There’s something about that creamy, tangy sauce at Del Taco that keeps you going back again and again. It’s smooth, flavorful, and has just the right balance of zest and richness—it makes every taco, burrito, or burger taste better. I’ve always loved how it ties everything together, so I finally decided to recreate it at home. After a few tries (and plenty of taste testing), I nailed that signature flavor.
This homemade version of Del Taco’s Secret Sauce is spot-on. It’s got a creamy base with hints of tangy lime, smoky paprika, and a subtle kick of heat. I keep a jar in the fridge at all times now—my family puts it on everything from tacos to fries. The best part? You can whip it up in less than 10 minutes with ingredients you probably already have.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Del Taco Secret Sauce copycat is creamy, tangy, and packed with flavor. It’s the perfect mix of mayo and sour cream with spices that make it both cool and bold at the same time. You can use it as a spread, dip, or drizzle, and it transforms even simple tacos into something that tastes like it came straight from the restaurant.
You’ll love it because it’s easy, versatile, and customizable. Make it milder for kids or spice it up with a touch of cayenne or hot sauce. It stores beautifully in the fridge and tastes even better the next day as the flavors blend together.
What You’ll Need
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- ½ teaspoon lime juice
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (regular works too)
- ¼ teaspoon sugar
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Pro Tips
- Use full-fat ingredients. The texture and flavor are closest to the real thing.
- Let it rest. Chill the sauce for at least 30 minutes before serving—it makes a huge difference.
- Adjust the acidity. Add more lime or vinegar if you prefer a tangier sauce.
- Whisk well. Make sure everything is smooth and evenly combined.
- Make extra. It keeps for a week, and you’ll want to put it on everything.
Tools You’ll Need
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Airtight jar or squeeze bottle for storage
Substitutions and Variations
- Dairy-free version: Use vegan mayo and omit sour cream, or replace it with a plant-based yogurt.
- Smoky version: Add a dash of liquid smoke or chipotle powder for deeper flavor.
- Sweet heat twist: Stir in a teaspoon of honey and a splash of hot sauce for a spicy-sweet balance.
- Extra creamy: Replace half the mayo with ranch dressing for a richer, herbier taste.
- Zesty lime: Increase lime juice and add a little zest for a brighter, citrus-forward flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
You can easily make this sauce ahead of time—it actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours. Prepare it up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate in a tightly sealed jar or container. The flavors will continue to develop, and the consistency will thicken slightly as it chills.
Instructions
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a small mixing bowl, add mayonnaise, sour cream, ketchup, mustard, vinegar, and lime juice.
Step 2: Season and Mix
Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, sugar, and cayenne pepper if using. Whisk everything together until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Taste and Adjust
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed—add a bit more salt, lime juice, or paprika based on your preference.
Step 4: Chill
Transfer the sauce to an airtight jar or squeeze bottle. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Step 5: Serve
Drizzle over tacos, burritos, or burgers, or use it as a dipping sauce for fries and onion rings.
Serving Suggestions
- Drizzle over tacos, burritos, or tostadas for that authentic Del Taco flavor.
- Use as a burger spread or sandwich sauce.
- Dip fries, onion rings, or chicken tenders for a creamy kick.
- Spoon over grilled shrimp, chicken, or fish tacos.
- Add to wraps or quesadillas for extra richness.
Leftovers and Storage
Store Del Taco Secret Sauce in an airtight container or squeeze bottle in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. Stir or shake before each use, as it may separate slightly over time.
Avoid freezing—the texture won’t hold up once thawed.
Nutrition and Benefits
- Homemade freshness: No preservatives or additives—just real ingredients.
- Customizable: Adjust the tang, spice, or sweetness to your liking.
- Quick and easy: Comes together in under 10 minutes with no cooking required.
- Versatile: Works as a dressing, dip, or spread for countless dishes.
Recipe FAQ
1. What does Del Taco Secret Sauce taste like?
It’s creamy, tangy, and a little smoky with hints of garlic and paprika—similar to a zesty ranch or special burger sauce.
2. Can I make this sauce spicy?
Yes! Add cayenne, hot sauce, or a pinch of chipotle powder for heat.
3. How long does it last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for up to 7 days when stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator.
4. Can I use Miracle Whip instead of mayonnaise?
You can, but it will make the sauce slightly sweeter and tangier. Adjust the vinegar and sugar to balance it.
5. Is this the same sauce Del Taco uses on their tacos?
It’s extremely close! Their version is slightly tangier, but this copycat captures that signature flavor perfectly.
6. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, Greek yogurt works great for a lighter, higher-protein version.
7. What other foods go well with this sauce?
It’s delicious with tacos, fries, grilled meats, sandwiches, and even as a dipping sauce for vegetables.
Creamy, Tangy, and Totally Addictive
This Del Taco Secret Sauce Recipe is everything you love about the restaurant favorite—smooth, zesty, and bursting with flavor. It’s incredibly versatile and elevates just about any meal, from tacos to burgers.
Once you make it from scratch, you’ll never settle for plain mayo again. It’s quick, customizable, and so good you’ll be looking for excuses to put it on everything.
