
Spicy chipotle mayo is that punchy yet creamy dip you turn to when you want a spread with big flavor that livens up anything it touches From burger nights to Sunday fries this smoky and tangy sauce adds crowd pleasing heat and smooth richness Every time I whip up a batch my family comes sniffing around the kitchen hoping for extra
I first made this when hosting backyard sliders for friends Now everyone asks for the recipe and it is a must at all our gatherings
Ingredients
- Mayonnaise: for the rich and creamy backbone use a good quality real mayo for best texture
- Sour cream: adds tang and extra silkiness use full fat for the best flavor
- Chipotle peppers: from a can in adobo bring the signature smoky spicy flavor two peppers give a mild kick three for more heat look for brands with whole plump peppers
- Adobo sauce: from the pepper can gives depth and helps the flavors meld together
- Lime juice: adds essential freshness and brightness freshly squeezed is best for zing
- Smoked paprika: enhances the smokiness aim for authentic Spanish paprika for real depth
- Granulated garlic: boosts flavor without the raw bite choose one that smells fresh and pungent
Step by Step Instructions
- Gather Ingredients:
- Assemble all your ingredients on the countertop and open the canned chipotle peppers Measure everything before starting to keep things smooth
- Blend Everything:
- Place mayonnaise sour cream chipotle peppers adobo sauce lime juice smoked paprika and granulated garlic in a small bowl Make sure all peppers are chopped or snipped into smaller pieces for easier blending
- Immersion Blend:
- Submerge your immersion blender fully in the mix Pulse gently on low speed Move the blender up and down until the sauce is silky smooth or to your liking blending about a minute Avoid whipping too quickly to prevent splatters
- Chill and Rest:
- Transfer the finished mayo into a serving bowl Cover and let it rest in the fridge for at least one hour This lets the flavors meld and deepens the taste The sauce thickens a little as it chills

My favorite part is the chipotle peppers The way they transform plain mayo into something smoky spicy and complex reminds me of family taco nights when everyone would sneak an extra dollop on their plate
Storage Tips
Store chipotle mayo in a sealed jar or airtight container in the coldest part of your fridge It tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop Be sure to use a clean spoon each time so it stays fresh Avoid freezing as the texture will separate
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap out sour cream for thick Greek yogurt if you need a lighter touch or want extra tang If you do not have smoked paprika substitute regular sweet paprika though you will miss some smokiness For those who like it mild use just one chipotle pepper and extra mayo for balance

Serving Suggestions
Spread it generously on breakfast sandwiches or wraps Serve as a dip for freshly baked sweet potato fries or crispy onion rings A dollop over grilled corn is always a hit It even perks up plain roasted potatoes or gourmet chicken burgers
Cultural and Historical Context
Chipotles are smoked dried jalapeños and their use dates back to ancient Mexican cuisine Their bold flavor with a hint of heat is what makes Mexican and Tex Mex sauces unforgettable Pairing them with mayonnaise is a delicious example of Mexican flavors meeting American comfort food classics
Recipe FAQs
- → How spicy is this chipotle mayo?
The spiciness depends on the number of chipotle peppers used. Start with two for milder results and increase to three for extra heat.
- → Can I make it without an immersion blender?
Yes, you can use a small food processor or finely chop the chipotle peppers by hand and stir until well combined.
- → How long does chipotle mayo last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it will keep for up to one week.
- → What can I serve with spicy chipotle mayo?
It's excellent on burgers, sandwiches, tacos, or as a dipping sauce for sweet potato fries and French fries.
- → Is there a substitute for sour cream?
Greek yogurt can be used in place of sour cream for a lighter, tangier option.