This Easy Homemade Smashburger Sauce is creamy and packed with flavor! Made with simple ingredients like mayo, ketchup, and pickles, it takes your burgers to the next level.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mayonnaise: This is the base of the sauce, providing creaminess. If you want a lighter version, try Greek yogurt or avocado mayo for a healthier twist.
Ketchup: It gives sweetness and tang. You can swap it with BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor, or omit it if you prefer a less sweet sauce.
Yellow Mustard: A staple for its tangy kick. Dijon mustard works well too if you want something a bit fancier and more flavorful.
Sweet Pickle Relish: This is key for a bit of crunch and sweetness. If you can’t find it, finely chopped dill pickles or even chopped olives would work.
Spices: Garlic powder and onion powder add depth. You can use fresh minced garlic and onion if you like—just note they’ll add more texture.
How to Make the Sauce Smooth and Flavorful?
To get the perfect consistency and flavor balance, follow these steps:
- Start with a clean, dry mixing bowl to avoid any unwanted moisture.
- Combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard first. This ensures a smooth base.
- Add the relish and spices, and mix well. Take your time to incorporate everything evenly.
- For a tangy kick, stir in the vinegar or pickle juice last. It helps keep the sauce from getting too thick.
- Taste your sauce! If it feels a bit flat, a pinch of salt can really highlight the other flavors.
- Letting it chill in the fridge is crucial. The flavors blend beautifully when given time to sit.
This sauce is versatile and can be used on more than just burgers. Use it on sandwiches, wraps, or even as a dip for fries!
Easy Homemade Smashburger Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 2 teaspoons sweet pickle relish
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar or pickle juice
- Pinch of salt (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty sauce takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. Giving it that extra time to sit allows all the flavors to blend perfectly, making it even more delicious when you’re ready to serve it on your burgers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a small bowl. In it, combine 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of ketchup, and 1 tablespoon of yellow mustard. Use a whisk or a spoon to mix them together until they’re fully blended and creamy.
2. Add the Flavor Enhancers:
Next, add in 2 teaspoons of sweet pickle relish, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir these in well so that all the flavors are evenly distributed!
3. Introduce the Tang:
Now, it’s time to add a little tang to your sauce. Pour in 1 teaspoon of white vinegar or pickle juice. This will add a nice zip to the flavor and help thin the sauce slightly for an easier spread.
4. Achieve a Smooth Consistency:
Mix everything together thoroughly until your sauce is smooth and well combined. It should have a nice creamy texture. Take a moment to taste it, and if you think it needs a bit more flavor, sprinkle in a pinch of salt.
5. Chill the Sauce:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes—this step is important because it allows the flavors to meld and improve!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the sauce is chilled, it’s ready to use! Slather it on your smashburgers or your favorite sandwiches. It’s sure to be a hit, and your taste buds will thank you!
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance. Just keep it stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will develop even more as it sits, making it taste even better!
Can I Substitute the Mayonnaise?
Yes! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or avocado mayo as a healthier substitute. You can also try a vegan mayonnaise if you’re keeping it plant-based.
What Can I Use Instead of Sweet Pickle Relish?
If you don’t have sweet pickle relish, finely chopped dill pickles or even chopped olives work as great alternatives. Just keep in mind that these options may alter the flavor slightly but will still taste delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
To store any leftover sauce, simply place it in an airtight container. It will last for up to a week in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using it again!
