Shake Shack Sauce (Quick Copycat Recipe)

This Shake Shack sauce recipe is the perfect condiment to instantly upgrade any burger, sandwich, or fries. Made with mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, pickles, paprika, and cayenne, it strikes the ideal balance of sweet, salty, and savory flavors that make Shake Shack burgers so iconic. It’s quick to mix up, requires only a few pantry ingredients, and tastes exactly like the real thing. If you’ve tried my other copycat sauces — like In-N-Out Sauce, Raising Cane’s Sauce, or Chipotle Red Chimichurri Sauce — you can expect the same foolproof results and spot-on flavor to the original in this recipe.

Why I Love This Shake Shack Sauce Recipe

I've known about Shake Shack for years but had never tried it beacuse there wasn't one where I live...until recently. Shake Shack just opened up around the corner from me, and I finally had it the other day. I got the classic Shake Shack double cheeseburger, and one bite was all it took for me to know it was my new favorite. The highlight for me was the Shake Shack sauce — creamy, tangy, a little smoky, and absolutely addictive. It wasn’t just a condiment; it pulled the whole burger together.

I did what I always do and tried recreating it myself at home, because I believe everything is better homemade. After a few rounds of testing and tasting, I finally nailed it — this copycat Shake Shack sauce recipe tastes exactly like the real thing. It’s rich and smooth with just the right balance of sweetness, saltiness, and spice, and it only takes a few minutes to make with simple ingredients you might have in your fridge and pantry.

I love how quick and easy this recipe is, but I love the versatility of the sauce even more. I've been keeping it stocked in the fridge and have been using this homemade burger sauce on everything — from burgers and chicken sandwiches, to fries and even as a dipping sauce for onion rings or nuggets. Plus, it gets even better after chilling in the fridge for a few hours as the flavors meld together. Once you try it, you’ll see what all the hype is about for Shake Shack's special sauce!

Want a quicker glance at this recipe to see how the Shake Shack sauce comes together step-by-step? Check out my Shake Shack Sauce Web Story.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 4 teaspoon ketchup
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• Pinch cayenne pepper
• 2 tablespoon finely diced dill pickles
• 1 teaspoon dill pickle brine

How To Make Shake Shack Sauce

Step 1: Blend the Ingredients

Add mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne, diced pickles, and pickle brine to a food processor, blender, or immersion blender container.

Step 2: Mix Until Smooth

Blend for about 30 seconds, or until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and slightly fluffy.

Step 3: Chill and Serve

Serve immediately or transfer the sauce to an airtight container. For the best flavor, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Expert Tips To Make The Best Shake Shack Sauce

• Use full-fat mayo for that signature creamy texture: The foundation of this Shake Shack sauce recipe is mayonnaise, so using a high-quality, full-fat version makes all the difference. Brands like Kewpie mayo or Duke’s mayonnaise will make the sauce extra rich and creamy. Avoid low-fat or light mayo—they tend to make the sauce thinner and less flavorful.
• Dill pickles are the secret ingredient: Finely diced dill pickles give the sauce that signature Shake Shack tang. The pickles add texture and sharpness, while a splash of pickle brine brightens the flavor and balances the richness of the mayo and ketchup. Make sure to chop the pickles finely so the sauce spreads smoothly on burgers or sandwiches.
• Let it chill before serving: Don’t skip this step! Letting your homemade Shake Shack sauce rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld together. The spices and acids develop a deeper, more balanced flavor—just like the sauce you’d get at the restaurant. For the best results, make it a few hours ahead (or even the night before) and serve it cold.
• Adjust the spice and tang to your liking: One of the perks of making your own sauce is that you can fine-tune it. A pinch of cayenne pepper adds subtle heat without overpowering, while extra paprika boosts smokiness. For more tang, add a touch of lemon juice or a few extra drops of pickle brine. Taste and tweak as you go.
• Add a smoky twist for bold flavor: If you love a hint of smokiness, swap the regular paprika for smoked paprika or even add a small dash of liquid smoke. It gives the sauce a deeper, BBQ-inspired flavor that pairs well with grilled burgers and grilled chicken.
• Make ahead and store it properly: The flavors actually improve as the sauce chills, making it a perfect make-ahead condiment. Store it in an airtight glass jar or container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Give it a quick stir before each use to bring back that smooth, creamy texture. 

What To Put Shake Shack Sauce On

The best thing about this Shake Shack sauce recipe is how versatile it is. It’s not just for burgers — this creamy, tangy, and slightly smoky sauce elevates almost anything you pair it with. Here are some of my favorite ways to use it:

• Burgers: This is first and foremost a burger sauce, so you know it tastes amazing on burgers! Try it on this mushroom swiss burger, onion-wrapped burger, crack burger, or just classics like a hamburger or cheeseburger.
• French Fries: Fries are all about the dipping sauce — and this one delivers. Use this copycat Shake Shack sauce as a dip for crinkle-cut fries, McDonald's shoestring fries, thick-cut fries like these Wingstop fries, or even sweet potato fries. Its creamy tang complements the salty crunch perfectly. For an over-the-top snack, drizzle the sauce over loaded fries topped with cheese, bacon, or green onions.
• Chicken Nuggets or Tenders: This homemade Shake Shack sauce makes an incredible dip for chicken nuggets, tenders, or even popcorn chicken. The creamy base and hint of spice pair perfectly with crispy breaded chicken, giving it that fast-food-style flavor at home. For a homemade fast-food meal, try it with my McDonald's chicken nuggets.
• Grilled or Fried Chicken: Whether it’s grilled chicken breasts, crispy fried chicken, or even rotisserie chicken, this sauce takes it to the next level. Drizzle it over grilled chicken for a smoky flavor contrast or serve it on the side with things like these fried chicken thighs for dipping.
• Vegetables and Sides: Use it as a dip for roasted or air-fried vegetables, like roasted Brussels sprouts, roasted broccoli, zucchini fries, or crispy cauliflower bites. It’s also fantastic as a drizzle for baked potatoes or potato wedges, or as a dressing for potato or pasta salad — just thin it slightly with vinegar or lemon juice.

Shake Shack Sauce FAQs

What does Shake Shack sauce taste like?

This Shake Shack sauce recipe tastes like a cross between Thousand Island dressing and a classic burger sauce — creamy, tangy, and slightly smoky with just a hint of sweetness. You’ll taste layers of mayo richness, a little kick from mustard and cayenne, and that unmistakable tang from pickles. It’s the perfect balance of savory and zesty, which is why it’s so addictive on burgers and fries.

Is this the same as Shake Shack’s “ShackSauce”?

Yes — this is a copycat ShackSauce recipe, recreated to taste just like the signature sauce served on Shake Shack burgers. It has that same creamy texture and balanced flavor that ties the whole burger together. Many fans describe it as the secret that makes Shake Shack’s burgers so iconic, and this version captures that perfectly.

Can I make Shake Shack sauce without a blender or food processor?

Definitely! You can make it right in a mixing bowl. Simply whisk all the ingredients together until smooth and creamy. Be sure to finely mince the pickles (or use relish) so the sauce spreads evenly on burgers or sandwiches. The result is just as smooth and flavorful — no equipment required.

How long does homemade Shake Shack sauce last?

This homemade burger sauce lasts for up to 5 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container or glass jar. Always stir it before using to refresh the texture. Since it’s mayo-based, it’s not freezer-friendly — freezing can cause the sauce to separate and lose its creamy consistency.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, this is my preferred way to enjoy Shake Shack sauce since it tastes even better after chilling for a few hours. The flavors deepen and blend together, making it more balanced and restaurant-quality. Make it a day ahead for meal prep or cookouts — it’s a great time-saver for burger night.

Can I use sweet pickles instead of dill?

You can, but it will change the flavor profile. Sweet pickles make the sauce taste closer to a Big Mac-style sauce — slightly sweeter and less tangy. If you prefer a sharper, more traditional ShackSauce flavor, stick with dill pickles and a touch of brine for acidity.

Can I use Shake Shack sauce as a dressing or dip?

Absolutely! If you want to do this, thin it out with 1–2 teaspoons of milk, buttermilk, or pickle juice to turn it into a creamy, tangy dressing for burger bowls, salads, or slaws.

My Final Thoughts

This copycat Shake Shack sauce is rich, creamy, and tangy, and it elevates anything you put it on. It’s everything you want in a burger sauce—simple ingredients, quick to make, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re recreating Shake Shack burgers at home or just want the ultimate dip for fries, this sauce delivers every time. Give it a try and leave me a comment and review below. I'd love to hear how it turned out for you and what you think! 

Copycat Sauce Recipes To Try Next

• McDonald's gold sauce
• McDonald's breakfast sauce
• Popeye's sweet heat sauce
• Chick-Fil-A honey roasted BBQ
• A1 sauce