Big Mac Sloppy Joes: A Comfort Food Mashup

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (80 % lean)
• 4 soft brioche hamburger buns
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Sloppy Joe Sauce

• 3 Tbsp mayonnaise
• 2 Tbsp sweet pickle relish
• 1 ½ cups tomato sauce
• ¼ cup finely diced onion
• 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Seasonings & Garnish

• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• ¼ cup shredded lettuce (optional)

Instructions

Building the Sauce

1. Deglaze. Once the beef is browned, sprinkle the diced onion over the pan and cook 2 minutes until translucent. Add Worcestershire sauce, then stir in tomato sauce, allowing the mixture to simmer for 3 minutes, which lifts the browned bits (fond) for extra depth.
2. Mix the Big Mac elements. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Pour this creamy blend into the skillet, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens and coats the meat evenly. The sauce should cling to the back of a spoon.
3. Season. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper. If you prefer a touch more tang, add an extra teaspoon of relish. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently for another 5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.