I don’t know about you, but every time I think of Captain D’s, I picture that golden crispy fish and a side of their famous tartar sauce from their menu. That sauce isn’t just a dip — it’s part of the whole experience.

When I made my own Batter Fish, I knew it wouldn’t feel right without the real deal tartar on the side.

After a few tries (and a lot of taste-testing), I landed on this Captain D’s Tartar Sauce Recipe that tastes just like what you get at the restaurant.

Creamy, a little tangy, and full of those tiny bits of pickle and herbs — it’s everything you love and more.

Once you make it, you’ll find yourself putting it on way more than just seafood.

Ingredients for Captain D’s Tartar Sauce Recipe

• 1 cup mayonnaise (you can use homemade or store-bought) – I like to use a creamy mayonnaise as the base. You can make your own or just grab your favorite brand from the store.

• 2 tablespoons capers (finely chopped) – These little green buds bring a tangy punch. I chop them up small so they mix better with the mayo.

• 3 tablespoons gherkin pickles (finely chopped) – They’re sweet and crunchy. I always finely chop them to get that nice pop of flavor in every bite.

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (finely chopped) – Parsley adds a fresh, clean taste that cuts through the richness of the mayo. I like to chop it really fine.

• 1 tablespoon fresh tarragon (finely chopped) – Tarragon gives a little bit of a licorice-like flavor. It’s not strong — just enough to make the sauce special. If I don’t have fresh, dried works too!

(Tip: If you don’t have fresh tarragon, use 1 teaspoon of dried tarragon.)

How To Make Captain D’s Tartar Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

First, I finely chop the capers, gherkins, parsley, and tarragon. I try to make the pieces tiny — almost minced.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

Grab a medium bowl and spoon in the mayonnaise. Then, I toss in all the chopped ingredients.

Step 3: Blend Gently

Using a spoon, gently stir it all together. Make sure everything looks colorful and mixed nicely. Sometimes, I sneak in a little extra pickles if I want it more zesty.

Step 4: Chill the Sauce

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the fridge for at least one hour. This step makes a big difference — the flavors come together beautifully.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Before serving, give it one more good stir and a taste test. Then it’s ready to be enjoyed with crispy fish, shrimp, or even spread on sandwiches!

Tips for Making It Perfect

• Chop everything super fine for the best texture.
• Let it chill for at least an hour — longer is even better.
• Taste and adjust the pickles or herbs to match your flavor.
• Use quality mayonnaise for a richer, better taste.
• If too thick, add a teaspoon of pickle juice to thin it a little.

What To Serve With Captain D’s Tartar Sauce

You can enjoy this sauce with so many dishes! Here are a few ideas:

• Fried fish fillets
• Fish and chips
• Fried shrimp
• Crab cakes
• Grilled salmon
• Tuna sandwiches
• Baked cod
• Veggie sticks for dipping

This tartar sauce brings out the best in seafood, but it’s also tasty as a dip for crispy veggies or even fries. I sometimes spread it on sandwiches when I want a little extra kick.

How to Store Leftover

Keeping leftover tartar sauce fresh is easy if you do it right:

• Store it in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator.
• Use it within 5 to 7 days.
• Always stir before using again.

After making it, I scoop the sauce into a clean container and seal it tight. The cold fridge keeps it fresh and lets the flavors stay sharp. Before using leftovers, I like to give it a quick stir to freshen it up. If it smells off or looks watery, it’s time to make a new batch!

Captain D’s Tartar Sauce Recipe FAQs

1. Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried parsley if you don’t have fresh, but fresh always gives a better taste. Use only about 1 teaspoon if you are swapping.

2. How long does homemade tartar sauce last?
If kept in the fridge in an airtight container, it should last about 5 to 7 days. Always check the smell and texture before using.

3. Can I freeze tartar sauce?
I don’t recommend freezing it. Mayonnaise doesn’t freeze well and the sauce can separate when thawed.

4. What can I use instead of capers?
If you don’t have capers, try chopped green olives. They give a similar briny taste that works well.

5. Can I make it spicier?
Absolutely! Add a little dash of hot sauce or some finely chopped jalapeño if you want a spicy kick.

6. Is gherkin the same as a regular pickle?
Not exactly. Gherkins are usually sweeter and smaller. Regular pickles are fine too, but the flavor will be a little different.

7. Do I need to chill it before serving?
Yes, chilling the sauce helps the flavors blend together and makes it taste much better. Try to chill for at least one hour.

8. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?
You can, but the flavor will be tangier. It’s a lighter option if you want to cut down on fat.

9. Why does my sauce taste too sour?
It could be too many capers or pickles. Next time, reduce the amount or balance it with a little extra mayo.

10. What makes Captain D’s tartar sauce different?
It’s the balance of sweetness from the pickles and the fresh herbs like parsley and tarragon that make it taste so special!

Conclusion

There’s just something about making your own Captain D’s Tartar Sauce Recipe at home that feels so satisfying.

It’s not just about saving a trip to the restaurant — it’s about getting that same creamy, tangy flavor anytime you want, right from your own kitchen.

After tasting it with my homemade Captain D’s Batter Fish, I can honestly say this sauce brings everything together.

I really hope you give this recipe a try and taste how easy and delicious it is. Once you whip up a batch, don’t be surprised if you start reaching for it with everything from fish and chips to crispy fries! When you do make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you.

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