Name: Big Mac Sloppy Joes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 slices American cheese or 1 cup shredded cheddar; 1/4 cup dill pickles, chopped; 1/4 cup ketchup; 2 tbsp yellow mustard; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 2 tbsp sweet pickle relish; 1 tbsp white vinegar; 1 tsp sugar; Salt and pepper, to taste; 4–6 sesame seed hamburger buns; 1 cup shredded lettuce

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Big Mac Sloppy Joes are a delicious fusion of the classic fast-food favorite and the beloved comfort food sandwich. This recipe takes everything I love about a Big Mac—seasoned beef, creamy sauce, pickles, and melty cheese—and transforms it into a quick and satisfying skillet meal perfect for busy weeknights. Served on a toasted bun with shredded lettuce, it’s messy, flavorful, and downright irresistible.

Big Mac Sloppy Joes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe brings fast-food flavors home in a fun and creative way. It’s easy to make in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. The Big Mac-inspired sauce gives it that nostalgic taste, while the sloppy joe format makes it even more comforting. It’s family-friendly, budget-friendly, and customizable for different tastes.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Onion, finely chopped
Garlic, minced
American cheese slices or shredded cheddar
Dill pickles, chopped
Ketchup
Yellow mustard
Mayonnaise
Sweet pickle relish
White vinegar
Sugar
Salt and pepper
Sesame seed hamburger buns
Shredded lettuce

Directions

I start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. As it cooks, I break it up with a spoon until fully browned.
I drain any excess grease, then stir in the chopped onion and garlic. I let them cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
While that cooks, I mix up the special sauce in a bowl: mayo, ketchup, mustard, relish, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
I pour about half of the sauce into the skillet with the beef and stir well to combine.
Next, I add the chopped pickles and cheese. I stir until the cheese melts into the mixture.
While the meat mixture simmers for a few more minutes, I toast the hamburger buns.
To assemble, I spoon the beef mixture onto the bottom bun, drizzle more sauce on top, add shredded lettuce, and cap it with the top bun.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 to 6 servings depending on how full I stuff the buns.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

I sometimes swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
For extra crunch, I add finely chopped onions or extra pickles just before serving.
If I want it spicier, I mix a little hot sauce into the beef or sauce.
For a low-carb version, I skip the buns and serve the filling over lettuce like a Big Mac salad.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftover beef mixture in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I just warm it in a skillet over medium heat or microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. I always toast fresh buns and add lettuce just before serving to keep it crisp.

FAQs

How can I make this ahead of time?

I prepare the beef mixture and sauce in advance and store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, I reheat the beef and toast the buns fresh.

Can I freeze Big Mac Sloppy Joes?

Yes, I freeze the cooked beef mixture in an airtight container for up to 2 months. I thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

What kind of cheese works best?

I like using American cheese for that authentic Big Mac flavor, but cheddar, Colby Jack, or even a cheese blend works great too.

Can I make this without pickles?

I can leave them out if I’m not a fan, but I personally think they add that classic tangy crunch that makes it taste like a Big Mac.

What can I serve with Big Mac Sloppy Joes?

I often serve them with fries, onion rings, coleslaw, or a simple side salad. It also goes great with sweet potato fries or chips.

Conclusion

Big Mac Sloppy Joes are everything I love about a fast-food burger packed into a fun and flavorful homemade meal. With its savory meat, tangy sauce, melty cheese, and toasted bun, it’s comfort food with a nostalgic twist. Whether I’m feeding my family or just craving a quick and satisfying dinner, this recipe always hits the spot.