Big Mac Sloppy Joes

Big Mac Sloppy Joes are the ultimate mash-up of two comfort food classics: the fast-food favorite Big Mac and the homestyle sloppy joe. This version ditches the sweet tomato-based sauce for a savory, creamy Big Mac-style sauce that’s tangy, rich, and absolutely irresistible. These sandwiches are hearty, cheesy, and ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines two classic favorites into one epic sandwich

• Quick and easy—ready in just 25 minutes

• Homemade Big Mac sauce that tastes better than the original

• Family-friendly and totally customizable

• Great for casual dinners, game day, or feeding a crowd

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the meat mixture:

• 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef

• ½ medium onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

• 1 ½ teaspoons salt

• 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper

For the Mac sauce:

• 1 cup mayonnaise

• ¼ cup ketchup

• ¼ cup dill relish

• 1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

For the sandwiches:

• 6 sesame seed buns

• 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce

• 4 slices American cheese

• 12 dill pickle chips

Directions

Make the meat mixture:

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add ground beef, onion, and garlic.

2. Cook, breaking the meat apart as it browns, until fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat.

3. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat.

Make the Mac sauce:

4. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, dill relish, vinegar, onion powder, and smoked paprika until smooth.

Assemble the sandwiches:

5. Stir ½ cup of the prepared Mac sauce into the cooked beef mixture.

6. On the bottom half of each bun, layer ¼ cup shredded lettuce and a slice of American cheese.

7. Spoon the beef mixture over the cheese, then drizzle extra Mac sauce on top, to taste.

8. Add 2–3 dill pickle chips per sandwich and close with the top bun.

9. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6 sandwiches

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Classic Triple Bun: Recreate the original Big Mac by adding a middle bun layer using an extra bottom bun.

• Cheese Upgrade: Swap American cheese for cheddar or pepper jack for a spicier kick.

• Low-Carb Version: Serve the meat mixture and toppings in lettuce wraps or over a salad.

• Spicy Option: Add hot sauce or diced jalapeños to the meat or sauce for a spicy twist.

• Pickle Lovers: Add extra pickle chips or chopped pickles into the sauce for even more zing.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftover meat and sauce in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Store buns and toppings separately for best results.

• Freezer: The meat mixture and sauce can be frozen (separately) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.

• Reheating: Reheat meat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until hot. Assemble sandwiches just before serving.

FAQs

What makes these different from regular sloppy joes?

Traditional sloppy joes use a sweet tomato-based sauce. This recipe uses a savory Big Mac-style sauce with mayo, relish, and ketchup for a totally different flavor profile.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, both work well. Ground turkey or chicken will make the dish lighter but still flavorful with the Mac sauce.

Can I prepare the meat mixture ahead of time?

Yes. You can make the meat and sauce a day ahead. Reheat and assemble the sandwiches when ready to serve.

What type of buns should I use?

Sesame seed buns are classic, but any soft hamburger bun will work. Brioche buns also add a nice buttery flavor.

Is the Mac sauce just Thousand Island dressing?

It’s similar, but this homemade version is richer and more customizable with a better balance of tang and sweetness.

How long does the leftover sauce keep?

Leftover Mac sauce will keep in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. It’s also great as a dip for fries.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes. Just skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. The rest of the recipe is dairy-free.

How do I prevent soggy buns?

Toast the buns lightly before assembling the sandwiches, or serve the filling separately for guests to build their own.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free buns and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free to accommodate dietary needs.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. This recipe is easy to scale up for larger groups. Just use a larger skillet or cook the meat in batches.

Conclusion

Big Mac Sloppy Joes are the ultimate mash-up comfort food. They’re everything you love about a Big Mac but easier, cheesier, and perfect for a homemade meal. With bold flavors, a creamy signature sauce, and simple prep, this recipe is sure to become a repeat favorite in your weeknight rotation. Serve with fries, coleslaw, or a side salad for a complete and crave-worthy meal.