Baked Beans with Ground Beef and Bacon is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or barbecues. The combination of baked beans, savory ground beef, and crispy bacon makes this recipe a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to make and packed with delicious flavors. Serve it hot, straight from the skillet, and pair it with cornbread, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad. You can store any leftovers in the refrigerator or freeze them for later. This dish is sure to become a favorite in your household!
Recreate the iconic Big Mac at home with this Homemade Big Mac recipe. Featuring juicy beef patties, a special tangy sauce, and layers of fresh ingredients, this recipe brings the fast-food favorite right to your kitchen. Whether you're looking to impress guests at a cookout or simply craving a nostalgic taste, this homemade version will satisfy your burger cravings. Let’s dive into the ingredients you'll need to create this delicious burger.
INGREDIENTS
- BIG MAC SAUCE:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise: Adds a creamy base to the sauce.
- 4 tablespoons pickle relish, drained: Provides a tangy crunch.
- 3 tablespoons ketchup: Adds sweetness and color.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar: Adds a slight tanginess.
- FOR ASSEMBLY:
- 8 hamburger buns, plus additional bottom buns for the middle bun: To create the signature Big Mac structure.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened: For toasting the buns to golden perfection.
- 1 white onion, diced: Adds a sharp, sweet flavor and crunch.
- dill pickle chips: Provide a tangy, crunchy layer.
- shredded iceberg lettuce: Adds a fresh, crisp texture.
- PATTIES:
- 2 pounds 80/20 ground beef: For juicy, flavorful patties.
- salt, to taste: Enhances the beef’s natural flavor.
- black pepper, to taste: Adds a hint of spice.
- 1 tablespoon butter, split in half: For cooking the patties.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, split in half: Helps prevent sticking and adds a slight crisp.
- 1/4 cup yellow mustard: Adds a tangy flavor to the patties.
- 8 slices American cheese: Melts perfectly on the patties for that classic Big Mac taste.
These ingredients will ensure you have everything needed to make a delicious and authentic Homemade Big Mac. From the special sauce to the perfectly cooked patties, each component plays a vital role in recreating this classic burger. Get ready to enjoy a taste of fast food heaven right in your own home!
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1: Make the Spread
- In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, relish, ketchup, sugar, and vinegar. Stir until well combined. Set aside the Big Mac sauce while you prepare the rest of the ingredients. This sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Step 2: Prepare the Patties
- Weigh out 8 portions of 3.5 oz of ground beef or eye it out. Gently flatten each portion into a circle, ensuring not to mix or mold it too much to keep the patties tender. Sprinkle both sides with salt and pepper. Set the patties aside on a tray or plate, ready for cooking. The key here is to handle the meat as little as possible to maintain its juiciness.
- Step 3: Toast the Buns
- Brush the insides of the hamburger buns with the softened butter. Heat a pan or skillet over medium heat. Place the buns butter-side down in the pan. Toast until a nice golden brown color develops around the edges, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside. Toasting the buns adds a delightful crunch and prevents them from getting soggy when assembled.
- Step 4: Cook the Patties
- Heat a skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Add 1/2 tablespoon of butter and 1/2 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once the butter is melted and the oil is hot, add the patties. Cook the patties in batches if necessary, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. After about 2-3 minutes, add a teaspoon of mustard on the raw side of each patty and spread it evenly. Flip the patties and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Place a slice of American cheese on half of the patties (Big Macs only have one cheese slice per burger). Let the cheese melt, then remove the patties from the heat.
- Step 5: Assemble the Big Macs
- To assemble the Big Macs, start with the bottom bun. Add a generous spoonful of the Big Mac sauce, followed by shredded lettuce, diced onion, a beef patty with cheese, and pickles. Place a middle bun (bottom bun from another set) on top and repeat: sauce, lettuce, onion, and another beef patty. Finally, top with the top bun. Press down gently to help the layers adhere. Serve the Big Macs warm and enjoy the homemade version of this fast-food classic!
Following these steps ensures that each element of your Homemade Big Mac is prepared to perfection. From the toasted buns to the juicy patties and special sauce, every bite will remind you of the iconic burger, but with the satisfaction of having made it yourself.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve the Homemade Big Mac immediately after assembling for the best experience. The combination of hot, juicy patties, melted cheese, and crispy lettuce will be at its peak.
- If you need to store any leftovers, wrap the assembled burgers in aluminum foil and place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- To reheat, place the wrapped burger in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, but the oven method will keep the buns from getting soggy.
Helpful Notes
- Variations:
- Spicy Big Mac: Add a few slices of jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce to the Big Mac sauce for an extra kick.
- Chicken Big Mac: Substitute the beef patties with chicken patties for a different take on this classic.
- Veggie Big Mac: Use veggie burger patties and a vegan mayo-based sauce for a vegetarian version.
- Chefs' Tips:
- Chef Gordon Ramsay suggests using freshly ground beef for the juiciest patties. Handling the meat as little as possible keeps it tender and flavorful.
- Chef Jamie Oliver recommends adding a slice of tomato for an extra layer of freshness and juiciness.
- Chef Ina Garten advises using high-quality American cheese for the best melting quality and taste.
- For an even more authentic taste, you can make the middle bun by using additional bottom buns, which mimic the classic Big Mac structure.
Enjoy creating and savoring your Homemade Big Mac with these serving and storage tips, helpful notes, and variations. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try a new twist, this homemade version is sure to delight your taste buds and impress your family and friends.