Copycat Homemade McRib Sandwich

by Mike Futia

Updated January 27, 2025

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Today we're making a homemade, copycat McRib sandwich. I know when you're smoking ribs it's rare to have leftovers—but if you ever find yourself in that situation, this recipe is the perfect way to use those leftover ribs.

What I also love about this recipe is how quick and easy it is, with just five ingredients. It comes together in less than 10 minutes. And this sandwich is *super* good.

WHAT YOU'LL NEED TO MAKE THIS RECIPE

  • Smoked ribs. I'm using leftover smoked ribs. You can also use oven-baked ribs
  • BBQ sauce. We're going to heat up a little BBQ sauce to dip the rib meat in. I'm using Sweet Baby Ray's, but feel free to use your favorite sauce here. 
  • Sandwich roll. Try to find a roll that's shaped similarly to the McDonald's roll.
  • Pickles. I'm using dill pickles for a tangy, crunchy bite.
  • White onion. Thinly sliced for a fresh bite. 

HOW TO MAKE A COPYCAT MCRIB SANDWICH

1. Remove the Ribs from the Bones

Start by carefully separating the rib meat from the bones with a sharp knife. Slice the meat into sandwich-friendly pieces. 

2. Toast the Roll

Take your roll and toast it nicely in a pan. You can use butter or not, it's up to you (I didn't butter my roll).

3. Heat the BBQ Sauce

Next, heat up the BBQ sauce on low in a small pot. Stir until it's warm and slightly thickened. 

4. Coat the Rib Meat

Take a pair of tongs and submerge the rib meat into the sauce, until it's well-coated.

5. Build the Sandwich

Build the sandwich by placing the sauced-up rib meat on the bottom bun layer. Then add the dill pickles and onion slices. Top with the top toasted bun, and enjoy. 

PRO TIPS FOR MAKING THIS RECIPE

  • Bread Options. Brioche buns or sandwich rolls can also work if you can’t find hoagie-style rolls.
  • Sauce Variety. Add a little smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce for added flavor.
  • Add Cheese. A slice of melty American cheese would take this sandwich to another level.

Copycat McRib Sandwich

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Transform your leftover smoked ribs into a tangy, saucy McRib-style sandwich that’s packed with smoky flavor, crunchy pickles, and zesty onions.
SERVINGS
Servings: 1 sandwich
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients  

  • 3 smoked ribs meat removed from bones
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1 sandwich roll
  • 4 dill pickle chips
  • 4 slices white onion thinly sliced

Instructions

  • Remove rib meat from the bones and shred into small portions.
  • Toast the sandwich rolls in a skillet until golden and crisp.
  • Heat BBQ sauce in a small saucepan until warm and thickened.
  • Submerge rib meat into the BBQ sauce, coating thoroughly.
  • Layer BBQ-coated rib meat on the bottom half of the roll.
  • Top with sliced pickles and onions, then close with the top half of the roll.

Notes

  • Bread Options. Brioche buns or sandwich rolls can also work if you can’t find hoagie-style rolls.
  • Sauce Variety. Add a little smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce for added flavor.
  • Add Cheese. A slice of melty American cheese would take this sandwich to another level.

Nutrition

Calories: 1113kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 20gFat: 108gSaturated Fat: 38gPolyunsaturated Fat: 14gMonounsaturated Fat: 49gTrans Fat: 0.01gCholesterol: 142mgSodium: 267mgPotassium: 457mgFiber: 3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 178IUVitamin C: 13mgCalcium: 44mgIron: 2mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

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Mike Futia


My name is Mike, and I'm the founder of Grill Frenzy. I love cooking up homemade grilling and smoker recipes in my backyard for my friends and family. Learn more about me.

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  1. I haven't even easier one both banquet and hungry man by Swanson have frozen dinners that include them formed pork patties that's exactly like the one McDonald's sells. Buy one of those cook it per instructions put it on a bun with the pickles and the onions maybe a little slather or some better barbecue sauce that you like and you're done. The banquet one I think is usually around a dollar fifty or two dollars.

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