Copycat McRib Sandwich Recipe

Ground pork: The main protein for the sandwich, providing a juicy and flavorful base.

Bbq sauce: Adds a smoky, tangy flavor to the pork patties.

Hoagie rolls: Soft, elongated rolls that hold the sandwich together.

Onion: Sliced and added for a bit of crunch and sharpness.

Pickle slices: Adds a tangy and crisp contrast to the savory pork.

When shaping the ground pork into rib-shaped patties, try to make them slightly thinner in the center and thicker around the edges. This helps them cook more evenly and gives them a more authentic rib-like appearance. Additionally, when brushing on the bbq sauce during the last few minutes of grilling, use a silicone brush for even application and to avoid bristles getting stuck in the sauce.

• ground pork - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and can still provide a similar texture and flavor when seasoned well.

• ground pork - Substitute with ground beef: Ground beef offers a richer flavor and can be used if you prefer a beef-based sandwich.

• bbq sauce - Substitute with teriyaki sauce: Teriyaki sauce provides a sweet and savory profile that can complement the meat similarly to BBQ sauce.

• bbq sauce - Substitute with hoisin sauce: Hoisin sauce offers a sweet and tangy flavor that can mimic the taste of BBQ sauce in a pinch.

• hoagie rolls - Substitute with ciabatta rolls: Ciabatta rolls have a similar texture and can hold up well to the fillings.

• hoagie rolls - Substitute with baguette: A baguette provides a crispy exterior and soft interior, making it a good alternative for hoagie rolls.

• onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder and slightly sweeter flavor compared to onions.

• onion - Substitute with leeks: Leeks provide a subtle onion-like flavor and can add a different texture to the sandwich.

• pickle slices - Substitute with cucumber slices: Cucumber slices offer a fresh crunch and mild flavor that can replace pickles.

• pickle slices - Substitute with jalapeño slices: Jalapeño slices add a spicy kick and a different kind of tanginess to the sandwich.

• Allow the pork patties to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the patties soggy.

• Wrap each pork patty individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps to maintain their shape and prevents them from sticking together.

• Place the wrapped pork patties in an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag. Label the container or bag with the date to keep track of freshness.

• Store the hoagie rolls separately from the pork patties. Wrap them in plastic wrap or place them in a resealable bag to keep them from drying out.

• For the sliced onions and pickle slices, store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps them fresh and crisp.

• When ready to enjoy, thaw the pork patties in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat them on a grill or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

• Toast the hoagie rolls on the grill or in a toaster oven until lightly browned.

• Assemble the sandwich by placing the reheated pork patty on the toasted hoagie roll, then topping with the stored sliced onions and pickle slices.

• If you have leftover bbq sauce, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Use it to brush on the pork patties during reheating for an extra burst of flavor.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap each sandwich in aluminum foil to keep it moist. Place the wrapped sandwiches on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

• For a quicker method, use a microwave. Place the sandwich on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway to ensure it heats evenly.

• If you prefer a crispy hoagie roll, use a toaster oven. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Separate the pork patty from the hoagie roll. Heat the pork patty wrapped in foil for about 10 minutes. Toast the hoagie roll separately for the last 2-3 minutes.

• For stovetop reheating, use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or bbq sauce to the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat the pork patty for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through. Toast the hoagie roll in a separate dry skillet for a minute or two.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the sandwich in the air fryer basket and heat for 3-5 minutes. This method will give you a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.

• Grill: Used to cook the pork patties, providing that smoky, charred flavor.

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the ground pork with the BBQ sauce.

• Spatula: Handy for flipping the patties on the grill.

• Basting brush: Useful for brushing the remaining BBQ sauce onto the patties during the last few minutes of grilling.

• Tongs: Ideal for handling the hoagie rolls while toasting them on the grill.

• Knife: Necessary for slicing the onion.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for slicing the onion.

• Plate: Used to hold the grilled patties and toasted hoagie rolls before assembly.

• Serving platter: Perfect for presenting the assembled sandwiches.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop the onion and slice the pickles ahead of time to streamline assembly.

Use pre-made bbq sauce: Opt for a store-bought bbq sauce to save time on making your own.

Shape patties quickly: Use a mold or press to form the ground pork into uniform rib-shaped patties faster.

Grill efficiently: Preheat the grill while you prepare the patties to minimize waiting time.

Toast rolls together: Place all hoagie rolls on the grill at once to toast them simultaneously.