Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This sauce offers everything you want in a dip: creamy richness from mayo, tang from ketchup, a punch from horseradish, and a smoky hint of paprika. It’s incredibly versatile, budget-friendly, and ready in minutes. Whether you’re prepping for a party or upgrading a weeknight snack, this sauce adds that extra wow factor.
Ingredients
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½ cup mayonnaise
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2 tablespoons ketchup
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1 tablespoon prepared horseradish sauce
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½ teaspoon granulated garlic
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½ teaspoon smoked paprika
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¼ teaspoon ground cumin
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⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
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1 teaspoon lemon juice
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Mix the Sauce
In a small mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, garlic, paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), and lemon juice. -
Stir Until Smooth
Whisk the mixture until fully blended and smooth. -
Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. -
Serve
Serve chilled as a dip for blooming onions, onion rings, fries, or even as a spread on burgers and sandwiches.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: About 1 cup
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Prep time: 5 minutes
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Chill time: 30 minutes
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Total time: 35 minutes
Variations
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Lighter Version: Substitute Greek yogurt for half the mayo.
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Extra Heat: Add hot sauce or increase cayenne pepper.
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Herb Twist: Stir in fresh chopped parsley or chives for a herby flair.
Storage/Reheating
Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Stir before serving. This sauce is best enjoyed cold—no reheating necessary.
FAQs
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, it’s actually better when made ahead. The flavors deepen as it chills.
What can I use instead of horseradish?
Try Dijon mustard or wasabi for a different kind of heat.
Is this sauce gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check the labels.
Can I freeze this sauce?
It’s not recommended as mayo-based sauces can separate when thawed.
What else can I dip in this sauce?
Fries, chicken tenders, mozzarella sticks, or even veggies—just about anything!
Conclusion
This Blooming Onion Sauce is quick, customizable, and incredibly delicious. It’s everything you need to elevate your appetizers and snacks. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a solo snack session, this dip is guaranteed to impress. Give it a try—you’ll never need to buy store-bought dipping sauces again!
Blooming Onion Sauce
Blooming Onion Sauce is a bold, creamy, and tangy dipping sauce made to complement fried favorites like blooming onions, onion rings, fries, and more. Packed with flavor from mayo, ketchup, horseradish, garlic, and paprika, this easy-to-make dip delivers a restaurant-style experience right at home. Perfect for parties, appetizers, or casual snacking, it’s a crowd-pleasing condiment you’ll want to keep on hand.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: About 1 cup
- Category: Sauce, Dip, Condiment
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon prepared horseradish sauce
½ teaspoon granulated garlic
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
¼ teaspoon ground cumin
⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
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Mix the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, garlic, paprika, cumin, cayenne (if using), and lemon juice. -
Stir Until Smooth:
Whisk everything together until smooth and well combined. -
Chill:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. -
Serve:
Serve chilled as a dip for blooming onions, onion rings, fries, chicken tenders, or as a burger spread.
Notes
Lighter Option: Swap half the mayo with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
Make it Spicier: Add a dash of hot sauce or increase the cayenne.
Herby Upgrade: Stir in fresh chopped chives, parsley, or dill for a fresh flavor boost.
