arby’s sauce recipe
The Best arby’s sauce recipe
I love how this recipe is so easy to adjust for different dietary needs too. If we’re watching our portions, we can make a smaller batch and still get that same delicious taste. And if someone’s feeling extra indulgent, a little extra sugar or a dash of hot sauce can make it even better. Plus, it’s got a nice balance of tangy and sweet, which is just the kind of flavor profile that makes it feel like a treat without being one. My husband and I both swear by it for weekend barbecues or when we’re grilling up some ribs or chicken—it’s like the secret weapon that makes everything taste restaurant-quality at home. And the best part? It’s something we can make ahead and store for later, so there’s no last-minute stress when life gets busy. It’s the kind of recipe that’s perfect for both casual weeknight meals and when you want to impress someone with a homemade spread. Plus, the health benefits? Well, it’s got a little bit of everything—protein if you’re adding meat, fiber from veggies if you’re making a salad, and just enough sweetness to keep things tasty without being too heavy. It’s that kind of recipe that makes eating feel good, no matter what.

Homemade Arby’s Sauce Recipe
A classic homemade version of Arby’s signature sauce, perfect for sandwiches and dipping. This recipe captures the rich, tangy flavor with a touch of sweetness.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 cups (480ml) tomato sauce (canned, no added sugar)
- 1 cup (240ml) beef broth
- 1 cup (240ml) water
- 1 tbsp (15ml) Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp (15ml) apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp (15ml) Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp (5g) onion powder
- 1 tsp (5g) smoked paprika
- 1 tsp (5g) dried oregano
- ½ tsp (2g) black pepper
- ½ tsp (2g) salt
- 1 tbsp (15ml) honey or brown sugar (for slight sweetness)
- 1 tsp (5g) dried red pepper flakes (for heat)
- 1 tbsp (15ml) ketchup (for extra tang)
👨🍳Directions
-
1
In a medium saucepan, combine tomato sauce, beef broth, water, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a gentle simmer. -
2
Whisk in the garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, black pepper, and salt. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. -
3
For a smoother texture, strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve if desired. Discard solids. -
4
Optional: Stir in honey, brown sugar, or ketchup for extra flavor. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. -
5
Let the sauce cool to room temperature before using. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
🔧Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Fine-mesh strainer (optional)
- Chef’s knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Tips
- For a deeper flavor, simmer the sauce for an additional 5–10 minutes.
- Substitute beef broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- Use this sauce as a dip for fries, veggies, or as a sandwich spread.
Variations
- Add a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
- Mix in a spoonful of mayonnaise for a creamy twist.
Watch Video Of How Homemade Arby’s Sauce Recipe Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Arby’s Sauce
1. What is the secret ingredient in Arby’s signature sauce that makes it so popular?
The signature sauce at Arby’s is a blend of mayonnaise, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and a touch of vinegar or lemon juice. The key lies in its balance of tangy, savory, and slightly spicy flavors, along with a smooth, creamy texture. The exact proportions are closely guarded, but the core ingredients are well-known.
2. Is Arby’s sauce homemade, or is it a proprietary blend?
While Arby’s sauce is made in-house at their kitchens, the exact recipe is not publicly disclosed. The brand has never revealed the full proprietary blend, but it’s confirmed to be a customized version of the classic mayo-ketchup mix with additional seasonings. Some fans have tried recreating it at home with success, but the exact formula remains a trade secret.
3. How does Arby’s sauce compare to homemade versions or fast-food alternatives like Wendy’s or McDonald’s?
Arby’s sauce is generally considered richer and more flavorful than many fast-food alternatives because it’s made with a higher-quality mayo base and more complex seasonings. While homemade versions (like mayo-ketchup with Worcestershire and spices) can mimic it closely, Arby’s version often has a smoother consistency and deeper umami taste. Some fans swear by adding a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika for extra depth.
4. Can you find Arby’s sauce in stores, or is it only available at the restaurant?
Arby’s sauce is not typically sold in grocery stores as a standalone product. It’s only available at Arby’s restaurants, where it’s prepared fresh. However, some specialty food stores or online retailers may carry Arby’s-branded sauce in limited quantities, but it’s not widely stocked.
5. What are some tips for making Arby’s-style sauce at home if you can’t find the exact recipe?
If you’re trying to recreate Arby’s sauce, here’s a close approximation:
– Mix 1 cup mayonnaise with 2 tablespoons ketchup.
– Add 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional).
– Stir in 1 teaspoon vinegar or lemon juice for tang.
– Adjust seasoning to taste—some add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.
– Let it sit for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld. For a spicier version, some fans include a small amount of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
