If you’ve ever bitten into a smashburger and marveled at the tangy, creamy sauce that ties all the flavors together, you’re not alone. Smashburger sauce is a signature element that brings out the best in a burger, combining creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet elements into a single bite. Here’s how you can make this iconic sauce at home, with detailed steps, prep and cook times, as well as servings to ensure you create the perfect accompaniment for your burgers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Smashburger sauce lies in its simplicity, yet it packs a flavor punch. Here’s a basic ingredient list for a standard batch of the sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise – The creamy base of the sauce.
- ¼ cup yellow mustard – Adds the signature tang and acidity.
- 2 teaspoons dill pickle juice – Offers a slight briny, sour note that complements the rich mayo.
- 2 teaspoons finely chopped dill pickles – Adds texture and more pickle flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vegetable oil – Helps to thin the sauce for an ideal consistency.
You may also want to experiment with variations like whole-grain mustard for extra texture, Worcestershire sauce for added depth, or a splash of hot sauce if you enjoy a bit of heat.
Prep Time & Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings
This recipe makes about ¾ cup of sauce, which is perfect for 4 servings (or 4-6 burgers depending on how much sauce you like to use).
Instructions
- Mix the Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, chopped dill pickles, and dill pickle juice. Stir well until all the ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Add Oil: Slowly stir in the vegetable oil. This will thin the sauce to a spreadable consistency without making it too runny.
- Chill: For the best flavor, refrigerate the sauce for at least an hour before serving. This helps the flavors meld together.
- Serve: Once chilled, slather the sauce on your toasted burger buns, both the top and bottom for extra flavor. You can also use it as a dipping sauce for fries, onion rings, or even vegetables.
Variations
- Worcestershire Sauce: Add a teaspoon for extra umami flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in a dash of hot sauce, like Tabasco or Sriracha, for those who enjoy heat.
- Ketchup: Some variations call for ketchup, which adds a touch of sweetness and tomato flavor.
- Horseradish: For a stronger bite, a teaspoon of prepared horseradish can give the sauce an extra zing.
Pro Tips
- Toast the Buns: To avoid soggy buns, lightly toast your brioche or hamburger buns before applying the sauce. This creates a barrier between the sauce and the soft bun.
- Double Up: The sauce is so flavorful that many people apply it to both the top and bottom bun of their burgers.
Storage
You can store any leftover smashburger sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Just be sure to give it a good stir before using it again.
Perfect Pairings for Smashburger Sauce
While smashburger sauce is obviously perfect for burgers, it can also elevate other dishes. Use it on grilled chicken sandwiches, as a dip for fries, or even spread it on sandwiches like BLTs for a creamy, tangy twist. You can also serve it with sides like zucchini fritters or alongside cheese sliders for a fun party dip.
Why Smashburger Sauce Stands Out
What makes this sauce special is its balance of rich and tangy flavors, achieved with a combination of mayo and mustard. The acidity of the pickle juice and mustard cuts through the richness of the mayonnaise, creating a well-balanced sauce. Plus, the versatility allows you to tweak it to match your preferences.
Whether you’re recreating a smashburger at home or looking for a sauce to impress guests at your next barbecue, this homemade smashburger sauce is a must-try. Not only is it easy to whip up, but it’s also likely to become a staple in your kitchen.
