This sauce is incredibly easy to make and takes only minutes to prepare. With just a handful of pantry staples, you get a creamy dip that’s rich, spicy, and full of depth. It’s perfect for elevating everyday meals and snacks, and it stores well, making it a great make-ahead option for parties or weekly meal prep.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Mayonnaise
Ketchup
Cajun seasoning
Garlic powder
Smoked paprika
Hot sauce (such as Tabasco or your favorite brand)
Lemon juice
Optional: Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, cayenne pepper for extra heat
Directions
In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise and ketchup until smooth.
Add Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and hot sauce. Mix well.
Stir in lemon juice and any optional ingredients you’re using.
Taste and adjust seasoning to preference — add more Cajun seasoning or hot sauce for extra spice.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 1 cup of sauce and serves approximately 8–10 people as a dip or spread. Prep time is just 5 minutes, plus 30 minutes of chilling time for best flavor.
Variations
Low-Fat Option: Substitute half the mayo with Greek yogurt or use light mayo.
Extra Spicy: Add cayenne pepper or a chopped chipotle pepper in adobo sauce.
Smoky Twist: Use chipotle powder instead of smoked paprika.
Herbaceous: Add a bit of chopped parsley or dill for a fresh finish.
Vegan: Use vegan mayonnaise to make the sauce completely plant-based.
Storage/Reheating
Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Stir before each use as some separation may occur. This sauce is served cold and does not require reheating.
FAQs
What does Cajun dipping sauce taste like?
It’s creamy, spicy, tangy, and full of bold Cajun seasoning — think savory with a hint of heat.
Is this sauce very spicy?
It has a medium heat level, but you can easily adjust the spiciness by adding more or less hot sauce or seasoning.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, it actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours as the flavors develop.
What can I serve with Cajun dipping sauce?
It pairs well with fries, chicken tenders, shrimp, fried pickles, burgers, or grilled vegetables.
Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning?
Yes, but be mindful of salt levels—some store-bought blends are quite salty.
How do I make it less spicy?
Use less hot sauce and opt for a mild Cajun seasoning blend.
Can this be used as a sandwich spread?
Absolutely, it’s excellent on burgers, wraps, and sandwiches.
Is it gluten-free?
Most ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but check your Cajun seasoning and hot sauce to be sure.
Can I freeze Cajun dipping sauce?
Freezing is not recommended due to the mayo base, which can separate when thawed.
What kind of hot sauce works best?
Classic Louisiana-style hot sauces like Tabasco or Crystal work well, but feel free to use your favorite.
Conclusion
Spicy Cajun Dipping Sauce is a bold, flavorful condiment that takes any dish to the next level. Quick to make and endlessly versatile, it’s perfect for dipping, spreading, or drizzling. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself making a batch for every occasion.
This Spicy Cajun Dipping Sauce is a creamy, zesty condiment bursting with Southern flavor. It’s quick to make and pairs perfectly with fried foods, seafood, sandwiches, and more.
Ingredients
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1–2 teaspoons hot sauce (e.g., Tabasco)
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Optional: 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Optional: 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional: Pinch of cayenne pepper
Instructions
In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise and ketchup until smooth.
Add Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and hot sauce. Mix well to combine.
Stir in lemon juice and any optional ingredients you are using.
Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed for spice or flavor.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Stir before serving. Serve cold as a dip or spread.
Notes
For a lighter version, use light mayo or substitute half with Greek yogurt.Add cayenne pepper or chipotle for extra heat.Swap smoked paprika for chipotle powder for a smoky flavor.Add fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a fresh finish.Use vegan mayo to make it plant-based.
