Nothing beats the fresh, creamy taste of homemade tartar sauce! This recipe is thick, flavorful, and loaded with delicious bits of pickle and onion.
While we make this most often in the summer, we enjoy it all year long because it’s just that good! My family loves tartar sauce, but store-bought versions contain unhealthy ingredients. That’s why I created the Best Homemade Tartar Sauce recipe using clean, simple ingredients. It never lasts long in our house because it’s devoured so quickly! I always double the recipe so everyone can have plenty.
This was inspired by my Crispy Salmon Patties on this site, and pairs well with this Homemade Tartar Sauce.
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Ingredients for the Best Homemade Tartar Sauce
- Quality Mayonnaise – First, choose a mayo without seed oils to create a rich, creamy base with better-quality fats.
- Dill Pickles – Next, add these to provide the perfect tangy crunch and that classic tartar sauce flavor we all love.
- White Onion – Then, include this ingredient to add a bit of sharpness and texture. If you prefer a milder taste, swap for shallots instead.
- Dried or Fresh Dill – Additionally, this enhances the fresh, herby flavor of the sauce, making it even more delicious.
- Pickle Juice – Moreover, this ingredient boosts the tangy kick. If needed, you can substitute it with lemon juice or apple cider vinegar.
- Sugar – Balances the acidity. You can omit it or use monk fruit or honey instead.
- Pepper – Finally, add this for a subtle heat to round out the flavors, bringing everything together beautifully.
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
- Step 1:
Chop the dill pickles and onion, then set them aside in a bowl.
- Step 2: Add mayonnaise, dried dill, pickle juice, sugar, and pepper to the bowl. Stir everything together until well combined. Chill for at least 10 minutes to enhance the flavors
Hint: Fresh dill or dried dill both work well in this recipe! Be sure to double the measurement if using fresh dill.
Substitutions
- Vegan Version – Swap out the mayo for a cashew cream base to keep it dairy-free and plant-based. Try Love and Lemons Cashew Cream Recipe for a Vegan Version of mayonnaise!
Variations
Try these versions!
- Kid-Friendly Version – Chop the pickles and onions finely for a smoother texture that kids will enjoy.
- Spicy Version – Add a dash of horseradish, Dijon mustard, or pickled jalapeño for extra kick.
Equipment
No fancy equipment needed to make the Best Homemade Tartar Sauce recipe! You simply need a sharp knife and a cutting board for this delicious condiment.
Storage
Store the tartar sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for 5–7 days. Stir before using, and if it thickens too much, add a splash of lemon juice or pickle juice to thin it out.
Top Tip for the Best Homemade Tartar Sauce
For the best taste, let your tartar sauce chill in the fridge for at least 10 minutes up to 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Even just 5-10 minutes will make a difference if you're short on time!
FAQ
Yes! This tartar sauce tastes just as good when made in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it will stay fresh for about 5–7 days. Just give it a good stir before using. If it thickens, loosen it with a splash of lemon juice or pickle juice.
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The Best Homemade Tartar Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 C mayonnaise
- 1 C dill pickles - finely chopped
- 3 T white onion - finely chopped
- 1 t dill - dried or 2 t fresh dill
- 1 t pickle juice
- 1 t sugar
- ¼ t pepper
Instructions
- Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and stir well. Serve with salmon patties, fish, shrimp, hushpuppies, or as a veggie dip. Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
