Homemade Tartar Sauce

There’s something about having the perfect sauce that takes a good meal and makes it unforgettable. This homemade tartar sauce has quickly become a staple in my kitchen, and let me tell you why. I decided to give this recipe a try on a whim, after yet another store-bought jar left me underwhelmed. I was making my family’s favorite fish fry dinner, and I knew we needed something creamy, zesty, and just a little tangy to round it out.

From the very first taste, I knew we had a winner. My husband dipped his first crispy fish fillet into the sauce, looked at me, and said, “We’re never buying tartar sauce again.” My kids, who normally raise their noses at anything with too much “green stuff,” were dunking their fish sticks, asking for more. This sauce is fresh, tangy, and tastes like love in a little ramekin.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to whip up with simple pantry staples, and it’s ready in just minutes. The creamy mayo combined with the crunch of pickles and the brightness of lemon juice makes it perfect for busy weeknights or even special occasions. It elevates not just fish but chicken tenders, fries, and even veggie sticks. If you’re looking for that little extra touch to make your meal memorable, this tartar sauce is the way to go. Trust me, your family will thank you!

Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe

Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! This tartar sauce tastes even better when made ahead of time. The flavors meld together beautifully if it sits in the fridge for at least an hour before serving.

How Long Does It Last in the Refrigerator?

Stored in an airtight container, this tartar sauce will stay fresh for up to 7 days.

Can I Use Fresh Dill Instead of Dried?

Yes! Fresh dill gives it a vibrant flavor. Use 1 tablespoon of fresh dill if substituting for dried.

Is There a Substitute for Pickles?

If you don’t have pickles on hand, capers make a great substitute for a salty, briny punch.

What You Need to Make Homemade Tartar Sauce

Ingredients:

1 cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons finely chopped dill pickles

1 tablespoon pickle juice or white vinegar

1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 teaspoon dried dill (or 1 tablespoon fresh dill)

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon sugar (optional)

1 tablespoon finely chopped parsley (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Special Tools:

Mixing bowl

Whisk or spoon for stirring

Airtight container for storage

How to Make Homemade Tartar Sauce

Chop the Pickles: Finely chop your dill pickles so they add texture without being too chunky.

Mix the Ingredients: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, chopped pickles, pickle juice, lemon juice, dried dill, Dijon mustard, and sugar (if using).

Stir Well: Whisk or stir everything together until well combined.

Season to Taste: Add salt and pepper to your liking. If you like a bit of freshness, mix in the finely chopped parsley.

Chill: For the best flavor, let the sauce chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Serve and Enjoy: Pair with your favorite fried fish, chicken tenders, or even roasted vegetables.

Tips for Making the Best Homemade Tartar Sauce

Use High-Quality Mayo: A good-quality mayonnaise makes all the difference. Consider using a brand like Hellmann’s or Duke’s for the creamiest result.

Add Some Zing: For a little extra kick, add a teaspoon of horseradish or a dash of hot sauce.

Make It Your Own: If you prefer a sweeter tartar sauce, increase the sugar slightly or add a teaspoon of sweet relish.

Texture Matters: For a smoother sauce, pulse the ingredients in a food processor briefly, but don’t overdo it—you want some texture!

Reader Reviews

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “This sauce was perfect for our Friday fish fry! So easy to make, and my family loved it. Will never go back to store-bought.” – Kelly M.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Delicious and creamy! I added fresh dill instead of dried, and it made such a difference. Next time, I might add a bit of garlic.” – Laura T.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Great for busy nights! Whipped this up in 5 minutes, and it tasted amazing with our fish sticks. Even my picky kids approved!” – Megan R.

⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Good, but I like my tartar sauce a bit sweeter. I’ll add more sugar or some sweet relish next time.” – James P.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “The best tartar sauce I’ve ever made! Fresh, tangy, and perfectly creamy. A keeper!” – Sarah W.

Printable Recipe

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If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!

I believe that the best recipes are the ones that bring joy to our families and friends. If you loved this homemade tartar sauce, please share it with others! Whether it’s on Pinterest, Facebook, or just with a neighbor, spreading the love of good food makes every meal special. Tag me if you try it—I’d love to hear how your family enjoyed it!