Mayonnaise – that creamy, smooth spread that transforms ordinary sandwiches into something special. But not all mayonnaise is created equal. After extensive testing and research, we’ve ranked the most popular brands from worst to best. Whether you’re making sandwiches, potato salad, or using it as a base for other sauces, this ranking will help you choose the right mayo for your needs.
Simple Truth Organic mayonnaise shows room for improvement
At the bottom of our list sits Simple Truth Organic mayonnaise. While the ingredients are commendable, the texture falls short of expectations. The spread tends to separate quickly and lacks the characteristic richness that makes mayo a pantry staple. The flavor profile is notably muted, missing that essential tang that defines a good mayonnaise.
When used in recipes, this mayo tends to disappear into the background rather than enhance other ingredients. For those committed to organic products, there are better options available in the same category.
Miracle Whip struggles to compete with traditional mayo
Miracle Whip, technically not even a mayonnaise, ranks low on our list. Its distinctive sweet-and-tangy profile can be polarizing. In blind taste tests, tasters noted its artificial sweetness and thin consistency.
While it might work in certain retro recipes, Miracle Whip’s reformulation over the years has left it tasting more processed than ever. The spread’s inability to hold up in classic mayo applications, like potato salad or coleslaw, further diminishes its ranking.
Kraft mayo offers middle-of-the-road performance
Kraft’s regular mayonnaise lands squarely in the middle of our rankings. It’s reliable and consistent, but doesn’t particularly shine in any category. The texture is properly emulsified, though slightly looser than premium brands.
What if you used Kraft as a base for aioli? The results might surprise you – it actually performs adequately, though without the depth of flavor found in higher-ranked options. Its neutral profile makes it versatile enough for basic applications.
Sir Kensington’s brings innovation to traditional mayo
Sir Kensington’s has earned its spot among the top contenders. Their mayo stands out with its distinctive egg yolk content and balanced seasoning. The texture is notably silky, and the flavor has subtle notes of lemon that brighten without overwhelming.
The brand’s commitment to quality ingredients shows in every application. From simple spreads to complex dressings, Sir Kensington’s maintains its integrity and enhances the dishes it’s added to.
Duke’s mayo sets the gold standard
At the top of our list stands Duke’s, the undisputed champion of mayonnaise. Its rich, creamy texture and balanced tang create the perfect foundation for any application. The absence of added sugar allows the natural flavors to shine through, making it especially popular among mayo enthusiasts.
Duke’s superiority becomes most apparent in critical applications like potato salad and sandwich spreads, where its stability and flavor remain consistent. Professional chefs often choose Duke’s for its reliability and authentic taste.
In the world of mayonnaise, quality comes down to the basics: proper emulsification, balanced seasoning, and authentic ingredients. While personal preference plays a role, our testing shows clear differences in performance and taste across brands. The best mayonnaise enhances rather than masks, blends seamlessly into recipes, and maintains its integrity in various applications. Whether you’re a mayo minimalist or a spread enthusiast, choosing the right brand can elevate your everyday eating experience from ordinary to exceptional.
