McAlister’s Honey Mustard Recipe is sweet, tangy and creamy. It tastes like the sauce from McAlister’s Deli. This sauce is perfect for sandwiches and salads.
You can make it at home in just a few minutes. It uses simple ingredients you already have. The flavor is balanced and not too strong.
If you love honey mustard, this recipe is for you. It is a great way to enjoy the taste of McAlister’s at home.
Why I Love Making This McAlister’s Honey Mustard
I love making this sauce because it feels like a treat. It reminds me of eating at McAlister’s with friends. The sauce makes every meal feel special.
I use it on chicken, fries and salads. My kids love dipping their nuggets in it. The sweetness and tang blend so well. It is easy, but tastes fancy. It always makes our meals happier.
Equipment List
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Airtight container
Recipe Overview
- Recipe Name: McAlister’s Honey Mustard
- Servings: 8
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Course: Sauce
- Cuisine: American
- Calories: 90 kcal per serving
Ingredients You Need for McAlister’s Honey Mustard Recipe
- Mayonnaise – ½ cup
- Dijon mustard – 2 tablespoons
- Yellow mustard – 1 tablespoon
- Honey – 3 tablespoons
- Apple cider vinegar – 1 tablespoon
- Lemon juice – 1 teaspoon
- Garlic powder – ½ teaspoon
- Salt – ¼ teaspoon
- Black pepper – ¼ teaspoon
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Add Mayonnaise
Put mayonnaise in a small mixing bowl. This makes the sauce creamy and smooth.
2. Add Dijon Mustard
Add Dijon mustard next. It adds a strong, tangy flavor.
3. Add Yellow Mustard
Add yellow mustard for extra color and mild taste.
4. Add Honey
Pour honey into the bowl. This gives the sweet and classic taste.
5. Add Vinegar and Lemon
Add apple cider vinegar and lemon juice. This adds a bright, fresh kick.
6. Add Garlic Powder
Sprinkle garlic powder into the mix. It gives a subtle savory note.
7. Season with Salt and Pepper
Add salt and black pepper. Mix lightly to balance flavors.
8. Whisk Until Smooth
Whisk all ingredients well. The sauce should look glossy and creamy.
9. Taste and Adjust
Taste the sauce. Add more honey if you want it sweeter.
10. Chill Before Serving
Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes. The flavors blend better this way.
Read More: Culver’s Cheese Sauce Recipe
Expert Tips & Variations
- Use more honey for a sweeter sauce.
- Add a pinch of cayenne for spice.
- Use Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Add a little maple syrup for richer flavor.
- Use white vinegar instead of apple cider.
History or Fun Fact About the Dish
Honey mustard became popular in the 1980s. It was a favorite sauce for sandwiches and chicken. McAlister’s Deli made it famous with their menu.
The sauce is a mix of sweet honey and sharp mustard. It is simple, but very tasty. Many people love it for its balanced flavor.
Pairings & Complementary Recipes
This sauce goes great with chicken tenders. It also works with fries and onion rings. Try it on turkey sandwiches.
It tastes amazing with a fresh salad too. You can also use it as a dipping sauce for veggies. It makes simple foods feel special.
Occasion or Event Ideas
Serve this sauce at game nights. It is perfect for family dinners. Use it at birthday parties for kids. It also fits potlucks and picnics. You can make it for BBQ days too. It is always a crowd favorite.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Use within 5 days for best taste.
- Do not freeze the sauce.
- Stir well before serving again.
- Keep it chilled for a thick texture.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 90 kcal |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Carbs | 6 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
Health Benefits
This sauce is a tasty way to enjoy flavors. It has honey, which gives natural sweetness. Honey can help soothe the throat. Using homemade sauce means less preservatives.
You can control sugar and salt levels. Use it in moderation for a balanced diet. It is a great sauce for healthy meals when used wisely.

McAlister’s Honey Mustard Recipe
Ingredients
- Mayonnaise – ½ cup
- Dijon mustard – 2 tablespoons
- Yellow mustard – 1 tablespoon
- Honey – 3 tablespoons
- Apple cider vinegar – 1 tablespoon
- Lemon juice – 1 teaspoon
- Garlic powder – ½ teaspoon
- Salt – ¼ teaspoon
- Black pepper – ¼ teaspoon
Instructions
Add Mayonnaise
- Put mayonnaise in a small mixing bowl. This makes the sauce creamy and smooth.
Add Dijon Mustard
- Add Dijon mustard next. It adds a strong, tangy flavor.
Add Yellow Mustard
- Add yellow mustard for extra color and mild taste.
Add Honey
- Pour honey into the bowl. This gives the sweet and classic taste.
Add Vinegar and Lemon
- Add apple cider vinegar and lemon juice. This adds a bright, fresh kick.
Add Garlic Powder
- Sprinkle garlic powder into the mix. It gives a subtle savory note.
Season with Salt and Pepper
- Add salt and black pepper. Mix lightly to balance flavors.
Whisk Until Smooth
- Whisk all ingredients well. The sauce should look glossy and creamy.
Taste and Adjust
- Taste the sauce. Add more honey if you want it sweeter.
Chill Before Serving
- Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes. The flavors blend better this way.
Notes
- Use more honey for a sweeter sauce.
- Add a pinch of cayenne for spice.
- Use Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Add a little maple syrup for richer flavor.
- Use white vinegar instead of apple cider.
FAQs about McAlister’s Honey Mustard Recipe
Is this the real McAlister’s honey mustard recipe?
This is a homemade copy that tastes very close. The exact recipe is not public. But this version gives the same sweet and tangy flavor.
Can I make it without mayonnaise?
Yes, you can use Greek yogurt instead. The sauce will be lighter. It will still taste delicious.
How long does it last in the fridge?
It lasts about 5 days. Keep it in a sealed container. Stir it before each use.
Can I use this as a salad dressing?
Yes, it works great as a dressing. Add a little water to thin it. It becomes a smooth salad dressing.
How to make it spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce. Mix well and taste again.
Final Thoughts
McAlister’s Honey Mustard Recipe is simple and delicious. It brings that familiar deli taste home. You can use it on many meals.
The sweet and tangy flavor makes everything better. Try it once, and you will love it. This sauce is a kitchen favorite for sure.

Zoey Lane is the voice behind ZoeyCooks.com, where she shares comforting, home-tested recipes inspired by everyday cooking. She believes great food should be simple, approachable and enjoyable to make.












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