If you have ever craved that tangy, smoky, and slightly sweet flavor that makes Arby’s sandwiches unforgettable, then you are going to love this Arby’s Sauce Copycat Recipe. Recreating this iconic sauce at home is easier than you think, and it perfectly balances bold spices with a hint of heat, making it an absolute game-changer for sandwiches, dips, or even as a secret ingredient in your cooking arsenal. Trust me, once you make this copycat sauce, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed your meals without it!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Arby’s Sauce Copycat Recipe uses a handful of common pantry staples that pack a powerful punch of flavor. Each ingredient was thoughtfully chosen to bring out the sauce’s distinctive tangy sweetness, subtle spice, and smooth texture — making the end result irresistibly close to the original.
- Ketchup: The base of the sauce providing that familiar tomato tang and sweetness.
- Brown sugar: Adds a rich caramelized sweetness that balances the acidity perfectly.
- White vinegar: Brings a crisp, sharp tang that wakes up your taste buds.
- Onion powder: Delivers a gentle savory depth without overpowering.
- Garlic powder: Enhances the sauce with warm, aromatic undertones.
- Paprika: Gives smoky flavor and a lovely red color, hinting at subtle heat.
- Worcestershire sauce: Boosts umami and complexity with its unique fermented punch.
- Salt: Elevates all the flavors and keeps the balance on point.
- Cayenne pepper: Adds just enough spice to keep things exciting without overwhelming.
- Cornstarch: The secret weapon for achieving that silky, thick texture you love.
How to Make Arby’s Sauce Copycat Recipe
Step 1: Spice Mix Magic
Start by whisking together onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, cayenne pepper, and brown sugar in a small bowl. This blend creates the foundational flavor profile that gives the sauce its vibrant kick and depth.
Step 2: Blend in the Essentials
Next, stir in ketchup, white vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. These wet ingredients come together to form the tangy and rich base, marrying sweet and savory notes that make the sauce uniquely delightful.
Step 3: Simmer for Flavor
Transfer your mixture to a small saucepan and warm it over low heat. Let it simmer gently for 15 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to help the flavors meld and intensify beautifully.
Step 4: Thickening Time
Combine the cornstarch with two tablespoons of water to make a smooth slurry, then whisk it into your simmering sauce. This step is critical for getting that luscious, velvety consistency that clings perfectly to your favorite foods.
Step 5: Final Simmer
Allow the sauce to simmer for another 10 minutes after adding the cornstarch slurry. Continue stirring often so the sauce thickens evenly without lumps, reaching that restaurant-worthy texture.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once thickened, remove the saucepan from heat and let the sauce cool down to room temperature. Cooling helps the flavors settle and the sauce to thicken a bit more, ready to be devoured or stored for later.
How to Serve Arby’s Sauce Copycat Recipe
Garnishes
While the sauce shines on its own, garnishing your dishes with fresh parsley, chopped green onions, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can add an extra burst of color and subtle freshness that complements the sauce’s rich taste.
Side Dishes
This sauce pairs beautifully with crispy fries, onion rings, roasted veggies, or even drizzled over baked potatoes. Its tangy and sweet notes elevate simple sides into crowd-pleasing accompaniments.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Arby’s Sauce Copycat Recipe as a dipping sauce in small ramekins during a game day party or drizzle it artistically over sandwiches and sliders for a gourmet touch. You can even mix it into homemade burgers for a flavorful surprise in every bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Arby’s Sauce Copycat Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Make sure it’s fully cooled before sealing to preserve the vibrant flavors and smooth texture.
Freezing
You can freeze this sauce in freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge and give it a good stir — sometimes a quick whisk helps restore the original creaminess.
Reheating
When you’re ready to use the sauce again, gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent separation. Avoid boiling to maintain its perfect consistency and flavor balance.
FAQs
Is this Arby’s Sauce Copycat Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free, but it’s important to check the labels on Worcestershire sauce and other packaged items to ensure they are certified gluten-free if you have gluten sensitivities.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder sauce, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. For more heat, feel free to add a pinch more or a dash of hot sauce to customize it exactly to your taste.
How long does the sauce keep in the fridge?
The sauce will stay fresh for up to 7 days when stored properly in an airtight container. Always check for any signs of spoilage before use.
Can I make this sauce without cornstarch?
While cornstarch is key for thickening, you could use alternatives like arrowroot powder or flour, but these may slightly affect the texture. Without any thickener, the sauce will be more runny but still delicious.
What dishes go best with this sauce?
This sauce is fantastic on roast beef sandwiches, chicken tenders, fries, and even as a unique salad dressing base. Its versatility makes it a lovely addition to many meals.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Arby’s Sauce Copycat Recipe enough if you’re someone who craves that distinct, bold flavor right at home. It’s simple, delicious, and incredibly satisfying — perfect for spicing up your everyday meals or impressing guests with your homemade touch. Go ahead, give this recipe a try and prepare yourself to be hooked!
Print
Arby’s Sauce Copycat Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 1 cup (16 servings)
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This homemade Arby’s Sauce recipe replicates the classic tangy and slightly sweet sauce perfect for dipping or spreading on sandwiches. Made with common pantry ingredients like ketchup, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce, this sauce is simmered to meld flavors and thickened to the ideal consistency. It’s quick to prepare and adds a delicious zing to your favorite meals.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 tablespoon brown sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/3 cup white vinegar
- 3 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoon water (for cornstarch slurry)
Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, cayenne pepper, and brown sugar until well mixed.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in the ketchup, white vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce into the dry ingredient mixture until fully incorporated.
- Simmer the Sauce: Transfer the mixture to a small saucepan, place over low heat, and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Prepare Cornstarch Slurry: In a separate small bowl, combine the cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water, stirring until smooth to make a slurry.
- Thicken the Sauce: Gradually add the cornstarch slurry into the simmering sauce while stirring continuously. Continue to simmer for another 10 minutes, stirring often until the sauce thickens to the desired consistency.
- Cool the Sauce: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the sauce cool down before serving or storing.
Notes
- Stir often to prevent the sauce from burning while simmering.
- You can adjust the cayenne pepper quantity to control the spice level.
- Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- If the sauce becomes too thick after cooling, stir in a little water to reach desired consistency.
