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Craving the McRib but tired of waiting for it to come back? This easy homemade version brings all the saucy, smoky goodness right to your kitchen, no drive-thru needed!

 

There’s just something about the McRib, isn’t there? That saucy, messy, smoky sandwich makes its mysterious comeback to McDonald’s menus once in a blue moon, and every time, the hype is real. People line up, social media goes wild, and for a few short weeks, it’s McRib mania. But if you’re like me, you’ve probably wondered, “Why can’t I just make this at home whenever I want?” And let me tell you… you absolutely can.

This Copycat McRib brings all that saucy, savory goodness right into your kitchen. No need to wait for a limited-time offer or hit the drive-thru (with three hungry kids in the back asking for Happy Meals and cookies). These homemade McRibs are juicy, flavorful, and easy enough for a weeknight dinner. Trust me, once you make these once, you’ll be whipping them up all year long.

What Is a McRib?

The McRib is a boneless pork sandwich made famous by McDonald’s, featuring a seasoned pork patty slathered in tangy BBQ sauce, topped with sliced pickles and onions, and served on a hoagie-style bun. It’s messy, it’s sweet and smoky, and it’s got a little cult following. But the catch? It disappears from menus as quickly as it arrives.

So this version? It’s here for good. 

Why You’ll Love This Copycat McRib

• No more waiting for the McRib to “come back.” Make it whenever the craving hits.

• Super affordable. A pack of ground pork, a few buns, and a bottle of your favorite BBQ sauce is all you need.

• Totally customizable. Want it spicier? Add hot sauce. Want it cheesy? Throw on a slice. You’re in charge now.

• Kid-approved. My boys devour these with fries and a little ketchup on the side. Even the picky one (you know the one).

• Tastes just like the real thing. That sticky BBQ glaze, those tangy pickles, this sandwich hits all the same notes.

When to Serve This McRib Copycat

This is the kind of sandwich that works in so many situations:

• Weeknight dinners. It comes together fast, and cleanup is easy.

• Game day or tailgating. Wrap them in foil and hand them out with chips and slaw.

• Backyard BBQs. Guests will think you ordered them from somewhere.

• When McDonald’s runs out again. Enough said.

Ingredients 

Here’s what you need to make these craveable sandwiches at home:

• 1 ½ pounds ground pork
  Look for 80/20 ground pork so the patties stay juicy and flavorful. Avoid lean pork here.

• 1 teaspoon sugar
  Just a touch of sweetness gives that signature flavor we all know and love.

• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
  Adds both saltiness and flavor, perfect for seasoning the meat without overcomplicating it.

• 1 cup BBQ sauce
  Use your favorite brand here! I love a smoky-sweet Kansas City-style sauce, but anything works. Even spicy if you want a kick.

• Dill pickle slices
  Classic McRib topping! Adds that sharp bite that cuts through the rich pork and BBQ.

• White onion, sliced thin
  Keep them raw and crisp, just like the original. Adds that perfect crunch and zing.

• 4 sub buns
  Look for soft hoagie-style or sandwich rolls. If they’re a little long for the patty, don’t worry, I’ve got a trick for that below.

How to Make This Copycat McRib

Step 1: Make the patties

In a large bowl, combine the ground pork with sugar and garlic salt. Use your hands to gently mix it all together until just combined, don’t overwork it.

Step 2: Shape the patties

Divide the mixture into four equal portions. Shape each into an oblong patty to fit your buns. I like to flatten them slightly so they cook evenly.

Step 3: Cook the patties

Heat a large skillet over medium heat (I like cast iron for that nice crust). Cook each patty for about 4–5 minutes per side, until browned and the internal temp hits 160°F. Transfer them to a foil-lined baking sheet.

Step 4: Slather in sauce

Brush the patties generously with BBQ sauce, go heavy if you want that sticky, saucy McDonald’s vibe. I mean, that’s the whole point, right?

Step 5: Broil

Pop the patties under the broiler for about 5 minutes. Watch closely! You want the sauce to get glossy and start caramelizing, not burn.

Step 6: Assemble

Place each patty on a bun and top with pickle slices and raw onion. Serve immediately with fries, coleslaw, or potato wedges!

Substitutions

Don’t worry if you’re missing something, this recipe is super flexible!

• No ground pork? Try ground chicken or turkey for a leaner version, or use ground beef for a beefy twist.

• Out of garlic salt? Use 1 teaspoon of salt plus ½ teaspoon of garlic powder.

• Not a fan of raw onion? You can sauté it or leave it off altogether.

• Gluten-free? Use gluten-free buns.

• BBQ sauce too sweet? Add a splash of vinegar or a pinch of chili powder to balance it.

Variations

There are so many fun ways to mix up your homemade McRib:

• Spicy McRib: Add cayenne to the meat or use spicy BBQ sauce.

• Cheesy McRib: Add a slice of cheddar, pepper jack, or American cheese before broiling.

• Southern Style: Top with slaw instead of onion for a little crunch and tang.

• Breakfast McRib: Yep, slice the patty in half and serve it on a biscuit with an egg.

• Mini McRibs: Make slider-sized versions for parties or kids’ meals.

Tips & Tricks

• Don’t overmix the pork. It can make the patties tough.

• Make ahead tip: You can shape and refrigerate the patties ahead of time, just cover tightly with plastic wrap.

• Use parchment or foil. This makes cleanup easy and helps prevent sticking under the broiler.

• Make it a meal: Serve with seasoned fries, baked beans, or even mac and cheese for a full fast food-style dinner.

• Cut your bun to fit. If your sub bun is longer than your patty, just trim the ends off or cut out a small middle section so the meat fits snugly.

FAQs

Can I freeze the patties?
Yes! Cook the pork patties and let them cool completely. Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating and adding BBQ sauce.

Do I have to broil them?
No, but it really helps the sauce get that classic sticky texture. If you skip the broiler, warm the sauce on the stove and pour it over just before serving.

Can I grill these instead?
Absolutely! Just grill the patties until cooked through, then move them to a foil tray, brush with BBQ sauce, and let them caramelize over indirect heat.

What’s the best BBQ sauce for McRibs?
Totally up to you, but a smoky-sweet sauce (like Sweet Baby Ray’s or Stubb’s Hickory Bourbon) gets pretty close to the original.

Serving Ideas

• With fries: Classic McDonald’s combo. Try seasoned curly fries or crinkle cuts.

• Coleslaw on the side or on top. Adds crunch and coolness.

• Sweet potato chips or wedges. For a little sweetness to balance the BBQ.

• Corn on the cob. A backyard BBQ vibe that works year-round.

• Pickle chips or spears. The more pickles, the better in my house.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Leftovers: Store cooled patties in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the fridge.

• Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet or microwave. Add a little more BBQ sauce to refresh the flavor.

• Make ahead: You can mix and shape the patties in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

• Freezer friendly: Freeze cooked patties individually wrapped, then reheat under the broiler or in a skillet.

Did you make THE BEST COPYCAT MCRIB RECIPE, tell me how you liked it in the comments! For more delicious family friendly recipes you can follow me on PINTEREST, INSTAGRAM OR FACEBOOK 

Need easy, family-approved copycat meals? Try these delicious recipes—straight from your site!

1. Copycat McDonald’s Chicken Nuggets
   Crispy, golden, and perfect for dipping—these homemade nuggets taste like the real thing and freeze beautifully for quick meals.

2. Copycat Meximelts
   Gooey cheese, seasoned ground beef, and pico wrapped in soft tortillas—quick, flavorful, and totally nostalgic.

3. Copycat Arby’s Beef & Cheddars
   Rich roast beef and creamy cheddar sauce meet French-dressing-coated buns in this spot-on takeout favorite.

4. Copycat Panda Express Orange Chicken
   Sweet, tangy, and crispy—just like Panda takeout. Ready in 30 minutes and crowd-approved every time.

5. Copycat Taco Bell Caramel Apple Empanadas
   Warm, flaky apple empanadas with cinnamon and caramel—no drive-thru needed to enjoy Taco Bell nostalgia.

6. Slow Cooker Olive Garden Chicken Pasta
   A creamy, cheesy slow cooker pasta inspired by Olive Garden—chicken, pasta, garlic, and herbs in one pot for an easy, comforting meal.

 

Final Thoughts

I don’t know about you, but I love being able to recreate my favorite drive-thru treats at home, especially when they turn out just as good (if not better!). These McRib copycats are the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again. They’re easy, nostalgic, and such a hit with the whole family.

So skip the seasonal wait and messy car trip. Get a batch of these going in your own kitchen, throw on some fries, and enjoy a little fast-food magic, homemade style. 

If you try this, I’d love to hear what you think! Leave a comment or tag me if you share your McRib night on social!