Big Mac Sloppy Joes

Introduction

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a good Sloppy Joe, and when you combine that comfort food with the iconic flavors of a Big Mac, you have a recipe that’s sure to be a hit. My family first tried Big Mac Sloppy Joes on a casual Friday night, and they quickly became a favorite. The savory beef mixture, the creamy special sauce, and the crunchy toppings come together in a way that makes each bite feel like a celebration. Whether you’re serving them for a weeknight dinner or at a weekend gathering, these Sloppy Joes are a fun twist that will please kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Sloppy Joe Mixture:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp mustard
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Special Sauce:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp French dressing
• 1 tbsp sweet pickle relish
• 1 tbsp finely minced onion
• 1 tsp white vinegar
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/4 tsp salt

Sandwich:

• 4 sesame seed hamburger buns
• 8 slices of cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1/2 cup dill pickle slices

Instructions

Prepare the Sloppy Joe Mixture:

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Drain any excess fat.
2. Stir in the ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes until the mixture is thick and flavorful.

Make the Special Sauce:

1. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, French dressing, sweet pickle relish, minced onion, white vinegar, sugar, and salt. Mix until smooth and set aside.

Assemble the Sloppy Joes:

1. Preheat your oven to broil. Split the hamburger buns and place them on a baking sheet, cut side up. Toast under the broiler for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
2. Place a slice of cheddar cheese on the bottom half of each toasted bun.
3. Spoon a generous amount of the Sloppy Joe mixture over the cheese.
4. Add another slice of cheddar cheese on top of the Sloppy Joe mixture.
5. Top with shredded lettuce and dill pickle slices.
6. Drizzle with the special sauce.
7. Place the top half of the bun on top.

Serve:

• Serve your Big Mac Sloppy Joes with extra special sauce on the side for dipping.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 600 kcal
• Total Fat: 38 g
• Saturated Fat: 16 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 95 mg
• Sodium: 1020 mg
• Carbohydrates: 34 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 6 g
• Protein: 29 g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve

• Place the Sloppy Joes on individual plates.
• Add a side of extra special sauce for dipping.
• Serve with potato chips, fries, or a side salad for a complete meal.
• Garnish with fresh herbs for an added touch.

Additional Tips

1. Lean Meat: Use lean ground beef (like 90/10) to reduce fat content while keeping flavor.
2. Add Veggies: Sneak in some finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
3. Make It Spicy: Add a splash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the Sloppy Joe mixture for some heat.
4. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses, like pepper jack for a kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
5. Fresh Herbs: Consider adding fresh chopped parsley or cilantro to the special sauce for an herby twist.

Recipe Variations

• Turkey or Chicken: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based ground meat and vegan mayonnaise for a meat-free alternative.
• BBQ Twist: Replace ketchup with barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor profile.
• Bun Alternatives: Try serving the mixture in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair these Sloppy Joes with coleslaw for a crunchy contrast.
• Serve with a side of pickles or potato salad to complete the meal.
• For a fun appetizer, make mini versions using slider buns.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, allow the Sloppy Joe mixture to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of meat?

• Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work well.

1. How can I make the sauce spicier?

• Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the special sauce for an extra kick.

1. What can I serve on the side?

• Fries, chips, a side salad, or coleslaw all make excellent accompaniments.

1. How do I store leftovers?

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

1. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

• Yes, the special sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

1. What is Worcestershire sauce?

• It’s a fermented liquid condiment made from ingredients like vinegar, molasses, anchovies, and spices, adding depth to dishes.

1. Can I use store-bought Sloppy Joe mix?

• Absolutely! You can substitute the homemade mixture with store-bought for convenience.

1. How can I make it gluten-free?

• Use gluten-free buns and ensure that all condiments are gluten-free.

1. Is this recipe kid-friendly?

• Yes! The flavors are familiar and appealing to kids, making it a great choice for family meals.

1. Can I freeze the assembled sandwiches?
   • It’s best to freeze the Sloppy Joe mixture separately from the assembled sandwiches to maintain texture.

Conclusion

Big Mac Sloppy Joes are a delightful combination of two beloved classics, offering a fun and flavorful twist on traditional Sloppy Joes. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends and family. With easy preparation and a range of customization options, it’s bound to become a new favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients, channel your inner chef, and enjoy this hearty, delicious meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table!

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