Comeback Sauce Recipe

Comeback Sauce is a creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy Southern classic that pairs perfectly with just about everything. Whether you’re dipping fries, slathering it on burgers, or using it as a salad dressing, this versatile sauce will have you coming back for more—hence the name.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comeback Sauce is incredibly easy to make with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. It’s bold, flavorful, and works with a wide variety of dishes—fried food, grilled meats, sandwiches, and veggies alike. It’s ready in minutes and keeps well in the fridge, making it a perfect go-to condiment.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Mayonnaise
• Ketchup
• Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard)
• Hot sauce (such as Frank’s or Louisiana-style)
• Worcestershire sauce
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika
• Black pepper
• Lemon juice or apple cider vinegar (for a bit of tang)
• Optional: honey or sugar for a touch of sweetness

directions

this recipe

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard.
2. Add hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice (or vinegar), and the seasonings: garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper.
3. Whisk everything together until smooth and creamy.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning—add more hot sauce for heat, or a dash of honey for sweetness.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Servings and timing

Makes about 1 cup
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Use smoked paprika for a deeper flavor
• Add a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat
• Substitute sriracha for a slightly sweet, garlicky kick
• Stir in a spoonful of relish or finely chopped pickles for texture
• Make it vegan by using vegan mayo and Worcestershire-free of anchovies

storage/reheating

Store Comeback Sauce in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
Stir before each use as some separation may occur.
This sauce is served cold or at room temperature—no reheating required.

FAQs

What is Comeback Sauce made of?

It’s a blend of mayo, ketchup, mustard, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings.

Is Comeback Sauce the same as remoulade?

They’re similar but not the same. Comeback Sauce is tangier and usually spicier.

How spicy is this sauce?

It has a mild to moderate kick depending on the hot sauce used. You can easily adjust the heat.

Can I use it as a salad dressing?

Yes, it works great as a creamy dressing for salads, especially with grilled chicken or shrimp.

What can I serve with Comeback Sauce?

It’s perfect with fries, onion rings, chicken tenders, burgers, sandwiches, and even seafood.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely. In fact, it tastes better after chilling for a few hours.

Does it need to be refrigerated?

Yes, because it contains mayo, it should be stored in the fridge.

Can I freeze Comeback Sauce?

No, it’s not recommended to freeze mayo-based sauces as the texture will break down.

Is there a sugar-free version?

Yes, skip the sweetener and choose sugar-free ketchup if needed.

Can I use Miracle Whip instead of mayo?

You can, but it will change the flavor—Miracle Whip is tangier and sweeter.

Conclusion

Comeback Sauce is the ultimate all-purpose condiment that adds bold flavor to any dish. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a creamy, zesty sauce that lives up to its name—you’ll keep coming back for more. Make a batch, store it in the fridge, and enjoy it with everything from fries to grilled meats.

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