The Best Burger Sauce Recipe | Life Made Sweeter (2024)

This creamyBurger Sauceis sweet, tangy and inspired by the famous Big Mac Sauce from McDonald’s. It has the same great taste and texture, but this homemade version is much healthier! Plus it’s gluten-free, vegan, keto, paleo and Whole30 compliant.

PIN HERE for later and follow my boards for more recipe ideas

Healthy Homemade Burger Sauce

Your burgers and sandwiches are about to get a whole lot better. A spoonful of this creamy burger sauce is all it takes! You can throw this condiment together in minutes and keep it stored in the fridge all week long.

It adds a delightfully tangy sweetness to hamburgers and veggie burgers alike – all while catering to keto, vegan, gluten-free and Whole30 diets. And sandwiches and burgers are just the beginning! This dreamy sauce also makes a great dip, salad dressing, casserole ingredient and more. No matter how you use it, you’ll be glad you did.

What is Burger Sauce?

Burger sauce is pretty similar to Thousand Island salad dressing, but there are a few key differences to note. Thousand Island dressing is made with tomatoes while burger sauce (also known as special sauce, house sauce and secret sauce) uses ketchup. Additionally, Thousand Island dressing contains pickle relish while burger sauce is made using pickles or pickle juice.

To sum it up, burger sauce is a cousin of Thousand Island dressing that’s most commonly used on burgers and sandwiches.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s go over the ingredients that make up this truly remarkable sauce. You really don’t need much!

• Whole30 Compliant Mayonnaise: We like using Primal Kitchen or Chosen Foods. Homemade mayonnaise is also a good option or be sure to use vegan mayo if needed.
• Dijon Mustard: To add tang and a hint of spice.
• Whole30 Compliant Ketchup: Homemade ketchup, Primal Kitchen or Tessamae’s is best.
• Dill Pickle: Finely diced.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: This sharp and tangy vinegar contains a wealth of vitamins and nutrients.
• Onion & Garlic Powders: You’ll need a teaspoon of onion powder and half a teaspoon of garlic powder.
• Smoked Paprika: This provides a touch of heat and plenty of smoky flavor.

How to Make Burger Sauce

This cult-favorite condiment is easy to whip up in a blender or a food processor! Or add it to a bowl and use an immersion blender.

1. Combine Ingredients: Add all of the ingredients to a food processor or a high-powered blender such as Vitamix or Blendtec. Or add it to a bowl and use an immersion blender.
2. Blend:Blend until very smooth and combined.
3. Serve and store: Serve your sauce right away or transfer it to a sealed container and store it in the fridge.

Tips for Success

Before you go and grab your bowl or blender, take a minute to look over these helpful recipe tips.

• Add Some Heat: Although this sauce already has a hint of heat, you can easily crank up the dial with a simple addition – cayenne pepper. Mix it in to taste after your sauce is blended.
• Don’t Leave it at Room Temperature: If you’re not going to serve your sauce immediately, make sure you keep it in the fridge. I don’t suggest leaving it out at room temperature for longer than 2 hours at any point.
• Make it in Advance: I’ve found that this sauce actually gets even more flavorful as it sits. That means it’s great for making ahead of time! I recommend letting it rest in the fridge for a few hours before using it.

Serving Suggestions

I can’t wait to tell you about some of our very favorite ways to use this burger sauce. You have to try out the ideas below!

• Wrap it Up: This condiment tastes incredible inside of these refreshing Vegan Lettuce Wraps. They’re packed with hearty veggies and super easy to put together.
• Dip it Down: I’m willing to bet that this flavorful sauce is going to become one of your go-to dips for chips, fries and veggies. Try serving it with Tofu Fries or Sweet Potato Fries!
• Add it to Burger Bowls: You seriously can’t go wrong when you drizzle your sauce over this Burger in a Bowl. The sweet and tangy flavors of the condiment combine with crispy bacon, fresh tomatoes, creamy avocado and more.
• Use it as Salad Dressing: Any salad that goes with Thousand Island dressing will pair with this burger sauce perfectly. We love tossing it with this Quick and Easy Broccoli Saladmost of all!

How to Store Leftover Sauce

This sauce should be stored in a sealed jar or another airtight container in the fridge. It will last for up to a week and should be stirred or shaken well before it’s used.

Can I Freeze This?

Since the main ingredient in burger sauce is mayonnaise, freezing it isn’t the best idea. Mayo is known for not thawing very well, and the same goes for this sauce.

More Flavorful Condiment Recipes

You can count on me when it comes to all of your condiment needs. You’re going to adore the following recipes!

• Homemade Buffalo Sauce
• Easy Chimichurri Sauce
• Homemade Barbecue Sauce
• Slow Cooker Apple Butter