Vegan Jalapeno Sauce

Published: May 19, 2024 by Regi Pearce · This post may contain affiliate links · 2 Comments

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe· 5 from 1 review

If you're craving that spicy, tangy kick of Taco Bell’s jalapeño sauce but want to keep it plant-based, this copycat vegan jalapeño sauce is your new go-to for adding a zesty twist to all your favorite dishes!

close up side view of a clear jar with sauce and a spoon inside.

Like so many copycat recipes, this vegan copycat jalapeño sauce is a game-changer! My son is actually the main creator and taste tester for this recipe because I’ve never tried the original from Taco Bell.

He says this sauce nails it every time - creamy, spicy, and bursting with that signature Taco Bell flavor. Perfect for drizzling over tacos, burritos, or even as a dipping sauce. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up in a blender or food processor or make it by hand for a chunkier texture.

For other delicious vegan sauces, try Easy Chipotle Aioli Sauce, Vegan Chick-fil-A Sauce, and Cuban Chimichurri Sauce.

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Recipe Ingredients
Ingredient Notes
How To Make A Creamy Vegan Jalapeno Sauce
Top Tips
Serving Suggestions
Storage and Freezing
Frequently Asked Questions
More Vegan Sauce Recipes
Recipe
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Comments

Recipe Ingredients

Take a look at this picture! To make this easy creamy jalapeno sauce, you only need a handful of simple ingredients. See the recipe card for quantities.

vegan jalapeno sauce ingredients in bowl; top view.

Ingredient Notes

Vegan Mayo - I’ve said it before, and I can still say it: I’ve never met a vegan mayo I didn’t like! Most major grocery stores offer vegan mayo options in the regular mayo aisle and refrigerated section or alongside other vegan goodies like tempeh and tofu.
Vegan Sour Cream - I skip it if I’m out of vegan sour cream and not in the mood for a store run. The sauce won’t be as thick and creamy, but it’s still delicious!
Pickled Jalapenos - Find the kind in a glass jar. You'll be using the brine as well.

How To Make A Creamy Vegan Jalapeno Sauce

This is so easy, just like so many of the sauces on this site. The instructions are on the recipe card, but here are a couple of pictures for those who like to see what you'll be doing.

vegan jalapeno sauce ingredients in a bowl. top view.

Step 1: Mix thoroughly with mayo, sour cream, and spices in a small bowl.

adding jalapenos to bowl and the brine; top view.

Step 2: Add the jalapenos and brine and mix well. Adjust to your taste.

Top Tips

Use a blender, food processor, or bullet for a creamy, non-chunky sauce.
If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of lime juice to thin it out.
The brine from the jalapenos will already bring some salt, so adjust the salt in the recipe if necessary.

a spoon picking up some jalapeno sauce in a white bowl; top view

Serving Suggestions

You'll want to use this creamy jalapeno sauce in your next meal, so here are a few suggestions.

Tacos: Drizzle generously over your favorite vegan tacos or tostadas.
Burritos or Quesadillas: Use as a zesty sauce inside your burritos or in this vegan jackfruit quesadilla.
Dips: Perfect as a dip for tortilla chips or raw veggies.
Bowls: Add a spicy kick to your grain bowls or salads like this Vegan Taco Bowl.
Lunch Boxes: Perfect for kid or adult lunch boxes as a tasty dip or sandwich spread.

close up top view of a clear jar with sauce inside and a spoon with the sauce on it.

Storage and Freezing

Storage - Keep in an airtight container for up to a week.

Freezing - I have not frozen this sauce, but from my experience with so many vegan sauces, I think you'll be able to freeze it just fine for up to 2 months in a freezer-friendly container. Allow the sauce to come to fridge temperature before serving for the best flavor. If it thickens too much, stir in a splash of water or lime juice to achieve the desired consistency.

close up side view of clear jar with jalapeno sauce inside. A spoon is inside the jar.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh jalapeños instead of pickled in this sauce?

No, I don't recommend it. You'll get a different flavor profile.

Is this vegan sauce gluten-free?

Yes.

More Vegan Sauce Recipes

What did you think?

Got a minute? Dive into the comments and rate this creamy vegan jalapeno sauce to let me know how it turned out for you. Was it a hit? Any twists you added? I want to know if my directions were any good. Follow me on Pinterest, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube for inspiration.