15 Best Mayonnaise Substitutes

Looking for the perfect mayonnaise substitute but not sure where to start? Whether you’re attempting a healthier option, accommodating a dietary restriction or you've simply just run out of your favorite jar of mayo, there are plenty of substitutes that can do the trick.

What’s the best mayonnaise alternative to use in your favorite recipes, and how can you make sure your dishes still taste amazing? Read on to discover 15 versatile substitutes that can help you whip up your next meal without missing a beat.

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• What Is Mayonnaise Used for in Cooking?
• 15 Best Substitutes for Mayonnaise
• How To Make Your Own Mayonnaise

What Is Mayonnaise Used for in Cooking?

Mayonnaise is a staple in many kitchens, offering a creamy texture and a tangy flavor that enhances a wide variety of dishes. Its primary role is as a binding agent in recipes like keto chicken salad and Japanese potato salad, where it helps to hold ingredients together while adding moisture. Mayonnaise also acts as an emulsifier, creating smooth, stable mixtures in sauces and dressings.

Beyond salads and spreads, it’s a key ingredient in some baked goods, where it contributes to the richness and moistness of the final product. Needless to say, mayonnaise is a kitchen staple. However, if you find yourself pulling an old jar out of the fridge and wondering, "Does mayonnaise go bad?" it’s not necessary to have the original as a mayonnaise substitute can also do the trick. Let's look at the 15 best mayonnaise substitutes, below.

15 Best Substitutes for Mayonnaise

1. Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is a popular healthy mayonnaise substitute thanks to its creamy texture and rich flavor. It works well in salads, dips and sandwiches, offering a tangy taste that’s similar to mayo but with a fraction of the calories. You can also opt for high-protein Greek yogurt options to add more protein to your meals.

To make the perfect substitution, use a 1:1 ratio of Greek yogurt to mayonnaise. With its lower calorie count and high protein content, this mayonnaise substitute is one of the most nutritious options on the list.

2. Eggs

Eggs, the base ingredient in mayonnaise, can also serve as a direct substitute in certain recipes. They work particularly well in dishes like deviled eggs or egg salad. This option is also a great pick as a mayo substitute for health fanatics, thanks to its lower calorie and higher protein content.

To use eggs as a substitute for mayonnaise, simply hard-boil, chop and mix them with other ingredients, adding a bit of oil or vinegar for moisture if needed. You can also add some spices as well to customize it to your liking.

3. Sour Cream

Sour cream is another great easy-to-use mayonnaise substitute. It offers a similar consistency to mayonnaise with a slightly tangy flavor, making it an excellent mayonnaise alternative in dips, dressings and baked goods. 

To use this mayonnaise substitute, simply swap in a 1:1 ratio and you'll instantly have a rich creaminess in dishes like potato salad or coleslaw. Its slightly tangy flavor and creamy consistency will make your dish a unique hit at your next gathering.

4. Avocado

For a healthy vegan mayonnaise substitute, avocado is a fantastic choice. Its creamy texture and mild flavor make it a versatile option for sandwiches, salads and even baking. 

To use this vegan substitute, simply mash a ripe avocado with a little lemon juice to prevent browning and use it in place of mayo at a 1:1 ratio. This option is not only plant-based but also rich in healthy fats and fiber.

5. Hummus

Hummus is another healthy mayonnaise substitute that’s perfect for those looking to reduce fat and calories while boosting flavor. Made from chickpeas, tahini and olive oil, hummus adds a savory, slightly nutty taste to sandwiches and wraps. 

Use it as a spread or in salads where you’d typically use mayo. This healthier choice is another vegan option with loads of nutrients and fiber. Although the consistency is different to mayonnaise, it makes for an extremely delicious mayonnaise substitute.

6. Mustard

If you’re seeking a lower-fat mayonnaise substitute, mustard is a bold alternative that works well in many dishes. While it doesn’t provide the same creamy and fluffy texture, its strong flavor can complement meats and cheeses in sandwiches, making it an ideal mayonnaise substitute for those who appreciate its rich taste. For the best results, use a smooth Dijon or yellow mustard and experiment with quantities to suit your taste.

7. Olive Oil

Olive oil can also be a great mayonnaise substitute in recipes that require a lighter, more delicate dressing, such as vinaigrettes or marinades. While it lacks the thick, creamy texture of mayo, it brings a subtle, fruity flavor and healthy fats to the dish. 

To use this substitute, start by trying a few tablespoons of olive oil, adjusting based on the desired consistency, adding some spices to upgrade the flavor. This is a great vegan option that works particularly well in salads.

8. Cottage Cheese

Next on our mayonnaise substitute list is blended cottage cheese. It offers a similar consistency and is a great low-calorie mayonnaise substitute. It’s especially effective in creamy dips and spreads. 

To use this substitute, simply blend cottage cheese until it’s smooth and replace mayonnaise at a 1:1 ratio. Feel free to add some spices to your liking before using it as a creamy dip or spread.

9. Vegan Mayo

For those who prefer a store-bought vegan substitute for mayonnaise, vegan mayo is an excellent option. Made from plant-based ingredients like soy or pea protein, vegan mayo mimics the texture and flavor of traditional mayonnaise without any animal products — a convenient and diet-friendly choice. You can use store-bought vegan mayo in the same quantity as you would regular mayo.

10. Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes may seem unconventional, but they can work surprisingly well as a mayonnaise substitute in certain dishes, particularly in baked goods and casseroles. The starchy texture provides moisture and the ability to bind well, similar to what mayo would offer. This is a great option when you have to work with home staples.

To opt for this substitute, simply use a smooth, well-seasoned mash and replace mayo at a 1:1 ratio. As always, feel free to add some spices or a bit of olive oil to adjust the taste and consistency.

11. Cashew Cream

Cashew cream is a versatile, creamy mayonnaise alternative that’s both vegan and gluten-free. Made by soaking and blending cashews with water, this mayonnaise substitute is rich and smooth, making it ideal for dips, dressings and spreads. Furthermore, the healthy fats and fiber it offers make it a nutritious mayonnaise substitute. To opt for this mayonnaise substitute, simply use cashew cream in a 1:1 ratio for a nutritious, dairy-free option.

12. Ricotta Cheese

Next on our list of great mayonnaise substitutes is ricotta cheese. This mild, moderately nutty food offers a lighter, slightly sweet flavor that makes a great mayonnaise substitute in dishes like lasagna or as a spread on toast. It’s lower in fat than mayo but still provides a rich texture. Try this substitute by using ricotta cheese in place of mayo at a 1:1 ratio. You could also consider blending the ricotta cheese with herbs or spices to add flavor.

13. Tahini

Tahini, a paste made from sesame seeds, can also serve as a unique mayonnaise substitute in dressings and dips. Its nutty flavor adds depth to dishes like hummus or baba ghanoush. Similar to using hummus as a mayonnaise substitute, tahini is great as a spread on sandwiches, salads and more. Use tahini sparingly, starting with a small amount and adjusting according to taste, as its flavor can be quite strong. Feel free to mix with olive oil and vinegar for a lighter consistency.

14. Buttermilk

Buttermilk is another low-calorie mayonnaise substitute that works well in salad dressings and baked goods. Its tangy flavor and liquid consistency can be a good match for recipes that need a bit of moisture without the thickness of mayo. To use this substitute, simply swap buttermilk in a 1:1 ratio. Remember to be mindful of its thinner texture.

15. Pesto

Pesto is a sauce made from basil, garlic, pine nuts and olive oil, and it can be a flavorful mayonnaise substitute in sandwiches and pasta salads. Its rich, herby taste offers a fresh twist on traditional mayo-based recipes. Try this substitute out by using pesto in smaller amounts, adjusting based on the desired flavor intensity.

How To Make Your Own Mayonnaise

If you find yourself without mayonnaise and want to stick to the original, making your own jar involves a simple process that makes for a rewarding option. With just a few ingredients, you can make a delectable homemade mayonnaise for your recipes. Whether it’s to add to a salad, sandwiches or fries, your flavorful homemade creation will offer superlative versatility and can even be used as a gift for friends and loved ones.

This mayonnaise is light, fluffy and gluten-free. You can also play around with the ingredients to make it your own and change the consistency or taste to suit your preferences. Here’s how you can do it:

Ingredients:

• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 1 cup oil (vegetable or olive oil)
• 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and mustard.
• Gradually add the oil, a few drops at a time, while whisking continuously until the mixture starts to thicken.
• Once all the oil is merged, whisk in the vinegar or lemon juice.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste and enjoy your homemade mayonnaise.

Making your own mayonnaise allows you to control the ingredients and flavor, offering a fresh and customizable option that can be tailored to any dish. If you enjoy making your own mayonnaise, you'll definitely want to sign up for cooking classes near you.

These immersive experiences with expert chefs are the best way to learn new recipes and sharpen your cooking techniques, all while having plenty of fun. For a remote option, you could also attend classes online, which offer the same quality of experience from wherever you choose.

Now that you're a maestro on mayonnaise substitutes, don't hesitate to try the various options out, even if you have the original product within reach. With some options proving exceptionally versatile, not to mention healthier and more nutritious, you never know: you may just decide to replace regular mayonnaise altogether!

For even more ways to explore your favorite foods, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.