In And Out Sauce Recipe Reddit: Iconic West Coast Spread for Burgers

There’s a reason this West Coast sauce has a cult following—it’s the perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and creamy that elevates any burger. This version captures that signature flavor without the mystery.

With just a handful of pantry staples and 5 minutes of mixing, you can recreate this iconic spread. The blend of mayo, ketchup, and a few key seasonings makes it foolproof and undeniably addictive.

Ingredients for In and Out Sauce Recipe Reddit

A handful of pantry staples creates this iconic West Coast spread every burger deserves.

The mayonnaise base is critical—Hellmann’s or Duke’s deliver the right creaminess without being overly sweet. Ketchup should be a classic brand like Heinz for that perfect tangy backbone. Most grocery stores carry all these ingredients in the condiment aisle. For the relish, look for sweet pickle relish with a fine chop to ensure smooth blending.

No yellow mustard? Dijon works at half the amount but adds more tang, so adjust sugar accordingly. Out of sweet relish? Finely diced bread-and-butter pickles plus a pinch of sugar mimics the flavor. The vinegar can be apple cider in a pinch (it’s slightly milder). If you’re watching sodium, reduce the salt by half—the ketchup and relish already contribute.

This keeps beautifully in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks—the flavors actually deepen over time. For longer storage, freeze in ice cube trays for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before using.

Step-by-Step Instructions for In And Out Spread

Master this classic condiment with precise technique and professional attention to detail.

Step 1: Combine the Base Components

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the 1 cup Mayonnaise and 0.5 cup Ketchup until fully incorporated. I use a silicone spatula for this, scraping the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure no pockets of plain mayonnaise or ketchup remain. The mixture should take on a uniform pale orange hue.

This base creates the creamy foundation that defines the spread. The full-fat mayonnaise provides the necessary richness, while the ketchup contributes its signature tomato sweetness and subtle tang.

Step 2: Incorporate the Tangy Elements

Add the 2 tbsp Yellow Mustard and 2 tbsp Sweet Relish to the bowl. The mustard introduces a mild sharpness that balances the sweetness, while the relish contributes finely chopped pickles that add texture and a vinegary note.

Fold these ingredients in gently but thoroughly, ensuring the relish is evenly distributed throughout the mixture. You should see small flecks of green from the relish suspended in the orange base, but no large clumps.

Step 3: Balance with Acid and Sweetness

Measure in the 1 tsp White Vinegar and 1 tsp Granulated Sugar. The vinegar brightens the overall flavor profile, cutting through the richness of the mayonnaise, while the sugar rounds out any sharp edges and enhances the natural sweetness of the ketchup and relish.

Stir these in completely until no grains of sugar remain visible. The mixture should now have a slightly glossy appearance and a well-balanced flavor that’s sweet, tangy, and creamy all at once.

Step 4: Add the Savory Depth

Sprinkle in the 0.5 tsp Garlic Powder, 0.5 tsp Onion Powder, 0.25 tsp Paprika, and 0.25 tsp Salt. These dry seasonings might seem subtle, but they’re crucial for adding complexity to the spread.

The garlic and onion powders provide a savory backbone, the paprika contributes a whisper of smokiness, and the salt ties all the flavors together. Fold these in until no dry spots remain, then taste and adjust if needed—though the original proportions are carefully calibrated.

Step 5: Rest and Develop Flavors

Transfer the completed spread to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before using. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and mature, with the vinegar and spices fully infusing the creamy base.

The spread will keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, though it’s so good you’ll likely use it all much sooner. Before each use, give it a quick stir as some separation may occur during storage. The finished product should have a smooth, spreadable consistency with a perfectly balanced sweet-tangy flavor that elevates any burger.

Storing and Reheating in and out sauce recipe reddit

Fridge Storage

Transfer your spread to an airtight container immediately after mixing. I use 8-ounce mason jars for easy scooping. Store in the fridge at 40°F or below for up to 2 weeks—the flavors actually improve after a day or two. ❄️

Freezer Storage

For longer storage, portion into ice cube trays (each cube holds about 2 tbsp). Freeze until solid, then transfer cubes to a freezer bag. This keeps well for up to 3 months without texture changes.

Thawing Method

Move frozen portions to the fridge overnight for gradual thawing. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause separation. Once thawed, give it a good stir before using.

Room Temperature Use

Let the spread sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving. This makes it easier to spread on burgers. I always keep a small jar in my fridge door for quick access.

Revival Tip

If separation occurs after storage, simply stir vigorously with a fork. For a creamier texture, add 1 tsp fresh mayonnaise and mix well. The original flavor remains intact. 💡

Frequently Asked Questions