This smoky chipotle-style sauce is one of those extras that makes simple food feel a little more satisfying. We love it spooned over Mexican minced beef and pulled beef, but it is just as good for dipping roast potatoes and drizzling over corn salad.
It’s creamy, lightly smoky, and easy to adjust depending on who you’re feeding. You can keep it mild or add a little more warmth if you like things spicier. It comes together in minutes using ingredients most of us already have in the fridge and pantry.
It’s the kind of sauce you can make once and then find lots of ways to use during the week.
MAKE AHEAD
This sauce can be made 2 to 3 days ahead and stored covered in the fridge. Give it a good stir before serving, as it can thicken slightly as it sits.
How I like to serve it
Serve this sauce in a squeeze bottle, small jug or in a bowl with a spoon so people can add just a little at a time.
Ways to use this sauce
This sauce works well with:
- tacos
- nachos
- roast potatoes
- corn salad
It adds flavour without overwhelming everything else on the plate.
Helpful Tips
Taste as you go. Lime and vinegar can vary, so it’s best to adjust slowly.
Smoked paprika adds flavour, not heat. It gives the sauce warmth without making it spicy.
Garlic works best finely minced so it blends through smoothly.
Easy Variations
Make it lighter
Swap half the mayonnaise for Greek yoghurt for a fresher, lighter sauce.
Dairy-free option
Use a plant-based mayonnaise and a splash of water instead of milk if thinning.
Add a little heat
A few drops of Tabasco or a pinch of chilli powder can be stirred through if you like more warmth.
Extra tang
Add a little more lime juice if you enjoy a sharper flavour.
Smoky Chipotle Style Sauce
Ingredients
Method
- Add 1 cup whole-egg mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons tomato sauce, 1 tablespoon tomato paste, 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 lime, 1 garlic clove, honey, and salt to a bowl.
- Stir until smooth and well combined.
- Taste and adjust if needed. Add a little more lime for freshness, a pinch more smoked paprika for warmth, or salt to bring the flavours together.
- If the sauce feels too thick, add a small splash of water or milk and stir until it reaches a drizzling consistency.
- Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve, or use straight away.
Nutrition
Notes
Loved this recipe?
Please leave a quick star rating.This is one of those sauces that’s easy to make and easy to use in so many ways. It works with tacos, roast potatoes, salads, and simple meals when you just want a little extra flavour on the table. I love recipes like this because they don’t need much effort, just a few ingredients and a bit of care, and they always seem to bring people back for another spoonful.
