Good Stuff Simple Swap: Conventional Mayo → Homemade or Cleaner Mayonnaise

The Good Stuff Simple Swaps – Every Wednesday I share a new Good Stuff Simple Swap, one simple change that helps clean up your everyday eats without overhauling your whole pantry. You can find all the swaps here!

Mayonnaise is one of those kitchen staples you probably use more than you realize. On sandwiches, in tuna salad, as a base for dips or salad dressings, or even just slathered on a burger-it shows up everywhere. The thing is, the usual store-bought versions often include ingredients you might not want regularly, like certain oils, added sugars, or preservatives.

Swapping to a cleaner version is an easy change that doesn’t disrupt your recipes, keeps the texture creamy, and gives you more control over what’s in your food.

Why Swap Out Conventional Mayo

Most conventional mayonnaise uses:

• Oils like soybean or canola
• Added sugar
• Preservatives or other additives

This doesn’t mean you have to avoid mayo altogether. A cleaner version just lets you simplify ingredients while keeping it creamy and versatile. You’ll still get all the things you love about mayo without the mystery extras.

How to Make the Swap

Homemade Mayonnaise
Making mayonnaise at home is surprisingly simple. A basic recipe usually takes less than 10 minutes and only requires a few pantry staples: egg yolks, a neutral oil, a bit of acid like lemon juice or vinegar, and a pinch of salt. Once you get comfortable with it, you can experiment with different oils or flavors-like avocado oil for a slightly richer taste or adding a clove of garlic for garlic aioli-style mayo.

Store-Bought Options
If convenience is key, there are brands that stick to simple, recognizable ingredients:

• Chosen Foods
• Sir Kensington’s

Both are widely available and versatile. They work just like regular mayo in sandwiches, dips, and dressings.

How We Use Clean Mayo in Real Life

Upgrading your mayo doesn’t require a new recipe rotation. Some of our favorite ways to use cleaner mayo include:

• Sandwiches – a simple swap that works in every classic sandwich.
• Tuna or chicken salad – just mix in the mayo you made or picked up and you’ve got a lunch that feels fresh.
• Egg salad or deviled eggs – the creaminess stays the same, just with cleaner ingredients.
• Homemade dips – mix mayo with a little mustard, lemon juice, or herbs for a quick dip for veggies or chips. Try out our Copycat Chick-Fil-A Sauce!
• Burgers and wraps – spread a little on top and the flavor is exactly what you want.

Once you start making this swap, it becomes second nature. A jar of store-bought clean mayo or a batch of homemade mayo in the fridge is always ready when you need it.

Simple Swap FAQs

Is homemade mayonnaise hard to make?
Not at all. My homemade mayonnaise takes just a few minutes and uses ingredients you likely already have. Once you make it a couple of times, it’s easy to whip up a fresh batch.

Can I use these swaps in any recipe?
Yes! Cleaner mayo works the same way as regular mayo in sandwiches, dips, and dressings.

Will store-bought cleaner mayo taste different?
Some brands may taste slightly different depending on the oil used, but they’re still creamy, versatile, and kid-friendly.

How long does homemade mayo last?
When stored in the fridge, homemade mayo typically lasts about a week.

Can I make flavored mayo?
Absolutely. Add garlic, herbs, a little mustard, or spices to create your own custom flavors. It’s a fun way to upgrade simple meals.

Are these swaps only for sandwiches?
Not at all. Use them in any recipe that calls for mayonnaise: dips, dressings, tuna melts, egg salad, chicken salad, and more.

Why This Simple Swap Works

This is a practical, everyday swap. You keep the creamy texture and flavor you love while using simpler ingredients. Small changes like this make condiments feel fresher and more enjoyable, without overhauling your kitchen or adding extra steps to your meals.

You can find all the past swaps here and don’t forget to check back next Wednesday for the next Good Stuff Simple Swap!

This post contains affiliate links