Mexican White Sauce Recipe (Salsa Blanca)

If you've ever stopped in a Mexican restaurant in Virginia, you may have encountered a unique creamy dip called Mexican White Sauce, or Salsa Blanca. This isn't your typical salsa!

This is an iconic Virginian condiment with its surprising secret ingredient, loved for its creamy and tangy flavor, and it definitely is a must-try. Ready to bring this regional favorite to your own kitchen? Let's dive into the easy recipe!

Mexican White Sauce Ingredients & Suggested Substitutions

The full ingredients list with measurements is listed in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.

• Miracle Whip. Miracle Whip is the secret ingredient used for the tangy twist, but you can use mayonnaise if you'd like. Learn more about Miracle Whip.
• Sour Cream. Mexican crema is a nice alternative.
• Milk. Mostly for thinning. Heavy cream can be used, or even just a bit of water or more of the other liquids.
• Spices. Garlic powder, dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes (or cayenne pepper), ground cumin, sea salt and pepper. You can use any of your favorite spices or spice blends to make it your own.
• Lime Juice. For a touch of acidity and citrus pop. Lemon juice is a good alternative, or use jalapeno brine (pickled jalapeno juice).
• Hot Sauce. Optional, just a splash. Omit if desired.

How to Make Mexican White Sauce

This recipe is so easy to make! Simply whisk all of the ingredients in a small mixing bowl until very smooth and well combined.

Taste and adjust for salt and lime.

Chill at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors mingle.

Boom! Done! Your Salsa Blanca is ready to serve. Bust out the tortilla chips! Isn't this super unique?

Never heard of Mexican White Sauce? Learn a bit more about it.

What is Mexican White Sauce?

While there are many creamy white sauces in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine, "Mexican White Sauce" usually refers to a specific recipe, particularly in Virginia and the surrounding area, and notably in the Hampton Roads region, where it was reportedly invented in Norfolk, Virginia at El Toro.

It's a cherished regional favorite creamy, tangy dip or dipping sauce made with Miracle Whip and sour cream, thinned with milk and seasoned with vibrant spices.

It's a staple in southeastern Virginia with a loyal following, served in the region's Mexican restaurants, brining a unique twist on traditional salsas, more like a salad dressing.

It's important to note that even though this is called "Mexican White Sauce", it's not a traditional sauce from Mexico, but considered a Mexican-American recipe. It goes by other names, such as Virginia White Sauce, Mexican Restaurant White Sauce, White Salsa, Mexican Ranch, and El Toro White Sauce.

Storage Information

Store your homemade Mexican White Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best used within 3 to 4 days.

I do not recommend freezing this dipping sauce as it can affect the texture.

Try Some of My Other Popular Recipes

My Halal White Sauce Recipe is a similar mayo-based sauce made with Middle Eastern spices. Yum Yum Sauce is rich and creamy, popular with Japanese hibachi and sushi.

For something a touch spicy and smoky, this Chipotle Mayo Recipe is perfection, just a dollop is all you need.

This Remoulade Sauce Recipe adds zing and creaminess to Creole and Cajun cuisine.

Alabama White BBQ Sauce is the sauce you didn't know you needed, awesome on grilled or fried chicken.

Don't forget this Classic Tartar Sauce Recipe, delicious for all of your seafood dishes.