Once you make Homemade Tartar Sauce, you’ll never go back to store-bought! This creamy, tangy, and slightly zesty sauce is the perfect companion for crispy fish, seafood, and even fries. Made with just a handful of pantry staples, it comes together in minutes and tastes so much fresher than anything from a jar. Trust me—once you try it, you’ll want to keep a jar in your fridge at all times!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Incredibly Fresh: No preservatives, just real, vibrant flavors.
Quick & Easy: Takes only 5 minutes to make!
Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste.
Better Than Store-Bought: Creamier, tangier, and way more delicious.
Versatile: Perfect for fish, seafood, sandwiches, and more.
Ingredients in Homemade Tartar Sauce
Mayonnaise: The creamy base that makes this sauce rich and smooth.
Pickles or Relish: Adds the signature tangy crunch.
Lemon Juice: Brightens up the flavors with a fresh citrus kick.
Dijon Mustard: A touch of spice for extra depth.
Capers: Optional, but they add a delicious briny bite.
Fresh Herbs: Dill and parsley bring a burst of freshness.
Salt & Pepper: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card below.)
Instructions
Mix the Base: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, pickles (or relish), and lemon juice. Stir until well blended.
Add the Flavor: Mix in Dijon mustard, capers, and fresh herbs. Stir to combine.
Season to Taste: Add salt and pepper, adjusting to your preference.
Chill & Serve: Let the tartar sauce sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
How to Serve Homemade Tartar Sauce
With Fried Fish: The ultimate dipping sauce for crispy fish fillets.
On Seafood Sandwiches: Slather it onto a fish sandwich or shrimp po’ boy.
As a Dip: Perfect for fries, onion rings, or even raw veggies.
With Crab Cakes: A classic pairing for homemade crab cakes.
On Grilled Fish: Adds a creamy, zesty contrast to grilled seafood.
Additional Tips
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and herbs make all the difference.
Let It Rest: Chilling for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavors.
Make It Healthier: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a lighter version.
Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
Spice It Up: Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne for a little heat.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
A1: Yes! It actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours.
Q2: What type of pickles work best?
A2: Dill pickles give the best classic tartar sauce flavor.
Q3: Can I use sweet relish instead of pickles?
A3: Absolutely! It will add a sweeter touch.
Q4: How long does homemade tartar sauce last?
A4: Store it in the fridge for up to one week.
Q5: Can I freeze tartar sauce?
A5: Not recommended—it loses its creamy texture when thawed.
Q6: What’s the best way to thicken tartar sauce?
A6: If it’s too thin, add a little more mayo or a touch of sour cream.
Q7: Can I make this without mayo?
A7: Yes! Substitute with Greek yogurt or sour cream.
Q8: Is tartar sauce keto-friendly?
A8: Yes, just make sure your pickles and mayo are sugar-free.
Q9: What other herbs can I use?
A9: Try chives or tarragon for a unique twist.
Q10: Can I add garlic?
A10: A small amount of minced garlic or garlic powder adds great flavor!
Final Thoughts
Making Homemade Tartar Sauce is so easy and so worth it! Whether you’re serving up fish and chips, shrimp, or even using it as a sandwich spread, this creamy, zesty sauce is a total game-changer. Give it a try and let me know what you think—happy dipping!
Print
Homemade Tartar Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 5-7 minutes
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Condiment
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Homemade Tartar Sauce is creamy, tangy, and far better than store-bought! Made with simple ingredients like mayonnaise, dill pickles, and fresh lemon juice, it’s the perfect seafood dip or sandwich spread. Ready in just 5 minutes!
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise (or light mayo/Miracle Whip)
- 1 cup finely chopped dill pickles
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp fresh or dried dill
- 1 tsp honey
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, dill, honey, and black pepper until combined.
- Stir in the chopped dill pickles and mix well.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
- Transfer to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate for up to 1 week.
Notes
- Makes 1.5 cups (serving size: 2 tbsp)
- Substitute ½ cup Miracle Whip + ½ cup Greek yogurt for a tangier version.
- Use pickle relish instead of chopped dill pickles for convenience.
- Try sweet pickles for a milder flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tbsp
- Calories: 45
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 4.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 3mg