Authentic New Orleans Remoulade Sauce Recipe for Cajun Flavor

This authentic New Orleans-style remoulade sauce is creamy, tangy, and perfectly spiced. Use it as a topping for po’boys and sandwiches or as a dip for fried oysters, fries, or pickles.

New Orleans remoulade sauce in a gray bowl.

If you’ve enjoyed seafood in New Orleans, you likely tasted this pinkish, creamy remoulade alongside your meal. It complements fried foods and seafood beautifully, and it’s simple to make at home. Many regional variations exist; this version balances creaminess, brightness, and a gentle heat for a classic Creole finish.

side shot of New Orleans remoulade sauce in a gray bowl.

Ingredients You Need to Make This Recipe

  • Mayonnaise — the creamy base of the sauce.
  • Creole mustard — a spicy, whole-grain style mustard; substitute whole-grain or Dijon if needed.
  • Fresh lemon juice — adds brightness and acidity.
  • Fresh parsley — finely chopped for freshness.
  • Hot sauce — a dash for heat and tang (Louisiana-style hot sauce works well).
  • Worcestershire sauce — adds savory depth and umami.
  • Prepared horseradish — provides a sharp, tangy note; use prepared horseradish, not horseradish sauce.
  • Fresh garlic — minced for aroma and flavor.
  • Smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and cayenne — round out the seasoning and adjust the heat to taste.

To make the remoulade, combine all ingredients in a medium bowl and whisk until smooth and well blended. Chill briefly to let flavors meld if desired.

New Orleans remoulade sauce ingredients in glass bowl.
New Orleans remoulade sauce on a wooden spoon.

Variations and Substitutions

Remoulade recipes vary widely. Consider adding or swapping any of these to suit your tastes:

  • Pickle juice for extra tang
  • Capers for briny brightness
  • Pickle relish for crunch and sweetness
  • Green onions for oniony freshness
  • Dijon mustard for a smoother, sharper mustard note

Mix and match ingredients to create a remoulade that fits your flavor preferences.

New Orleans remoulade sauce in a gray bowl.

What Is Remoulade Sauce?

Remoulade is a creamy condiment with roots in France that has become a staple in Louisiana Creole cooking. The French version typically includes mayonnaise, vinegar, mustard, shallots, chopped pickles or capers, and herbs. The Louisiana Creole style adds paprika and hot sauce for a pink hue and spicier profile.

What to Serve With Remoulade Sauce

Remoulade is versatile as a spread or dip. Popular pairings include:

  • Po’boy sandwiches
  • Fried oysters or shrimp
  • Fried pickles
  • Crab cakes
  • French fries
  • Smashed potatoes and hushpuppies

Use it wherever you want a creamy, tangy, slightly spicy boost.

Storage Instructions

Store remoulade in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. It can be frozen for up to three months, though fresh is best and the recipe is quick to make.

Recommended Tools For This Recipe

  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Mixing bowl
  • Small whisk
  • Glass storage jar
New Orleans remoulade sauce in a gray bowl.

More Cajun-inspired Recipes You Will Love!

  • Cajun Smothered Chicken
  • Cajun Honey Butter Shrimp
  • Loaded Creole Breakfast Skillet
  • Cajun Dirty Rice with Smoked Sausage
  • Creamy Cajun Mushroom Pasta

📖 Recipe

New Orleans remoulade sauce in a gray bowl.

New Orleans Remoulade Sauce Recipe

This authentic New Orleans-style remoulade is creamy, tangy, and balanced with a touch of heat. Great for sandwiches, seafood, and fried favorites.
Prep Time
5 mins
Total Time
5 mins
Course
Condiment
Cuisine
American, French
Servings
8 servings
Calories
120 kcal

Equipment

  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Mixing bowl
  • Glass storage jar

Ingredients

  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Creole or whole-grain mustard
  • 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish (not horseradish sauce)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped and packed
  • 2 teaspoons hot sauce
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8–1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Add all ingredients to a medium mixing bowl and whisk together until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning and spice to taste. Chill briefly if desired, then serve.

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Freezing is possible for up to three months, though texture and flavor are best when fresh.

Nutrition

Serving: 2 tablespoons | Calories: 120 kcal | Carbohydrates: 7.8 g | Protein: 0.4 g | Fat: 9.9 g