Big Mac Sauce Recipe (2 Ways)

Learn how to make the best Big Mac Sauce Recipe at home, with two variations to suit your preference, and indulge in the iconic special sauce anytime you crave it.

If you’re a fan of McDonald’s Big Mac sandwich and its famous sauce, you might be disappointed that the sauce is only available à la carte through the McDonald’s app until May 10th.

But don’t worry, you can easily make a homemade version of this delicious burger sauce with our easy-to-follow copycat recipe.

This Big Mac Sauce recipe is perfect for those times when you’re craving that perfect balance of sweet tanginess but don’t want to leave the house. And the best part is, you can make as much of it as you want!

The ingredients for Big Mac sauce can vary, as it’s often mistaken for Thousand Island dressing, but it actually contains French dressing instead of ketchup.

We’ll share both versions with and without French dressing, and although the difference in color is the only distinguishable factor, we personally prefer the tanginess that comes from the combined ingredients of the version without French dressing.

And if you want to enjoy your homemade Big Mac sauce just like you would at McDonald’s, don’t forget to grab a sesame seed bun and some patties to make your own burger. Or you can simply use it as a dipping-cup version for your fries or spread it on a delicious salad as dressing.

History of the Big Mac and its Sauce

The Big Mac was first introduced in 1967 by McDonald’s franchise owner, Jim Delligatti in Pennsylvania. It consists of two beef patties, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions and the special sauce served on a sesame bun.

The sandwich quickly became a hit because of the sauce and the most popular at McDonald’s restaurants nationwide.

Without French Dressing

What You Need

• Mayonnaise
• Sweet pickle relish
• Yellow mustard
• White vinegar
• Sugar
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Paprika

With French Dressing

What You Need

• Mayonnaise
• French dressing
• Sweet pickle relish
• Yellow mustard
• White vinegar
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Salt and pepper

How to Make Big Mac Sauce

1. Chose which recipe you’d like to make either with or without French dressing.
2. In a bowl, combine the ingredients and whisk together until well combined and the sauce is smooth.
3. Cover and place in fridge for at least an hour. Stir before serving.

How to Assemble a Classic Big Mac

Step 1: Prep the burgers. Season patties with salt and pepper, flatten and cook to your preference.

Step 2: Toast the buns. Place the buns cut side down on a flat top and toast for about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble burgers. Spread the iconic sauce using this copycat Big Mac sauce recipe on the bottom bun, followed by chopped onions, shredded lettuce, a slice of cheese, and a beef patty. Add the middle bun layer, spread more Big Mac sauce, followed by onions, lettuce, pickles, beef patty. Finish with a little extra sauce on top of the final beef patty and place the top bun to complete the sandwich.

Tips for the Perfect Consistency

• Use high quality ingredients: The quality of your ingredients can make a difference in a recipe. Use fresh and high quality condiments like ketchup, mayonnaise, and relish.
• Let the sauce sit: After mixing the ingredients together, let the sauce sit in fridge for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Adjust the seasonings: Everyone’s taste buds are different so in order to get the sweet and tangy flavor you love adjust the seasonings to your preference.

How to Use Big Mac Sauce

The Big Mac sauce is not just for burgers! Use it as a spread on sandwiches, use as a delicious salad dressing for Big Mac salad or as a dipping sauce for french fries or chicken nuggets.

Storing

Store the remaining sauce in and airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

FAQs

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

You certainly can. Just mix all the ingredients up according to the directions and store in the fridge up to 1 week.

Can I make a vegan version of the Big Mac sauce?

Yes, you can make a vegan version of the Big Mac sauce by using vegan condiments such as mayonnaise, ketchup, and relish.

Can I use different types of relish?

Yes, you can try dill pickle relish to create a different variation but keep in mind that the taste will be different.

How can I fix my sauce being too thin or thick?

If your is too thin, add some more mayonnaise and place in the fridge to thicken it up. If it’s too thick, add a small amount of water or sweet relish juice.

How can I fix my sauce being too sweet?

If your sauce is too sweet reduce the amount of sweet relish or use a dill relish. You could also add a bit more mayo to cut down the sweetness.

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• Loaded Beer Can Burgers
• Bacon Cheeseburger Lettuce Wrap

Recipe