McDonald’s has welcomed back its Monopoly game and added new menu items to coincide with its return. But dozens of menu changes every year, the Big Mac burger remains a core part of the lineup. The McDonald’s Big Mac, second only to the chain’s signature chips in popularity, is a favourite for many, and it’s easy to see why.
Two 100% British beef patties nestled between three layers of sesame seed buns form the burger, which is topped with cheese, finely chopped onion, shredded lettuce, pickles, and the iconic secret Big Mac sauce. Yet few McDonald’s fans actually know what’s in the creamy, moreish sauce.
A former employee of the fast-food giant has now revealed the secret recipe by sharing his imitation version on TikTok.
In a video uploaded to his account, ex-McDonald’s corporate chef Mike Haracz unveiled the unexpected list of ingredients that create the renowned burger sauce.
Interestingly, there’s no ketchup in the tangy condiment, despite the pink colour.
Instead, the mayonnaise-based sauce derives its distinctive taste from a blend of Düsseldorf mustard and white wine vinegar.
Mike disclosed that the orange hue comes from a small amount of paprika, which serves as both a dye and a flavour enhancer.
Apart from mustard, vinegar, and paprika, the remaining ingredients are pretty standard.
The Big Mac sauce is concocted from a mix of mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, onion powder, granulated garlic, and white pepper.
According to Mike, these ingredients should be whisked together and left to rest for at least half an hour to create a thick sauce that closely resembles the one used in McDonald’s restaurants.
The former employee is adamant that this is the nearest one can get to the genuine recipe, and given the ingredients listed on McDonald’s website, it seems likely.
Interestingly, ketchup and other tomato-based products are not included in the list. Instead, a host of stabilisers, preservatives, and spices are used, which can be left out when recreating the sauce at home.
While the homemade version won’t have the same shelf life, it serves as a fantastic alternative for those wanting to rustle up a McDonald’s-inspired meal from the comfort of the kitchen.