Hamburger Sauce

Hamburger Sauce is such an easy thing to make. Especially easy if you’re already familiar with the comeback sauce I’ve already posted. Adding relish to comeback sauce is a common and delicious way to create a classic hamburger sauce.

Special Sauce?

This combination is often used in restaurants as a “special sauce” for burgers and other sandwiches. I know many people think restaurants just use Thousand Island Dressing or even Russian Dressing. I’m sure some places do exactly that for their special sauce.

However, you might ask what’s the difference between Thousand Island Dressing, Russian Dressing, Hamburger Sauce, and “Special Sauce”? The answer is usually “not much”. As mentioned, comeback sauce has a base made from 1 part mayo, 1 part mustard, and 1 part ketchup, and it’s known for its tangy, creamy, and slightly spicy flavor depending on the mustard you’re using.

With the addition of relish, which can be sweet or dill relish, you provide a balance of sweetness and a delightful crunch. It also contributes a touch of tanginess from the pickling process. Voila! Hamburger Sauce.

Origin of Hamburger Sauce?

I have no idea where the origin of Hamburger Sauce comes from. Maybe someone started with comeback sauce and maybe someone was looking for a special sauce so they just mixed every condiment they had available in the fridge. Don’t know and don’t care. I like the way it tastes.

For basic Hamburger Sauce, you have an equal part of each:

• 1/4 cup mustard
• ketchup
• mayonnaise
• and relish (sour dill for me).

You are done. You have hamburger sauce.. enjoy!

I wouldn’t be the cook I am without playing around with every recipe I’ve come across, so I have my own version of Hamburger Sauce. I used it recently for some Turkey Burgers I just made.

What can you use hamburger sauce for?

This sauce is fantastic with fried foods! It adds a delicious tangy and creamy kick to various dishes. Here are some options for using your “beefed up” hamburger sauce:

• Burgers: Goes without saying but I said it anyway. This sauce is perfect for hamburgers and can be used as a burger dressing for an extra burst of flavor.

• Fried Chicken or Chicken Tenders: Drizzle it over fried chicken or serve it as a dipping sauce. It’s a classic combo. The dill relish tastes great here.

• Fish and Seafood: Try it with fried fish, shrimp, or calamari. The sauce’s tanginess complements the seafood’s flavors.

• French Fries: It’s a fantastic dip for French fries, sweet potato fries, or even onion rings. My fave.

• Sandwiches: Use it in sandwiches or wraps as a creamy, tangy spread. This is actually much better than I thought it would be.

• Hot Dogs: Elevate your hot dog game by using this sauce as a condiment. Another no brainer here.

• Salads: Thin it out with a bit of water or extra pickle juice to make it a unique salad dressing for greens or coleslaw.

• Grilled Meats: It’s not just for fried foods. You can use it with grilled chicken, steak, or pork for added flavor.

• Potato Salad: Mix it into potato salad for a zesty twist on this classic side dish. I use as an “add in” NOT a replacement for mayonnaise.

• Veggie Dipping Sauce: Use it as a dip for fresh vegetables like celery, carrots, or bell peppers.

• Tacos and Wraps: Drizzle it over tacos or wraps to add an extra layer of flavor. Much better than I thought. The spicy tacos are GREAT compliment here. 

This “beefed up” hamburger sauce is a versatile condiment that can enhance a wide range of dishes. Don’t be afraid to get creative and explore different ways to enjoy it with your favorite fried and grilled foods. It’s all about adding that delicious tangy kick. 

After I tried the tacos above, I now make sure my hamburger sauce has some heat in there. I usually will go with hot sauce but ANY heat is good. Some Sriracha or cayenne pepper added in there is absolutely great when added.