ABSTRACT Sesame ( Sesamum indicum L.) oilseed needs to be studied in relation to the production of biodiesel and its application as an alternative to the soybean biodiesel used in Brazil. The aim of this study was to evaluate biodiesel blends (B0, B5, B10, B20, B40, B80, and B100) of sesame in the performance and emissions of engines. A few studies of sesame biodiesel in engines were found in the literature imparts novelty to the current study. The fuels were tested in a 5-kVA generator engine at loads ranging from 1000 to 6000 W. The results of the analysis showed that the increase in the sesame biodiesel blend caused a reduction in the specific fuel consumption (SFC), carbon monoxide (CO) emissions, and an increase in nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. The SFC of sesame biodiesel (B100) was 11% higher than that of diesel (B0). CO emissions increased 39% for diesel (B0) compared to sesame biodiesel (B100). However, B20 showed lower SFC than diesel and lower gas emissions than B80 and B100 blends. Therefore, sesame biodiesel, especially up to B20, is a viable alternative for the partial replacement of conventional diesel. Sesame biodiesel should be considered as a promising candidate for alternative fuels.