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Del Taco Secret Sauce Recipe

Del Taco Secret Sauce Recipe

Del Taco Secret Sauce is a signature creamy white condiment served on several popular menu items at Del Taco. Although the restaurant has never officially revealed its exact recipe, the sauce is widely believed to be a flavorful blend of mayonnaise, fresh lime juice, garlic, onion, mild spices, and a touch of sweetness. The result is a smooth, rich, and slightly tangy sauce that perfectly balances savory and citrus flavors.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 1 Cup
Course: Sauce
Cuisine: American
Calories: 110

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for heat
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Whisk
  • Rubber spatula
  • Citrus juicer (Optional)
  • Small Airtight Jar or Container 
  • Spoon or Silicone Scraper 

Method
 

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
  1. Measure out all of the ingredients before you begin. Having everything ready makes the mixing process quick and ensures accurate flavor.
Step 2: Combine the Creamy Base
  1. In a medium mixing bowl, add the mayonnaise and sour cream. Whisk together until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy with no lumps.
    Tip: Using room-temperature ingredients makes the sauce easier to mix.
Step 3: Add the Flavorings
  1. Pour in the fresh lime juice and white vinegar. Then add the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), sugar, salt, and black pepper.
    Whisk everything together until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
  1. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings to suit your preference.
    Add more lime juice for extra freshness.
    Add a pinch of salt if needed.
    Stir in a little more cayenne for additional heat.
    Add a small pinch of sugar if you'd like a slightly sweeter sauce.
    Mix again until fully combined.
Step 5: Chill the Sauce
  1. Cover the bowl or transfer the sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
    This resting time allows the flavors to blend together, giving the sauce its signature creamy, tangy taste.
    For the best flavor, chill for 1–2 hours before serving.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
  1. Give the sauce a quick stir before serving. Enjoy your homemade Del Taco Secret Sauce immediately, or store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Notes

Freshly mixed sauce tastes good, but chilling it for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to blend and develop. For even better results, refrigerate it for 1–2 hours.