Copycat McDonald’s Big Mac

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Who doesn’t crave the iconic taste of a Big Mac every now and then? That tangy special sauce, the layers of crisp lettuce, melty American cheese, and those two savory beef patties sandwiched between three sesame seed buns—it’s a flavor combination that never fails. With this copycat McDonald’s Big Mac recipe, you can recreate that fast-food favorite right in your own kitchen, with simple pantry ingredients and no drive-thru line in sight.

Not only is it satisfying to make your own version at home, but this recipe also gives you the flexibility to make it even better. Want extra sauce? Go for it. Prefer grass-fed beef or a gluten-free bun? You’re in control. The result is a homemade Big Mac that tastes just as nostalgic as the original but with a fresher, more flavorful twist.

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Why You’ll Love This Copycat McDonald’s Big Mac

• Homemade Fast Food Fix: Satisfies that fast food craving without leaving home.
• Customizable: From bun choices to extra toppings, you can make it your own.
• That Signature Sauce: It tastes just like the real thing—if not better.
• Budget-Friendly: Skip the drive-thru and feed your family for less.
• Fun to Make: Great for weeknight dinners, game days, or even a nostalgic party theme.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this burger build, gather your ingredients and prep your workstation. Here’s what you’ll need to make this copycat Big Mac a breeze:

• Cast Iron or Nonstick Skillet: Essential for getting those beef patties nice and seared.
• Spatula: A thin-edged spatula helps flip thin patties without breaking them.
• Sharp Knife: For finely chopping onions and shredding lettuce.
• Mixing Bowl & Whisk: You’ll need this for combining your special sauce ingredients.
• Toaster or Oven: Toasting the buns gives them that slight crisp just like at McDonald’s.
• Burger Press (Optional): Useful if you want uniformly thin patties.

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Ingredients for the Copycat McDonald’s Big Mac

• Ground Beef (80/20 blend): Gives the patties that juicy, flavorful fast-food feel.
• Sesame Seed Buns: Three parts per burger—a top, middle, and bottom.
• Shredded Iceberg Lettuce: For that classic crunch and freshness.
• American Cheese Slices: Melted between patties for rich creaminess.
• Pickle Slices: Add a tangy pop in each bite.
• Finely Chopped Onion: Raw and sharp, it’s signature to the Big Mac bite.
• Salt & Pepper: Keeps the seasoning simple and classic.
• Big Mac Sauce Ingredients:
  • Mayonnaise
  • Sweet Pickle Relish
  • Yellow Mustard
  • White Vinegar
  • Paprika
  • Onion Powder
  • Garlic Powder

Each ingredient plays a role in recreating that famous layered flavor McDonald’s has made legendary.

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How To Make the Copycat McDonald’s Big Mac

Step 1: Make the Special Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tbsp sweet pickle relish, 1 tbsp yellow mustard, 1 tsp white vinegar, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and a pinch of paprika. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 2: Shape and Season the Patties

Form the ground beef into thin, wide patties—you want them slightly larger than the buns since they’ll shrink while cooking. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Cook the Beef Patties

Heat your skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each patty for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Add a slice of American cheese to half of the patties in the final minute so it melts.

Step 4: Toast the Buns

Split the buns and lightly toast the top, bottom, and middle pieces until just golden. This adds texture and prevents sogginess.

Step 5: Assemble the Big Mac

Layer your burger in this order:

1. Bottom bun
2. Special sauce
3. Lettuce
4. Cheese-topped patty
5. Middle bun
6. More sauce
7. Lettuce
8. Plain patty
9. Pickles and onions
10. Top bun with sesame seeds

Serve immediately with fries, chips, or a cold soda for the full effect.

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How to Serve & Store Your Big Mac

Serve your homemade Big Mac hot off the skillet with a side of fries, onion rings, or even a homemade slaw. If you’re entertaining, try making them slider-style using smaller buns for party-perfect portions.

To store, wrap any assembled but uneaten burgers tightly in foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F wrapped in foil for 10-15 minutes, or unwrap and microwave for a faster option. Store leftover components separately for best freshness.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Big Mac sauce taste so unique?

It’s the sweet pickle relish combined with mustard, mayo, and seasonings. It mimics Thousand Island dressing but with more tang.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, just keep the patties thin. Turkey dries out faster, so don’t overcook.

What can I use instead of the middle bun?

You can use a regular bun sliced horizontally into three parts, or skip the middle bun entirely if you prefer fewer carbs.

Can I freeze the patties?

Definitely. Cook the patties, cool them, then freeze between parchment paper. Reheat directly from frozen.

How do I make it more kid-friendly?

Make mini versions or sliders, and let kids assemble their own with toppings they like.

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Want More Burger Ideas?

If you love this Big Mac copycat, you might also enjoy these savory meals:

• Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps – a flavorful, melty handheld wrap.
• French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole – loaded with beefy comfort.
• Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese – a sweet and spicy twist.
• Bang Bang Chicken – bold flavor with a creamy kick.
• Texas Roadhouse Style Garlic Butter Chicken Skillet – buttery and sizzling with flavor.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can come back to it anytime:

Visit me on Pinterest at Kitchen By Kate for even more nostalgic copycat recipes, cozy weeknight meals, and family-favorite classics.

And if you make this at home, let me know in the comments! Did you stick with the traditional version or put your own spin on it?

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