Go Back

Homemade Tartar Sauce

This Tartar Sauce Recipe delivers tangy, creamy perfection with fresh ingredients you control, making it infinitely better than jarred versions.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Condiment, Dip
Cuisine: American, French
Calories: 50
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 1 cup mayonnaise (preferably Duke's or Hellmann's) Use quality mayonnaise, full-fat for best results.
  • 3 tablespoons dill pickle relish Drain well to avoid watery sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon capers, drained and chopped Finely chopped for better distribution.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice Fresh lemon brightens the sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard Adds tangy depth.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried) Fresh is preferred for brighter flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste Adjust seasoning as needed.
Optional Add-Ins
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce For spicy variation.
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped Adds freshness.
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce Enhances depth of flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon finely minced shallot

Method
 

Making the Sauce
  1. Spoon mayonnaise into a medium mixing bowl.
  2. Add dill pickle relish and stir to incorporate evenly.
  3. Add chopped capers and distribute throughout mixture.
  4. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and add Dijon mustard.
  5. Sprinkle in onion powder and garlic powder, stirring to mix.
  6. Chop fresh dill finely and fold into the mixture.
  7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  8. Refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For best flavor, chill overnight before serving. Adjust lemon juice and seasonings as per taste preferences.