Smash Burger Sauce is a creamy, tangy burger sauce made to pair with crispy smash burgers cooked on a hot griddle. It combines mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, ketchup, pickle juice, and spices to create a balanced flavor.
The sauce adds moisture and richness to thin smashed patties. Many people compare it to smash burger sauce, Big Mac style, yet it has its own bold taste. It spreads easily and brings the whole burger together in one bite.
It’s simple, takes five minutes, and requires no special tools. No fancy steps. This homemade Smash Burger Sauce turns a basic smashed burger into something you’ll crave again tomorrow.
Why You’ll Love This Smash Burger Sauce?
You’ll love this Sauce because it’s quick, simple, and made with everyday burger sauce ingredients you already have in your fridge. I can mix it in just five minutes, and it instantly upgrades any smash burger with creamy, tangy flavor.
The balance of mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, ketchup, and a touch of cayenne pepper gives it that classic burger sauce taste without any special equipment.
It works perfectly for burgers, fries, sliders, and even smash taco burger sauce ideas. Once you try this easy burger sauce recipe, you’ll want to keep a jar in your fridge all week.
What Makes This Smash Burger Sauce So Delicious?
This smash burger sauce is so delicious because it perfectly balances creamy, tangy, sweet, and savory flavors in every bite.
The rich mayo base, a touch of ketchup sweetness, zippy mustard, and a hint of pickle or spice create that classic, crave-worthy burger shop taste that makes smash burgers irresistible.
How To Prepare Smash Burger Sauce?
Recipe Overview
This Sauce Recipe is a quick and easy smash burger sauce recipe made with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, ketchup, and spices for the best smash burger sauce at home.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Cuisine: American
- Course: Sauce/Condiment
- Difficulty: Easy
- Calories: ~90 per tablespoon
- Servings: 6 servings
Equipment
- Small mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Whisk or spoon
- Airtight container for storage
Ingredients
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1½ tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon pickle juice
- 1/8 teaspoon paprika
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper
Ingredient Notes
1. Mayonnaise: This is the base of the burger sauce. Use full-fat mayonnaise for the best burger sauce recipe.
2. Dijon Mustard: Adds sharp flavor that cuts through the richness of the beef. Yellow mustard can work in a pinch.
3. Ketchup: Brings slight sweetness and classic burger flavor.
4. Pickle Juice: Gives tang and depth. If making burger sauce no pickles, swap with a splash of white vinegar.
5. Paprika: Adds mild warmth and color.
6. Cayenne Pepper: Just a pinch gives a subtle kick. Adjust to taste.
How to Make Smash Burger Sauce
Step 1: Add the Base
In a small bowl, add mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and ketchup.
Step 2: Add Tang and Spice
Pour in the pickle juice. Sprinkle paprika and cayenne pepper.
Step 3: Mix Well
Whisk until smooth and fully combined. Taste and adjust with salt, black pepper, or a tiny pinch of sugar if needed.
Step 4: Chill
Let it sit in the fridge for at least 20 minutes. This helps the flavors come together.
That’s it. You now have homemade smash burger sauce ready for your smash burger night.
Nutrition (Per Tablespoon Approx.)
- Calories: 90
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Sodium: 95mg
Tips For The Smash Burger Sauce
1. Let It Rest Before Serving
After mixing your Burger Sauce, place it in the fridge for at least 20–30 minutes. This resting time allows the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, ketchup, and spices to fully combine, giving you a smoother and more balanced burger sauce flavor.
2. Adjust the Thickness to Your Preference
If the sauce feels too thin, add a little more mayonnaise to thicken it. If it feels too thick, add a few drops of pickle juice at a time until you reach the texture you like for spreading on a smash burger.
3. Taste and Balance the Flavor
Always taste your sauce before serving. You can add a tiny pinch of salt, black pepper, or even a small touch of sugar to adjust sweetness and tang based on your personal taste.
4. Control the Heat Level
Cayenne pepper adds a gentle kick. Start with a small pinch and increase slowly if you prefer more heat. This helps you avoid making the Burger Sauce too spicy.
5. Mix Thoroughly for Smooth Texture
Whisk the sauce well so there are no streaks of mustard or spices. A fully mixed sauce spreads better and gives even flavor in every bite of your smashed burger.
6. Store Properly for Freshness
Keep your homemade Smash Burger Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Stir it before each use to maintain the creamy consistency.
Variations And Substitutions For Smash Burger Sauce
1. Smash Burger Sauce No Mayo Version
If you want a lighter option or don’t use mayonnaise, swap it with plain Greek yogurt or sour cream. Greek yogurt keeps the sauce creamy while adding a slight tang, and it lowers the fat content without losing that classic burger sauce texture.
2. No Pickles Option
If you don’t like pickle juice or want a smash burger sauce no pickles style, replace the pickle juice with a small splash of white vinegar or apple cider vinegar. This keeps the tangy flavor that balances the beef in a smash burger.
3. Big Mac-Style Twist
For a smash burger sauce Big Mac inspired version, stir in a teaspoon of finely chopped pickles and a small pinch of sugar. This gives a sweeter, slightly chunkier texture similar to a fast-food burger sauce.
4. Spicy Upgrade
If you enjoy heat, increase the cayenne pepper gradually or add a few drops of hot sauce. You can even mix in a little smoked paprika for deeper flavor while keeping the sauce smooth and creamy.
5. Low-Sugar or Keto Adjustment
To reduce sugar, use sugar-free ketchup and skip adding any extra sugar. This keeps your homemade smash burger sauce lower in carbs while still delivering bold flavor for your smashed burger.
Serving Suggestions
â—† Wondering how to serve Smash Burger Sauce?
â—† Spread on toasted brioche buns for a smash burger.
â—† Drizzle over fries as dipping sauce.
â—† Use it on grilled chicken sandwiches.
â—† Add to sliders for parties.
â—† Spread inside wraps or smash taco burger creations.
Storing Tips (Storage)
✅ Store in an airtight container.
✅ Keep refrigerated up to 5 days.
✅ Stir before using if it separates slightly.
✅ Do not freeze.
Recipe Notes
- Let the sauce chill before serving for better taste.
- Adjust cayenne pepper for heat level.
- Add a small pinch of salt only after tasting.
- Fresh ingredients give better results than old condiments.
What Makes Smash Burger Sauce Different From Regular Burger Sauce?
Smash Burger Sauce is made to match the crispy, thin texture of a smash burger, so it has a stronger tangy and creamy balance that cuts through the rich beef.
The mix of mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, ketchup, and pickle juice gives it a sharper kick compared to many regular burger sauce versions.
Regular burger sauce can taste sweeter or heavier, while Smash Burger Sauce focuses on bold flavor with a smooth, spreadable texture. It is crafted to soak into the edges of a smashed burger without overpowering it.
That balance is what makes Smash Burger Sauce feel fresher and more focused for griddle-cooked burgers
Can Smash Burger Sauce Be Made Ahead And Stored In The Refrigerator?
Yes, Smash Burger Sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator without any problem. In fact, I prefer making this smash burger sauce recipe a few hours early so the flavors have time to come together.
Once mixed, place the homemade smash burger sauce in an airtight container and keep it chilled. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just give it a quick stir before spreading it on your smash burger or using it as a dipping sauce.
FAQs About Smash Burger Sauce
How To Make Smash Burger Sauce Thicker?
Use more mayonnaise and reduce pickle juice slightly.
Is This Similar To America’s Test Kitchen Smash Burger Sauce?
This version is simple and balanced, inspired by classic burger sauce flavors.
Can I Buy Smash Burger Sauce Walmart Style?
Yes, bottled versions exist, yet homemade smash burger sauce tastes fresher.
Is This The Best Smash Burger Sauce Recipe?
In my kitchen, yes. It’s quick, easy, and works every time.
Final Thoughts
If you love smash burgers, this Smash Burger Sauce will change your burger nights at home. It’s quick, simple, and packed with flavor using basic ingredients. I make this every time I cook a smashed burger, and my family always asks for extra.
Try this easy smash burger sauce recipe and tell me how you used it — on burgers, fries, or even smash taco burger style. I’d love to hear your twist on it!
More Testy Sauce Recipes
â–¶Homemade Copycat Big Mac Sauce Recipe
â–¶Healthy Tzatziki Sauce Recipe
▶Best Homemade McDonald’s Big Mac Sauce
Smash Burger Sauce
Ingredients
Method
- In a small bowl, add mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and ketchup.
- Pour in the pickle juice. Sprinkle paprika and cayenne pepper.
- Whisk until smooth and fully combined. Taste and adjust with salt, black pepper, or a tiny pinch of sugar if needed.
- Let it sit in the fridge for at least 20 minutes. This helps the flavors come together.
Notes
 Let the sauce chill before serving for better taste.
 Adjust cayenne pepper for heat level.
 Add a small pinch of salt only after tasting.
 Fresh ingredients give better results than old condiments.
