The Homemade Big Mac is a delicious recreation of the classic fast-food favorite, made right in your kitchen. With juicy beef patties, melty cheese, crisp lettuce, pickles, and the iconic special sauce, this burger hits all the right notes. Perfect for family dinners, game nights, or whenever you crave a restaurant-style treat, this recipe ensures maximum flavor with every bite.
Ingredients:
For the Special Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons pickle relish
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
For the Burger:
- 1 pound ground beef (divided into 4 thin patties)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 sesame seed burger buns (2 tops and 2 bottoms for each burger)
- ¼ cup finely diced onion
- ½ cup shredded lettuce
- 4 dill pickle slices
- 4 slices American cheese
Preparation:
Step 1: Make the Special Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, pickle relish, yellow mustard, white vinegar, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Stir until the ingredients are fully blended.
- Cover and refrigerate the sauce while preparing the rest of the burger.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef Patties
- Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a thin, round patty.
- Season both sides of each patty with salt and black pepper.
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and cook each patty for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
Step 3: Toast the Buns
- Separate the sesame seed buns into tops and bottoms. Use the bottom bun from two additional buns to create the “middle bun” layer.
- Toast the cut sides of the buns in a skillet over medium heat until lightly golden.
Step 4: Assemble the Big Mac
- Bottom Layer: Spread 1 tablespoon of the special sauce onto the bottom bun.
- Add a sprinkle of diced onions, a handful of shredded lettuce, a slice of American cheese, and one cooked beef patty.
- Place the middle bun slice on top of the first layer.
- Middle Layer: Spread 1 tablespoon of special sauce onto the middle bun.
- Add diced onions, shredded lettuce, and 2 dill pickle slices.
- Top with the second beef patty.
- Top Layer: Place the top bun on the stack to complete the burger.
Step 5: Serve
- Gently press down on the burger to secure the layers.
- Serve immediately with French fries, onion rings, or your favorite side dish.
COOKING Note:
- Meat Options: Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based patties for a healthier alternative.
- Extra Sauce: Double the sauce recipe for extra dipping or drizzling.
- Cheese Choices: Use cheddar or Swiss cheese for a variation in flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair the Big Mac with crispy French fries and a cold soda for a classic fast-food experience.
- Add a side of coleslaw or a small green salad for a fresh contrast.
- Offer extra pickles and sauce on the side for customizable bites.
Tips:
- Thin Patties: Use a spatula to flatten the patties as they cook to achieve the signature Big Mac style.
- Bun Sturdiness: Toasting the buns helps them hold up better under the layers of sauce and toppings.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the special sauce and slice the toppings in advance to streamline assembly.
- Leftovers: Store assembled burgers in the fridge for up to 1 day. Reheat patties and buns separately for the best texture.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Protein: 28 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
FAQs:
Q: Can I use a grill instead of a skillet?
A: Yes! Grilling the patties adds a smoky flavor to the burger. Preheat the grill to medium-high and cook each patty for 2-3 minutes per side.
Q: How can I make the burger spicier?
A: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the special sauce for a spicy kick.
Q: Can I freeze the patties?
A: Absolutely! Shape the patties, separate them with parchment paper, and freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Q: What if I don’t have sesame seed buns?
A: Use plain burger buns or brioche buns as a substitute.
Conclusion:
The Homemade Big Mac is a flavorful and satisfying take on the fast-food classic, offering the perfect balance of savory beef, creamy sauce, and crisp toppings. Easy to assemble and customize, this recipe is a must-try for burger lovers everywhere. Gather your ingredients, and enjoy the ultimate homemade burger experience today!
PrintHomemade Big Mac
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
Ingredients:
For the Special Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons pickle relish
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
For the Burger:
- 1 pound ground beef (divided into 4 thin patties)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 sesame seed burger buns (2 tops and 2 bottoms for each burger)
- ¼ cup finely diced onion
- ½ cup shredded lettuce
- 4 dill pickle slices
- 4 slices American cheese
Instructions
Preparation:
Step 1: Make the Special Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, pickle relish, yellow mustard, white vinegar, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Stir until the ingredients are fully blended.
- Cover and refrigerate the sauce while preparing the rest of the burger.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef Patties
- Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a thin, round patty.
- Season both sides of each patty with salt and black pepper.
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and cook each patty for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
Step 3: Toast the Buns
- Separate the sesame seed buns into tops and bottoms. Use the bottom bun from two additional buns to create the “middle bun” layer.
- Toast the cut sides of the buns in a skillet over medium heat until lightly golden.
Step 4: Assemble the Big Mac
- Bottom Layer: Spread 1 tablespoon of the special sauce onto the bottom bun.
- Add a sprinkle of diced onions, a handful of shredded lettuce, a slice of American cheese, and one cooked beef patty.
- Place the middle bun slice on top of the first layer.
- Middle Layer: Spread 1 tablespoon of special sauce onto the middle bun.
- Add diced onions, shredded lettuce, and 2 dill pickle slices.
- Top with the second beef patty.
- Top Layer: Place the top bun on the stack to complete the burger.
Step 5: Serve
- Gently press down on the burger to secure the layers.
- Serve immediately with French fries, onion rings, or your favorite side dish.
Notes
COOKING Note:
- Meat Options: Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based patties for a healthier alternative.
- Extra Sauce: Double the sauce recipe for extra dipping or drizzling.
- Cheese Choices: Use cheddar or Swiss cheese for a variation in flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Protein: 28 g