If you’ve ever dined at Red Robin, you know that their sauces and salad dressings are a highlight of the experience. Among these, the Red Robin Tartar Sauce stands out as a fan favorite. People love to buy and enjoy their tartar sauce, especially when paired with fried fish. Before I learned how to make this homemade version, I often purchased it from the store, particularly for my fish and chips nights. However, once I discovered this simple recipe, I never looked back!
Making this Copycat Red Robin Tartar Sauce Recipe at home not only saves money but also allows you to customize it to your taste.
How to Make Red Robin Tartar Sauce
Making Red Robin Tartar Sauce is incredibly simple and requires only a handful of ingredients. You’ll start with a creamy base of mayonnaise, add some finely chopped capers and parsley for a burst of flavor, and finish it off with sweet pickle relish and honey for a perfect balance of sweet and tangy.
In just a few minutes, you’ll have a tasty tartar sauce that rivals the one from the restaurant.

Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful tartar sauce:
- ¼ cup Mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Capers, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon Fresh Parsley, finely chopped
- A pinch of Black Pepper
- ¼ teaspoon Freshly Squeezed Lime Juice
- 2 teaspoons Sweet Pickle Relish
- 1 teaspoon Honey
Kitchen Tools Needed
To make this tartar sauce, you’ll need just a few basic tools:
- Sharp Knife
- Cutting Board
- Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Spoons
- Whisk or Spoon for mixing
Making Red Robin Tartar Sauce Recipe
Step 1 | Start with the Base
In a mixing bowl, pour in ¼ cup of mayonnaise. This will be the creamy base of your tartar sauce.

Step 2 | Chop and Add
Finely chop 1 teaspoon of capers and 1 teaspoon of fresh parsley. Add them to the bowl with the mayonnaise. Then, sprinkle in a pinch of black pepper.

Step 3 | Add the Zing
Squeeze in ¼ teaspoon of freshly squeezed lime juice. This will give your sauce a refreshing kick!

Step 4 | Sweeten it Up
Next, add 2 teaspoons of sweet pickle relish and 1 teaspoon of honey to the mixture. These ingredients will balance the flavors beautifully.

Step 5 | Mix it All Together
Use a whisk or spoon to mix everything until it’s well combined and creamy.

Step 6 | Serve and Enjoy
Your homemade copycat Red Robin Tartar Sauce is now ready to serve! Pair it with your favorite dishes and enjoy the burst of flavors.

Chef’s Special Notes
- Capers Substitute: If you’re not a fan of capers or don’t have them on hand, you can substitute with finely chopped pickles or green olives for a similar briny flavor.
- Make It Ahead: This tartar sauce tastes even better after sitting for a few hours. If you have time, make it ahead and let the flavors meld together in the fridge.
- Customize the Sweetness: Depending on your taste, you can adjust the amount of honey and relish. If you prefer a less sweet sauce, start with 1 teaspoon of relish and adjust from there.
What to Serve with Tartar Sauce
Tartar sauce is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some popular options to consider:
- Fried Fish: The classic pairing! Tartar sauce complements the crispy texture of fried fish beautifully.
- Seafood Dishes: It works wonderfully with crab cakes, shrimp, and calamari.
- Fish Sandwiches: Spread it on a bun for a delicious seafood sandwich.
- Vegetable Dishes: Try it as a dip for roasted or fried vegetables.
- French Fries: Yes, you can use tartar sauce as a dip for your fries for a unique twist!
- Baked Potatoes: Replace sour cream with tartar sauce for a zesty alternative.
Storing Leftovers Tartar Sauce
If you find yourself with leftover tartar sauce, don’t worry! Here’s how to store it properly:
Refrigeration: Store the tartar sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to one week.
Freezing: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze tartar sauce for up to three months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before using it again.
Texture Changes: Keep in mind that freezing may alter the texture slightly, so it’s best to use it fresh if possible.
Common FAQs
What is tartar sauce made of?
Tartar sauce is primarily made of mayonnaise, chopped pickles or relish, capers, and various seasonings.
Can I use different herbs in my tartar sauce?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with herbs like dill or tarragon for a different flavor profile.
Can I make tartar sauce without mayonnaise?
Yes! You can use Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo alternative for a lighter or dairy-free version.
How long does homemade tartar sauce last?
Homemade tartar sauce can last up to a week in the refrigerator when stored properly.
What is the mother sauce of tartar sauce?
Tartar sauce is not classified as a mother sauce; however, it is a derivative of mayonnaise, which is one of the five mother sauces in classical French cuisine.
Can I add spices to my tartar sauce?
Yes! Adding spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or even a dash of hot sauce can enhance the flavor.

Red Robin Tartar Sauce Recipe
Learn how to make Red Robin Tartar Sauce Recipe at home in just 5 minutes! Perfect for pairing with fried fish or seafood, this easy recipe is a must-try.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup Mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Capers, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon Fresh Parsley, finely chopped
- A pinch of Black Pepper
- ¼ teaspoon Freshly Squeezed Lime Juice
- 2 teaspoons Sweet Pickle Relish
- 1 teaspoon Honey
Instructions
Step 1 | Start with the Base
In a mixing bowl, pour in ¼ cup of mayonnaise. This will be the creamy base of your tartar sauce.
Step 2 | Chop and Add
Finely chop 1 teaspoon of capers and 1 teaspoon of fresh parsley. Add them to the bowl with the mayonnaise. Then, sprinkle in a pinch of black pepper.
Step 3 | Add the Zing
Squeeze in ¼ teaspoon of freshly squeezed lime juice. This will give your sauce a refreshing kick!
Step 4 | Sweeten it Up
Next, add 2 teaspoons of sweet pickle relish and 1 teaspoon of honey to the mixture. These ingredients will balance the flavors beautifully.
Step 5 | Mix it All Together
Use a whisk or spoon to mix everything until it’s well combined and creamy.
Step 6 | Serve and Enjoy
Your homemade copycat Red Robin Tartar Sauce is now ready to serve! Pair it with your favorite dishes and enjoy the burst of flavors.
Conclusion
So next time you’re craving that familiar tangy flavor, skip the store-bought bottle and whip up a batch of homemade Red Robin Tartar Sauce. Once you try this recipe, I’m confident you’ll never go back to buying it again.
Enjoy the delicious, homemade taste that will leave your taste buds wanting more!