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Instructions
1. Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the diced onions until the beef is browned and fully cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Use a spoon to break up the beef into small crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
2. Make the Sauce
Once the beef is cooked, reduce the heat to low. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, white vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir the sauce into the cooked ground beef mixture and combine thoroughly.
3. Simmer the Sloppy Joes
Let the mixture simmer for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, so that the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together. If you want a thicker or thinner consistency, you can adjust by adding more ketchup for thickness or a splash of water for a thinner texture.
4. Toast the Buns
While the beef mixture is simmering, toast the hamburger buns in a toaster or on a separate skillet until golden brown. This step adds a nice crunch and helps prevent the buns from becoming soggy when the sloppy joe filling is added.
5. Assemble the Big Mac Sloppy Joes
Once the beef mixture is ready and the buns are toasted, assemble the Sloppy Joes. Start by spooning a generous portion of the sloppy joe mixture onto the bottom half of each toasted bun.
6. Add the Big Mac Toppings
Top the sloppy joe mixture with shredded lettuce, shredded cheddar cheese (if using), diced pickles, and a drizzle of extra mayonnaise or special sauce if you prefer. Place the top half of the bun on and press gently to hold everything together.
Tips for the Best Big Mac Sloppy Joes
- Customize the Sauce: Adjust the sauce to your taste. If you like it tangy, add more mustard or vinegar; for sweetness, increase the sugar or ketchup.
- Use Quality Beef: Choose lean ground beef (85% lean or higher) to keep the dish flavorful without excess grease.
- Go Big with Toppings: Feel free to pile on extra toppings like extra pickles, onions, or even a slice of American cheese for that true Big Mac experience.
- Serve with Fries: These Sloppy Joes are great with a side of crispy fries, onion rings, or even a simple salad to balance out the richness.
Variations to Try
- Add Bacon: For a smoky twist, top your Big Mac Sloppy Joes with crispy bacon.
- Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.
- Big Mac Sloppy Joe Bowl: Skip the buns and serve the sloppy joe mixture over a bed of rice or in a salad for a low-carb alternative.
Why This Recipe Works
Big Mac Sloppy Joes are the best of both worlds. The beef mixture is rich and flavorful, while the creamy, tangy sauce ties it all together just like the Big Mac special sauce. The toppings of shredded lettuce, pickles, and melted cheese bring that classic Big Mac flavor right into the Sloppy Joe experience. Plus, the dish is quick and easy to make, making it perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve your Big Mac Sloppy Joes with a side of crispy fries or potato wedges to complete the meal.
- Pair with a cold soda or milkshake for the ultimate fast-food-inspired meal.
- Garnish with extra pickle slices or a dollop of extra mayo or mustard if you love those classic Big Mac flavors.
Conclusion
Big Mac Sloppy Joes are a fun and delicious twist on two iconic comfort foods. The crispy buns, savory beef, and tangy, creamy sauce will satisfy your cravings for Big Mac flavors while giving you the satisfying messiness of Sloppy Joes. Easy to make, fun to eat, and perfect for any occasion, these Sloppy Joes are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!
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