There’s something about a good tartar sauce that makes fried fish, crispy fries, and even roasted veggies taste ten times better.

This Homemade Dill Pickle Tartar Sauce is creamy, bright, and packed with zesty flavor thanks to crunchy pickles, fresh lemon, and aromatic dill.

It’s the kind of sauce I always have in the fridge—because once you taste this, there’s no going back to the store-bought jar.

Why I Love This Recipe

Loaded with dill flavor – Perfectly tangy with bold pickle punch.

Ultra creamy – Mayonnaise brings that rich, smooth texture.

Quick to prep – Just chop, stir, and chill.

Flexible flavor – Easy to customize to your taste.

Better than store-bought – Fresher, tastier, and no weird ingredients.

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Mayonnaise – The creamy base that binds it all.

Dill pickles – Finely diced for crunch and tang.

Lemon juice – Adds brightness and balances the richness.

Onion – Fresh and finely minced for a subtle bite.

Dried dill – Brings that classic herby flavor.

Salt & pepper – Just enough to round it all out.

Garlic powder – A subtle whisper of savory depth.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Chop finely – Small pieces blend better and make for a smoother sauce.

Use fresh lemon juice – It makes a big difference in brightness.

Adjust the pickles – Add an extra spoon if you love the crunch.

Let it chill – Resting time lets the flavors really come together.

Double it – This sauce goes fast, especially with a crowd.

How to Make Homemade Dill Pickle Tartar Sauce

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Finely mince the onion and dill pickles.

The smaller the pieces, the better they blend into the sauce.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, pickles, lemon juice, onion, dried dill, salt, pepper, and a small pinch of garlic powder until well combined.

Step 3: Chill and Serve

Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour.

Stir again before serving to refresh the texture and flavor.

What to Serve It With

Classic fried fish or fish sticks

Crab cakes or shrimp po’boys

Roasted potatoes or French fries

Grilled salmon or cod

Fried green tomatoes or veggie fritters

As a dip for chicken tenders or onion rings

Variations / Substitutions

Add fresh dill – For a more vibrant herby flavor.

Swap mayo – Use Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

Add capers – For briny punch.

Make it spicy – Stir in a dash of hot sauce or cayenne.

Try shallots – A slightly sweeter swap for onion.

Storage & Leftovers

Fridge – Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Do not freeze – Mayo-based sauces don’t thaw well.

Make ahead – Best after at least an hour of chilling.

Use leftovers – As a sandwich spread or dip for roasted veggies.

Stir before using – It may separate slightly while chilled.

FAQs

Can I use sweet pickles instead of dill?
Yes, but it will give the sauce a sweeter, milder flavor.

Is this tartar sauce spicy?
Nope—it’s mild. Add hot sauce or cayenne if you want heat.

Can I make it vegan?
Absolutely! Just use vegan mayo as your base.

How long does it keep?
Up to 5 days in the fridge in an airtight container.

Can I use fresh dill instead of dried?
Yes—just double the amount for fresh herbs.

Why does it need to chill?
Resting time helps the flavors meld and improves texture.

Can I use this as a dip?
Totally! It’s great with fries, chicken tenders, or veggie sticks.

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Dill Pickle Tartar Sauce is a simple upgrade that transforms any meal into something extra special.

It’s zippy, creamy, and customizable—and once you make it, you’ll never reach for a store-bought bottle again.

Whether you’re frying fish or looking for a punchy sandwich spread, this sauce is your new go-to.

The Boat Shed Kitchen