Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This simple sauce enhances the flavor of crawfish without overpowering it. It’s quick to prepare, requires only a few ingredients, and can be made ahead of time to let the flavors meld. The balance of creamy mayo and tangy ketchup with a touch of hot sauce makes it irresistible for dipping or drizzling.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup ketchup
1 teaspoon vinegar-based hot sauce
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon black pepper
Salt, to taste

Directions

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well until smooth and fully incorporated.
Refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight, to allow flavors to develop.
Serve chilled alongside spicy crawfish tails as a dipping sauce.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes (plus chilling time)

Variations

Spicier: Add more hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Tangier: Add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar.
Herbaceous: Mix in chopped fresh parsley or chives.
Creamier: Add a bit more mayonnaise or sour cream for a richer texture.
Smokier: Increase smoked paprika or add a dash of chipotle powder.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Do not freeze. Serve cold or at room temperature. Stir before serving if separated.

FAQs

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, making it a day ahead allows the flavors to meld perfectly.

Is this sauce gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I use a different hot sauce?

Yes, any vinegar-based hot sauce works best for authentic flavor.

How spicy is the sauce?

Mild to medium; adjust hot sauce quantity to taste.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, just double the ingredients.

What else can I serve this sauce with?

It pairs well with fried seafood, shrimp, crab, or as a sandwich spread.

Can I add lemon juice?

Yes, a small splash brightens the sauce.

Is this sauce dairy-free?

Yes, it contains no dairy ingredients.

How do I store leftover sauce?

Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Can I use fresh spices instead of powdered?

Powdered spices work best for even flavor distribution in sauces.

Conclusion

This Crawfish Dipping Sauce is a must-have for any crawfish boil or seafood feast. With its creamy texture and balanced seasoning, it elevates your crawfish experience and is incredibly easy to prepare. Make it ahead, chill, and enjoy dipping every flavorful tail into this delicious sauce.

Crawfish Dipping Sauce Recipe

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Crawfish Dipping Sauce is a creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy sauce made from mayonnaise, ketchup, and Cajun spices, perfect for enhancing the flavor of spicy crawfish tails.

Author: Amy
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes plus chilling time
Yield: 6 servings
Category: Sauce / Condiment
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: Southern / Cajun
Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

½ cup mayonnaise

¼ cup ketchup

1 teaspoon vinegar-based hot sauce

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon black pepper

Salt, to taste

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Instructions

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well until smooth and fully incorporated.
Refrigerate the sauce for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight, to allow flavors to develop.
Serve chilled alongside spicy crawfish tails as a dipping sauce.