This homemade burger sauce recipe melds creamy, tangy, and savory notes to craft the ultimate topping for your favorite patties. Simple to whip up, this blend infuses gourmet vibes into any meal, promising to transform your burgers from ordinary to extraordinary.
Ready in moments, it’s the secret touch that turns every grill-out into a celebration. Whether for casual cookouts or festive feasts, this versatile condiment will become your go-to for adding a dash of delight to any dish.
Ingredients for Burger Sauce
- Mayonnaise: The creamy base that adds richness. Swap in Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangier, lighter option. Vegan mayonnaise can be used as a plant-based alternative.
- Ketchup: Brings tanginess and a hint of sweetness.
- Finely chopped sweet pickles: Adds crunch and a sweet and tangy flavor. Substitute pickle relish if you can’t find pickles in a pinch.
- Sweet pickle juice: Enhances the tanginess, adding to the complexity. If not available, apple cider vinegar mixed with a small amount of sugar can substitute for sweet pickle juice.
- Prepared mustard: Introduces a mild heat and sharpness.
- Sugar: It adds a bit more sweet notes to balance the tangy flavors.
- Smoked paprika: It gives a smoky flavor that pairs well with grilled foods. Chipotle powder or a dash of barbecue sauce are two alternatives for a smoky flavor with a bit of heat.
- White vinegar: Another layer of tanginess to the sauce.
- Onion powder, garlic powder, and pepper: These spices deepen the sauce’s flavor profile.
Directions
Step 1: Combining Ingredients
In a small bowl, combine the mayo, ketchup, chopped sweet pickles, pickle juice, mustard, sugar, smoked paprika, vinegar, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper until well combined.
Editor’s Tip: For the best flavor, let the sauce sit for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and develop fully.
Burger Sauce Variations
- Create a spicy version: Add a teaspoon of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Infuse it with herbs: Mix in a teaspoon of dried dill or chives.
- Give it an aioli twist: Replace half of the mayonnaise with garlic aioli for a bolder garlic flavor.
How to Store Homemade Burger Sauce
Keep the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For optimal flavor and texture, use it within a week.
Can I make a good burger sauce ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it beforehand, at least one hour before serving, to let the sauce’s flavors fully develop. The best burger sauce is one that’s allowed to meld together.
Burger Sauce Recipe Tips
What sides go well with burgers?
Complement your burgers with sides like fries, sweet potato wedges, coleslaw, a simple side salad, grilled asparagus, or a caprese salad.
What can I put on burgers instead of ketchup?
Explore toppings like avocado, aioli, barbecue sauce, chutneys, pesto, or salsa to create your perfect burger.
How else can I use burger sauce?
Now that you know how to make burger sauce, why eat it only with burgers? Its creamy, tangy flavor can transform a variety of dishes. Here are some top picks for using this sauce, whether hosting a BBQ or just spicing up a weekday meal.
Drizzle it over homemade burgers to instantly elevate them into the best burgers around. Amp up the flavor of any sandwich, serve it with French fries, onion rings or chicken strips. Its richly creamy texture and little kick from the added mustard make it a great dip, superior to ordinary ketchup or store-bought Thousand Island dressing. You can also mix it with Greek yogurt to create a lighter, tangier salad dressing. This variation is excellent for drizzling over a simple garden salad or tossing with coleslaw for an unexpected twist.
