Substitute for Tartar Sauce: 3 Smart Options
The best substitute for tartar sauce is Mayonnaise + Pickle Relish + Lemon Juice at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. There are 2 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Mayonnaise + Pickle Relish + Lemon Juice
Same amount (1:1)
Mayonnaise + Pickle Relish + Lemon Juice works as a substitute for tartar sauce in many recipes. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It is especially useful in sauces. If you are building the substitute from multiple ingredients, mix it fully before it goes into the recipe.
What are the other substitutes for tartar sauce?
Aioli + Pickle Juice + Minced Pickle
Same amount (1:1)
You can use Aioli + Pickle Juice + Minced Pickle in place of tartar sauce when needed. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It is especially useful in sauces. If you are building the substitute from multiple ingredients, mix it fully before it goes into the recipe.
Mayonnaise + Diced Pickles + Capers
Same amount (1:1)
You can use Mayonnaise + Diced Pickles + Capers in place of tartar sauce when needed. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It is especially useful in sauces. If you are building the substitute from multiple ingredients, mix it fully before it goes into the recipe.
What should you know before substituting tartar sauce?
Mayonnaise + Pickle Relish + Lemon Juice is the easiest starting point because it stays closest to tartar sauce in everyday cooking. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. Salt, sweetness, and acidity can swing quickly here, so make the swap and then fine-tune to taste.
How do you substitute tartar sauce in a recipe?
When a recipe calls for tartar sauce and you need an alternative, there are 3 tested substitutes available. Mayonnaise + Pickle Relish + Lemon Juice is the best overall replacement, used at a Same amount (1:1) ratio. The right substitute depends on the role tartar sauce plays in your recipe: whether it provides flavor, texture, moisture, or structure.
The best substitute for tartar sauce depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Mayonnaise + Pickle Relish + Lemon Juice (Same amount (1:1)), which works well for most recipes.
If you need a different option, Aioli + Pickle Juice + Minced Pickle (Same amount (1:1)) is another reliable choice. You can use Aioli + Pickle Juice + Minced Pickle in place of tartar sauce when needed. Use the same amount as the original ingredient. It is especially useful in sauces. If you are building the substitute from multiple ingredients, mix it fully before it goes into the recipe.
When substituting tartar sauce, consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe.
Substitution ratios verified against USDA FoodData Central and FoodSafety.gov. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for Tartar Sauce?
Mayonnaise + Pickle Relish + Lemon Juice is the best place to start for tartar sauce. Use a 1:1 swap and then adjust after tasting if the dish needs a little more intensity or balance.
How many substitutes are there for Tartar Sauce?
This page lists 3 substitutes for tartar sauce. The best pick depends on whether you want the closest flavor, similar texture, or simply the easiest pantry backup.