Sauces & Condiments
This Atlanta Bread Company dill sauce recipe transforms simple ingredients into a velvety, tangy condiment that elevates everything from sandwiches to seafood.
The secret lies in balancing fresh dill, sour cream, and a touch of vinegar for that signature bright, herby flavor—just like the version that makes their famous chicken sandwiches unforgettable. I developed this recipe after years of searching for the perfect homemade alternative, and it never disappoints.
The magic happens when you whisk together sour cream, yogurt, and finely chopped fresh dill until smooth, then finish with a splash of white vinegar and a pinch of salt. This combination creates a sauce that’s creamy yet light, with a zingy tang that cuts through rich foods.
The best part? It takes just 10 minutes to make and keeps for up to 1 week in the fridge, ready to transform any meal.
What makes this sauce truly special is its versatility—drizzle it over grilled chicken, mix it into potato salad, or use it as a dip for veggies. The herby brightness pairs perfectly with smoky meats, creamy cheeses, and even fresh seafood.
Once you taste the difference between this homemade version and store-bought, you’ll never go back.
For extra depth, I recommend adding a small amount of lemon juice or a dash of garlic powder, but the basic recipe is foolproof. Let’s make this sauce—the one that’ll have everyone asking for the recipe.
Ingredients for atlanta bread company dill sauce
Nine simple ingredients create this iconic dill sauce that brings Atlanta Bread Company magic to your table.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Dill, finely chopped 🌿 | ¾ cup | Stems removed for best flavor |
| Sour Cream 🥛 | 1 cup | Full-fat for creaminess |
| Plain Greek Yogurt 🥛 | ½ cup | Non-fat or full-fat preferred |
| White Vinegar 🍶 | 1 tbsp | Distilled or apple cider |
| Extra-Virgin Olive Oil 🫒 | 1 tbsp | For smooth texture |
| Garlic Powder 🧄 | ½ tsp | Optional for depth |
| Lemon Juice 🍋 | 1 tsp | Freshly squeezed |
| Diamond Crystal Kosher Salt 🧂 | ¼ tsp | Adjust to taste |
| Black Pepper 🌶️ | ⅛ tsp | Freshly ground |
The fresh dill is non-negotiable for that signature herby brightness. Grab a big bunch from the grocery store's produce section—the more vibrant green, the better. I always buy extra because it wilts fast, and you'll want some left for garnishes. For sour cream, full-fat gives the richest texture, but non-fat works in a pinch. The Greek yogurt adds tang and thickness—Fage or Chobani are my go-tos, but any plain yogurt will do. If you can't find fresh dill, dried works at one-third the amount, but it won't have that same fresh pop.
No white vinegar? Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice at double the amount will work, though the flavor will shift slightly. Want extra depth? Add a pinch of onion powder or a dash of Worcestershire sauce (check for vegetarian-friendly versions). The olive oil might seem optional, but it helps emulsify the sauce for that silky texture. For a garlic-free version, skip the garlic powder entirely—it's just for that extra layer of flavor. The lemon juice is key for brightness, so don't skip it unless you're adding extra vinegar.
This sauce keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze portions in ice cube trays—thaw and whisk back together when needed. I always make a double batch because it disappears fast. The sauce thickens as it chills, so add a splash of milk or water if it gets too stiff. Trust me, once you taste the difference between this homemade version and store-bought, you'll never go back to the jarred stuff.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Five-Ingredient Magic: I swear by this combo—just chop dill, mix, and stir. No fancy techniques, no stress, and honestly, the hardest part is deciding whether to use sour cream or Greek yogurt (I alternate).
- Bright & Tangy: That vinegar cut and olive oil finish? It’s the secret weapon. The dill shines bright, the sour cream stays cool, and the tang hits just right—like a fresh breeze on a summer day.
- Game for Any Plate: Slather it on burgers, toss it with grilled fish, or dip those warm pretzels. I’ve even used it as a tzatziki swap—it’s that versatile. (Yes, even on a Tuesday night.)
- Lasts Like a Champ: Make a big batch and store it for up to a week. The flavors deepen over time, and honestly? It’s cheaper than buying fancy dips at the store. Plus, leftovers mean zero extra effort.
Step-by-step instructions for Atlanta Bread Company dill sauce
This creamy, herby sauce comes together in minutes with simple mixing and balancing.
Combine the Base Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, add the 1 cup Sour Cream and 0.5 cup Plain Greek Yogurt. Using a hand mixer or whisk, blend these together on low speed for 30 seconds until completely smooth. This creates your creamy foundation - the yogurt adds tang while the sour cream provides richness.
I like to scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula at this stage to ensure even incorporation. The mixture should be homogeneous with no visible streaks of either ingredient. This step is crucial for preventing separation later when you add the fresh herbs.
Add Acidic Components for Balance
Measure out the 1 tbsp White Vinegar and 1 tsp Lemon Juice into a small measuring cup. Slowly drizzle these into the yogurt-sour cream mixture while continuing to mix on low speed. This acidity brightens the flavors and prevents the sauce from tasting too heavy.
The sauce will begin to lighten in color slightly as the acid breaks down the dairy proteins. Taste at this point - you should notice a clean, tangy flavor developing. If using the optional 0.5 tsp Garlic Powder, sprinkle it in now and mix for another 10 seconds to distribute evenly.
Incorporate Herbs and Seasonings
Add the 0.75 cup Fresh Dill, finely chopped to the mixture. Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the dill into the sauce rather than mixing vigorously. You want to preserve the freshness of the herbs while distributing them evenly. The sauce will become noticeably greener and more vibrant in color.
Next, add the 1 tbsp Extra-Virgin Olive Oil, the 0.25 tsp Diamond Crystal Kosher Salt, and the 0.125 tsp Black Pepper. Mix gently by hand to combine - this prevents overworking the delicate herb mixture. The olive oil helps emulsify the sauce and adds a smooth, velvety texture.
Adjust and Rest for Optimal Flavor
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed. You may need a bit more salt or lemon juice depending on your preference. For best results, let the sauce sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving. This resting period allows all the flavors to meld together perfectly.
The sauce should have a bright, herby flavor with a creamy yet slightly tangy finish. If it separates slightly after resting, simply stir vigorously to recombine. This sauce keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and makes an excellent dip for veggies, sandwich spread, or topping for soups and salads.
Pro Tips For Making Atlanta Bread Company Dill Sauce
- CHOP DILL SMALL: Fresh dill is the star here, so don’t be shy—finely chop it, not just roughly hack it. The sauce loses brightness when the dill stays in big clumps, and you’ll taste the difference, especially when it sits for a bit.
- MIX VINEGAR LAST: Add the white vinegar after everything else is combined. Stir it in just before serving—it brightens the flavors but can make the sauce curdle if mixed too early. I learned this after a batch turned lumpy mid-recipe.
- USE COLD YOGURT: Grab that Greek yogurt straight from the fridge, not the one sitting at room temp. Cold yogurt blends smoother and keeps the sauce from separating later. Yes, even if you’re impatient like me.
- SWAP SOUR CREAM FOR MAYONNAISE: If you’re short on time, swap half the sour cream for good-quality mayonnaise. It adds stability and a richer texture without extra effort—just don’t skip the vinegar, or it’ll taste too heavy. Works every time.
Health benefits of this recipe
Probiotic Powerhouse
The Greek yogurt in this sauce provides live cultures that support gut health, aiding digestion and boosting your immune system. A ½ cup serving contains about 2 billion CFU of probiotics, comparable to a small yogurt cup.
These beneficial bacteria help maintain a healthy gut microbiome, which is linked to improved overall wellness and better nutrient absorption. 💪
Rich in Calcium
Both the sour cream and Greek yogurt are excellent sources of calcium, with this recipe delivering about 15% of your daily value per serving. Calcium is essential for bone health, muscle function, and nerve signaling.
The tangy flavor of the sauce makes it easy to consume regularly, helping you meet your daily calcium needs without relying on dairy-heavy foods.
Antioxidant Boost
Fresh dill packs a surprising punch of antioxidants, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and flavonoids. The ¾ cup used in this recipe provides about 10% of your daily vitamin A needs, which supports vision, immune function, and skin health.
The vibrant green color indicates high antioxidant levels, making this sauce not just delicious but also nutritious. 🌿
Healthy Fats
The combination of full-fat sour cream and extra-virgin olive oil provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. These fats help reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) while maintaining good cholesterol (HDL). The 1 tablespoon of olive oil adds about 14 grams of healthy fats per serving, supporting brain function and reducing inflammation in the body.
Low-Calorie Option
For those watching calories, you can easily lighten this sauce by using non-fat Greek yogurt and low-fat sour cream. The original recipe has about 120 calories per 2-tablespoon serving, but the non-fat version drops to roughly 70 calories while keeping the same tangy, herby flavor.
The reduced-fat version still delivers probiotics and calcium, making it a guilt-free indulgence. ✨
Vitamin K Boost
Dill is an excellent source of vitamin K, with this recipe providing about 12% of your daily needs per serving. Vitamin K plays a crucial role in blood clotting and bone metabolism.
The tangy, herby flavor of the sauce makes it an easy way to incorporate this essential nutrient into your diet, especially if you're not a fan of leafy greens. The vitamin K content also supports heart health by helping regulate calcium levels in your blood.
Nutrition facts
Frequently asked questions
Can I make this dill sauce without fresh dill?
Yes, but the flavor won't be as vibrant! Use 1.5 teaspoons of dried dill (about one-third the amount of fresh) and add it at the same time as the fresh herbs. For extra depth, toast the dried dill in a dry pan for 30 seconds to enhance its flavor before mixing. The sauce will still taste good, but it won't have that signature fresh, bright herby note.
Why did my sauce separate? How can I fix it?
Separation happens when the fats and liquids split, often from overmixing or temperature changes. To fix it, whisk vigorously or blend briefly with an immersion blender until smooth. For prevention, chill the sauce for 10 minutes before serving—this helps stabilize the texture. If it happens again, add 1 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water and stir gently.
How can I use this sauce beyond sandwiches?
This versatile sauce works as a dip for veggies, a topping for baked potatoes, or a marinade for grilled fish. Try mixing it into potato salad (replace mayo with equal parts sauce), dolloping it over tacos, or using it as a creamy dressing for salads. The tangy herby flavor also pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, shrimp skewers, or even as a spread for bagels. Get creative!
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
This sauce actually tastes better after 24 hours as the flavors meld. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. The texture may thicken slightly—just stir in a splash of milk or water to loosen it before using. For longer storage, freeze portions in ice cube trays and thaw in the fridge overnight.
What's the secret to making it extra creamy?
For ultra-smooth texture, chill the sour cream and yogurt for 30 minutes before mixing. Use full-fat dairy products (they emulsify better), and add the olive oil gradually while whisking. For an extra boost, blend the mixture briefly after adding all ingredients. Avoid using low-fat versions—they're more prone to separation. The key is patience and gentle mixing!