Big Mac Sauce

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This Big Mac Sauce recipe captures that crave-worthy, tangy-sweet magic of the iconic fast food favorite—but made right in your own kitchen. Creamy, zesty, and flecked with pickles and spices, it’s the perfect burger companion (or dip, or spread, or drizzle… seriously, you’ll be putting it on everything).

What makes this copycat sauce shine is its balance: a creamy base, a touch of vinegar bite, just the right sweetness, and a blend of savory spices. Whether you’re building your ultimate burger, dunking fries, or adding life to your sandwich, this sauce will be your new kitchen MVP.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Creating Big Mac Sauce is refreshingly simple, but a few key tools will make the process smoother and the results even better:

• Mixing Bowl: A medium-sized bowl gives you space to whisk the ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
• Whisk or Silicone Spatula: A whisk is best for achieving a smooth, well-blended texture. A silicone spatula helps scrape every bit of that precious sauce from the bowl.
• Measuring Spoons & Cups: Precision matters in balancing the tang and sweetness.
• Glass Jar or Airtight Container: To store the sauce and let the flavors meld. A glass container is ideal for avoiding plastic odor transfer.

While this recipe comes together quickly, letting it rest in the fridge is the secret to the flavor magic. Give it at least 1 hour (or overnight) for the best taste.

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Ingredients for the Big Mac Sauce

Each ingredient in this sauce has a specific role in building that classic flavor profile:

• Mayonnaise: Acts as the creamy base and holds everything together.
• Sweet Pickle Relish: Adds sweetness and texture with little bursts of tangy crunch.
• Yellow Mustard: Provides that signature zip and depth.
• White Vinegar: Brightens the flavor and balances the sweetness.
• Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky undertone and gives a touch of color.
• Garlic Powder: Enhances the savory depth.
• Onion Powder: Rounds out the flavor with gentle pungency.
• Sugar: Just a pinch to smooth out the vinegar and mustard.
• Salt: Essential to bring all the flavors together.

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How To Make the Big Mac Sauce

Step 1: Combine the Base

In a medium mixing bowl, add 1/2 cup mayonnaise and 2 tablespoons of sweet pickle relish. These will create the rich and creamy foundation.

Step 2: Add the Tang

Stir in 1 tablespoon yellow mustard and 1 teaspoon white vinegar. This combo gives the sauce its tangy kick.

Step 3: Spice It Up

Add 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon onion powder. These spices create that deep, savory, and slightly smoky flavor.

Step 4: Balance with Sweetness

Mix in 1/2 teaspoon of sugar and a pinch of salt. This step ensures the sauce isn’t too tart or overpowering.

Step 5: Mix and Rest

Whisk everything together until the sauce is completely smooth and all ingredients are fully blended. Transfer it into a jar or airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving—the longer it rests, the better the flavor.

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How to Serve and Store This Big Mac Sauce

Big Mac Sauce is incredibly versatile, and once you have it in your fridge, you’ll find excuses to use it. Of course, it shines as a burger spread, but don’t stop there:

• Spread it on grilled sandwiches or wraps.
• Use it as a dipping sauce for fries, chicken tenders, or onion rings.
• Drizzle it over tacos, loaded baked potatoes, or even scrambled eggs for a punch of flavor.

To store: Keep the sauce in a tightly sealed jar or airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and delicious for up to 1 week. Always use a clean spoon to avoid contamination.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does Big Mac Sauce taste like?

It has a creamy, tangy flavor with a slight sweetness and hints of mustard and pickle. It’s similar to Thousand Island dressing but more savory and complex.

Can I substitute dill relish for sweet relish?

You can, but the sauce will lose its sweet notes. If you only have dill relish, consider adding a pinch of sugar to balance the tang.

Is Big Mac Sauce the same as Thousand Island dressing?

Not exactly. While both are creamy and include pickles and spices, Big Mac Sauce doesn’t typically have ketchup and has a more defined mustard-vinegar flavor.

Can I make it vegan?

Yes! Just swap in your favorite vegan mayo and ensure your mustard and relish are plant-based.

How long does it need to chill before serving?

At least 1 hour, but letting it sit overnight makes the flavors blend even better.

Is it freezer-friendly?

Freezing is not recommended as the texture can become grainy and separate once thawed.

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Want More Sauce & Dip Ideas?

If you’re into flavor-packed sauces like this Big Mac Sauce, here are a few more savory recipes from the site you’ll want to bookmark:

• Creamy Garlic Butter Lobster Tails — rich and indulgent, perfect for seafood nights.
• Boat Dip Rotel Ranch Dip — a creamy, cheesy party favorite with bold Tex-Mex flavor.
• Mediterranean Feta Dipping Oil — for when you’re craving something light, herby, and zesty.
• Sweet Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot — because sweet-savory sauces belong on more than just burgers.
• One-Pot Sassy Honey Garlic Chicken Rice Pasta — a full meal bathed in sweet garlic sauce.

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can whip up Big Mac Sauce whenever the craving hits: Life With Olivia on Pinterest

And when you make it, don’t forget to leave a comment below! Did you add extra pickles? Swap the mustard? Try it with tacos? I’d love to hear how you put your own spin on this sauce. Sharing is caring—especially when it comes to flavor.

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