This creamy jalapeno sauce is a staple in Tex-Mex and Southwest cuisine, offering a bold and spicy flavor with a smooth, velvety texture. Made with just five ingredients, it’s perfect as a dip, salsa, or taco topping. With a balance of heat and creaminess, this sauce enhances any dish with its rich, zesty taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and quick to prepare with just five ingredients
- Versatile—use it as a dip, salsa, or sauce for tacos and burritos
- Bold jalapeno flavor with a creamy, smooth consistency
- Customizable heat level to suit your preference
- Made with fresh ingredients, no artificial additives
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 8 fresh jalapeno peppers (about 12 ounces by weight)
- 1 small red onion, chopped (about 4 ounces)
- 4-5 garlic cloves
- ½ cup neutral oil (corn oil, avocado oil, or vegetable oil)
- 1 teaspoon salt
Directions
- Prepare the Jalapenos – Remove the stems from the jalapeno peppers and place them in a medium-sized pot along with the chopped onion.
- Boil the Ingredients – Cover with water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the jalapenos soften. They should turn a dull green and be easily pierced with a fork but not mushy.
- Strain and Blend – Drain the mixture, but reserve some of the boiling water. Transfer the boiled jalapenos and onion to a food processor.
- Add the Remaining Ingredients – Add garlic, oil, and salt to the food processor. Blend for 4-5 minutes until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
- Adjust Consistency – For a thinner sauce, add a few tablespoons of the reserved boiling water and blend again.
- Taste and Serve – Adjust salt if necessary, then serve immediately or store for later use.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 32 (approximately 2+ cups)
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Extra Heat – Use serrano peppers instead of jalapenos for a spicier version.
- Milder Option – Remove the seeds from the jalapenos before boiling to reduce the heat.
- Tangy Twist – Add a splash of lime juice or apple cider vinegar for a slight tang.
- Creamier Texture – Blend in a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a richer, milder flavor.
- Herb Infusion – Add fresh cilantro for a fresh and aromatic twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Freezing – This sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months in a sealed container. Thaw in the refrigerator before use.
- Reheating – This sauce is best served cold or at room temperature. If needed, warm it slightly on the stove over low heat.
FAQs
1. How spicy is this creamy jalapeno sauce?
It has a medium heat level, but you can adjust it by using milder or spicier peppers.
2. Can I use a different type of onion?
Yes, white or yellow onions can be used instead of red onions, though they may slightly alter the flavor.
3. What oil works best for this recipe?
A neutral oil like corn, avocado, or vegetable oil works best to maintain the sauce’s smooth texture.
4. Can I make this sauce dairy-free?
Yes, the recipe is naturally dairy-free, making it vegan-friendly.
5. How can I make it less spicy?
Remove the jalapeno seeds and membranes before boiling, or use fewer jalapenos.
6. Can I use roasted jalapenos instead of boiled?
Yes, roasting the jalapenos will add a smoky flavor to the sauce.
7. How long does this sauce last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for about one week when stored in a sealed container in the refrigerator.
8. What dishes pair well with this sauce?
It’s great on tacos, burritos, grilled meats, nachos, or as a dip for chips and veggies.
9. Can I add cheese to this sauce?
Yes, blending in a small amount of grated cheese can add richness, though it will alter the texture.
10. Can I use olive oil instead of vegetable oil?
Olive oil can be used, but it may slightly change the flavor profile of the sauce.
Conclusion
This creamy jalapeno sauce is a versatile and flavorful addition to any meal, bringing a perfect balance of heat and creaminess. Whether drizzled over tacos, used as a dip, or served as a salsa, it enhances dishes with bold Tex-Mex flavors. Try different variations to suit your taste, and enjoy this easy homemade sauce!
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Jalapeno Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 32 servings (about 2 cups) 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This creamy jalapeño sauce is a flavorful Tex-Mex and Southwest-inspired condiment, perfect for tacos, dips, or drizzling over your favorite dishes. Made with only 5 simple ingredients, this sauce is smooth, spicy, and irresistibly creamy. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a must-have for spice lovers!
Ingredients
- 8 fresh jalapeño peppers (about 12 oz)
- 1 small red onion, chopped (about 4 oz)
- 4–5 garlic cloves
- 1/2 cup neutral oil (corn, avocado, or vegetable oil)
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Jalapeños – Slice off the stems and place the peppers in a medium pot with the chopped onion.
- Boil Until Soft – Cover with water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, until the jalapeños are soft but not mushy.
- Blend the Ingredients – Strain (reserve some boiling water) and transfer the jalapeños, onion, garlic, oil, and salt to a food processor. Blend for 4-5 minutes until ultra-smooth and creamy.
- Adjust Consistency – If the sauce is too thick, add a few tablespoons of the reserved boiling water.
- Taste & Serve – Adjust salt if needed and enjoy!
Notes
- Yields: About 2+ cups
- Heat Level: Medium. Jalapeños add a kick, but you can increase the heat with chili flakes or swap for serrano peppers.
- Storage: Store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
- Serving Ideas: Use as a dip, taco sauce, or a spicy sandwich spread.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Condiment, Sauce, Dip
- Method: Boiling & Blending
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex, American
