Copycat Hellmanns Tartar Sauce Recipe: 5 Simple Steps to Recreate the Classic Flavo

Name: Copycat Hellmanns Tartar Sauce Recipe: 5 Simple Steps to Recreate the Classic Flavo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup mayonnaise (full-fat recommended); 2 tbsp sweet pickle relish; 1 tbsp finely chopped onion; 1 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 tsp capers, drained and chopped (optional); 1 tsp chopped fresh dill (optional); Salt and pepper, to taste

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Why You’ll Love This Copycat Hellmanns Tartar Sauce Recipe

If you’ve been hunting for the discontinued classic, this copycat Hellmanns tartar sauce recipe is your answer. It captures the same creamy texture and zippy tang we all miss—no fancy ingredients, no long prep, just reliable flavor.

Here’s why you’ll love whipping it up:

1. Authentic Taste:
This copycat Hellmanns tartar sauce recipe mirrors the beloved original—think rich mayonnaise, bright lemon, sweet pickle relish, and just enough mustard bite. It’s nostalgia in a bowl.

2. Simple Ingredients:
Made entirely with pantry staples, this sauce comes together in minutes. No weird preservatives or mystery additives—just real, recognizable flavor.

3. Versatile Use:
This isn’t just a fish-and-chips companion. Slather it on sandwiches, dollop onto crab cakes, or serve as a dip for veggies—it does it all.

Whether you’re trying to recreate your favorite fast-food fish sandwich or jazz up your Friday night dinner, this copycat Hellmanns tartar sauce recipe will become your go-to condiment.

Ingredients for Copycat Hellmanns Tartar Sauce Recipe

To recreate the creamy, tangy magic of the original, gather the following ingredients for your copycat Hellmanns tartar sauce recipe:

1 cup mayonnaise – Choose a rich, full-fat mayo to match Hellmann’s iconic texture.
2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish – Adds just the right touch of sweetness and crunch.
1 tablespoon finely chopped onion – For a mild, savory kick.
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice – Brings brightness and balance.
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Enhances the tang and gives the sauce a subtle depth.
1 teaspoon capers, drained and chopped (optional) – Adds briny complexity.
1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill (optional) – Offers fresh herbal flavor if you like a bit more zip.
Salt and pepper, to taste – Adjust to your flavor preference.

These classic ingredients make the copycat Hellmann’s tartar sauce recipe taste like you remember—with just enough room to customize it your way.

Top view of classic ingredients for copycat Hellmann's tartar sauce in a white kitchen with a daylight skyscraper view.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Recreating this condiment favorite is surprisingly easy. Follow these simple steps to make your own copycat Hellmanns tartar sauce recipe from scratch:

Can Also Read: Hello Fresh Cream Sauce Base Recipe: 5 Easy Steps for a Rich, Homemade Delight

Step 1: Combine Base Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, and finely chopped onion. Mix until fully combined for a creamy base with crunch and flavor.

Step 2: Add Flavor Enhancers

Next, stir in the lemon juice and Dijon mustard. These ingredients add acidity and a hint of complexity—just like the classic.

Step 3: Incorporate Optional Ingredients

If you’re feeling fancy (or want to match Gordon Ramsay’s vibes), add chopped capers and fresh dill. Stir gently to distribute them evenly throughout your tartar sauce.

Step 4: Season

Taste your mixture, then season with salt and pepper to your liking. Start with a small pinch and build from there.

Step 5: Chill

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and gives your copycat Hellmanns tartar sauce recipe that delicious, chilled consistency perfect for dipping or spreading.

Mixing base ingredients for copycat Hellmann’s tartar sauce in a white kitchen with apartment skyscraper view and natural daylight.

Helpful Tips for the Best Copycat Hellmann’s Tartar Sauce Recipe

Getting the most out of your copycat Hellmanns tartar sauce recipe is all about a few smart tweaks and kitchen know-how. Here’s how to level it up:

🥄 Use Quality Mayonnaise
Since mayo makes up the bulk of the sauce, using a good one is key. Opt for Hellmanns brand if you’re going for authenticity, or choose a creamy, full-fat alternative for the richest result.

🍬 Adjust the Sweetness
Prefer your tartar sauce on the sweeter side? Add a touch more sweet pickle relish or a teaspoon of sugar to bring it closer to your memory of the original.

🌿 Enhance with Herbs
If you’re making this copycat Hellmanns tartar sauce recipe for a fancy fish dinner, toss in fresh dill or parsley. They add freshness and color that take it from casual to dinner-party worthy.

❄️ Let It Chill
Don’t skip the refrigeration step! A good 30 minutes in the fridge allows the flavors to meld, giving you a smoother, more balanced sauce.

What to Serve with Copycat Hellmann’s Tartar Sauce

This tangy, creamy classic is a seafood superstar—but don’t stop there. The copycat Hellmanns tartar sauce recipe is more versatile than you might think:

Can Also Read: Hello Fresh Cream Sauce Base Recipe: 5 Easy Steps for a Rich, Homemade Delight

🐟 Fried Fish or Fish Sticks
The ultimate pairing. Use it as a dip or a drizzle—your fries will want in on the action too.

🦀 Crab Cakes
A spoonful on the side cuts through the richness and adds that craveable tang.

🥪 Fish Sandwiches
Slather a generous layer on a crispy fish fillet sandwich and thank us later.

🥕 Veggie Dippers
Believe it or not, this tartar sauce makes a solid dip for carrot sticks, celery, or even roasted potatoes.

🧆 Fried Shrimp or Calamari
Perfectly balanced for any fried seafood platter—it adds brightness without overpowering the crunch.

Freshly made copycat Hellmann’s tartar sauce in a white ramekin in a daylight kitchen with urban skyscraper views.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What are the ingredients in Hellmann’s tartar sauce?

The original Hellmann’s tartar sauce included mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, onion, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This copycat Hellmanns tartar sauce recipe follows the same profile with a few optional flavor upgrades.

Q2: Is Hellmann’s tartar sauce discontinued?

Yes, unfortunately, Hellmann’s officially discontinued their tartar sauce in early 2022. Thankfully, this copycat Hellmanns tartar sauce recipe brings that nostalgic flavor back to life—right in your own kitchen.

Q3: What’s the difference between this and Gordon Ramsay’s tartar sauce?

Gordon Ramsay’s version is more herb-forward and includes ingredients like capers, cornichons, vinegar, and shallots. This copycat Hellmanns tartar sauce recipe stays truer to the creamy, subtly sweet American-style original.

Q4: Can I make tartar sauce from scratch without relish?

Absolutely. Finely chop dill pickles or cornichons to replace relish. You’ll still get the texture and tang, but with more control over sweetness.

Storage & Maintenance

Your freshly made copycat Hellmanns tartar sauce recipe stores well, making it ideal for weekly meal prep or weekend fish fries.

🧊 Refrigeration:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh and flavorful for up to one week.

🚫 Freezing:
Not recommended. The mayonnaise base can separate when frozen and thawed, leading to an unpleasant texture.

♻️ Stir Before Serving:
After chilling, give it a quick stir before using to redistribute ingredients and restore the creamy consistency.

Can Also Read: Hello Fresh Cream Sauce Base Recipe: 5 Easy Steps for a Rich, Homemade Delight

Final Thoughts

This copycat Hellmanns tartar sauce recipe is the ultimate way to bring back that classic, creamy condiment you know and love. It’s easy, delicious, and endlessly useful—whether you’re topping fish fillets, dipping shrimp, or just sneaking a spoonful straight from the bowl (no judgment here).

In just five steps, you can make a batch that rivals the original, minus the mystery ingredients and grocery store hunt.

So next time you’re serving seafood or simply craving that signature tang, reach for this homemade favorite and as always—Stir the Taste.