franks red hot buffalo sauce recipe
The Best franks red hot buffalo sauce recipe
The heat is just right, not so much that it burns your mouth, but enough to make everything taste exciting. My family loves it because it’s versatile—great for game day snacks or a quick weeknight dinner. And honestly, it’s not too heavy, so it’s a good way to add some spice without feeling like you’re overdoing it. Plus, the buffalo sauce is made with real ingredients, not a bunch of mystery flavors, so it’s something you can feel good about putting on your plate. It’s one of those recipes that’s easy to love, whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd.
Classic Red Hot Buffalo Sauce
A bold, spicy buffalo sauce perfect for slathered hot dogs, wings, or even as a dip. This homemade version delivers the signature heat with a tangy tomato base.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
👨🍳Directions
-
1
In a saucepan, combine tomato sauce, hot sauce, mayonnaise, buttermilk, vinegar, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Whisk until smooth. -
2
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let it cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened and bubbly. -
3
Remove from heat and stir in cayenne pepper. Taste and adjust spice levels by adding more cayenne or a splash of water if needed.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Small saucepan
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Classic Red Hot Buffalo Sauce Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Red Hot Buffalo Sauce
How do I adjust the spice level in the sauce?
You can easily modify the heat by adding or reducing the amount of cayenne pepper. Start with half the recipe and taste as you go—buffalo sauce is best enjoyed gradually. If you prefer milder heat, swap cayenne for a mix of hot sauce and a little honey to balance the kick.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best made fresh for the most vibrant flavor. Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Reheat gently before using to ensure it stays smooth and flavorful.
What’s the best way to serve this sauce with wings or chicken?
For wings, toss them in the sauce while warm and let them sit for at least 10 minutes to absorb the flavors. For chicken, brush the sauce onto cooked pieces and broil for 2–3 minutes to caramelize slightly. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of Greek yogurt can also add contrast.
Does the sauce work with other proteins besides chicken or wings?
Absolutely! Try brushing it on grilled steak, roasted potatoes, or even as a dip for baked sweet potatoes. For fish, use a lighter hand—just a light coating works best to avoid overpowering the natural flavors.
How can I make this sauce gluten-free?
Since buffalo sauce traditionally contains cornstarch, you can replace it with a mix of cornstarch and arrowroot powder (1:1 ratio) or blend in a small amount of tapioca starch for a smoother texture. Always check labels on store-bought ingredients for hidden gluten.
