Here is a simple guide to a spicy mayonnaise you can make at home in minutes.
INTRODUCTION
Spicy Mayonnaise is an easy sauce that adds heat and cream to many dishes. You can make it in five minutes with a few pantry items. It uses mayonnaise as a base and a hot sauce for heat. This sauce works with snacks, sandwiches, and grilled food. The flavor is bright from lemon and smoky from paprika. It stays fresh in the fridge for days.
If you enjoy bold and simple sauces, you might also like a warm coffee with a kick. Try a related recipe like a spicy Mexican mocha for a matching spicy drink to go with your snack.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You will love this recipe because it is fast, tasty, and flexible. It needs no cooking. You only need to mix the ingredients and taste. The sauce works with many foods. It adds creaminess and a little heat without overpowering the main dish. You can make it mild or hot by changing the hot sauce amount. It also stores well. Make it once and use it all week.
If you want to enjoy spicy flavors in both food and drink, consider pairing this mayo with bold beverages like a spicy coffee to round out a snack or light meal.
HOW TO MAKE Spicy Mayonnaise
This section walks you through making spicy mayo and small tips to get the best texture and taste. Use a medium bowl, a spoon or whisk, and fresh lemon if you can. Taste as you go and adjust heat, salt, or lemon to fit your liking. If the mayo is too thick, add a small drop of water or olive oil and mix until smooth.
For a smooth mix, stir gently until the color is even. If you want a chunkier dip, add chopped pickles or fresh herbs after the base is mixed. Try to use good quality mayonnaise for the best flavor. A fresh lemon gives the sauce a bright note that cuts the mayo’s richness.
You can also try different hot sauces to change the flavor. Use sriracha for a garlicky kick, or a smoked hot sauce to add more depth. If you prefer less heat, use half the sriracha and add a bit of paprika to keep color and warmth.
If you like to experiment, swap a little of the mayo for Greek yogurt to make the sauce tangier and lighter. Stir in a small spoon of honey if you want a sweet-spicy contrast.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Medium mixing bowl
- Spoon or small whisk
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Citrus juicer or fork to squeeze lemon
- Airtight container for storage
A small whisk helps make the sauce smooth fast. If you do a lot of sauces, a small hand blender will also work and make the texture extra silky.
Ingredients You’ll Need :
1 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, Salt and pepper to taste
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS :
In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sriracha, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to a week. Use as a spread for sandwiches and burgers or as a dipping sauce for fries and veggies.
HOW TO SERVE Spicy Mayonnaise
Spicy mayo pairs well with many foods. Spread it on burgers and sandwiches instead of plain mayo. Add it to a plate of fries, potato wedges, or sweet potato fries for a tasty dip. Serve it next to raw vegetables or use it as a sauce for fish tacos. It also makes a great topping for bowls with rice, grilled vegetables, or roasted meats.
Warm foods and fried foods take the creamy sauce well. Spoon a little on top of a grilled fish fillet or oven-roasted chicken. You can also use it as a simple dressing when you thin it with a teaspoon of water or vinegar. For a bright snack plate, plate the mayo beside sliced cucumbers, carrots, and celery.
If you enjoy spicy pairings, try a warm, bold drink like a spiced mocha with a savory snack that uses this mayo for a balanced bite.
STORAGE & FREEZING : Spicy Mayonnaise
Store spicy mayonnaise in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to one week if kept cold and covered. Always use a clean spoon when you scoop to avoid contamination.
Do not freeze mayonnaise-based sauces. Freezing changes the texture and causes separation when thawed. If you must store it longer, make a smaller batch and top up fresh when needed. If the sauce separates slightly in the fridge, whisk it quickly to bring it back together.
If you add any fresh herbs or dairy to the sauce, use it sooner—about three to four days—to keep the best taste and texture.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
- Spread on toasted bread with sliced turkey and avocado for a quick sandwich.
- Use as a dip for crispy shrimp or crab cakes.
- Drizzle over roasted vegetable bowls to add cream and heat.
- Mix with chopped pickles and serve on burgers for added crunch and tang.
- Use as a finishing sauce for grilled corn on the cob to make a quick spicy street corn style.
For a contrasting sweet and spice match, serve this spicy mayo with a small sweet side or beverage. You might enjoy pairing it with a drink that has a touch of heat or spice, like the recipe for a spicy mocha, which can make an interesting combo at a casual gathering.
VARIATIONS
- Lower Heat: Use 1 tablespoon sriracha instead of 2. Add extra lemon for brightness.
- Extra Smoky: Increase smoked paprika to 2 teaspoons and add a dash of chipotle powder.
- Creamier and Tangy: Swap half the mayo for plain Greek yogurt.
- Garlic Fresh: Replace garlic powder with one small clove of grated fresh garlic.
- Herb Mix: Fold in 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro or parsley for freshness.
- Vegan: Use vegan mayonnaise and a plant-based hot sauce for a vegan option.
- Sweet-Spicy: Add 1 teaspoon honey to balance the heat with a little sweetness.
- Asian Twist: Use chili garlic sauce instead of sriracha and add 1 teaspoon sesame oil.
Try one change at a time so you can judge what you like best. Each swap changes the sauce in a clear way.
FAQs
Q: How long does spicy mayonnaise last in the fridge?
A: It lasts up to one week in a covered container. Use a clean spoon each time.
Q: Can I use another hot sauce instead of sriracha?
A: Yes. Use your favorite hot sauce. Taste and adjust the amount to match your heat level.
Q: Is it safe to eat mayonnaise with lemon added?
A: Yes. Lemon does not harm the mayo. It brightens the taste. Keep the sauce cold and use within a week.
Q: Can I make this with store-bought flavored mayonnaise?
A: Yes, though flavored mayo may change the final taste. Reduce added garlic or onion powder if the mayo already has those flavors.
Q: What if my mayo is too thick?
A: Thin it with a teaspoon of water, olive oil, or more lemon juice. Mix until you reach the texture you want.
Q: Can I make a larger batch for a party?
A: Yes, but keep it chilled and replace it in small bowls if left out. Make smaller batches if you plan to keep leftovers for the week.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Spicy Mayonnaise
Make this sauce up to one day ahead for best flavor. If you make it earlier, store it in a sealed container and stir well before serving. If you plan to serve at a party, keep it chilled on ice or place small bowls out and refill from the fridge. Do not leave mayonnaise-based sauces out at room temperature for more than two hours.
If you want the flavors to meld, make it the night before. The spice, lemon, and spices will blend and taste more even the next day. For travel, keep it in a small airtight jar and pack on ice or an insulated bag.
Conclusion
Spicy Mayonnaise is a quick and flexible sauce that lifts many dishes with cream and heat. It takes only a few minutes to mix and needs simple tools. Keep it in the fridge for easy use all week. For more inspiration on spice pairings with food and drink, check this Spicy Mayo Recipe – Love and Lemons for another take on a spicy mayonnaise and ideas to try at home.
Spicy Mayonnaise
Ingredients
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sriracha, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to a week.