Introduction
The first time I tried pub sauce, I was at a cozy little bar that served the best burgers I had ever tasted. The crispy fries were great, but what really caught my attention was the sauce they served on the side. It was creamy, slightly smoky, and had the perfect balance of tangy and savory flavors. I dipped everything in it—my fries, my burger, even my onion rings. From that moment on, I knew I had to figure out how to make it at home.
After some experimenting, I finally nailed the perfect homemade pub sauce. The secret? A simple combination of mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, and a splash of soy sauce with lemon juice to bring out the depth of flavor. All whisked together in minutes, this sauce became my go-to for burgers, sandwiches, and grilled meats.
In this guide, I’ll show you how to make the best pub sauce, what ingredients give it that signature flavor, and all the delicious ways you can use it. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll never want your burgers or fries without it again!
Why This Pub Sauce Recipe Works
The first time I made pub sauce at home, I was amazed at how a few simple ingredients could create bold, restaurant-quality flavor. Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:
1. Perfectly Balanced Flavors
This sauce blends creamy, tangy, and smoky notes in just the right proportions. Mayonnaise provides a rich base, while ketchup and Dijon mustard add sweetness and zest. A touch of soy sauce, lemon juice, and smoked paprika gives it depth and a subtle smoky kick.
2. Incredibly Versatile
I always keep a jar of this sauce in my fridge because it pairs well with so many dishes:
- Burger sauce – Spread on buns for an instant flavor boost.
- Dip – Perfect for fries, onion rings, or chicken tenders.
- Sandwich spread – Adds richness to grilled cheese, wraps, and subs.
- Marinade – Enhances grilled meats like chicken and steak.
3. Quick & Effortless
No cooking required—just whisk the ingredients together, and your homemade pub sauce is ready in five minutes!
What You’ll Need
Before we start mixing up this rich and flavorful pub sauce, let’s go over the essential kitchen tools that will make the process quick and mess-free. The first time I made it, I just grabbed a spoon and a bowl, but I quickly realized that using the right tools made a huge difference in getting a smooth, well-blended sauce.
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Mixing bowl: The perfect size for whisking everything together without spills.
- Whisk: Helps combine the ingredients evenly for a smooth texture.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures the perfect balance of flavors.
- Storage jar or bottle: A glass jar with a tight lid keeps the sauce fresh in the fridge.
With just these simple tools, you’ll have homemade pub sauce ready in minutes!
Pub Sauce Ingredients: What’s Inside?
When I first started experimenting with pub sauce, I realized that the key to getting the perfect balance was using a mix of creamy, tangy, and smoky ingredients. After several attempts, I finally found the right combination that gives this sauce its signature flavor.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- ¾ cup mayonnaise – The rich, creamy base that makes the sauce smooth and indulgent. While store-bought mayonnaise works perfectly, making your own can give the sauce an even fresher taste. If you’d like to try a homemade version, check out this easy mayonnaise recipe from AllRecipes, which takes just a few minutes to whip up.
- 2 tablespoons ketchup – Adds a slight sweetness and a hint of acidity.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce + ½ teaspoon lemon juice – Brings depth and a tangy touch.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – Gives the sauce a subtle tangy kick.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the flavor with a mild garlicky depth.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a light smoky note that makes the sauce stand out.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper – Gives a little heat and rounds out the flavor.
- ½ teaspoon hot sauce (optional) – For a bit of extra spice, if you like a little heat.
Instructions
One of the reasons I love making pub sauce at home is how quick and effortless it is. There’s no cooking involved—just a few simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious, restaurant-quality sauce ready to go!
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Total Time: 5 minutes
Tip: Let the sauce sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before using—it helps the flavors blend beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Mix the Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, soy sauce + lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and hot sauce (if using). Stir until fully combined and smooth.
Taste & Adjust
Give the sauce a taste and tweak it as needed. For more tang, add a touch more lemon juice if desired. If you want a deeper, umami-rich flavor, slightly increase the soy sauce.
Chill for Best Flavor
Transfer the sauce to an airtight jar or container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together, making the sauce richer and more balanced.
Serve & Enjoy
Use pub sauce as a burger spread, dipping sauce, or sandwich condiment. It pairs perfectly with fries, onion rings, and even grilled meats.
Nutrition Score
One of the benefits of making pub sauce at home is having complete control over the ingredients. Unlike store-bought versions, this homemade sauce contains no artificial preservatives or unnecessary additives—just fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Approximate Nutrition per 1-Tablespoon Serving
- Calories: 90 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Fat: 9g
- Sodium: 150mg
Key Nutritional Benefits
- Made with real ingredients—free from artificial preservatives.
- Customizable—adjust spice, salt, or sweetness to match dietary preferences.
- Lower in sugar than many bottled condiments.
Since this sauce is rich and flavorful, a small amount adds significant depth to burgers, fries, and sandwiches without overpowering the dish.
Serving & Storing Pub Sauce Properly
How to Use Pub Sauce
One of the reasons this sauce has become a staple in my kitchen is its incredible versatility. Whether you’re grilling, dipping, or spreading, pub sauce enhances just about anything. Here are some of my favorite ways to use it:
- As a burger sauce: Spread it on buns for a creamy, tangy kick.
- As a dipping sauce: Perfect for fries, onion rings, or chicken tenders.
- As a sandwich spread: Adds richness to club sandwiches, wraps, and grilled cheese. If you love bold sandwich flavors, this Focaccia Sandwich Recipe is a must-try, and it pairs beautifully with a spread of pub sauce.
- As a marinade: Works well on grilled chicken or steak for extra depth of flavor. If you’re looking for another flavor-packed grilled dish, try this Bistec Ranchero Recipe, which features bold seasonings that complement pub sauce beautifully.
Storage Tips
Since this sauce contains fresh ingredients with no preservatives, proper storage is essential to maintain its quality and flavor.
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight jar or container and refrigerate for up to one week. Stir before using, as some ingredients may settle.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the mayonnaise base may separate when thawed.
I always keep a jar in my fridge because it instantly elevates any meal. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again!
Delicious Variations of Pub Sauce
One of the best things about homemade pub sauce is how easy it is to customize. Whether you prefer it tangier, spicier, or lighter, small tweaks can create an entirely new flavor profile. Here are some variations you might like to try:
1. Herby Pub Sauce
For a fresh, aromatic twist, add chopped parsley, chives, or dill. This version works especially well as a dip for fries or a spread for sandwiches.
2. Smoky BBQ Pub Sauce
If you enjoy a deeper, more complex flavor, swap the ketchup for BBQ sauce. This variation is perfect for grilled meats and smoky burgers.
3. Low-Fat Option
To lighten up the sauce, replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. This keeps the creamy texture while reducing the fat content.
4. Extra Tangy Pub Sauce
For a sharper bite, increase the Dijon mustard and lemon juice. This works well for those who love a more pronounced, zesty kick.
5. Spicy Pub Sauce
If you prefer more heat, add extra hot sauce, a dash of cayenne pepper, or finely chopped jalapeños.
Each of these variations lets you customize pub sauce to match different meals and personal taste preferences. Whether you like it bold and smoky or light and tangy, there’s an option for everyone!
FAQs About Pub Sauce
What is pub sauce?
Pub sauce is a creamy, tangy, and slightly smoky condiment often served in pubs and restaurants. It’s typically made with a blend of mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, soy sauce + lemon juice, or Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika, creating a rich and flavorful addition to burgers, sandwiches, and fried foods.
What is the orange sauce in burgers?
The orange-colored sauce commonly found in burgers is often a variation of special sauce or pub sauce, made with mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and seasonings. It adds a balanced sweet, tangy, and savory flavor to enhance the overall taste of the burger.
What are the ingredients in London pub sauce?
London pub sauce typically includes mustard, Worcestershire sauce, mayonnaise, and spices. While recipes may vary, it often has a zesty, umami-rich profile that pairs well with grilled meats and sandwiches.
What is the sauce at Red Robin?
Red Robin’s popular Campfire Sauce is a creamy, smoky condiment made from a mix of mayonnaise and BBQ sauce, sometimes with added seasonings like garlic powder or smoked paprika for extra depth.
What is pub short for?
“Pub” is short for “public house,” a term used in the UK and other countries to describe a bar or tavern that serves food and drinks.
What is the yellow sauce in burgers called?
The yellow sauce often found in burgers is typically mustard, known for its sharp, tangy, and slightly spicy taste. Some variations may include a blend of mustard with mayonnaise or other seasonings.
Conclusion
Ever since I first made pub sauce at home, it has become a staple in my kitchen. Whether I’m grilling burgers, dipping fries, or spreading it on a sandwich, this sauce always adds the perfect balance of creaminess, tang, and smoky depth.
The best part? It’s incredibly easy to customize. You can adjust the ingredients to make it spicier, tangier, or lighter, depending on your preference. Plus, with just a few simple pantry staples, you can whip up a batch in minutes—no need for store-bought alternatives.
If you’re a fan of bold, flavorful condiments, I highly recommend giving this homemade pub sauce a try. Once you do, I guarantee you’ll always want a jar in your fridge!
Have you tried making pub sauce at home? Let me know how you like to use it in the comments!