Jamie Oliver’s Marie Rose Sauce Recipe

  • June 18, 2025

If you’re seeking a zesty, creamy, and versatile sauce that pairs perfectly with everything from seafood to sandwiches, Jamie Oliver’s Marie Rose Sauce offers an easy and delicious upgrade to your meal, elevating the simplest dishes with a rich and balanced flavor.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Marie Rose Sauce

Jamie Oliver’s Marie Rose Sauce is a creamy, tangy condiment traditionally used to accompany seafood dishes such as prawn cocktails or lobster. It blends the richness of mayonnaise with the brightness of ketchup and a few other ingredients, resulting in a sauce that’s both velvety and full of flavor. Oliver’s version of this classic sauce is simple to make and is a great addition to any home cook’s arsenal, as it enhances a variety of dishes, from shrimp salads to burgers and wraps.

Jamie Oliver’s Marie Rose Sauce Recipe

Ingredients Needed

jamie oliver marie rose sauce recipe

Here’s a list of the ingredients you will need to create Jamie Oliver’s Marie Rose Sauce:

  1. Mayonnaise (about 150g) – This forms the creamy base of the sauce.
  2. Tomato Ketchup (about 2 tablespoons) – Adds sweetness and a hint of tang.
  3. Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon) – For a citrusy zing that brightens up the sauce.
  4. Worcestershire Sauce (a few dashes) – Brings in umami and depth of flavor.
  5. Tabasco or another hot sauce (a few dashes) – Optional, for a touch of heat.
  6. Paprika (a pinch) – To add a mild smoky flavor and subtle warmth.
  7. Salt and pepper (to taste) – To season and bring out all the flavors.

Equipment Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Marie Rose Sauce, you will need the following tools:

  1. A Mixing Bowl – For combining all the ingredients.
  2. A Spoon or Whisk – To stir and blend the sauce ingredients smoothly.
  3. A Measuring Spoon – To ensure the right amount of ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice.
  4. A Knife and Cutting Board – If you need to zest the lemon or cut any fresh ingredients.
  5. A Serving Dish or Jar – To store the sauce once it’s made.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Marie Rose Sauce?

Making this sauce is quick and simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Combine the Base Ingredients: Start by adding the mayonnaise and ketchup to a mixing bowl. These will form the main foundation of your sauce.
  2. Add the Seasonings: To the mayo and ketchup mixture, add a tablespoon of lemon juice, a few dashes of Worcestershire sauce, and the paprika. Stir everything together until smooth.
  3. Season to Taste: Add a dash of hot sauce (like Tabasco) if you enjoy a little heat. Then, season with salt and pepper to your taste. Remember to mix thoroughly after each addition.
  4. Adjust the Flavors: Taste your sauce and make adjustments as needed. You may want to add more lemon juice for acidity, or more ketchup for sweetness depending on your preference.
  5. Chill (Optional): For the best flavor, cover the sauce and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving. This gives the flavors time to meld together beautifully.
  6. Serve: Use the sauce right away with your favorite dishes or store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Expert Tips

  1. Use High-Quality Mayonnaise: Since mayonnaise is the main ingredient, opting for a high-quality, full-fat mayo will give you the creamiest result.
  2. Adjust Sweetness and Tanginess: If you prefer your sauce sweeter, add a touch more ketchup. For extra tang, squeeze in a bit more lemon juice or a dash of vinegar.
  3. Perfect for Seafood: This sauce is most often paired with seafood, so consider using it for shrimp cocktails, lobster rolls, or as a dip for crab cakes.
  4. Make It Vegan: For a plant-based version, swap the regular mayo for a vegan mayonnaise. This will still keep the creamy texture and tangy flavor.
  5. Extra Spice: If you love spice, try adding a little finely minced fresh chili along with the hot sauce to intensify the heat level.

Jamie Oliver’s Marie Rose Sauce is an effortlessly delicious, versatile addition to any meal, transforming simple dishes with its creamy, tangy goodness. With minimal ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a homemade sauce that’s far superior to anything you can buy pre-made. Whether paired with prawns, drizzled over salads, or used in sandwiches, this sauce is sure to elevate your culinary creations.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Marie Rose Sauce

jamie oliver marie rose sauce recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Marie Rose sauce is traditionally a creamy, tangy blend of mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and a dash of brandy or Tabasco for heat. But one of the joys of this sauce is how easily it can be adapted to suit your mood, menu, or the contents of your fridge.

  1. Smoky and Bold
    Swap out regular paprika for smoked paprika or chipotle chili powder to give the sauce a deep, smoky edge. This variation works brilliantly with grilled prawns, charred vegetables, or smoky barbecue fare.

  2. Herbed and Fresh
    Introduce finely chopped fresh herbs like dill, tarragon, parsley, or chives for a garden-fresh upgrade. A spoonful of freshly chopped herbs adds vibrant green flecks and lifts the richness of the sauce, pairing wonderfully with poached salmon or crab cakes.

  3. Spicy Kick
    For heat lovers, increase the amount of Tabasco or stir in a little Sriracha or horseradish. Jamie’s original recipe leans gently into heat, but this twist turns up the dial for those who like their sauce with a fiery punch.

  4. Zesty and Citrus-Forward
    Double down on citrus by adding both lemon juice and lemon zest. You can even use lime for a sharper, more tropical vibe. This version cuts through rich shellfish like lobster or scallops, making it ideal for fancy seafood platters.

  5. Vegan and Plant-Based
    Substitute traditional mayonnaise with vegan mayo and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is anchovy-free (or use a vegan-friendly alternative).

    The result?

    A cruelty-free Marie Rose sauce that still delivers that creamy, tangy goodness.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Homemade sauces, particularly those with mayo or dairy, require careful storage. Here’s how to keep your Marie Rose sauce safe, fresh, and delicious:

  • Use an Airtight Container: Always transfer leftovers into a clean, airtight glass or BPA-free plastic container. Avoid keeping the sauce in a bowl covered with cling film for long-term storage-it’s more prone to contamination and spoilage.
  • Refrigerate Promptly: As soon as you’re done serving, refrigerate any leftovers. The sauce should be kept at a consistent temperature below 5°C (41°F). Don’t leave it out for more than two hours.
  • Shelf Life: When stored correctly, homemade Marie Rose sauce will last about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Beyond that, the flavor and texture may degrade, and it could become unsafe to eat.
  • Stir Before Use: Because of the emulsified nature of the sauce, you may notice some separation over time. A quick stir will restore its creamy consistency.
  • No Freezing: Due to its mayo base, Marie Rose sauce doesn’t freeze well. Freezing can cause it to split and become watery upon thawing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

What Goes Well With Marie Rose Sauce?

This British classic is more than just a prawn cocktail staple-it’s a versatile condiment that complements a wide array of dishes:

  1. Seafood
    Marie Rose sauce’s creamy tang makes it the perfect companion for cold or grilled seafood. Think:

  • Classic prawn cocktail (the quintessential pairing)
  • Lobster tails with lemon wedges
  • Crab claws or crab cakes
  • Grilled or breaded calamari
  1. Fish Finger Sandwiches
    Jamie often suggests slathering Marie Rose sauce into a fluffy roll filled with crispy fish fingers. It adds moisture, zing, and a rich layer of indulgence that makes this humble sandwich utterly crave-worthy.

  2. Chips and Fried Foods
    Dip chunky chips or sweet potato fries into the sauce for a luxurious alternative to ketchup or tartar. It’s also a hit with fried zucchini, onion rings, or battered mushrooms.

  3. Cold Cuts and Sandwiches
    Use it as a spread for deli-style sandwiches with roast beef, turkey, or cold chicken. It adds a touch of creaminess and zing that pairs beautifully with savory meats and crunchy lettuce.

  4. Salads
    Thin it out slightly with a touch more lemon juice and drizzle it over salads-especially seafood or wedge salads. It can even serve as a dip for crudités when you want to impress guests with minimal effort.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s Marie Rose sauce is far more than a retro prawn cocktail dressing-it’s a creamy, zesty, endlessly adaptable condiment that’s begging for experimentation. With easy tweaks to suit your taste buds, proper storage tips to keep it fresh, and a plethora of pairing ideas, this sauce earns a rightful place in your culinary arsenal.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party with elegant seafood starters or just want to zhuzh up a weeknight fish finger sandwich, this punchy pink sauce delivers every time. So go ahead-mix it up, try new spins, and most of all, enjoy the indulgent, tangy delight that is Marie Rose.

FAQs

What Are The Main Ingredients In Jamie Oliver’s Marie Rose Sauce Recipe?

Jamie Oliver’s Marie Rose sauce recipe is a simple combination of mayonnaise, tomato ketchup, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and a touch of paprika. These ingredients come together to create a creamy, tangy, and flavorful sauce.

Can I Use Low-fat Mayonnaise For Jamie Oliver’s Marie Rose Sauce?

Yes, you can use low-fat mayonnaise in Jamie Oliver’s Marie Rose sauce to make it lighter. However, the sauce may be slightly less creamy and rich compared to using regular mayonnaise.

What Can I Serve With Marie Rose Sauce?

Marie Rose sauce is commonly served with seafood, such as prawns, shrimp cocktails, or fish. It can also be used as a dressing for sandwiches, particularly with chicken or salad, or as a dip for fries and veggies.

How Long Can I Store Jamie Oliver’s Marie Rose Sauce?

You can store Marie Rose sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to stir it well before using, as some ingredients may separate over time.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Marie Rose Sauce Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare Jamie Oliver’s Marie Rose sauce ahead of time. It’s ideal for making it a few hours in advance or even a day ahead, as the flavors will have time to meld together.

What Is The Role Of Worcestershire Sauce In The Marie Rose Sauce Recipe?

The Worcestershire sauce adds a savory, umami depth to the Marie Rose sauce, balancing the sweetness of the ketchup and the richness of the mayonnaise. It gives the sauce a distinct flavor that elevates the overall taste.

Is Jamie Oliver’s Marie Rose Sauce Spicy?

No, Jamie Oliver’s Marie Rose sauce is not spicy. It has a mild tanginess from the ketchup and lemon juice, with a slight warmth from the paprika. If you prefer a spicier version, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.

Can I Use Fresh Lemon Juice In Jamie Oliver’s Marie Rose Sauce?

Yes, using fresh lemon juice is highly recommended as it adds a brighter and more natural flavor to the sauce. Avoid bottled lemon juice, which can have a more artificial taste.

What Is The Best Way To Mix Jamie Oliver’s Marie Rose Sauce?

To ensure a smooth and consistent texture, start by combining the mayonnaise and ketchup in a bowl. Then, gradually add the Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and paprika while stirring until well-blended.

Can I Adjust The Sweetness Of Jamie Oliver’s Marie Rose Sauce?

Yes, you can adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of ketchup in the recipe. If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the ketchup and balance it with a bit more Worcestershire sauce or lemon juice.