Copycat McDonald’s Special Edition Gold Sauce Recipe

What Is McDonald’s Special Edition Gold Sauce?

McDonald’s Special Edition Gold Sauce is a limited-time condiment that tastes like a richer, spicier version of Big Mac sauce. It’s creamy, tangy, slightly sweet, and perfect for burgers, fries, and chicken sandwiches. Many fans compare it to Thousand Island dressing, but with a golden twist.

When McDonald’s dropped this sauce, it became an instant obsession. Some people hunted for bottles online, while others tried recreating it at home. That’s where this copycat recipe comes in; it saves you money, keeps things fresh, and lets you enjoy the flavor anytime.

Copycat McDonald’s Special Edition Gold Sauce Ingredients

Making the sauce at home is easier than you think. You don’t need rare ingredients; just everyday pantry staples.

Ingredients (for about 1 cup):

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp yellow mustard
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (for that McDonald’s Dijon Sauce flavor)
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 2 tbsp sweet pickle relish
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Pinch of sugar
• 1 tbsp white vinegar

Tip: If you want the “golden” shade, add a little turmeric or curry powder. It doesn’t just boost color, it adds warmth too.

How to Make McDonald’s Gold Sauce at Home

To make Copycat McDonald’s Gold Sauce, whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, ketchup, relish, spices, and vinegar in a bowl until smooth. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors blend.

That’s really it. No complicated steps, no fancy tools. I first tried it with just mayo and mustard, and honestly, it tasted flat. Once I added the relish and smoked paprika, the flavor popped—it felt like the real deal.

The Best Big Mac Sauce Recipe Variations

Everyone swears they have the best Big Mac sauce recipe. Truth is, there’s no single right way, only what works for your taste buds.

• Spicy Gold Sauce: Add hot sauce or cayenne.
• Smoky Version: Swap smoked paprika with chipotle powder.
• Thousand Island Style: Add more ketchup and reduce mustard for a sweeter balance.

In my kitchen, the spicy version always wins. It gives burgers and chicken wraps a fast-food kick without overpowering the rest of the meal.

Big Mac Sauce vs Thousand Island Dressing

Big Mac sauce and Thousand Island dressing are similar but not the same. Big Mac sauce uses mustard and paprika for a tangier, smokier taste, while Thousand Island relies on ketchup for a sweeter flavor.

This is why you can’t just replace one with the other and expect the same results. Thousand Island will do in a pinch, but if you want that “McDonald’s bite,” mustard is non-negotiable.

Where to Buy Big Mac Sauce (Bottles & Online Options)

Yes, you can buy Big Mac sauce in a bottle, but it’s not always easy to find.

• In stores: Limited edition bottles sometimes appear at Walmart, Target, or specialty grocery stores.
• Online: Look for “Big Mac Sauce for sale” on Amazon or eBay. Just check reviews to avoid overpriced fakes.
• Alternatives: Heinz and Great Value sell “special burger sauces” that are close but not exact.

Personally, I prefer homemade. Bottles can be fun, but nothing beats the fresh tang of a sauce you just whisked up in your own kitchen.

Storage, Serving Ideas & Nutrition Facts

• Storage: Keep the sauce in an airtight jar in the fridge. It lasts 5–7 days.
• Serving Ideas: Classic Big Macs, chicken wraps, crispy fries, or even as a dipping sauce for nuggets.
• Nutrition (per 2 tbsp): ~90 calories, 8g fat, 3g carbs, 1g protein.

I once used leftover sauce as a salad dressing. Not traditional, but it turned a boring bowl of greens into something crave-worthy.

FAQs About McDonald’s Gold & Big Mac Sauce

Is Gold Sauce the same as Big Mac sauce?
No. Gold Sauce is a spicier, limited-edition twist, while Big Mac sauce is creamier and more balanced.

Can I substitute Thousand Island dressing?
You can, but it won’t taste identical. Thousand Island is sweeter and lacks the mustard kick.

How long does homemade sauce last?
Up to a week in the fridge if stored properly.

Can I buy McDonald’s Big Mac Sauce in a bottle?
Sometimes, but it’s limited. Online resellers often have it, though prices can be high.

What’s the best copycat Big Mac sauce recipe?
The one that balances mayo, mustard, relish, and paprika. My personal favorite is the spicy version, it nails the fast-food flavor.

Final Thoughts on Making McDonald’s Gold Sauce at Home

Copycat McDonald’s Special Edition Gold Sauce is proof that good things don’t need to be complicated. A few simple ingredients, a quick whisk, and you’ve got a sauce that beats store-bought bottles any day. Try it once, and you might just skip the drive-thru next time.