Ever wanted Zaxby’s sauce but didn’t want to make the drive? This DIY copycat recipe requires about 5 minutes to prepare and only simple pantry supplies. As a home cook who has tried numerous versions, I can affirm that this Zaxby’s Sauce recipe nails the ideal blend of creamy, tangy, and peppery characteristics that make the original so irresistible.
What’s So Special About zaxby’s Sauce Recipe?
Zaxby’s Sauce is more than just a condiment. This creamy, spicy sauce elevates regular chicken fingers to a crave-worthy dish. What distinguishes it is the ideal blend of tanginess from Worcestershire sauce, smoothness from mayonnaise, and a peppery zing that stays long enough to entice you to take another bite. Unlike basic mayonnaise or ketchup, it enhances the richness and depth of anything it touches.
Ingredients for making Zaxby’s Sauce
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup ketchup
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (or more to taste)
Equipment Needed:
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Airtight container
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Additional time: 2 hours (for flavors to blend)
Total time: 2 hours and 5 minutes
Serving Size: Approximately ¾ cup (6 servings)
How do you make Copycat Zaxby’s Sauce
- In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise and ketchup. Whisk until smooth and completely blended.
- Combine garlic powder and Worcestershire sauce in the mixture. Whisk until fully blended.
- Sprinkle black pepper over the surface and mix well.
- Taste and adjust pepper as needed.
- Place plastic wrap over the bowl or transfer it to an airtight container.
- Chill for at least two hours before serving.
Creative Serving Ideas for Zaxby’s Sauce
This adaptable sauce will transform your homemade meals. Serve it with crispy chicken tenders for a typical zaxby’s experience. Spread it on sandwiches instead of regular mayonnaise for an instant flavor boost. It’s great as a dipping sauce for French fries, onion rings, or even fresh veggies. For a lighter dish, pour it over grilled chicken salad.
UrRecipe Community Tips for Homemade Zaxby’s Sauce Recipe
After making this sauce hundreds of times, I’ve gained some valuable information. Allow the sauce to sit in the refrigerator for at least two hours – this is not a suggestion; it is necessary for the flavors to combine properly. If the sauce appears too thick, add a small splash of water and stir thoroughly. For an extra kick, gradually increase the black pepper until you get the desired amount of heat.
How To Store Homemade Zaxby’s Sauce
Keep your homemade Zaxby’s sauce in an airtight jar in the fridge. It will remain fresh for up to 7 days. Never leave the sauce at room temperature for longer than two hours. If the sauce separates during storage, just give it a short whisk before serving.
Zaxby’s Sauce
Equipment
- 1 Medium mixing bowl
- 1 Whisk
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Airtight container
Ingredients
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup ketchup
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper or more to taste
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise and ketchup. Whisk until smooth and completely blended.
- Combine garlic powder and Worcestershire sauce in the mixture. Whisk until fully blended.
- Sprinkle black pepper over the surface and mix well.
- Taste and adjust pepper as needed.
- Place plastic wrap over the bowl or transfer it to an airtight container.
- Chill for at least two hours before serving.
Common Questions
Can I make this sauce dairy-free?
Yes, make sure you use dairy-free mayonnaise as a basis.
How do I make it spicier?
Add an additional ¼ teaspoon of black pepper or a dash of cayenne pepper.
Is the Zaxby’s sauce gluten-free?
Check the Worcestershire sauce label; some brands contain gluten. This homemade Zaxby’s Sauce recipe uses gluten-free Worcestershire sauce.
Why does my Zaxby’s sauce recipe taste different than the restaurant version?
Restaurant dishes often differ slightly from homemade versions. Try adjusting the pepper or garlic powder to your favorite flavor.
Can I create the Zaxby’s sauce ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes better when made the day before since the flavors have more time to develop.
What are Zaxby’s signature sauces?
Zaxby’s is well-known for its variety of flavorful dipping sauces. Here is a list of some of their signature sauces:
- Zax Sauce® – A creamy, tangy sauce with a blend of signature spices, often compared to a more fluid version of Thousand Island dressing.
- Spicy Zax Sauce® – A spicier twist on the original Zax Sauce, featuring jalapeño peppers and dried onion for added heat and flavor.
- Tongue Torch® Sauce – A bold sauce made with aged peppers, garlic, and mustard seeds, known for its fiery heat and strong flavor profile.
Making zaxby’s sauce at home is not only convenient, but also cheaper than buying individual sauce packets. This recipe demonstrates that often the simplest combinations result in the most unforgettable flavors. Whether you’re throwing a party or simply needing that trademark flavor, this homemade version will have you going back for more.
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