Big Mac Sauce is that tangy, creamy, slightly sweet condiment that takes any burger or sandwich to the next level. With just a handful of pantry staples, I can recreate this iconic sauce at home in minutes—and honestly, I think it tastes even better than the original.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this sauce transforms a basic burger into something special. It’s rich and flavorful, with that signature zing that instantly reminds me of a classic Big Mac. I use it on burgers, wraps, sandwiches, and even as a dipping sauce for fries or nuggets. It’s quick to make, stores well, and always adds a delicious punch to whatever I pair it with.
ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
mayonnaise
sweet pickle relish
yellow mustard
white vinegar
paprika
garlic powder
onion powder
salt
(optional) sugar, for added sweetness
directions
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I add the mayonnaise, relish, mustard, vinegar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt to a small bowl.
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I whisk everything together until it’s smooth and fully combined.
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I taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed—sometimes I add a pinch of sugar for a slightly sweeter finish.
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I cover and refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 1 cup of sauce—enough for 6 to 8 burgers. It takes 5 minutes to mix, and I like to chill it for 30 minutes for the best flavor.
Variations
Sometimes I add a dash of hot sauce or smoked paprika for a little heat. If I’m out of sweet relish, I chop up bread-and-butter pickles as a substitute. I’ve also made it with a splash of ketchup or barbecue sauce for a twist, depending on what I’m serving it with.
storage/reheating
I store the sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. I never freeze it, as the texture changes. It’s best served cold or at room temperature—no reheating necessary.
FAQs
Can I use dill relish instead of sweet relish?
Yes, but the flavor will be more tart and less sweet. I’ve done this before and just add a pinch of sugar to balance it out.
Is Big Mac Sauce the same as Thousand Island?
Not exactly. It’s similar, but Big Mac Sauce doesn’t contain ketchup and has a tangier, more savory profile.
Can I use this sauce for meal prep?
Definitely. I make a batch ahead and keep it in the fridge—it’s great for adding flavor to sandwiches or grain bowls all week long.
What else can I use Big Mac Sauce on?
I’ve used it on burgers, sliders, chicken sandwiches, wraps, lettuce cups, and even as a dip for fries, chips, or veggies.
How do I make this sauce healthier?
I use low-fat mayo or Greek yogurt for a lighter version, and I watch the relish and mustard for added sugars if I want to keep it cleaner.
Conclusion
Big Mac Sauce is one of those homemade condiments that instantly upgrades any dish. I love how easy it is to whip up with ingredients I usually have on hand, and how much flavor it adds to whatever I pair it with. Whether I’m recreating a fast food favorite or just want a killer sauce in the fridge, this one always delivers.
Print
Big Mac Sauce
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: About 1 cup (enough for 6–8 burgers)
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Mixing / No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Big Mac Sauce is the creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet burger sauce that makes any sandwich taste like a fast food favorite. With pantry staples like mayo, relish, and mustard, this easy homemade version is even better than the original—and perfect for burgers, fries, wraps, or dipping.
Ingredients
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp sweet pickle relish
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- ½ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: ½ tsp sugar (for added sweetness)
Instructions
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In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, relish, mustard, vinegar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
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Whisk until smooth and fully blended.
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Taste and adjust seasoning—add sugar if desired for a sweeter finish.
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Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Notes
- Use dill relish in place of sweet relish for a tangier version—just add a pinch of sugar to balance it out.
- Add a splash of hot sauce or smoked paprika for extra heat or smokiness.
- Swap in low-fat mayo or Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Works great as a burger topping, sandwich spread, or dip for fries, chips, or veggies.
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