The Best Homemade Tartar Sauce Recipe – Creamy, Zesty & Flavor-Packed
Tartar sauce is the classic creamy condiment we often associate with fried fish, crispy seafood platters, and golden fries. But what if we told you that making tartar sauce at home is not only incredibly easy, but it also tastes infinitely better than anything in a jar?
This tartar sauce recipe delivers that perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and zesty, with a slight crunch from pickles and just enough acidity to cut through fried foods. Once you taste the homemade version, you’ll never go back to the store-bought one.
Made with simple pantry staples like mayonnaise, pickles, lemon juice, and herbs, this sauce comes together in under 10 minutes and can be customized to match your flavor preferences. Whether you’re serving it with crispy fish and chips, slathering it on a fish sandwich, or using it as a dip for fries, this recipe is your go-to!
🍽️ Recipe Preparation Equipment
To make the best homemade tartar sauce, gather the following kitchen tools:
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon for stirring
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons
- Citrus juicer (optional)
- Airtight container for storage
🛒 Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for a classic, restaurant-style tartar sauce:
- 1 cup mayonnaise (preferably full-fat for richness)
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped dill pickles or relish
- 1 tablespoon capers, drained and chopped (optional but recommended)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard or yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for added brightness)
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 tablespoon minced shallots or red onion
- ½ teaspoon hot sauce for a spicy kick
- A dash of Worcestershire sauce for depth
👨🍳 How to Make Easy Tartar Sauce?
Step 1: Chop the Pickles and Capers
Use a sharp knife to finely chop the dill pickles and capers. The goal is to create small, even pieces that blend well into the sauce and give it that signature tang and crunch.
Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients
In a small mixing bowl, add 1 cup of mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Add Flavor and Texture
Stir in the chopped pickles, capers, parsley, lemon zest, and seasoning (garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper). Mix everything until well combined.
Step 4: Adjust to Taste
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more lemon juice for brightness, or a pinch of sugar if you prefer a sweeter tartar sauce. If you like a spicier version, stir in a few dashes of hot sauce.
Step 5: Chill and Let Flavors Meld
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and intensify.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Use the tartar sauce as a dip, condiment, or sandwich spread. It pairs wonderfully with fried fish, shrimp, chicken tenders, french fries, and more!
🔄 Variations
Looking to add your personal twist? Try these tartar sauce variations:
- Sweet Tartar Sauce – Use sweet relish instead of dill pickles.
- Spicy Tartar Sauce – Add chopped jalapeños, cayenne, or hot sauce.
- Herb-Loaded Version – Stir in chopped dill, chives, or tarragon.
- Avocado Tartar Sauce – Blend in ½ ripe avocado for a creamy, green variation.
- Greek Yogurt Version – Replace some or all of the mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier sauce.
🍳 Cooking Note
Use good-quality mayonnaise as the base—homemade or store-bought—because it directly affects the sauce’s taste and texture. For best flavor, always let the tartar sauce sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Tartar sauce is incredibly versatile. Serve it with:
- Fish and chips
- Fried shrimp or grilled prawns
- Crab cakes
- Salmon patties
- Fish sandwiches
- Grilled or fried chicken
- French fries
- Fried zucchini or mushrooms
- Clam strips or oysters
It also works wonderfully as a spread for wraps, burgers, and sliders.
💡 Helpful Tips
- Consistency control: If the sauce is too thick, thin it with a splash of lemon juice or pickle juice.
- Crunch factor: Finely chop your pickles and onions to avoid overly chunky texture.
- Flavor layering: Add ingredients gradually and taste as you go.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week in the fridge.
- Fresh herbs make a noticeable difference. Use them over dried when possible.
⭐ Tips for the Best Tartar Sauce
- Always use fresh lemon juice – Bottled juice lacks the brightness and flavor.
- Let it rest – Flavor improves after chilling. Make it ahead for best results.
- Balance your acid and salt – Adjust lemon juice and seasoning to match your main dish.
- Don’t skip the capers – They add a briny depth that enhances the sauce.
- Use full-fat mayonnaise – For richness and that classic tartar mouthfeel.
⏱️ Prep Time:
10 minutes
⏱️ Cooking Time:
0 minutes
⏱️ Total Time:
10 minutes (+ 30 mins resting time recommended)
🥗 Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 2 Tbsp Approx.)
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 0.3g
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 1.5g
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 180mg
(Values will vary based on brand of ingredients used.)
❓ FAQs
Q: Can I freeze tartar sauce?
A: No. Because of the mayonnaise base, freezing causes separation and an undesirable texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
Q: How long does homemade tartar sauce last in the fridge?
A: It will stay good for 5 to 7 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Q: Can I make tartar sauce without mayonnaise?
A: Yes! You can substitute with Greek yogurt, sour cream, or even vegan mayo alternatives.
Q: What can I use instead of capers?
A: If you don’t have capers, you can omit them or use a splash of pickle juice or chopped olives for briny flavor.
Q: Is tartar sauce gluten-free?
A: Yes, when using gluten-free mayonnaise and ingredients, it is naturally gluten-free. Always check product labels.
✅ Conclusion
There’s something incredibly satisfying about making your own homemade tartar sauce. It’s rich, tangy, and endlessly customizable—making it the perfect companion to seafood, fried foods, and even grilled dishes. With a few everyday ingredients, you can whip up a condiment that far surpasses anything you’ll find in a store-bought bottle.
Whether you like it sharp and zesty or smooth and mellow, this recipe can be tailored to your taste, making it a must-have in your culinary arsenal. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll never reach for the jarred version again
