Look, we get the loyalty—Duke’s has its fans. But if you think no other mayo can hold a candle, you’re in for a surprise. Some brands are creamier, tangier, or just plain smarter about flavor. A proper Duke’s mayo substitute doesn’t pretend to be Duke’s—it just gets the job done better. Don’t be shocked if one of these steals the top spot in your fridge.
Mike’s Amazing Mayonnaise
This one feels smooth on the tongue, but the flavor leans bitter when eaten alone. It could still work in dressings or spreads where lemon or vinegar needs balancing. While it doesn’t quite match Duke’s, it holds up when mixed into something bold. A fair option if you’re chasing that homemade texture.
Kraft Miracle Whip
Technically not mayo, but it still shows up in a lot of pantries. It brings a tangy punch and a sweetness that can overpower simple dishes. Some folks swear by it for slaws or dips where boldness is welcome. While it’s not a one-to-one Duke’s mayo substitute, it plays well in recipes needing extra kick.
Giant
This store-brand pick surprises with balance—nothing too sharp or cloying. The flavor stays mild with just enough egginess to build off. It doesn’t compete with Duke’s richness, but it holds its own in chicken salad or coleslaw. Not bad for something that costs less than a sandwich.
Hellmann’s
This is the go-to for a lot of home cooks, and there’s a reason for that. The flavor stays clean, slightly tangy, and never overpowers whatever it’s paired with. It spreads easily and doesn’t get lost in sandwiches or salads. If you’re out of Duke’s, this one fits without needing to tweak your recipe.
Duke’s Mayonnaise
Strong on the egg yolk, this one takes over fast unless balanced with milder ingredients. In something like chicken salad, the edge smooths out a little. It’s definitely not neutral, which explains why people love—or leave—it. Good to compare if you’re exploring mayo with bite.
Kewpie
Richer than most American brands, Kewpie skips added sugar and goes big on umami. It’s thicker, creamier, and comes packed in a squeeze bottle that keeps things easy. Chefs love using it in sauces and dressings for its punch. It’s a solid Duke’s mayo substitute if you want something deeper without adding extra seasoning.
Kraft Real Mayo
It checks all the boxes—smooth texture, subtle sweetness, and a flavor that doesn’t try too hard. It’s one of the more balanced options that doesn’t lean bitter or too tangy. Works just fine in anything from potato salad to burgers. A dependable swap for Duke’s without overthinking it.
