I discovered this version of the sauce and I love how quickly it comes together and adds big flavor to burgers. It’s creamy, tangy and perfect for spreading on a smash-burger or any burger you like.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love that this sauce is so simple yet full of flavor — just a handful of pantry ingredients, no cooking required. I made it in minutes and it instantly elevated my burger game. It also gives me the freedom to tweak the flavour to my liking, whether more tangy, more pickly or a little spicier. It’s a great way to give a homemade burger that “special sauce” feeling.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons ketchup
2 tablespoons yellow mustard
1 tablespoon pickle relish
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
(Optional) a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper for extra heat
Directions
In a small bowl I combined the mayonnaise, ketchup, yellow mustard and pickle relish.
I added the garlic powder and onion powder (and paprika/cayenne if I wanted a slight kick) and stirred everything together until smooth.
I covered the bowl and chilled the sauce in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes (or up to several hours) to let the flavours meld.
When ready, I gave it another stir and spread it on my burger buns (bottom and/or top), then built the burger with patties, pickles, lettuce, tomato or other toppings as desired.
Servings and timing
Makes about 3/4 to 1 cup of sauce (enough for 4-6 burgers, depending how generous you are with the spread).
Prep time: ~5 minutes
Chill time (optional): ~15 minutes or more
Total time: ~20 minutes (including chill)
Variations
For more pickle flavour: Use chopped pickles instead of relish or add an extra tablespoon of relish.
For a smokier profile: Add ½ teaspoon smoked paprika.
For a spicy kick: Add a pinch (or more) of cayenne pepper or sriracha.
For a tangier version: Add ½ teaspoon of dill pickle juice or white vinegar.
For herby freshness: Stir in 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley or chives just before serving.
Storage/Reheating
Store the sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to about one week (give it a stir before using). This sauce is best served cold or at room temperature — no reheating needed. Because it’s mayonnaise-based, keep it chilled and avoid leaving it at room temperature for extended periods.
FAQs
What can I use this sauce on besides burgers?
I often use it as a dipping sauce for fries, onion rings or even roasted vegetables. It’s also great spread inside wraps or sandwiches for extra flavour.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes — I actually like to make it a few hours before I assemble the burgers so that the flavours have time to meld. It keeps well in the fridge for up to a week, so you can prepare it in advance.
Is it possible to make a lighter version of the sauce?
Absolutely. I’ve made a lighter version by using light mayonnaise or mixing half mayonnaise and half Greek yogurt. The texture changes slightly (a bit thinner) but the flavour still works well.
How do I adjust the sauce if I don’t have pickle relish?
If relish isn’t available, I’ve substituted finely chopped dill pickles (about 1 tablespoon) plus ½ teaspoon of dill pickle juice or a splash of white vinegar to maintain the tang and pickle-flavour.
Can I freeze this sauce?
I wouldn’t recommend freezing because the mayonnaise base can separate or become grainy when thawed. I stick to refrigerating and using within a week.
Conclusion
I found this Smash Burger Sauce to be a game-changer in making homemade burgers taste like something special. It’s quick to whip up, adaptable to my taste and storage-friendly. Next time I fire up burgers, I’ll definitely be making this sauce again.
This Smash Burger Sauce is a quick, creamy, and flavorful condiment that elevates any burger. Made with simple pantry ingredients, it’s tangy, customizable, and perfect for burgers, fries, or sandwiches.
Total Time:20 minutes (including chill time)
Yield:3/4 to 1 cup (serves 4–6 burgers)
Ingredients
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons ketchup
2 tablespoons yellow mustard
1 tablespoon pickle relish
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
(Optional) a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper for extra heat
Instructions
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and pickle relish.
Add garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika or cayenne (if using). Stir until smooth.
Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to let flavors meld.
Stir again before serving. Spread on burger buns or use as desired.
Notes
For more pickle flavor, use chopped dill pickles or extra relish.
For a smokier taste, add smoked paprika.
Use light mayo or half mayo, half Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Best served cold or at room temperature — do not reheat.
