Hellmann’s classic burger sauce and Big Mac sauce are similar ranch-style sauces that are commonly used as condiments on burgers and sandwiches. While they share some key ingredients, there are also some differences in their flavor profiles.
Main Similarities
Here are the main similarities between Hellmann’s classic burger sauce and Big Mac sauce:
- Both are creamy, tangy sauces with a ranch-like flavor
- Main ingredients in both sauces are mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, relish, garlic, onion, vinegar
- They have a creamy texture and pale orange color
- Designed to complement the flavors of burgers, fries, chicken sandwiches, etc.
- Offer a cool, rich contrast to hot and juicy burger patties
Main Differences
While they are similar, there are some key differences between the two sauces:
| Hellmann’s Burger Sauce | Big Mac Sauce |
|---|---|
| Sweeter, more honey mustard flavor | More tangy with distinctive pickle relish flavor |
| Higher proportion of mayonnaise | Higher proportion of mustard |
| Milder garlic flavor | More pronounced garlic flavor |
| Thinner, more pourable consistency | Thicker, more spreadable consistency |
Ingredients Comparison
Here is a breakdown of the main ingredients in each sauce:
| Hellmann’s Burger Sauce | Big Mac Sauce |
|---|---|
| Soybean oil, water, distilled vinegar, egg yolks, high fructose corn syrup, onion, mustard flour, salt, honey, potassium sorbate, lemon juice concentrate, spice, dried garlic, natural flavor, calcium disodium EDTA. | Soybean oil, pickle relish [diced pickles, high fructose corn syrup, sugar, vinegar, salt, calcium chloride, xanthan gum, potassium sorbate, spice extractives, polysorbate 80], water, egg yolks, vinegar, lemon juice concentrate, salt, sugar, spices, onion*, mustard flour, garlic*, paprika, sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate, yeast extract, paprika extract, dried garlic. |
As you can see, while they share main ingredients like egg yolk, onion, garlic, vinegar, and mustard, the proportions differ, giving each sauce its unique flavor and consistency.
Nutrition Facts
Here is a nutritional comparison of Hellmann’s burger sauce and Big Mac sauce (per 2 tbsp serving):
| Nutrient | Hellmann’s Burger Sauce | Big Mac Sauce |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 110 | 100 |
| Total Fat | 11g | 10g |
| Sodium | 340mg | 205mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 4g | 2g |
| Sugars | 3g | 1g |
| Protein | 0g | 0g |
As you can see, Hellmann’s contains slightly more calories, fat, and sodium compared to Big Mac sauce. Big Mac sauce is lower in carbohydrates and added sugars.
Taste Test Comparisons
When doing a side-by-side taste test, Hellmann’s burger sauce and Big Mac sauce have these differences:
- Hellmann’s has a sweeter, honey mustard-like flavor
- Big Mac sauce tastes more tangy and savory, with more pronounced pickle relish flavor
- Hellmann’s is smoother, while Big Mac sauce has a bit more texture from relish chunks
- Hellmann’s coats the tongue, while Big Mac has a sharper mustard bite
- Big Mac sauce has more robust garlic notes
- Hellmann’s is thinner and pours easily, Big Mac sauce is thicker and sticks to food
Overall, while there are some obvious similarities, side-by-side tasting shows Hellmann’s and Big Mac sauce have distinct flavors and textures.
Which is Better?
Whether Hellmann’s or Big Mac sauce tastes better is ultimately a subjective personal preference:
- Those who prefer a sweeter, smoother sauce may enjoy Hellmann’s more
- People who like tangy pickle flavor and a thicker texture may prefer Big Mac sauce
- Hellmann’s versatility makes it easy to use on burgers, sandwiches, chicken, fries, etc.
- Big Mac sauce is designed specifically to complement McDonald’s burgers
- Some may find Hellmann’s more refreshing, while Big Mac sauce is richer
- Both make ideal condiments for burgers, sandwiches, dipping fries and nuggets
The best option comes down to individual taste preferences for flavor, texture, purpose, and versatility.
Homemade Version Taste and Cost Comparison
You can find recipes online to make homemade versions of both Big Mac sauce and Hellmann’s burger sauce. Here’s how they may compare:
- Homemade Hellmann’s-style sauce is easier, only requiring common ingredients like mayo, mustard, relish, honey
- Homemade Big Mac sauce requires more specialty ingredients like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika
- Both homemade versions can be tailored to personal tastes
- DIY Big Mac sauce takes more effort but may taste more authentic
- Homemade costs a fraction compared to buying ready-made ($2-3 vs. $4-5 per bottle)
- Results can vary widely depending on recipe and ingredients used
Overall, homemade options are cheaper but take more work. Store-bought is pricier but offers consistent, reliable flavor.
Conclusion
In summary, while Hellmann’s classic burger sauce and Big Mac sauce share some key traits, they have distinct differences in ingredients, nutrition, flavor, texture and best uses. Hellmann’s burger sauce has a sweeter honey mustard profile, while Big Mac sauce is tangier with a more pronounced pickle relish taste. Big Mac sauce is designed specifically to complement McDonald’s burgers, while Hellmann’s is more versatile. Choosing between the two sauces ultimately comes down to personal preferences. Both can add flavor and moisture to burgers, sandwiches, fries and more.