Homemade Sweet Onion Sauce
Recreating the beloved Homemade Sweet Onion Sauce gives you the chance to enjoy Subway’s signature flavor in your own kitchen. This easy copycat recipe blends sweet and tangy notes, making it perfect for sandwiches, salads, or as a dip. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want to elevate your meal, this sauce adds a delightful touch that will impress everyone.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of total time, you can whip up this sauce in no time.
- Versatile Use: Perfect for sandwiches, salads, and even as a marinade for grilled dishes.
- Delicious Flavor: A perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess that enhances any meal.
- Healthy Ingredients: Made with simple pantry staples and no preservatives, it’s a healthier option than store-bought sauces.
- Vegan-Friendly: Suitable for all dietary preferences, making it an inclusive choice for gatherings.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the delicious world of homemade sweet onion sauce, gather your kitchen tools. Having these essentials on hand will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Airtight container
Importance of Each Tool
- Saucepan: Essential for cooking the ingredients together to create the rich flavors of the sauce.
- Whisk: Ensures that all ingredients blend smoothly without lumps.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements guarantee the right balance of flavors in your sauce.
Ingredients
Recreate Subway’s famous sweet onion sauce with this easy copycat recipe. Perfect blend of sweet and tangy flavors.
For the Sauce
- 1 Cup Sugar
- 1/2 Cup Water
- 6 Tablespoons White Vinegar
- 1 1/2 Tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar
- 1/2 Tablespoon Onion, freshly grated
- 1 Tablespoon Cornstarch
- 2 Teaspoons Dijon Mustard
- 2 Teaspoons Mustard Powder
- 1 Teaspoon Poppy Seeds
- 1/2 Teaspoon Sesame Oil
- 1/2 Teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1/2 Teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 Teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1/4 Teaspoon Celery Seed
- 1/4 Teaspoon Paprika
- 1/4 Teaspoon Black Pepper
How to Make Homemade Sweet Onion Sauce
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
Add all ingredients to a saucepan.
Step 2: Bring to Boil
Bring to a boil while whisking constantly. Let it boil for 5 minutes.
Step 3: Simmer the Mixture
Reduce heat to simmer for another 5 minutes while continuing to whisk.
Step 4: Cool and Store
Remove from heat and allow to cool. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
With these simple steps, you’ll have delicious homemade sweet onion sauce ready to enhance your favorite dishes!
How to Serve Homemade Sweet Onion Sauce
Homemade Sweet Onion Sauce is a versatile condiment that can elevate many dishes. Whether you’re enjoying a sandwich, salad, or grilled vegetables, this sauce adds a delightful sweet and tangy flavor that enhances every bite.
On Sandwiches
- Layered Delight: Spread the sauce generously on your favorite sandwiches for an extra burst of flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Drizzle over roasted veggies or a veggie burger for a tasty meat-free meal.
With Salads
- Salad Dressing: Use as a dressing for green salads, adding sweetness to balance the greens.
- Coleslaw Upgrade: Mix with shredded cabbage and carrots for a unique coleslaw twist.
As a Dipping Sauce
- Veggie Dip: Serve with fresh vegetables like carrots and celery for a refreshing snack.
- Fried Snacks: Pair with onion rings or fried pickles for a delicious dipping experience.
On Grilled Meats
- Glaze for Chicken: Brush on grilled chicken during the last few minutes of cooking for added flavor.
- Steak Companion: Serve alongside steak as a sweet contrast to savory meats.

How to Perfect Homemade Sweet Onion Sauce
To ensure your Homemade Sweet Onion Sauce reaches its full potential, consider these helpful tips. Each suggestion will help enhance the flavors and texture of your sauce.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated onion provides better flavor compared to pre-packaged options.
- Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the sugar amount based on your sweetness preference.
- Whisk Continuously: Constant whisking while cooking prevents lumps from forming and ensures smooth consistency.
- Let it Cool Completely: Allowing the sauce to cool fully will help it thicken and develop deeper flavors.
- Store Properly: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness for up to one week.
Best Side Dishes for Homemade Sweet Onion Sauce
Homemade Sweet Onion Sauce pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to complement your meals.
- French Fries: Crispy fries are perfect for dipping into this sweet sauce.
- Sweet Potato Wedges: The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes balances perfectly with the tangy sauce.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Brush with sauce before grilling for an enhanced flavor experience.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in this sauce, they make a deliciously unique side dish.
- Potato Salad: Incorporate the sauce into potato salad for an unexpected twist on a classic dish.
- Rice Pilaf: Drizzle over rice pilaf to add depth and richness to this simple side.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Homemade Sweet Onion Sauce is simple, but some common mistakes can affect the final flavor and texture. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Skipping the whisking: Not whisking continuously while boiling can lead to uneven cooking and lumps. Always whisk to ensure a smooth sauce.
- Using old ingredients: Using expired or stale ingredients like spices can alter the taste. Always check freshness before starting.
- Ignoring cooling time: Allowing the sauce to cool completely before storing is crucial. This prevents condensation, which can dilute flavors.
- Not measuring accurately: Estimating ingredient amounts can lead to imbalances in flavor. Use precise measurements for best results.
- Storing improperly: Failing to store in an airtight container can spoil your sauce faster. Make sure it’s sealed tight for maximum freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your Homemade Sweet Onion Sauce in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Homemade Sweet Onion Sauce
- You can freeze the sauce for longer storage.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
- It will maintain quality for about 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Homemade Sweet Onion Sauce
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sauce in an oven-safe dish and heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Pour the desired amount into a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a saucepan, stirring frequently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries regarding Homemade Sweet Onion Sauce:
What is Homemade Sweet Onion Sauce made of?
Homemade Sweet Onion Sauce is made from sugar, vinegars, fresh onions, mustard, and various spices that blend together for a sweet and tangy flavor.
Can I customize my Homemade Sweet Onion Sauce?
Absolutely! You can adjust sweetness by adding more sugar or alter tanginess with different vinegars according to your preference.
How do I use Homemade Sweet Onion Sauce?
This sauce is perfect as a sandwich sauce, salad dressing, or marinade. Its versatility makes it a delightful addition to various dishes.
Is this sauce vegan-friendly?
Yes! All ingredients used in this recipe are plant-based, making it suitable for vegans.
How should I store leftover sauce?
Store any leftover Homemade Sweet Onion Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Sweet Onion Sauce brings that subway-inspired flavor right into your kitchen. It’s incredibly versatile and pairs well with sandwiches, salads, and even grilled meats. Feel free to customize it with your favorite spices or sweeteners. Give this recipe a try; you’ll be delighted by its fresh taste!

Homemade Sweet Onion Sauce
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Homemade Sweet Onion Sauce brings the delightful flavor of Subway right to your kitchen. This easy, copycat recipe combines sweet and tangy notes, making it a perfect condiment for sandwiches, salads, or as a dip for your favorite snacks. In just 15 minutes, you can create a versatile sauce that will impress your family and friends. Not only is it quick and simple to make, but it’s also healthier than store-bought versions since it uses fresh ingredients without preservatives. This vegan-friendly sauce caters to all dietary preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy its delicious taste.
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Sugar
- 1/2 Cup Water
- 6 Tablespoons White Vinegar
- 1 1/2 Tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar
- 1/2 Tablespoon Freshly Grated Onion
- 1 Tablespoon Cornstarch
- 2 Teaspoons Dijon Mustard
- 2 Teaspoons Mustard Powder
- 1 Teaspoon Poppy Seeds
- 1/2 Teaspoon Sesame Oil
- 1/2 Teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1/2 Teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 Teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1/4 Teaspoon Celery Seed
- 1/4 Teaspoon Paprika
- 1/4 Teaspoon Black Pepper
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil while whisking constantly for about 5 minutes.
- Reduce heat and simmer for an additional 5 minutes, whisking continuously.
- Remove from heat and allow to cool before transferring to an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Sauce preparation
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg