Dessert

Authentic Mexican White Sauce Recipe

Name: Authentic Mexican White Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

ByRafael Mansero January 21, 2026January 21, 2026

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Introduction

This authentic Mexican white sauce is creamy, tangy, and packed with vibrant flavors. Perfect as a dip, drizzle, or topping, it adds a fresh twist to tacos, burritos, and grilled meats. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s a versatile sauce to keep in your kitchen.

A close-up photo of a white bowl with a thick white creamy dip inside, topped with a colorful mix of chopped red and yellow bell peppers, garnished with small green parsley leaves and sprinkled with black pepper. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with bits of herbs and black pepper scattered loosely around. Nearby, parts of other white bowls are visible with green herbs. The image is bright and clear with a fresh and appetizing look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise and sour cream.
Step 2: Stir together until smooth and fully incorporated.
Step 3: Add the chopped cilantro to the mixture.
Step 4: Pour in the freshly squeezed lime juice for the best flavor.
Step 5: Sprinkle in the garlic powder and onion powder.
Step 6: Add the ground cumin and chili powder to the bowl.
Step 7: Season with salt and black pepper, distributing evenly throughout the sauce.
Step 8: Stir well to combine all ingredients and flavors thoroughly.
Step 9: Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings if desired, adding more salt, lime juice, or spices to your preference.
Step 10: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 11: Serve as a dip, drizzle, or topping for tacos, burritos, grilled meats, or other Mexican dishes.

Tips & Variations

Use freshly chopped cilantro and freshly squeezed lime juice for the brightest flavor.
Adjust chili powder to your heat preference or substitute with smoked paprika for a milder, smoky taste.
For a lighter version, substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.

Storage

Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir well before serving. This sauce can be served cold or at room temperature; avoid reheating to preserve its creamy texture.

How to Serve

A black bowl filled with a creamy white yogurt sauce that has a smooth, swirled texture. On the surface of the yogurt, there is a small pile of yellow corn kernels mixed with small pieces of red tomatoes and some green herbs, likely cilantro, sprinkled all over. A single bright green cilantro leaf is placed in the center as garnish. Around the bowl, on a white marbled surface, there are scattered fresh cilantro leaves, a halved lime showing its juicy yellow-green inside, a small black bowl of coarse salt and pepper, and some whole black peppercorns. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, it’s best made at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld. It can be prepared up to 4 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.