I’ve spent years perfecting this copycat version of Del Taco’s famous white sauce, and it’s the closest you’ll get to the real deal. The secret lies in the balance of tangy buttermilk and creamy mayonnaise, with just the right amount of seasoning to make it irresistibly flavorful.

This sauce comes together in 5 minutes with ingredients you likely already have in your fridge. The result is a creamy, tangy condiment that’s perfect for drizzling over tacos, dipping fries, or adding to any dish that needs a flavor boost.

What makes this version special is its authenticity. I’ve tested it against the original and can confirm it delivers that same signature taste you love from Del Taco. The texture is smooth and the flavor is spot-on.

Make a batch and store it in your fridge for up to a week. You’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again.

Ingredients for Del Taco White Sauce

Nine simple ingredients blend into that signature creamy tangy Del Taco magic.

The buttermilk is non-negotiable here—look for the cultured kind (not a substitute). Hellmann’s or Duke’s for the mayo, both hold up best. If you’re making this often, grab the big jug of buttermilk from Costco—freezes beautifully. The dill adds that subtle herby note that makes it taste authentic. Don’t skip it, and don’t use the old dusty jar from the back of your spice cabinet.

No buttermilk? Milk plus 1 tbsp vinegar works in a pinch (let it curdle 5 minutes). Fresh dill can replace dried at 3x the amount. Swap the vinegar for pickle juice if you want extra tang. The sugar isn’t sweet—it just smooths out the sharpness. If you’re out of garlic powder, fresh minced at half the quantity is fine, but the powder blends in more evenly.

This keeps for 7-10 days in the fridge—stir before using since it thickens as it sits. Don’t freeze it though, the texture separates. Perfect for tacos, burritos, or as a dip for fries (trust me on this one).

Step-by-Step Instructions for Del Taco White Sauce

This is the method I use to nail that signature tangy creaminess every single time.

Step 1: Whisk the Wet Base Together

In a medium bowl, combine the 1 cup Mayonnaise and 0.5 cup Buttermilk. I always make sure my buttermilk is well-shaken first—those clumps at the bottom won’t dissolve on their own.

Whisk vigorously for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is completely smooth and uniform in color. You’re building the creamy foundation here, so don’t rush. The sauce should look silky with no visible streaks of mayonnaise or buttermilk.

Step 2: Add the Tangy Elements

Pour in the 1 tbsp White Vinegar and 0.5 tsp Sugar. The vinegar gives that bright tang we’re after, while the sugar balances it out perfectly. Stir these in thoroughly—you should start to see the sauce take on a slightly glossy appearance.

At this point, taste and adjust the acidity if needed. If you used lemon juice instead of vinegar, you might need a touch more sugar, but I’ve found the 0.5 tsp Sugar hits the sweet spot with the 1 tbsp White Vinegar.

Step 3: Season with Savory Spices

Add the 1 tsp Garlic Powder, 1 tsp Onion Powder, 0.5 tsp Salt, and 0.25 tsp Black Pepper. These are the secret players that give the sauce its depth and that unmistakable Del Taco flavor.

Whisk again for another 30-60 seconds to distribute the spices evenly. The garlic and onion powders should disappear completely into the mixture. If you see any dry spots, keep whisking—those spices need to hydrate fully.

Step 4: Finish with Dill and Final Check

Sprinkle in the 0.5 tsp Dried Dill and whisk one last time. The dill adds that subtle herby note that rounds out the flavor. If you’re using fresh dill instead, remember that 1 tsp fresh chopped replaces the dried amount.

Give it a final taste and adjust the 0.5 tsp Salt if needed. The sauce should be creamy, tangy, and just slightly sweet with a savory backbone. Let it sit for 10 minutes before using—the flavors meld beautifully during this rest.

Best Sauces and Condiments for These Flavors

Classic Pairings

This sauce shines drizzled over crunchy tacos or burritos—just like at Del Taco. The creamy texture cuts through the crispiness perfectly. I also love it as a dip for crinkle-cut fries or onion rings. 💛

Breakfast Boost

Try spreading it on breakfast burritos with eggs and sausage for a tangy morning kick. It also elevates avocado toast when mixed with a little lime juice. The buttermilk base adds brightness to richer dishes.

Salad Dressing

Thin it with 1-2 tbsp milk to create a creamy dressing for taco salads or Southwest-style bowls. Toss with romaine, black beans, and corn for a quick lunch. The dill adds a refreshing note.

Sandwich Spread

Swap mayo for this sauce on chicken sandwiches or veggie wraps. It pairs especially well with grilled chicken and pepper jack cheese. The garlic and onion powders add depth to every bite.

Dip for Veggies

Serve with raw carrot sticks, celery, or bell pepper slices for a snack. Kids love the mild flavor, and adults appreciate the subtle tang. It’s a healthier alternative to ranch.

Loaded Potatoes

Drizzle over baked potatoes or sweet potato fries with cheese and bacon. The sauce melts slightly from the heat, creating a decadent topping. I always add extra dill for garnish.

Frequently Asked Questions

I’ve spent years perfecting this copycat version of Del Taco’s famous white sauce, and it’s the closest you’ll get to the real deal. The secret lies in the balance of tangy buttermilk and creamy mayonnaise, with just the right amount of seasoning to make it irresistibly flavorful.

This sauce comes together in 5 minutes with ingredients you likely already have in your fridge. The result is a creamy, tangy condiment that’s perfect for drizzling over tacos, dipping fries, or adding to any dish that needs a flavor boost.

What makes this version special is its authenticity. I’ve tested it against the original and can confirm it delivers that same signature taste you love from Del Taco. The texture is smooth and the flavor is spot-on.

Make a batch and store it in your fridge for up to a week. You’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again.

Ingredients for Del Taco White Sauce

Nine simple ingredients blend into that signature creamy tangy Del Taco magic.

The buttermilk is non-negotiable here—look for the cultured kind (not a substitute). Hellmann’s or Duke’s for the mayo, both hold up best. If you’re making this often, grab the big jug of buttermilk from Costco—freezes beautifully. The dill adds that subtle herby note that makes it taste authentic. Don’t skip it, and don’t use the old dusty jar from the back of your spice cabinet.

No buttermilk? Milk plus 1 tbsp vinegar works in a pinch (let it curdle 5 minutes). Fresh dill can replace dried at 3x the amount. Swap the vinegar for pickle juice if you want extra tang. The sugar isn’t sweet—it just smooths out the sharpness. If you’re out of garlic powder, fresh minced at half the quantity is fine, but the powder blends in more evenly.

This keeps for 7-10 days in the fridge—stir before using since it thickens as it sits. Don’t freeze it though, the texture separates. Perfect for tacos, burritos, or as a dip for fries (trust me on this one).

Step-by-Step Instructions for Del Taco White Sauce

This is the method I use to nail that signature tangy creaminess every single time.

Step 1: Whisk the Wet Base Together

In a medium bowl, combine the 1 cup Mayonnaise and 0.5 cup Buttermilk. I always make sure my buttermilk is well-shaken first—those clumps at the bottom won’t dissolve on their own.

Whisk vigorously for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is completely smooth and uniform in color. You’re building the creamy foundation here, so don’t rush. The sauce should look silky with no visible streaks of mayonnaise or buttermilk.

Step 2: Add the Tangy Elements

Pour in the 1 tbsp White Vinegar and 0.5 tsp Sugar. The vinegar gives that bright tang we’re after, while the sugar balances it out perfectly. Stir these in thoroughly—you should start to see the sauce take on a slightly glossy appearance.

At this point, taste and adjust the acidity if needed. If you used lemon juice instead of vinegar, you might need a touch more sugar, but I’ve found the 0.5 tsp Sugar hits the sweet spot with the 1 tbsp White Vinegar.

Step 3: Season with Savory Spices

Add the 1 tsp Garlic Powder, 1 tsp Onion Powder, 0.5 tsp Salt, and 0.25 tsp Black Pepper. These are the secret players that give the sauce its depth and that unmistakable Del Taco flavor.

Whisk again for another 30-60 seconds to distribute the spices evenly. The garlic and onion powders should disappear completely into the mixture. If you see any dry spots, keep whisking—those spices need to hydrate fully.

Step 4: Finish with Dill and Final Check

Sprinkle in the 0.5 tsp Dried Dill and whisk one last time. The dill adds that subtle herby note that rounds out the flavor. If you’re using fresh dill instead, remember that 1 tsp fresh chopped replaces the dried amount.

Give it a final taste and adjust the 0.5 tsp Salt if needed. The sauce should be creamy, tangy, and just slightly sweet with a savory backbone. Let it sit for 10 minutes before using—the flavors meld beautifully during this rest.

Best Sauces and Condiments for These Flavors

Classic Pairings

This sauce shines drizzled over crunchy tacos or burritos—just like at Del Taco. The creamy texture cuts through the crispiness perfectly. I also love it as a dip for crinkle-cut fries or onion rings. 💛

Breakfast Boost

Try spreading it on breakfast burritos with eggs and sausage for a tangy morning kick. It also elevates avocado toast when mixed with a little lime juice. The buttermilk base adds brightness to richer dishes.

Salad Dressing

Thin it with 1-2 tbsp milk to create a creamy dressing for taco salads or Southwest-style bowls. Toss with romaine, black beans, and corn for a quick lunch. The dill adds a refreshing note.

Sandwich Spread

Swap mayo for this sauce on chicken sandwiches or veggie wraps. It pairs especially well with grilled chicken and pepper jack cheese. The garlic and onion powders add depth to every bite.

Dip for Veggies

Serve with raw carrot sticks, celery, or bell pepper slices for a snack. Kids love the mild flavor, and adults appreciate the subtle tang. It’s a healthier alternative to ranch.

Loaded Potatoes

Drizzle over baked potatoes or sweet potato fries with cheese and bacon. The sauce melts slightly from the heat, creating a decadent topping. I always add extra dill for garnish.

Frequently Asked Questions