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!
Like the recipes in 25+ Vegan Copycat Recipes, this vegan copycat jalapeño sauce is a game-changer! My son is the main taste tester for this recipe because I’ve never tried the original, non-vegan sauce 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 Vegan Big Mac Sauce, Vegan Chick-fil-A Sauce, and Cuban Chimichurri Sauce. You can also look at Vegan Game Day Dips and Sauces for more ideas.
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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 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 vegan 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.
Step 1: Mix thoroughly with mayo, sour cream, and spices in a small bowl.
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 already contains salt, so adjust the salt in the recipe if necessary.
Serving Suggestions
You'll want to use this creamy jalapeno sauce in your next meal, so here are a few suggestions.
- Drizzle generously over Jackfruit Tacos or Vegan Black Bean Tostadas with Spanish Rice.
- Use as a zesty sauce inside your burritos or in these Vegan Jackfruit Quesadillas
- Perfect as a dip for tortilla chips or raw veggies.
- Add a spicy kick to your vegan grain bowls or salads like this Vegan Taco Bowl.
- Perfect for kid or adult lunch boxes as a tasty dip or sandwich spread.
Storage and Freezing
Keep in an airtight container for up to a week.
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.
Recipe FAQS
No, I don't recommend it. You'll get a different flavor profile.
Yes.
Vegan Jalapeno Sauce
Ingredients
- ½ cup vegan mayonnaise
- ½ cup vegan sour cream
- 2 tablespoons pickled jalapeños finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon pickled jalapeño juice from the jar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder adjust for heat preference
- ¼ teaspoon salt or to taste
Instructions
- Mix: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise and sour cream.
- Spices: Add garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, and salt.
- Incorporate: Stir in the finely chopped jalapeños and the jalapeño juice.
- Chill: Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Jason says
Spicy, creamy, and totally vegan! Easy dip upgrade.
Regi Pearce says
Thanks, Jason! Glad you liked it.