When fish night rolls around, nothing beats a batch of homemade tartar sauce. It’s fresh, creamy, and full of flavor—way better than anything you’ll find in a bottle. This simple sauce comes together in just minutes, and it instantly makes any seafood dinner feel extra special.
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I’ve been making this version of tartar sauce for years, and my family dips everything in it—crispy fish fillets, shrimp, salmon cakes, crab cakes, and even fries. Since everything is mixed in one bowl, it’s a quick win on busy nights. Plus, you can easily adjust it depending on your taste. Want it tangier? Add extra lemon. Love herbs? Toss in a handful of fresh dill. It’s one of those sauces that makes your whole meal pop.
Table of contents
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Tartar Sauce
This sauce is:
- Creamy and full of flavor
- Made with everyday pantry ingredients
- Ready in 5 minutes
- Kid-friendly and family-approved
- Perfect for fish, shrimp, crab cakes, and more
- Easy to customize to your taste
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a few simple ingredients to create this ridiculicious tartar sauce at home:
- Mayonnaise
- Sweet relish or diced dill pickles
- Lemon juice
- Minced onion
- Dijon mustard
- Worcestershire sauce
- Garlic powder
- Fresh dill or parsley
- Salt and pepper
How to Make Homemade Tartar Sauce
Making this sauce is quick and easy:
- Add the mayo, relish, onion, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder to a bowl.
- Stir until the mixture becomes smooth and well combined.
- Fold in fresh herbs if you’re using them.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes so the flavors come together beautifully. There’s nothing like homemade tartar sauce once it has chilled.
Helpful Tips
- Chill before serving: Even 20–30 minutes makes the flavor pop.
- Make it tangy: Add more lemon juice for extra brightness.
- Use dill pickles: If you like it less sweet, swap sweet relish for dill.
- Add capers: They bring a restaurant-style boost.
FAQ
Can I make this tartar sauce ahead of time?
Yes! This homemade tartar sauce keeps beautifully. Make it up to 3 days in advance and store it in the fridge.
What does tartar sauce go well with?
It’s amazing with fried fish, baked fish, salmon patties, crab cakes, shrimp, roasted potatoes, or even fries. Seafood simply loves this homemade sauce.
Can I lighten this recipe?
Absolutely. You can swap part of the mayo for Greek yogurt or use a light mayo to cut down on richness while keeping it creamy.
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Homemade Tartar Sauce
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 Tbsp sweet relish or diced dill pickles
- 1 Tbsp minced onion or ½ Tbsp onion powder
- 1 Tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 Tbsp fresh dill or parsley minced (optional)
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Add the mayonnaise, relish, minced onion, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder to a small mixing bowl.
- Stir until the sauce becomes creamy and well blended.
- Fold in fresh dill or parsley if desired.
- Taste and adjust with salt and pepper.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving so the flavors meld together.
Notes
Notes
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Add chopped capers for extra depth and a gourmet flavor.
- Use dill relish for a less sweet version.