Have you ever planned to make fish sticks, crab cakes, or a crispy fish sandwich, only to realize you're completely out of tartar sauce? Before making a last minute trip to the grocery store, try this easy homemade version instead.
This 3 Ingredient Tartar Sauce comes together in just 2 minutes using simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Made with mayonnaise, chopped pickles or relish, and a splash of pickle juice, it's creamy, tangy, and tastes much fresher than the store bought version. Even better, you can easily adjust the flavor to make it just the way you like it.
Once you try this homemade version, you'll never want to buy store bought tartar sauce again.
This creamy and tangy sauce is commonly served with seafood dishes such as fish and chips, shrimp, or crab cakes. It is a versatile accompaniment that adds a burst of flavor to any meal.
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Why You Will Like This Recipe
I have been making tartar sauce this way for a very long time and all I use is 3 ingredients. Like this recipe for 3-Ingredient Guacamole!
- Only three simple ingredients are required.
- Ready in less than 5 minutes.
- Creamy with the perfect balance of tangy flavor.
- Uses pantry staples that are easy to find.
- Great for seafood, sandwiches, and dipping.
- Easy to customize with extra herbs or seasonings.
These components come together to create a sauce that is rich, zesty, and refreshing. The creamy texture of the mayonnaise pairs perfectly with my Crispy Air Fryer Walleye, Air Fryer Crispy Fish Sandwich, Air Fryer Fish and Chips Healthy, or Pan Seared Lemon Pepper Walleye.
Some people also like to make their tartar sauce healthier by using Greek yogurt or light mayonnaise as a base. No matter how you choose to make it, tartar sauce is sure to enhance the flavors of your favorite seafood dishes.
Ingredients Needed
- Mayo - Mayonnaise creates the rich, creamy base for the sauce. Use your favorite full fat or light mayonnaise.
- Chopped dill pickles - I like to get the dill pickles that come in the clear containers. You can find them in the refrigerator sections at the grocery store.
- Pickle Juice - use this straight from the jar itself.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste)
- See the recipe card below for a full list of ingredients and measurements.
How to Make Homemade Tartar Sauce
Step 1: In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish (or chopped up pickles), and pickle juice, in a small bowl.
Step 2: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. (Optional)
Serve chilled with your favorite seafood dishes and enjoy!
Recipe Tip: Feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences. This homemade tartar sauce is sure to elevate your seafood dining experience with its tangy and creamy flavors.
Pro Tips for Tartar Sauce
- Use fresh lemon juice whenever possible for the brightest flavor.
- Chill the sauce before serving for the best taste.
- If you prefer a smoother tartar sauce, finely chop the pickle relish before mixing.
- Add a pinch of black pepper for a little extra flavor.
- Stir well before serving if the sauce has been refrigerated.
- Double the recipe if serving a crowd or making fish for the whole family.
How to Elevate Tartar Sauce
While the classic 3-ingredient base delivers a quick, reliable fix in a pinch, a few tiny tweaks can easily take this homemade tartar sauce from basic to gourmet. Because you are starting with a simple foundation, it is the ultimate blank canvas to build on.
Here are a few effortless ways to elevate the flavor profile:
- Add a Bright Citrus Zing: A tiny squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a splash of lemon zest cuts straight through the richness of the mayo and brightens the entire sauce.
- Layer in Fresh Herbs: Stir in a pinch of dried dill, fresh chopped parsley, or chives for that authentic, restaurant-style finish.
- Introduce a Hint of Depth: A small dash of Dijon mustard or a tiny drop of Worcestershire sauce adds an incredible layer of savory complexity.
Storage
Store leftover tartar sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Always use a clean spoon when serving to help keep the sauce fresh.
This recipe is not suitable for freezing because mayonnaise can separate after thawing, resulting in a watery texture.
Serving Suggestions
This homemade tartar sauce pairs well with many seafood favorites.
- Fish sticks
- Air Fryer Filet O Fish (Mcdonald's Copycat)
- Air Fryer Fish and Chips
- Fried shrimp
- Air Fryer Crab Cakes
- Salmon patties
- Fish tacos
- French fries
- Air fryer fish fillets
- Homemade fish and chips
It also works as a spread for seafood sandwiches or wraps and makes a delicious dipping sauce for roasted vegetables.
Recipe Faqs
Yes. Homemade tartar sauce can be made a day in advance. In fact, it often tastes even better after chilling because the flavors have time to blend together.
Absolutely. Dill pickle relish creates a more savory tartar sauce with a brighter pickle flavor. Choose whichever version you prefer.
Other Recipes to Try
If you tried this 3 Ingredient Tartar Sauce orany other recipe on my website, please please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how you go in the 📝 comments below. I love hearing from you! Follow along on Tiktok @jennarecipediaries
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3 Ingredient Tartar Sauce
- Prep Time: 5 min
- Cook Time: 2 min
- Total Time: 7 min
- Yield: 4 1x
- Category: Easy
- Method: Mix
- Cuisine: American
Description
Tartar sauce is a classic condiment that has been enjoyed for centuries and this particular recipe only uses 3 easy ingredients that you probably have on hand!
Ingredients
- ½ cup mayo
- 2 tablespoons chopped dill pickles
- 1 tablespoon of Pickle Juice
- Salt and Pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, and pickle juice, in a small bowl.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve chilled with your favorite seafood dishes and enjoy!
Notes
This is the only base you need for tartar sauce, but if you want to add more ingredients go ahead!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 223
- Sugar: 1
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 9G
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 0g
Jenna says
Right?! You don't need many ingredients to make Tartar sauce. I think I know which pickles you're talking about.
Rebecca Griner says
Thank you! I just want this basic food service type tartar sauce, none of the fancy add ins, they ruin it for me.. Used Hellmans extra heavy mayo since it is the food service weight and doesn't thin out too much, You could add in some egg yolks to regular mayo if you need more emulsifier for the pickle juice, I am partial to Claussen Kosher dills minced. I didn't use sweet pickles, but I just needed you to push me not to over think it and all the recipes on line make a silly mess of basic tartar sauce. I have folowed them ane made some really bad tartar sauce. Less is more,.
Jennifer says
This one is so easy, thanks!