Better Than a Big Mac

I've lost count of how many years it's been since I've set foot in a McDonald's.  I decided a while back that even though I enjoyed the taste of fast food, it wasn't so good for me.  It's hard to forget what a Big Mac tastes like and every once in a while I get a craving for one.  So instead of giving in, I decided to make my own, complete with homemade french fries.

The key to a good homemade Big Mac is the special sauce.  Here is my recipe for Russian Dressing - tastes great on these burgers, and the extra can also be used on a salad.


Russian Dressing (aka "Special Sauce")


1 c. mayo
1/4 c. ketchup
3 T. sweet relish
2 T. diced celery
2 T. diced onion
1 T. heavy cream or whole milk
1/2 t. dry mustard
Pinch of sugar
Salt to taste


1. Add all ingredients to a small bowl, and stir to combine.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour before using.


Big Mac Copycat

To make the Big Mac copycat, place a grilled grass-fed burger onto a fresh roll.  (We used homemade rolls, and while they were tasty, they were a little dense, and it took away slightly from the experience of the burger.  Next time I will probably use the standard hamburger rolls from the bakery.) On top of the burger, place a piece of real American cheese, followed by a piece of lettuce, some sliced onion, and a couple of pickles.  Spread the Russian Dressing on the other half of the roll, set on top of the burger, and dig in!


The best side dish for a burger is always fries.  Here's a quick recipe for homemade baked french fries.


Homemade French Fries


4 potatoes, cut into thin slices
Basting oil (from Wegman's, or some olive oil and Italian seasoning)
Season salt (MSG free please).


1. Layer the potato slices into a 9x13 pan that has been sprayed with no-stick spray. 
2. Drizzle the basting oil/olive oil & seasoning over the potatoes.  Then sprinkle with the season salt.
3. Bake in a 425 degree oven for 25-30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes.
4. Leaving the pan on the middle rack, turn the oven to broil.  Cook the potatoes for an addtional 5-10 minutes, stirring once.  This will give the potatoes a nice brown color, and a little bit of a crunch.


Enjoy!