Homemade Big Mac Sauce Recipe (McDonald’s Copycat) – The Secret Burger Sauce Revealed!
If you’ve ever had a Big Mac from McDonald’s, you know the real star of the show isn’t the bun, the beef, or even the lettuce—it’s that iconic sauce. Creamy, tangy, sweet, and just a little bit zesty, Big Mac Sauce is what gives the burger its unique flavor.
The good news? You can recreate this legendary sauce at home with everyday ingredients and in just a few minutes! In this detailed recipe, you’ll learn how to make the perfect copycat version of Big Mac Sauce—and trust us, once you try it, you’ll want to put it on everything.
What is Big Mac Sauce?
Big Mac Sauce is a creamy, slightly sweet, tangy dressing that McDonald’s uses on its iconic Big Mac burger. It’s often mistaken for Thousand Island dressing, but it’s actually a bit more complex in flavor. It includes mayonnaise, French dressing, relish, vinegar, finely chopped onions, and some simple seasoning.
Ingredients:
To make approximately ½ cup of Big Mac Sauce, you’ll need the following:
- ½ cup mayonnaise (use full-fat for best flavor and texture)
- 2 tablespoons French salad dressing (choose an orange-colored bottled variety for authenticity)
- 1½ tablespoons sweet pickle relish (this is key to the signature sweetness)
- 1½ tablespoons white onion, finely minced (make sure it’s chopped very fine for smooth texture)
- 1½ teaspoons apple cider vinegar (adds tanginess and balances the sweetness)
- ½ teaspoon granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: Some recipes add a pinch of garlic powder or paprika, but for a classic Big Mac flavor, stick to the list above.
How to Make Big Mac Sauce:
Step 1: Mix the creamy base
In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, French dressing, and sweet pickle relish. Stir them together until fully combined and smooth.
Step 2: Add the flavor builders
Add in the minced white onion, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed and the sauce has a uniform texture.
Step 3: Let it rest
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the sauce to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before using. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and deepen
Chef’s Tip: The sauce tastes even better the next day! Make it ahead of time for best results.
Storage Instructions:
Store your homemade Big Mac Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 1 week. Always use a clean spoon to serve it to keep it from spoiling prematurely.
How to Use Big Mac Sauce:
Big Mac Sauce is incredibly versatile. Here are just a few ways to enjoy it:
- On homemade burgers (especially double-layered ones!)
- As a dipping sauce for French fries, onion rings, chicken nuggets, or even fried pickles
- Spread on sandwiches or wraps for added flavor
- Mixed into a burger bowl or salad as a creamy dressing
- On a breakfast sandwich or with scrambled eggs!
Tips for Success:
- Make sure the onion is very finely minced—you don’t want big chunks.
- Letting the sauce chill is essential—don’t skip this step!
- Use quality ingredients. A good mayo and bottled French dressing make a noticeable difference.
- If you don’t have sweet pickle relish, you can finely chop sweet pickles and add a little pickle juice.
Final Thoughts:
This homemade Big Mac Sauce is not just a copycat—it’s an upgrade. Once you make it yourself, you’ll realize how easy (and delicious) it is to bring that fast food magic into your own kitchen. Whether you’re building the ultimate homemade Big Mac or just want to level up your next sandwich, this sauce has your back.
So what are you waiting for? Whip up a batch today and bring the taste of McDonald’s to your table—minus the drive-thru line!