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This creamy sauce brings the perfect balance of tang and richness to burgers and sandwiches. Its blend of mayonnaise, relish, Dijon mustard, and a touch of smoky seasoning makes every bite unforgettable.
I discovered this sauce one weekend when craving a homemade burger but missing that special something from my favorite burger joint. Since then, it has become my go-to condiment and always earns compliments at gatherings.
Ingredients
- Mayonnaise: provides a creamy, smooth base and binding texture, choose a quality brand for best flavor
- Sweet pickle relish: adds subtle sweetness and crunch, opt for relish with visible pickle chunks to boost texture
- Ketchup: offers sweetness and a hint of tomato tang, use your favorite classic ketchup for consistent taste
- Dijon mustard: contributes sharp, tangy notes that balance the richness, fresh Dijon mustard delivers the best pungency
- Montreal steak seasoning: imparts savory spice with garlic and pepper, pick a well-blended mix for balanced heat
- Smoked paprika: enriches the sauce with smoky warmth, Spanish smoked paprika is ideal if available
- Worcestershire sauce: adds depth and umami complexity, shake well before measuring for even flavor
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Place mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, ketchup, Dijon mustard, Montreal steak seasoning, smoked paprika, and Worcestershire sauce in a small mixing bowl. The combination of these ingredients forms the sauce base with creamy, tangy, and smoky notes.
- Mix the Sauce Thoroughly:
- Stir all ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. This ensures each spoonful is evenly flavored without clumps or pockets of seasoning.
- Chill for Flavor Development:
- Transfer sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and intensify. Give it a good stir before serving to tidy up the texture.
This sauce remains one of my favorites because of how easily the smoked paprika and Montreal steak seasoning bring a smoky, savory contrast to the tangy mayonnaise and mustard. One summer cookout I made a double batch just for the guests, and every single person asked for the recipe before the night ended.
Storage Tips
Store this sauce in a sealed container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. It keeps well for up to seven days, making it perfect for weeknight meals or parties. Always stir before using after refrigeration to recombine any separated ingredients.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap Dijon mustard with yellow mustard for a milder tang or use finely chopped sweet pickles if relish is unavailable. Smoked paprika can be replaced by regular paprika if you want less smokiness or by a dash of chipotle powder for a slight heat.
Serving Suggestions
This sauce is fantastic spread on smashed burgers, grilled chicken sandwiches, or even drizzled over roasted vegetables. It also pairs surprisingly well with crispy sweet potato fries for dipping.
If you find the sauce too thick, thin it with a teaspoon of milk or water until it reaches your desired consistency.
FAQs about Recipes
- → What ingredients create the tangy flavor?
The tanginess comes from Dijon mustard, sweet pickle relish, and a hint of ketchup, balanced by creamy mayonnaise.
- → How should the sauce be stored after preparation?
Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to develop.
- → Can this sauce be used for foods other than burgers?
Yes, it works well as a topping for sandwiches, wraps, and even as a flavorful dip for fries or veggies.
- → What spices contribute to the smoky notes?
Smoked paprika and Montreal steak seasoning add subtle smoky and savory depth to the sauce.
- → Is the sauce difficult to prepare?
Not at all; simply combine all ingredients in a bowl, mix until smooth, and refrigerate to blend flavors before serving.