If you’re a fan of the classic Big Mac but looking for a fun, smaller version to enjoy at home, these Mini Big Mac Cheeseburgers are the perfect solution. They’re everything you love about the original juicy beef, creamy special sauce, tangy pickles, and melty cheese all stacked in an adorable, bite sized burger.
Whether you’re hosting a party, serving dinner for the family, or looking for a creative weekend cooking idea, this recipe will satisfy your fast food cravings without the drive thru.
Ingredients (Serves 4 makes 8 mini burgers)
For the Mini Burger Patties:
- 500g (about 1.1 lbs) ground beef (80/20 lean to fat ratio)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Special Sauce (Copycat Big Mac Sauce):
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp finely chopped dill pickles or pickle relish
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tbsp ketchup (optional for sweetness)
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika
For Assembly:
- 8 mini burger buns or slider rolls (plus 4 extra bottom buns if you want the “triple” Big Mac stack)
- 8 slices cheddar or American cheese (halved to fit mini size)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- Shredded iceberg lettuce
- Dill pickle chips (slices)
- Butter (for toasting buns)
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Special Sauce
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, pickles, mustard, ketchup (if using), vinegar, and spices. Mix well until smooth. Cover and refrigerate while you prepare the burgers. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 2: Prepare the Patties
- Divide the ground beef into 8 equal portions (roughly 60g each) and roll them into balls.
- Flatten them into thin, round patties slightly larger than your mini buns (they shrink as they cook).
- Season each side with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
- Heat a skillet or flat griddle over medium high heat.
- Cook patties for 2-3 minutes per side or until browned and cooked through.
- Add cheese slices on top during the last 30 seconds of cooking so they melt slightly.
- Transfer to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
Step 4: Toast the Buns
- Lightly butter the cut sides of all buns.
- Toast them cut side down in the same skillet until golden and crisp.
- Optional: If you want the three layer Big Mac experience, take 4 extra bottom buns and toast those too as “middle buns.”
Step 5: Assemble the Mini Big Macs
- Bottom bun: Spread a spoonful of special sauce, add chopped onions, shredded lettuce, a cheese-covered beef patty, and 2 pickle slices.
- Middle bun (if using): Repeat with sauce, lettuce, and another patty.
- Top bun: Add a little sauce and place it on top.
You can stack them double like a Big Mac or keep them as single layer minis both are delicious!
Storage Tips
- Patties can be made ahead and refrigerated for 2 days or frozen up to 2 months.
- Special Sauce keeps in the fridge for 5–7 days in an airtight container.
- Best to assemble fresh just before serving to avoid soggy buns.
Chef’s Tips
- Smash method: Use a spatula to press patties flat for a crispy edge.
- Low carb option: Serve them in lettuce wraps.
- Add flair: Use brioche slider buns or sesame seed buns for a more authentic Big Mac vibe.
Why You’ll Love These Mini Big Macs
- Budget friendly: Cheaper than buying multiple burgers at a fast food joint.
- Customizable: Add bacon, jalapeños, or swap beef for chicken.
- Party perfect: A guaranteed hit for game days, potlucks, or kids’ lunches.
- Authentic taste: That iconic Big Mac flavor, but homemade and fresher.
Variations You Can Try
- Spicy version: Add sriracha or jalapeños to the sauce.
- Low-calorie version: Use turkey or chicken mince and low fat mayo.
- Vegan version: Use plant based patties, vegan cheese, and vegan mayo.
Shopping List Recap
- Ground beef
- Cheddar or American cheese
- Mini burger buns
- Mayonnaise
- Dill pickles
- Yellow mustard
- Onion
- Lettuce
- Ketchup (optional)
- Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika
- Butter
- Salt & pepper
Final Thoughts
Mini Big Mac Cheeseburgers are proof that good things come in small packages. You get all the deliciousness of a classic fast food burger with the satisfaction of making it from scratch. They’re juicy, flavorful, and just the right size for sharing (or not!).
So go ahead fire up your skillet, whip up that tangy sauce, and stack up some love in the form of these irresistible mini burgers.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving 2 Mini Big Macs)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 610 kcal |
| Protein | 31g |
| Carbohydrates | 33g |
| Fat | 40g |
| Saturated Fat | 15g |
| Cholesterol | 95mg |
| Sodium | 950mg |
| Sugar | 6g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Note: Nutritional values can vary based on brands used and optional ingredients (like middle buns or added ketchup in the sauce).
