This Easy Homemade Smashburger Sauce is a tasty blend of creamy mayo, zesty ketchup, and just a hint of pickles. It adds the perfect kick to your burgers!
Let’s be real, a good burger isn’t complete without the sauce, right? I love spreading this on my buns for an extra zing! Who can resist that deliciousness? 🍔
Making it is a breeze! Just mix the ingredients in a bowl, and you’re all set to amp up your burger night. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mayonnaise: This is the base of your sauce, providing creaminess. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try Greek yogurt instead. It adds a similar texture with a tangy flavor.
Ketchup: I prefer regular ketchup for its sweetness, but you could use a sugar-free version or even BBQ sauce for a different twist. Both will still add that tomato base that’s essential!
Yellow Mustard: Classic yellow mustard is great for its tangy kick. If you have Dijon mustard on hand, you can use that too for a more sophisticated flavor.
Dill Pickle Relish: This adds a nice crunch and flavor. If you don’t have it, finely chopped dill pickles will work too. For a sweeter sauce, sweet pickle relish is a tasty alternative.
Spices: Garlic powder and onion powder are must-haves for a rich flavor. You can replace them with fresh minced garlic and onion, just be sure to adjust the amount as they are more potent!
How Do You Ensure the Best Flavor in Your Sauce?
Mixing the ingredients properly is key to achieving a smooth and flavorful sauce. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by combining the mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard in a bowl. This forms the base.
- When adding dry spices, mix them in separately before stirring in the relish. This helps to evenly distribute the flavors.
- After mixing, taste the sauce! Adjust any ingredients as needed — a little extra seasoning can make a big difference.
- Don’t skip the refrigeration step! Allowing the sauce to cool for at least 30 minutes helps all the flavors meld together beautifully.
With these tips, your sauce will not only taste great but also elevate your burgers! Enjoy every bite! 🍔
How to Make Easy Homemade Smashburger Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon dill pickle relish
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika or regular paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: a few dashes of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for a little heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious sauce takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then you’ll want to chill it for at least 30 minutes. In total, you’re looking at approximately 40 minutes to whip it up and let the flavors come together beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Base Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, start by adding the mayonnaise, ketchup, and yellow mustard. These ingredients form the creamy base of your sauce. Use a whisk or a spoon to blend them together until they are smooth and well-combined.
2. Add the Flavor Boosters:
Next, stir in the dill pickle relish along with the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Each ingredient adds its own special flavor to the sauce, giving it that classic Smashburger taste we love!
3. Mix Thoroughly:
Once all the ingredients are in the bowl, mix everything thoroughly until the sauce is smooth and evenly blended. This helps ensure every bite has that yummy flavor!
4. Taste and Adjust:
Give your sauce a little taste! If you like it spicy, add a few dashes of hot sauce or sprinkle in some cayenne pepper. You can also adjust any other seasonings to your liking—feel free to experiment!
5. Chill for Flavor:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let the sauce chill for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows all the flavors to meld together perfectly—trust me, it’s worth the wait!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your sauce is chilled and ready, it’s time to use it! Spread it generously on your smashburgers, drizzle it on sandwiches, or use it as a dip for fries. Enjoy every delicious bite!
This creamy, tangy, and slightly smoky sauce will bring the beloved Smashburger flavor right to your kitchen. Enjoy cooking and happy eating! 🍔
FAQ About Easy Homemade Smashburger Sauce
Can I Use Low-Fat Mayonnaise?
Absolutely! Low-fat mayonnaise can be used if you’re looking for a healthier option. Just keep in mind that it may alter the texture slightly, but it will still taste great!
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder sauce, skip the hot sauce and cayenne pepper altogether. For a spicier kick, add more hot sauce or cayenne to taste, but start with just a little and adjust to your preference!
Can I Make This Sauce in Advance?
Yes, you can make it ahead of time! It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just store it in an airtight container. This is especially handy for meal prep!
What Other Ways Can I Use This Sauce?
This sauce is versatile! Besides using it on smashburgers, it’s great on sandwiches, as a dip for fries or veggies, or even as a dressing for a potato or pasta salad. Get creative!