Chipotle Garlic Sour Cream Sauce

Chipotle sauce with garlic and sour cream is the condiment I whip up whenever I want something smoky tangy and just spicy enough to make everything from tacos to roasted veggies crave-worthy This one always disappears fast at a family table and I love how simple it is to bring bold flavor to weeknight meals or backyard get-togethers

This recipe came to life out of my craving for something better than store-bought sauces and once I tasted it on grilled chicken my family would not let me put the bottle away

Gather Your Ingredients

• Mayonnaise: Adds a creamy base and helps blend everything together Use full-fat for best flavor
• Sour cream: Brings tanginess and smooths out the richness Choose a thick rich sour cream for the creamiest sauce
• Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce: These bring the iconic smoky heat Look for cans with whole peppers for easy portioning
• Fresh lime juice: A squeeze brightens all the other flavors Pick a ripe lime for maximum juice
• Garlic: Minced or roasted garlic adds robust flavor Roasting gives an extra sweet mellow depth
• Smoked paprika: Intensifies the smoky aspect Try Spanish smoked paprika for a more authentic taste
• Cumin: Gives an earthy warm backbone to balance the tang Ground cumin should be vibrant in color and aroma
• Salt: Balances all the tastes Fine sea salt dissolves easily for the perfect seasoning
• Olive oil (optional): Optional for thinning and extra silkiness Go for a fruity olive oil to accentuate richness

How to Make It

Prepare the Flavor Base:

Combine mayonnaise and sour cream in a medium bowl Stir until completely smooth and well blended so the sauce is perfectly creamy with no lumps

Chop and Add Chipotle:

Finely mince the chipotle peppers from the adobo sauce Use the side of your chef’s knife to mash them a bit for extra smoothness and stir them into the creamy base Add a spoonful of adobo liquid for more heat and smokiness

Roast or Mince Garlic:

Peel two cloves of garlic For deep flavor roast in the oven at three hundred seventy five degrees for ten to twelve minutes or mince directly if you like sharper taste Add garlic to the bowl

Fold in the Spices:

Sprinkle in smoked paprika and cumin Use a small whisk or fork to blend these through so the spices permeate every bite and release their aromas

Add Lime and Seasoning:

Squeeze fresh lime juice directly into the bowl making sure to avoid seeds Stir and add salt to taste Whisk everything so flavors distribute evenly and taste for balance

Adjust Consistency:

If the sauce feels too thick drizzle in olive oil a little at a time Stir until silky and spreadable If it is too thin add a bit more sour cream for texture

Chill and Enjoy:

Transfer the sauce to a jar or small bowl Refrigerate at least fifteen minutes to let flavors meld The sauce thickens slightly as it chills making it extra luscious when served

Smoked paprika is my favorite part of this sauce I once tried a homemade Spanish variety and the aroma alone made me want to double the batch It brings a warmth and fragrance that ties all the spicy and creamy notes together My kids love swirling this sauce onto their burritos for taco night and now no dinner is complete without it

Flavor Boosters

Taste as you go chipotles can vary in heat Roast your garlic for new layers of flavor depth A little adobo sauce goes a long way start with less and add more to control spice

Serving Suggestions

Try this sauce drizzled over breakfast eggs or avocado toast Swirl into soups as a finishing touch or serve alongside grilled meats sandwiches or loaded baked potatoes It is also amazing as a dip for fries or crunchy veggie platters

Creative Twists

If you want a lighter option swap Greek yogurt for sour cream or use vegan mayo and cashew sour cream for a completely dairy-free version Adjust the spice by using fewer chipotle peppers or replace with roasted red peppers for an almost sweet twist Fresh lemon juice can work in a pinch if limes are not available In summer stir in chopped fresh cilantro or basil for a green pop In winter a pinch of extra cumin or even cocoa powder makes it extra cozy For spring swap the lime for orange juice for a brighter floral note

A close friend of mine served this chipotle sauce at a picnic where it became the unexpected star layered onto pulled pork sandwiches Since then she makes a double batch for every holiday

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, Greek yogurt can substitute for sour cream, offering a tangy flavor and lighter texture while maintaining creaminess.

→ How spicy is chipotle sauce?

The level of heat depends on the amount of chipotle peppers used. Adjust to taste for more or less spiciness.

→ What dishes pair well with chipotle garlic sour cream sauce?

This sauce complements tacos, burgers, grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, and even as a dip for fries or chips.

→ Can smoked paprika be substituted?

You can use regular paprika, though it will lack the distinctive smoked flavor. Try adding a pinch of chipotle powder for extra smokiness.

→ How long does the sauce keep in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, the sauce will last up to five days refrigerated. Stir well before each use.