Smashburger Signature Creamy Sauce

This Smashburger Signature Creamy Sauce has been my secret weapon for upgrading weeknight burgers and casual gatherings. I first stumbled on this combination while trying to recreate the tangy, slightly smoky drizzles I loved at a local burger spot. After a few tweaks—adding a whisper of smoked paprika and a pinch of Montreal steak seasoning—the balance of sweet, savory, and tangy clicked. It’s rich and creamy from the mayonnaise, bright from the pickle relish and ketchup, with a rounded backbone from Dijon and Worcestershire.

I remember making a double batch for a backyard cookout one summer and watching neighbors come back for more, spooning small amounts on fries and grilled vegetables. The texture is smooth and glossy, easy to adjust for thicker or thinner consistencies, and it holds up well when used as a spread or dipping sauce. Because it uses pantry staples, I often have everything on hand for a last-minute upgrade to burgers, chicken sandwiches, or even roasted potatoes.

Ingredients

• Mayonnaise (1 cup): Use a good-quality mayo for a creamy base—I prefer full-fat for richness. Hellmann’s/Best Foods gives reliable, neutral flavor; for a tangier profile try an olive oil or avocado oil mayonnaise.
• Sweet pickle relish (2 tablespoons): Bright sweetness and crunchy pickle pieces add texture and acidity—look for relish labeled “sweet” in the jarred condiment aisle.
• Ketchup (2 tablespoons): Provides sweetness and tomato depth; a classic brand like Heinz works well, or use a lower-sugar variety for a lighter finish.
• Dijon mustard (2 teaspoons): Adds a subtle bite and emulsifying power that brightens the sauce—don’t substitute with yellow mustard unless you want a milder, less refined tang.
• Montreal steak seasoning (1/2 teaspoon): Brings aromatic pepper and garlic notes; McCormick’s or a local coarse blend adds a signature savory lift.
• Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Introduces gentle smokiness without heat—opt for Spanish smoked paprika if you can for a deeper-color finish.
• Worcestershire sauce (1/4 teaspoon): A splash of umami that rounds the brightness—use Lea & Perrins or your preferred bottle for subtle complexity.

Instructions

Combine the base ingredients: Place 1 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish, 2 tablespoons ketchup, and 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard into a small mixing bowl. Use a sturdy bowl so you can whisk without splatter. The mayo forms the emulsion base; chilling ingredients ensures a smooth texture. Add seasonings: Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon Montreal steak seasoning and 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, then add 1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce. These small-seasoning amounts pack a savory punch—Montreal seasoning adds peppery, garlicky notes, while smoked paprika brings color and aroma. Whisk until smooth: Stir vigorously until the mixture is uniformly smooth and glossy, about 20–30 seconds. Use a whisk or fork and scrape the bowl sides. Taste and adjust—if you want more tang, add an extra 1/2 teaspoon Dijon; for sweeter notes, a scant 1/2 teaspoon honey blends well without overpowering. Chill to marry flavors: Transfer the sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling softens sharp edges and allows the paprika and Montreal seasoning to bloom. Stir again before serving to recombine any settled liquid.

Storage Tips

Store in a clean, airtight jar or container in the refrigerator. Glass jars with tight lids work best to avoid flavor transfer—mason jars or small jam jars are perfect. Label with the date and use within 7 days; if you smell off aromas or see separation that doesn’t blend back together with stirring, discard. For short-term counter storage (only when serving), keep the jar chilled on a small ice bed during hot weather to preserve freshness.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need alternatives, swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a tangier, lower-fat version (note: texture will be thinner). Replace sweet pickle relish with finely chopped dill pickles plus 1 teaspoon sugar if you prefer less sweetness. For a vegan version, use vegan mayonnaise and omit Worcestershire or use a vegan Worcestershire substitute. To reduce sodium, select low-sodium mustard and reduced-sodium ketchup.

Serving Suggestions

Use as a spread on burger buns, a dip for fries, a drizzle over roasted vegetables, or a creamy binder in potato or tuna salads. For sandwiches, spread it on both cut sides of the bun so every bite has sauce. I also like a small dollop on grain bowls—pair with roasted sweet potatoes, shredded cabbage, and a squeeze of lime for contrast. Garnish with chopped chives or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for presentation.

Cultural Background

The flavor profile channels classic American burger condiments—mayonnaise, pickles, and ketchup—blended into a creamy emulsion reminiscent of diner and fast-casual burger sauces. While not tied to a single traditional cuisine, the sauce reflects a long tradition in American cooking of combining condiments to create a distinctive spread for handheld foods. Smoky paprika nods to global spice usage, while Worcestershire adds a Worcestershire-era umami note that became popular in 19th-century Anglo-influenced cooking.

Seasonal Adaptations

In summer, use fresh corn and charred tomatoes alongside the sauce for bright contrasts; in autumn, try it with roasted root vegetables and a sprinkle of toasted pepitas. For holidays, slightly increase smoked paprika and add a pinch of cayenne for extra warmth. In winter, blend in a tablespoon of caramelized onion jam to deepen the flavor for heartier dishes.

Meal Prep Tips

Make a double batch at the start of the week and portion into small jars for quick use. Keep a teaspoon or two in a squeeze bottle for precise dressing or drizzling. When meal prepping sandwiches, store the sauce separately from bread to prevent sogginess, then apply just before serving. Use within 7 days for best flavor and texture.

This sauce has become a dependable, no-fuss addition to my kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or elevating a simple weeknight meal, the balance of sweet, smoky, and savory notes gives everything it touches a little more personality—try it once and you’ll likely keep a ready jar in the fridge forever.