Shake Shack ShackSauce Recipe

If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably had a moment at Shake Shack where you paused mid-bite, stared at your burger, and thought, What is this magical sauce doing to my taste buds? That, my friends, is ShackSauce.

It’s tangy, creamy, a little smoky, and just the kind of condiment that transforms an ordinary burger into something unforgettable. And the best part?

You can recreate it at home in under 10 minutes with ingredients you probably already have sitting in your fridge.

I love this recipe because it’s both nostalgic and versatile. Every time I whisk up a batch, I feel like I’m bringing a little piece of New York City street food culture into my kitchen.

What is the Shake Shack ShackSauce Recipe?

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Shake Shack’s ShackSauce is the signature condiment that has made their burgers world-famous.

At first glance, you might think it’s just “another burger sauce,” but it’s actually a beautiful balance of flavors that hits all the right notes.

Creamy mayo lays the foundation, ketchup adds a subtle sweetness, Dijon mustard brings a little zip, and a splash of vinegar rounds everything out with brightness.

But then, this is the kicker, there’s just a hint of spice and garlic, giving it that addictive punch that keeps you coming back for more.

When I first started trying to replicate ShackSauce at home, I thought it was going to be impossible.

Surely they had some secret ingredient locked away in a vault, right?

But after testing (and eating way too many burgers in the name of research), I realized that the beauty of ShackSauce lies in its simplicity.

It’s made with pantry staples you already know and love, it’s just the ratios and the balance that make it magical.

To me, ShackSauce represents everything I adore about comfort food: familiar ingredients, combined in a way that feels fresh and exciting.

It’s not fussy or intimidating, and it doesn’t require a culinary degree to get right. It’s approachable, family-friendly, and versatile.

In other words, it’s the kind of recipe that deserves a permanent spot in your home cooking rotation.

Key Ingredients

Before you dive in, let’s talk about the star players in this sauce. Each ingredient is simple on its own, but together they create that crave-worthy flavor we all know and love.

Mayonnaise: The creamy backbone of the sauce. I always reach for a good-quality mayo because it makes a difference in texture and flavor.

If you’re vegan, an egg-free mayo works just as well.

Ketchup: This brings sweetness and a subtle tomato base that keeps the sauce from tasting too heavy. Think of it as the sauce’s “comfort blanket.”

Dijon Mustard: A little sharp, a little tangy, and a lot flavorful. Dijon gives ShackSauce that slightly fancy, grown-up kick compared to yellow mustard.

Garlic Powder & Paprika: These are the quiet heroes. Garlic powder adds depth, while paprika lends a smoky undertone that makes the sauce feel warm and well-rounded.

Pickle Brine or White Vinegar: Here’s where the magic happens. That splash of acidity brightens the whole sauce and cuts through the richness.

I personally love using pickle brine because it ties the sauce back to classic burger flavors, but vinegar works beautifully too.

Optional Heat: While not traditional, I sometimes sneak in a few drops of hot sauce.

It adds personality and makes the sauce extra memorable when paired with crispy fries or chicken.

When you put it all together, you get something creamy, tangy, and just a touch smoky, the ultimate flavor booster for nearly anything you cook at home.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making ShackSauce at home couldn’t be easier, and honestly, it feels like a small victory every time I stir it together in my kitchen. You’ll only need one bowl, a whisk or spoon, and about five minutes of your time.

First, start with the mayo. This is your creamy base, so scoop it into a small mixing bowl. Next, add the ketchup and Dijon mustard.

I like to whisk these three together first to create a smooth, rosy base.

Once that’s looking well-blended, it’s time to bring in the personality. Sprinkle in the garlic powder and paprika, then give it another stir.

Already, the sauce starts to look a little richer in color, and you’ll notice that subtle smoky aroma from the paprika.

Now comes the secret weapon: pickle brine. Just a teaspoon is all you need, but don’t underestimate its power. It adds this tangy pop that keeps the sauce from being too heavy.

If you don’t have pickle brine, white vinegar works like a charm. Whisk everything together until the sauce looks creamy and uniform.

At this point, taste it. ShackSauce is all about balance, and everyone’s palate is different. Want it sweeter?

Add a touch more ketchup. Need more tang? A splash of vinegar will do the trick. Craving a kick? Stir in a few drops of hot sauce. The beauty of making this at home is that you’re in control.

Finally, transfer the sauce into a jar or airtight container.

It will keep in the fridge for about a week, though I’ll be honest, it rarely lasts that long in my house because we use it on everything.

Variations and Substitutions

The original ShackSauce is iconic, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun with it in your own kitchen.

Over time, I’ve experimented with little tweaks that give it new personalities depending on what I’m serving.

For a spicier twist, I love adding sriracha or chipotle sauce. The smoky heat pairs beautifully with burgers and grilled chicken.

If you’re a fan of bold flavors, a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika can take things up a notch.

If you’re looking for something a little lighter, Greek yogurt or light mayo can replace regular mayonnaise.

The sauce will be tangier and less rich, but still delicious, especially as a dip for veggies.

For a dairy-free or vegan option, swap in vegan mayo, it blends seamlessly with the other ingredients.

Sometimes I swap ketchup for barbecue sauce when I’m in the mood for something a little more Southern-inspired.

It gives the ShackSauce a sweet, smoky vibe that’s fantastic on pulled pork sandwiches or crispy chicken tenders.

And here’s a fun one: try mixing in a teaspoon of honey.

It adds a gentle sweetness that works wonders when you’re using the sauce as a dip for spicy fries or hot wings.

The bottom line? Don’t be afraid to play around. Think of ShackSauce as your flavor canvas. Once you’ve nailed the base recipe, the variations are endless.

Meal Ideas to Try

Now that you’ve got a fresh batch of ShackSauce ready, let’s talk about all the delicious ways to use it. Of course, the classic option is to slather it on burgers.

Whether you’re grilling up juicy beef patties, turkey burgers, or even plant-based alternatives, ShackSauce instantly elevates the flavor.

But don’t stop there, this sauce was made for dipping.

Crispy French fries, onion rings, sweet potato fries, and even roasted potato wedges taste phenomenal with a side of ShackSauce.

My kids love dunking chicken nuggets in it, and I’ve been known to use it as a dip for raw veggies when I need a quick snack.

Another favorite use of mine is as a sandwich spread. Think BLTs, turkey clubs, or even a simple grilled cheese.

A swipe of ShackSauce adds that extra layer of flavor that takes a sandwich from “pretty good” to “wow, I need another bite.”

If you’re into meal prep, this sauce is also a lifesaver for grain bowls or wraps.

Drizzle it over a chicken and rice bowl, toss it into a veggie wrap, or even spoon a little onto a baked potato. It ties everything together beautifully.

And here’s a little pro tip: ShackSauce also makes a surprisingly tasty salad dressing.

Just thin it out with a splash of milk or water, and you’ve got a creamy, tangy dressing that pairs perfectly with crisp greens and grilled proteins.

Basically, once you make it, you’ll find yourself reaching for ShackSauce constantly. It’s that good.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make ShackSauce Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! In fact, I recommend it. The flavors meld together beautifully after a few hours in the fridge. Just store it in a sealed container, and it will stay fresh for about a week.

Can I Freeze ShackSauce?

I don’t recommend freezing it because mayonnaise-based sauces tend to separate when thawed. The texture won’t be the same. It’s best made fresh and stored in the fridge.

Is this the Exact Shake Shack Recipe?

Nope, it’s a close copycat inspired by the original. Shake Shack keeps their exact formula under wraps, but this version captures the creamy, tangy, garlicky essence we all love.

What if I Don’t Have Dijon Mustard?

Yellow mustard works in a pinch, but Dijon really gives it that special kick. Spicy brown mustard is another good alternative.

Can I Make it Healthier?

Yes! Swap regular mayo for light or vegan mayo, and use Greek yogurt to cut down on calories while keeping it creamy.

What’s the Best Way to Use It?

Anywhere you’d use ketchup or mayo, you can use ShackSauce. Burgers, fries, sandwiches, wraps, bowls, veggies, you name it.