Spicy Chipotle Mayo is one of those simple sauces that instantly upgrades everything it touches. With smoky chipotle peppers in adobo, creamy mayo, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice, it delivers bold heat and tang in just five minutes.
It’s rich, slightly smoky, gently spicy, and perfectly balanced. Whether you’re spreading it on burgers, drizzling it over tacos, or using it as a dipping sauce, this quick sauce brings restaurant-style flavor straight to your kitchen.
Why I Keep Making This Dish
I keep making this Chipotle mayo because it’s one of the fastest ways to add serious flavor without extra effort. It takes just a few pantry ingredients and transforms them into something bold and versatile.
The smoky depth from the chipotle peppers combined with the creaminess of mayo and sour cream creates a sauce that feels indulgent but incredibly easy.
It also stores well in the fridge, meaning I can use it throughout the week on sandwiches, wraps, grain bowls, or as a dip. Every time I make it, I end up finding new ways to use it, which is why it’s become a staple in my kitchen.
Tips I Learned the Hard Way
- Start with fewer peppers. Chipotle peppers can be quite spicy, so blend one or two first, taste, and adjust.
- Fully submerge the immersion blender. This prevents splashing and keeps your kitchen mess-free.
- Use fresh lime juice. Bottled juice won’t give the same bright, fresh flavor.
- Let it rest before serving. One hour in the fridge allows the flavors to fully develop.
- Blend until completely smooth. Small chunks of pepper can create uneven heat pockets.
- Scrape down the sides. Make sure everything is evenly incorporated.
- Adjust thickness easily. Add a splash of water or more lime juice if you prefer a thinner drizzle.
Variations You Can Mess Around With
- Make it extra smoky. Add a pinch more smoked paprika.
- Increase the heat. Blend in an extra chipotle pepper.
- Make it milder. Use only adobo sauce and skip whole peppers.
- Add honey. A small drizzle balances the heat with subtle sweetness.
- Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt. For a slightly tangier, lighter option.
- Add fresh cilantro. For a fresh herb finish.
- Make it dairy-free. Use all mayo and skip the sour cream.
How To Make Spicy Chipotle Mayo?
Ingredients
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 2–3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- 1 tablespoon adobo sauce (from the canned peppers)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon granulated garlic
Equipment
- Immersion blender
- Small mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Step 1:
Place all of the ingredients in a small bowl.
Step 2:
Using an immersion blender on low speed, pulse a few times until the mixture is smooth and reaches your preferred consistency. Make sure the blender is fully submerged before turning it on to prevent splashing.
Step 3:
Let the mayo rest in the refrigerator for one hour before serving to allow the flavors to develop fully.
Spicy Chipotle Mayo Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place all of the ingredients in a small bowl.
- Using an immersion blender on low speed, pulse a few times until the mixture is smooth and reaches your preferred consistency. Make sure the blender is fully submerged before turning it on to prevent splashing.
- Let the mayo rest in the refrigerator for one hour before serving to allow the flavors to develop fully.
Notes
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 153 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 3 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Protein | 1 g |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredient size, quality, brand, location, and the proportions used. All nutritional information is calculated on a per-serving basis.
If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.
How I Like to Serve This
- On burgers and sandwiches. It adds smoky heat that pairs beautifully with grilled meats.
- Drizzled over tacos. Especially fish or shrimp tacos for a creamy, spicy finish.
- As a fry dip. Perfect with sweet potato fries or regular fries.
- With grilled vegetables. Adds richness and balance.
- In wraps and quesadillas. A thin spread boosts flavor instantly.
- As a dipping sauce for chicken tenders. The creamy heat complements crispy coatings perfectly.
Storage, Leftovers, and Next-Day Thoughts
- Store in an airtight container. Keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Stir before using. Ingredients may settle slightly.
- Do not freeze. The texture can separate once thawed.
- Flavor improves overnight. The smoky and spicy notes deepen with time.
- Label the heat level. Especially helpful if serving guests.
FAQs (Real Questions People Actually Ask)
Can I make this without an immersion blender?
Yes, you can use a blender, food processor, or finely chop the peppers and stir everything together thoroughly.
How spicy is it?
It ranges from mild to medium-hot depending on how many chipotle peppers you use.
Can I use only mayo?
Yes, but sour cream adds tang and balances the spice.
Is this good for meal prep?
Absolutely. It stores well and can be used in many different meals.
Can I make it thicker?
Yes, reduce lime juice slightly or add a bit more mayo.
