This homemade Horseradish Aioli is an easy, flavorful sauce made from creamy store-bought mayonnaise, sharp prepared horseradish and bright lemon juice.
Traditional aioli is made with garlic, olive oil and egg yolks, but this horseradish aioli takes a shortcut by using store-bought mayonnaise as the creamy base. Like the avocado aioli that leaves out egg yolks, this version focuses on bold horseradish heat balanced with lemon, fresh grated garlic and chopped chives. It’s ideal on steak, prime rib, grilled chicken, sandwiches and fish, and works great as a dip for vegetables, bread or crispy potatoes.
Ingredients that Matter
This horseradish aioli relies on a few pantry staples and fresh aromatics. Key ingredients include:
- Mayonnaise. Full-fat store-bought mayonnaise gives the creamiest texture, but light mayo or a plant-based mayo can be used.
- Prepared horseradish. Prepared and creamy horseradish provides the signature punch; drain any excess vinegar before adding so the aioli stays thick.
- Garlic. Fresh grated garlic complements the horseradish. Garlic powder or roasted garlic can be substituted if preferred.
- Lemon juice. A splash of fresh lemon brightens and cuts through the richness of the mayo and horseradish.
- Chives. Finely chopped chives add a mild onion note and fresh color.
- Salt and pepper. A pinch of salt and a grind of black pepper finish the seasoning.
See the recipe card below for exact quantities.
How to Make Creamy Horseradish Aioli
This aioli comes together in about five minutes. Simply combine the ingredients and taste to adjust seasoning. Important tip: drain prepared horseradish before adding so the sauce remains thick.
In a small bowl, add the mayonnaise, well-drained prepared horseradish, grated garlic, chopped chives, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and black pepper.
Stir until smooth, then taste and adjust with more lemon, salt or pepper as needed. Garnish with extra chives and a crack of black pepper before serving.
Hint: Measure and drain the horseradish before mixing. Many prepared horseradishes are packed in vinegar, and excess liquid will thin the aioli.
Substitutions
This recipe is flexible. Try these easy swaps to suit dietary needs or flavor preferences:
- Vegan – Use a plant-based mayonnaise; prepared horseradish is naturally vegan and gluten-free.
- Lower fat – Choose a light mayonnaise to reduce fat.
- Fresh herbs – Replace chives with scallions, parsley or tarragon for a different herb note.
- Dried herbs – In a pinch, use dried parsley, basil or dried chives.
- Fresh horseradish – If you find fresh horseradish root, peel and finely grate it. Taste before adding to gauge its heat.
What to serve with horseradish aioli
This creamy, tangy sauce pairs well with grilled or roasted proteins, sandwiches and vegetables. Try it with:
- Grilled steak or prime rib
- Roasted or grilled chicken
- Fish and seafood
- Sandwiches and burgers
- Crispy roasted or air-fryer potatoes
- Vegetable crudités or roasted vegetables
Storage
Store leftover aioli in an airtight container or mason jar in the refrigerator for up to four days. Do not freeze. If liquid separates from the horseradish while chilled, simply stir the aioli before serving.
Adam’s Pro Tip
If you’re unsure about how spicy you want the aioli, start with one tablespoon of prepared horseradish, taste, and then add a second tablespoon if you want more heat. Adjust to your preference.
FAQ
Yes. For flavored sauces like this horseradish aioli, using store-bought mayonnaise is an easy and acceptable shortcut that yields excellent results.
Yes, cream-style or prepared horseradish both work well in this recipe.
Absolutely. Peel and finely grate fresh horseradish, then taste it to determine its spice level before adding to the aioli.
More Sauce
If you enjoy this aioli, try other simple sauce recipes for dressings and marinades.
Dinner Ideas
Need dinner inspiration? Pair this aioli with roasted or grilled proteins and hearty sides.
Recipe
Horseradish Aioli
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- Author: Adam Dolge
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: ½ cup
Description
This homemade Horseradish Aioli is a quick, creamy sauce made with mayonnaise, prepared horseradish and fresh lemon juice.
Ingredients
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 Tbsp prepared horseradish, drained well
- 1 garlic clove, finely grated
- 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp finely chopped fresh chives, plus more for garnish
- Pinch table salt
- Pinch black pepper, plus more for garnish
Instructions
- Add the mayonnaise to a small mixing bowl with the drained prepared horseradish, grated garlic, lemon juice, chives, salt and pepper. Stir until combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with more lemon, salt or pepper if needed. Garnish with extra chives and black pepper.
Notes
- Store aioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Do not freeze.
- Drain prepared horseradish to prevent the sauce from thinning.
- Cream-style horseradish or freshly grated horseradish can be used—taste fresh horseradish before adding to judge its heat.
- Serve with steak, roast, grilled chicken, fish, sandwiches, potatoes, bread or vegetables.
- Light or vegan mayonnaise can be used as needed.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stirring
- Cuisine: American