Homemade Big Mac

The Homemade Big Mac is a delicious replica of the beloved fast-food classic, made right in your kitchen. This version features juicy, seasoned beef patties layered with a creamy, tangy special sauce, crisp shredded lettuce, dill pickles, and melted cheddar cheese, all sandwiched between toasted sesame seed buns. With a flavor-packed sauce and a satisfying crunch, this burger brings the iconic taste of a Big Mac into your home, perfect for a fun and indulgent meal.

Ingredients:

• For the Burger Patties:
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80% lean)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
• For the Special Sauce:
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons French dressing
  • 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• For the Assembly:
  • 3 sesame seed hamburger buns (top and bottom, plus an additional bottom bun for the middle layer)
  • 1/2 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
  • 4-6 slices of dill pickles
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onions
  • Optional: additional pickles and lettuce for extra crunch

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Special Sauce:
   1. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, French dressing, sweet pickle relish, white vinegar, sugar, garlic powder, and onion powder.
   2. Mix well until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to use.
2. Cook the Burger Patties:
   1. Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
   2. Divide the ground beef into 6 equal portions and shape into thin patties. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
   3. Cook the patties on the grill or skillet for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired doneness. If using cheese, place a slice of cheese on each patty during the last minute of cooking and cover to melt.
3. Toast the Buns:
   1. Lightly butter the cut sides of the sesame seed buns.
   2. Toast them in a skillet or on the grill until golden brown.
4. Assemble the Big Mac:
   1. Spread a layer of special sauce on the bottom bun.
   2. Add a layer of shredded lettuce and a slice of pickle.
   3. Place one beef patty on top.
   4. Spread special sauce on the second bun (the middle bun), then place it on top of the first patty.
   5. Repeat with more sauce, lettuce, pickles, and a second beef patty.
   6. Top with shredded cheese and the top sesame seed bun.
5. Serve:
   1. Serve the homemade Big Mac hot with your favorite sides like fries or onion rings.

Tips:

• Patty Thickness: Make the patties thinner than usual since they will shrink slightly during cooking.
• Sauce Variation: Adjust the amount of relish and sugar in the special sauce to match your taste preferences.
• Cheese: Use American cheese for an authentic taste and melt.

Enjoy your Homemade Big Mac, a delicious and satisfying take on the fast-food classic!