Step 1: Prepare the Special Sauce

1. Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, French dressing, sweet pickle relish, white vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Refrigerate: Stir well until smooth and refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Patties

1. Form Patties: Divide the ground beef into four equal portions and form them into patties slightly larger than your buns, as they will shrink while cooking.
2. Season: Season both sides of each patty with salt and pepper.
3. Cook Patties: Preheat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of American cheese on each patty to melt.

Step 3: Assemble the Big Macs

1. Toast the Buns: If desired, toast the bun sections lightly on the grill or in the oven for added texture.
2. Layer Ingredients: Start with the bottom bun. Spread a generous amount of the special sauce, followed by some shredded lettuce, a slice of cheese, a beef patty, diced onions, and pickles.
3. Middle Bun: Add the middle bun section, and repeat the layering process: more special sauce, lettuce, a second beef patty, onions, and pickles.
4. Top It Off: Finish with the top bun.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your homemade Big Macs with a side of crispy fries or a refreshing salad for a complete meal. You can also experiment with additional toppings, such as sliced tomatoes or avocado, to give your Big Mac a unique twist.

Tips for Success

• Beef Quality: Use high-quality ground beef for the best flavor and juiciness. An 80/20 mix is ideal.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the toppings to your liking! Add your favorite condiments or experiment with different cheeses.
• Meal Prep: Make the special sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. This makes meal prep easier and quicker on busy nights.

Conclusion

With this homemade Big Mac recipe, you can bring the flavors of your favorite fast-food burger right to your kitchen table. It’s an easy, fun, and delicious way to enjoy a classic meal without leaving the house. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a big, juicy Big Mac tonight!

Feel free to adjust any sections or personalize it to better fit your style!