McDonald's-Style Big Mac Sauce (Copycat Recipe)

This is our homemade take on the creamy, tangy special sauce that tops the Big Mac. It is a copycat inspired by the McDonald's classic, not the official recipe, and PlanetBurger is not affiliated with McDonald's. Mayonnaise gives it body, sweet relish and a little French dressing bring the sweet-tangy flavor, and a pinch of onion powder and paprika rounds it out.

It is great on a double-decker smash burger with shredded lettuce and pickles. For more on where styles like this come from, see American burger styles explained.

1. Measure the base. Add the mayonnaise to a small bowl.
2. Add the relish. Stir in the sweet relish. If your relish is very chunky, chop it a little finer so the sauce spreads evenly.
3. Add the tangy elements. Stir in the French dressing, mustard and vinegar until smooth and evenly pink-orange.
4. Season. Whisk in the onion powder, garlic powder and paprika. Taste and add a small pinch of salt if needed.
5. Chill. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight. The dried spices need time to hydrate and the flavors blend as it rests.
6. Serve. Stir again before using. Spread about 1 tablespoon on each bun half, or serve on the side with fries.

• Let it rest. The sauce tastes noticeably better after an hour or more in the fridge than it does right after mixing.
• No French dressing? Use 2 teaspoons of ketchup plus a pinch of sugar instead.
• Adjust the tang. Add vinegar ¼ teaspoon at a time if you like it sharper, or a little more relish for sweetness.
• Storage. Keep covered in the fridge and use within about a week, staying within the date on your mayonnaise. Don't leave it at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Approximately 150 calories per serving. This is an estimate.