Craving a taste of those famous Golden Arches Big Mac burgers? Our mouthwatering copycat recipe lets you create juicy, 100% all-beef mini burgers stacked with melty American cheese, crisp lettuce, tangy pickles, and the proprietary special sauce. These sliders are an addictive bite-sized version bursting with that unmistakable flavor combination found only in the iconic McDonald’s sandwich.
With just 30 minutes of prep time using common ingredients you probably already stock in your kitchen, you can have a tray of picture-perfect, flavor-packed Big Mac sliders ready to serve. Splitting petite potato slider buns and toasting them in butter adds next-level texture and taste. Customize the gourmet patties cooked to perfection by mixing in your choice of spices or toppings. Drizzle our secret special sauce recipe over the mini burgers for full-on Big Mac bliss in every bite! Kids and adults alike will gobble up these amazing copycat sliders.
What type of buns should I use?
You can use potato slider buns or regular hamburger buns cut in half. Split the buns and lightly toast them in the oven or in a skillet with butter on both sides before assembling the sliders. This extra step helps the buns better withstand all the juicy toppings and prevents sogginess so they hold up from first bite to last.
Can I prepare the special sauce ahead of time?
Yes, we highly recommend making the Big Mac sauce 1 day ahead. This allows time for the flavors to meld and develop even more into the next day. Store the homemade sauce in an airtight container, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temperature before using or warming it up gently over low heat if you want to thin it out.
What if I don’t have sweet pickle relish?
If you don’t have sweet pickle relish on hand, dill relish makes the closest easy substitute. For a homemade option, chop up 3-4 fresh crisp dill pickle spears into small pieces to equal about 2 tablespoons. Drain any excess pickle juice first to prevent the sauce from getting watered down. The minced pickles mimic that signature relish flavor and crunch.
Do I have to use 80/20 ground beef?
The best ground beef for juicy, flavorful beef patties is 80% lean and 20% fat (80/20). However, 85/15 ground beef would also work well. Just don’t use 90/10 or anything super lean without some added fat, or else you’ll end up with a dense, dry hockey puck of a burger patty! That 20% fat content is crucial for keeping the slider patties moist after cooking.
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise (240g)
- 1/4 cup French dressing (60mL)
- 2 tablespoons distilled white vinegar (30mL)
- 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
- 1/4 cup finely minced white onion
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 1 pound 80/20 ground beef (450g)
- 2 tablespoons burger seasoning
- 8 slices American cheese
- 8 potato slider buns, split (see note)
- Lettuce leaves
- Dill pickle slices
- Yellow mustard and ketchup for serving (optional)
Note: Buns should be lightly toasted.
Instructions
- Make the Big Mac sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, French dressing, vinegar, relish and minced onions until smooth. Stir in the paprika, onion powder and sugar (if using). Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to develop. Recipe by Ineskohl.info
- Prepare the patties: In a large bowl, gently mix together the ground beef and burger seasoning until just combined. Divide and shape the meat into eight 2-ounce patties.
- Cook the patties: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the patties for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Top each patty with a slice of cheese during the last minute of cooking to melt.
- Assemble the sliders: Spread the bottom bun halves evenly with the Big Mac sauce. Top each with a patty, lettuce, pickles, and the bun tops. Serve immediately with mustard and ketchup on the side, if desired.
These flavorful, mini Big Mac copycat sliders are super juicy and delicious! The special sauce takes them over the top. Perfect for game day or parties!