Picture this, it’s burger night and you’re super hyped, but then, one bite in it and it’s like ‘meh’. Something’s missing, right? That’s exactly how I felt until I discovered the magic of Michigan’s famous olive burger sauce. And no lie–it changed everything.
Here’s the fun part: it’s actually been around for decades, especially popular in Michigan burger joints where folks swear by this combo of mayo and green olives. Sounds simple, but the flavor is next level.
Olives aren’t just tasty, they are heart-healthy too! Full of antioxidants and healthy fats, they give your burger a boost without guilt. So you’re not just making something delicious–you’re sneaking in a lil’ wellness too. The best part? No chef skills required. You just need a few pantry staples and a whisk, and boom, you’re about to sauce it like a pro.
Let’s do this.

What Is a Good Burger Sauce?
We all love a juicy burger, but what about sauce? Traditional condiments like mayo, ketchup, and mustard get the job done, but do they make your taste buds dance? Not really. Enter the olive burger sauce, that is creamy, tangy, salty, and just briny enough to make you raise your eyebrows.
The classic olive relish for burgers isn’t just a topping, it’s a transformation. Inspired by Michigan’s famous creation, this savory olive burger dressing brings flavor, flair, and a tiny bit of attitude to your plate. Whether you’re team beef, chicken, or veggie, this green olive burger sauce fits right in.
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What Ingredients Do You Need?
1. Chop the olives (½ cup, finely chopped):
These bring a briny, tangy kick with bursts of salty flavor in every bite. Their firm texture adds chewiness, making the sauce feel substantial and rich.
2.Mayonnaise(¾ cup):
Acts as the smooth, creamy base that carries all the bold flavors. It balances the acidity of the olives and lemon juice, adding richness without overpowering the blend.
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3.Dijon Mustard(1 tbsp):
Adds subtle heat and complexity. It’s sharp yet smooth flavor layers beautifully with the creamy base and briny olives.
4.Lemon juice(1 tsp, Freshly squeezed):
This is the zing that wakes up all other flavors like a morning coffee–but for your sauce. Fresh is best.
5.Garlic powder(½ tsp):
Offers a warm, earthy depth without the pungency of raw garlic. It rounds out the flavor and adds a comforting background note.
6.Onion powder(½ tsp):
It doesn’t cry like real onions, but brings a sweet-savory punch that ties it all together like the friend who always shows up on time.
7.Black pepper(to taste):
The drama you want in your life. Adds a soft kick and brings out the depth without stealing the spotlight.
8.Salt(optional):
Use with caution–your olives already came salty enough to star in a TikTok roast. But if needed, sprinkle wisely.
How to Make Olive Burger Sauce at Home?
Step: Chop the Olives
Go fine here–no one wants a giant olive chunk stealing the spotlight. Grab your sharpest knife and get to dicing. We’re aiming for flavor confetti–not olive mush.
Step 2: Whisk the Base
In a mixing bowl, combine mayo, Dijon, lemon juice, garlic, and onion powder. Pretend you’re in a cooking show and give it a good whisk till creamy and dreamy. This is where the magic starts–your spoon should practically slide through happiness.
Step 3: Fold in the Olives
Gently stir those green beauties in like they’re VIP guests arriving fashionably late. This is the moment the sauce transforms from “meh” to “mmm!”
Step 4: Taste and Fine-Tune
Take a tiny spoonful–yes, taste testing is a part of the job. Add black pepper or a tiny pinch of salt if needed. Trust your taste buds -they’re the real executive chefs here.
Step 5: Let It Chill
Pop the sauce into the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Not only does it thicken beautifully, but the flavors also get a chance to marry and mingle.
Tips for a Crave-Worthy Olive Burger Sauce
- Store it smart: Made too much? Store your leftover sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate it. It’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days.
- Switch it up like a chef: Want a twist? Add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy version or swap green olives with kalamata for a richer, deeper flavor. Feeling bold? A spoonful of olive tapenade adds a gourmet edge in seconds.
- Double the batch, thank yourself later: This sauce disappears fast. Whether you’re prepping burgers for a crowd or planning ahead, making a bigger batch will save you time and disappointments later.
- Don’t just stop at burgers: Who said burgers get to have all the fun? Spread it on wraps, dunk your fries in it, drizzle it over grilled veggies, or even use it as a sandwich base sauce.
- Make it fancy, if you wish: Hosting guests? Serve it in a cute bowl with a sprinkle of chopped olives on top for that “Pinterest-worthy” look. They’ll think you bought it from a gourmet deli.
- Make it yours: Add a little grated Parmesan or a splash of pickle juice for that secret chef flex.

Olive Burger Sauce
Ingredients
- 1/2 Cup Green Olives Finely chopped
- 1 Tbsp Mayonnaise
- 1 Tsp Dijon Mustard
- 1/2 Tsp Lemon Juice
- 1/2 Tsp Garlic Powder
- 1/2 Tsp Onion Powder
- A Pinch Salt
- A Pinch Black Pepper
Instructions
- Finely chopped the green olives to add a bold, brinny texture.
- Whisk mayo, Dijon, lemon juice and spices into a smooth base.
- Gently mix in the chopped olives until well combined.
- Season with black pepper and salt to taste.
- Chill for 30 minutes to let all the flavors blend perfectly. No need to cook.
Nutrition
Conclusion
Let’s be real–life is too short for boring burgers. This homemade olive burger sauce is creamy, zingy, and gives major flavor with zero effort. Perfect for when you wanna impress friends or just treat yourself to something better than average.
With every spoonful, you’re getting Michigan-style comfort, a tiny health boost from the olive, and a whole lot of yum. Make it once, you’ll want it on everything. Grab your ingredients, throw on your apron, and get saucy; your burger night deserves a glow-up.
FAQs
What is Olive Burger Sauce?
It’s a creamy spread made with chopped green olives, mayo, and a few zesty seasonings. This Michigan olive burger gem brings salt, tang, and boldness to every bite.
What Are the Best Burgers to Pair With Olive Sauce?
Classic grilled beef burgers, Spicy turkey burgers, and Black bean or lentil patties are the best options.
How to Store Homemade Olive Sauce?
Keep it sealed in the fridge. Stir before using, and it’s good for up to 5 days.