Big Mac Sloppy Joes

Big Mac lover, but looking for something a little more relaxed and extra saucy, these Big Mac Sloppy Joes are calling your name. Juicy ground beef simmers with onions and simple seasonings, then gets piled high onto sesame seed buns with crisp lettuce, melty cheddar, tangy pickles and a generous drizzle of homemade Big Mac sauce. It's everything you crave, just a little messier and a lot more fun.

They come together quickly on the stovetop, making them perfect for busy weeknights, casual get-togethers or game day spreads. Nostalgic, handheld and packed with flavor, this is one dinner the whole family will happily dig into.

If you are looking for more simple, one pot meals, you must try our Tomato Basil Chicken or Pork and Beef Chili.

Ingredients

No complicated shopping list here. Just simple ingredients that deliver big flavor.

See the recipe card below for the exact quantities of each ingredient.

• Ground Beef: We use medium ground beef for maximum flavor, but you can choose your preferred fat content meat.
• Seasonings: Enhances the other ingredients and used to make the Big Mac special sauce.
• Hamburger Buns: Grab your favorite bun for this recipe.
• Cheddar Cheese: Though a Big Mac typically uses American cheese slices, we opted for cheddar. Use whatever you prefer.

For this Big Mac recipe, you'll need a small bowl, whisk, large non-stick pan, spatula and measuring cups and spoons.

Variations

• Ground Turkey: Swap in for a lighter, leaner option. Alternatively, you can try ground chicken too.
• Bun Swap: Use a brioche bun for a softer, sweeter bite or a sesame seed bun for a more classic look.
• Slice of American Cheese: For more of that classic fast food vibe.
• Skip the Lettuce: If you're serving to picky eaters or kids.
• Add Tomato: For a fresh twist on the traditional Big Mac layers.

How to Make Big Mac Sloppy Joes

See how simple it is to take a classic sloppy Joe and make it fast food inspired.

Make your copycat Big Mac sauce by adding all the ingredients into a small bowl and whisk until combined. Set in the fridge until ready to assemble sloppy joes.

Heat a large skillet on medium heat and cook ground beef for 5 minutes. 

Strain out some excess fat, then add chopped onion, Worcestershire, salt and pepper to your meat mixture. Cook for a couple minutes until the beef is fully cooked and no longer pink.

Assemble sloppy Joes by adding a slice of cheese to the bottom bun. Then spoon ¼ of the ground beef mixture, shredded lettuce, pickles, Big Mac sauce and the top bun.

Repeat for the other 3 and serve immediately.

Hint: Lightly toasting your buns first prevents sogginess and adds structure.

Recipe Tips

• Don't Overcook the Beef: Cook until the beef is no longer pint to aim for tender meat, not dry.
• Shred Your Own Cheese: Shredding your own cheese gives the best melt.
• Let the Sauce Chill: A short rest in the fridge helps flavors of the special sauce develop.
• Serve Immediately: These sandwiches are best hot and fresh from the skillet.
• Switch it Up: This recipe makes 4 large or 6 average sized sloppy Joe's, alternatively, it makes a great salad topper to make a Big Mac salad!
• Halve the Sauce: The sauce recipe makes enough to generously cover the sandwich plus leftover, you can half the recipe if desired.

One of our most popular recipes on the site is our Stove Top Chili, warm, comforting and hearty meal that never disappoints.

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Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Place any leftover meat in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
• Freezer: Alternatively, you can place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, heat a pan on medium-low heat. Add a little oil if most of the fat was strained out and cook until the meat is warmed. Alternatively, you can add a small amount of broth or water if desired. 

Serving Suggestions

• Coleslaw: Our classic coleslaw recipe is a perfect side to go with these sandwiches.
• Mac n Cheese: Try our slow cooker Velveeta mac or our baked white cheddar mac as side options.
• Our Big Mac Menu: Make it a theme and try our Big Mac tater tot casserole, Big Mac tacos, Big Mac egg rolls or our Big Mac quesadilla.

Big Mac Sloppy Joe Recipe FAQs

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