Can I make Big Mac Sloppy Joes with ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey makes a lighter version of this recipe. For best results, use ground turkey that's not too lean (93/7 works well) and add an extra teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce to enhance the flavor since turkey is milder than beef.

How can I make the Mac sauce less tangy?

If you find the Mac sauce too tangy, reduce the vinegar to 1/2 tablespoon and use sweet relish instead of dill relish. You can also add an extra tablespoon of mayonnaise to mellow out the flavors.

Can I prepare any components of this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! The Mac sauce actually tastes even better when made a day ahead, allowing the flavors to meld in the refrigerator. The meat mixture can also be cooked ahead and refrigerated for up to two days - just reheat and assemble when ready to serve.

My sloppy joes are too... sloppy! How can I thicken the mixture?

If your meat mixture is too wet, return it to the pan and simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce excess moisture. Alternatively, add 1-2 tablespoons of tomato paste, which will thicken the mixture while enhancing the flavor.

Big Mac Sloppy Joes Recipe

Name: Big Mac Sloppy Joes Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef; 1/2 medium onion, finely diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 1/2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon cracked pepper; 1 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup ketchup; 1/4 cup dill relish; 1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 6 sesame seed buns; 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce; 4 slices American cheese; 12 dill pickle chips

This Big Mac Sloppy Joes recipe transforms America’s favorite fast food burger into an irresistible homemade meal that’s ready in just 25 minutes. Featuring seasoned ground beef smothered in authentic “special sauce,” these sloppy joes deliver all the iconic Big Mac flavors you crave but in a quick, easy-to-make dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying and fun.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fast Food Flavor, Homemade Quality: Get that unmistakable Big Mac taste without leaving your kitchen, and you’ll know exactly what goes into your meal.
Ready in 25 Minutes: This is truly weeknight dinner magic – from fridge to table in less time than it takes to order delivery.
Family Pleaser: Even picky eaters can’t resist these sloppy joes – they’re familiar yet exciting, and everyone can customize their toppings.
Budget-Friendly: Feed your whole family for less than the cost of fast food burgers, especially when ground beef is on sale.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Meat Mixture:

Ground beef: The foundation of our sloppy joes. Lean ground beef (85/15) provides the best balance of flavor and not too much grease.
Onion: Adds savory sweetness and authentic burger flavor when finely diced and cooked with the meat.
Garlic: Minced fresh garlic brings depth that takes this from good to can’t-stop-eating-it delicious.
Worcestershire sauce: The secret ingredient that adds umami and makes the meat mixture taste more “beefy” and complex.
Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that let the Big Mac flavors shine through.

For the Mac Sauce:

Mayonnaise: Creates the creamy base for our special sauce.
Ketchup: Provides sweetness and that signature pink color.
Dill relish: The tiny pickle bits give authentic texture and tanginess that makes Mac sauce special.
White vinegar: Just a splash brightens all the flavors and cuts through the richness.
Onion powder: Gives depth without having to chop more onions.
Smoked paprika: Adds color and a subtle smokiness that elevates the sauce.

For the Sandwiches:

Sesame seed buns: Those little seeds are essential for the authentic Big Mac experience.
Iceberg lettuce: Provides the perfect cool crunch against the warm meat.
American cheese: Melts beautifully and delivers that nostalgic fast-food taste.
Dill pickle chips: The tangy finishing touch that makes every bite pop.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Double Decker Version

Want the full Big Mac experience? Use three bun pieces per serving (bottom, middle, and top), and divide the meat mixture between the bottom and middle sections.

Turkey Mac Sloppy Joes

Substitute ground turkey for a lighter option. Add a teaspoon of beef bouillon to maintain that rich flavor.

Spicy Mac Sloppy Joes

Add diced jalapeños to the meat mixture and a dash of hot sauce to the Mac sauce for a kicked-up version.

Low-Carb Option

Serve the meat mixture over lettuce leaves or in a lettuce wrap for a carb-conscious meal that still delivers big flavor.

How to Make Big Mac Sloppy Joes

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat, add ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is completely browned, stirring frequently to break up larger chunks. Drain any excess grease from the pan. Season with Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper, stirring well to combine. Remove from heat.

Step 2: Make the Mac Sauce

In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, dill relish, white vinegar, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Stir until everything is thoroughly mixed and you have a smooth, salmon-colored sauce.

Step 3: Combine Sauce with Meat

Add 1/2 cup of your freshly made Mac sauce to the warm meat mixture and stir well. This infuses the meat with that unmistakable Big Mac flavor while keeping it moist and saucy.

Step 4: Assemble the Sloppy Joes

Place a generous 1/4 cup of shredded iceberg lettuce on the bottom half of each sesame seed bun. Top with a slice of American cheese. Spoon the meat mixture over the cheese, allowing it to slightly melt from the heat. Drizzle additional Mac sauce over the meat according to taste. Place 3 pickle chips on top of each sloppy joe, then cap with the top bun.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overcook the Meat: Cook the ground beef just until no longer pink to keep it juicy.
Prep Ahead: Make the Mac sauce up to 3 days ahead and store in the refrigerator for even faster dinner assembly.
Toast the Buns: For extra texture and to prevent soggy bottoms, lightly toast the buns before assembling.
Let Everyone Build Their Own: Set up a “sloppy joe bar” with all the components for a fun dinner experience where everyone gets exactly what they want.

How to Serve

As a Complete Meal

Serve these sloppy joes with classic fast food sides like crispy french fries, sweet potato fries, or onion rings. A simple side of potato chips also works perfectly!

Freshen It Up

Balance the richness with a simple side salad dressed with vinaigrette or some pickled vegetables for a refreshing contrast.

Party Presentation

For gatherings, try making mini versions using slider buns – they’re perfect for game day or casual entertaining.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store the meat mixture separately from the buns and toppings in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The Mac sauce can be stored separately for up to 5 days.

Freezing

The meat mixture freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Portion into freezer bags, cool completely before freezing, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator when ready to use.

Reheating

Warm the meat mixture in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water if it seems dry. Assemble fresh sandwiches with the reheated meat for best results.

FAQs

Can I make Big Mac Sloppy Joes with ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey makes a lighter version of this recipe. For best results, use ground turkey that’s not too lean (93/7 works well) and add an extra teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce to enhance the flavor since turkey is milder than beef.
How can I make the Mac sauce less tangy?

If you find the Mac sauce too tangy, reduce the vinegar to 1/2 tablespoon and use sweet relish instead of dill relish. You can also add an extra tablespoon of mayonnaise to mellow out the flavors.
Can I prepare any components of this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! The Mac sauce actually tastes even better when made a day ahead, allowing the flavors to meld in the refrigerator. The meat mixture can also be cooked ahead and refrigerated for up to two days – just reheat and assemble when ready to serve.
My sloppy joes are too… sloppy! How can I thicken the mixture?

If your meat mixture is too wet, return it to the pan and simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce excess moisture. Alternatively, add 1-2 tablespoons of tomato paste, which will thicken the mixture while enhancing the flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Big Mac Sloppy Joes recipe brings the drive-thru experience right to your dinner table, but with all the comforts and satisfaction of a home-cooked meal. It’s that perfect blend of nostalgic flavor and practical cooking that makes weeknight dinners special without the fuss. Whether you’re feeding a family or just treating yourself, these sloppy joes deliver big flavor with minimal effort. Give them a try tonight – your inner fast-food fan will thank you!