

Craving the iconic flavors of a Big Mac but want something quick and easy for dinner?

These Big Mac Sloppy Joes deliver all the classic tastes—savory beef, creamy special sauce, and gooey cheese—in a fun, handheld meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. The tangy pickles and toasted buns bring everything together for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s ready in no time.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Large skillet
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Small mixing bowl
Baking sheet (optional for toasting buns)

Ingredients Overview

This recipe uses simple ingredients to recreate the Big Mac experience:

Ground Beef: The base of your sloppy joes, providing a rich, hearty flavor.
Onion: Adds savory depth and a hint of sweetness.
Cheddar Cheese: Melty cheese creates that indulgent texture.
Pickles: For that signature Big Mac tang.
Special Sauce: The star of the show! A mix of mayo, ketchup, mustard, and seasonings replicates the iconic flavor.
Toasted Buns: Adds structure and a slight crunch to hold everything together.

Ingredients

For the Sloppy Joes:

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely diced
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
6 hamburger buns, toasted

For the Special Sauce:

½ cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp ketchup
1 tbsp yellow mustard
2 tsp pickle relish
½ tsp white vinegar
¼ tsp paprika
¼ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp onion powder

Optional Toppings:

Sliced pickles
Shredded lettuce

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Special Sauce

In a small mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickle relish, white vinegar, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth. Set aside.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Drain excess grease.
Stir in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper to season the meat.

3. Add Cheese

Lower the heat to medium-low and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the cooked beef. Stir until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated.

4. Toast the Buns

If desired, lightly toast the hamburger buns on a baking sheet in a preheated oven or on a skillet until golden brown.

5. Assemble the Sloppy Joes

Spread a generous layer of the special sauce on the bottom half of each bun.
Spoon the cheesy beef mixture onto each bun and top with sliced pickles.
Add shredded lettuce (optional) and the top bun.

6. Serve

Serve warm with your favorite side dishes.

Recipe Tips

Make it Healthier: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Customize the Cheese: Use American cheese or Swiss for a different flavor profile.
Prep Ahead: The special sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Sides: Pair with French fries, onion rings, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Drinks: Serve with a classic milkshake or a refreshing iced tea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze the sloppy joe mixture?
Yes! Let the beef mixture cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in a skillet when ready to serve.

What if I don’t have pickle relish?
Finely dice pickles or use a splash of pickle juice as a substitute.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free buns and ensure the condiments are gluten-free for a celiac-friendly version.

Serving Suggestions

Serve as an easy weeknight dinner or a fun addition to game-day gatherings.
Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds to the buns for an authentic Big Mac feel.

This Easy Big Mac Sloppy Joes Recipe combines the best of two worlds—comfort food and fast food—in a quick, family-friendly dish that everyone will love!

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