14 Surprising Ways To Use Mayonnaise For Better Dishes

Mayonnaise is a versatile condiment that can be used in various surprising ways to enhance the flavor and texture of your dishes. Here are some creative ways to use mayonnaise in your cooking:

1. Creamier Mashed Potatoes:

Add a spoonful of mayonnaise to your mashed potatoes. It gives them a rich and creamy texture without the need for excessive butter or cream.

2. Moist and Juicy Chicken:

Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on chicken breasts before baking or grilling. It helps lock in moisture, resulting in juicier and more flavorful chicken.

3. Tangy Salad Dressing:

Create a creamy and tangy salad dressing by mixing mayonnaise with your favorite vinegar, lemon juice, and seasonings. It’s a great base for coleslaw or potato salad dressings.

4. Crispy Coating for Fish and Chicken:

Use mayonnaise as a coating for fish or chicken before breading. It helps the breading adhere better and gives the dish a crispy, golden crust when fried or baked.

5. Creamy Macaroni and Cheese:

Add a dollop of mayonnaise to your macaroni and cheese for an extra creamy and cheesy texture. It blends well with the cheese sauce.

6. Moist Chocolate Cake:

Mayonnaise can be used in chocolate cake recipes to make them incredibly moist. Simply substitute some fat (like butter or oil) with mayonnaise in your recipe.

7. Savory Grilled Cheese:

Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise on the outside of your grilled cheese sandwiches instead of butter. It creates a perfectly crispy and golden crust.

8. Fluffy Pancakes:

Add a spoonful of mayonnaise to your pancake batter to make them fluffier and add a subtle richness to the flavor.

9. Creamy Pasta Sauce:

Create a creamy pasta sauce by mixing mayonnaise with some pasta cooking water, grated Parmesan cheese, and seasonings. Toss it with cooked pasta for a quick and flavorful dish.

10. Tenderizing Marinade:

Use mayonnaise as part of a marinade for meat or poultry. The oil and acid content can help tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.

11. Dipping Sauces:

Make quick and tasty dipping sauces by mixing mayonnaise with various seasonings, herbs, and spices. For example, mix it with sriracha for a spicy mayo or with garlic and lemon for aioli.

12. Baking Moist Bread:

Add a small amount of mayonnaise to bread dough recipes. It can help keep the bread moist and extend its shelf life.

13. Creamy Gravy:

Stir in a spoonful of mayonnaise into your gravy to make it creamier and richer in flavor. It works well with poultry or meat-based gravies.

14. Tuna or Chicken Salad:

Use mayonnaise as the base for classic tuna or chicken salad sandwiches. Add your favorite ingredients like celery, onions, and pickles for extra flavor and crunch.

Remember that mayonnaise can vary in flavor and thickness between brands, so you may want to experiment to find the one that best suits your recipes. Additionally, while mayonnaise can be a versatile ingredient, it’s important to use it in moderation as it can be high in calories and fat.