Cocktail Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (e.g., Tabasco, optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine ketchup, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce (if using), garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Whisk until smooth and well-combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more horseradish for spice or lemon juice for tanginess.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
- Serve chilled with shrimp, oysters, crab, or other seafood.
About This Cocktail Sauce Recipe
Nothing elevates a seafood dish quite like a perfectly balanced cocktail sauce. This classic cocktail sauce recipe is a must-have for any seafood lover, delivering a bold, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor that pairs beautifully with shrimp cocktail, oysters, crab legs, or even fried fish. With just a handful of pantry staples and five minutes of prep time, you can create a homemade condiment that’s far superior to store-bought versions. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual seafood feast at home, this sauce will impress your guests and enhance your meal.
Why Make Homemade Cocktail Sauce?
Homemade cocktail sauce is not only quick and easy but also highly customizable. Unlike pre-made versions that can be overly sweet or lack depth, this recipe allows you to control the spice level, tanginess, and seasoning to suit your taste. The star ingredient, prepared horseradish, gives the sauce its signature kick, while fresh lemon juice adds a bright, zesty note. Worcestershire sauce brings a subtle umami depth, and a dash of hot sauce can turn up the heat for those who like it spicy. Plus, making it yourself ensures no artificial preservatives or additives—just pure, fresh flavor.
How to Use Cocktail Sauce
This versatile sauce is most famously paired with shrimp cocktail, where its bold flavors complement the sweet, delicate shrimp. Simply arrange chilled, cooked shrimp around a bowl of this sauce for an elegant appetizer. But its uses go far beyond shrimp! Serve it with raw or freshly shucked oysters for a classic seafood pairing, or use it as a dipping sauce for crab claws, lobster tails, or even fried calamari. It also works wonderfully as a spread for fish tacos or a topping for grilled seafood. For a creative twist, mix a spoonful into a Bloody Mary for an extra layer of flavor.
Tips for the Best Cocktail Sauce
To ensure your cocktail sauce is top-notch, use high-quality ingredients. Opt for a good-quality ketchup without excessive sweetness, as it forms the base of the sauce. Freshly squeezed lemon juice makes a noticeable difference compared to bottled juice, adding a vibrant tang. When it comes to horseradish, start with the recommended amount and adjust to your spice preference—some like it mild, while others crave that sinus-clearing heat. If you’re preparing the sauce ahead of time, letting it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Customizing Your Cocktail Sauce
One of the joys of this recipe is its flexibility. For a spicier version, increase the horseradish or add more hot sauce. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, a pinch of sugar can balance the acidity. For a smoky twist, try adding a dash of smoked paprika or chipotle hot sauce. You can also experiment with fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a unique flavor profile. No matter how you tweak it, this cocktail sauce is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re planning a fancy seafood platter for a holiday gathering or a simple weeknight dinner, this cocktail sauce recipe is a game-changer. It’s quick to whip up, requires no cooking, and delivers restaurant-quality flavor. Impress your guests with a homemade touch that takes minimal effort but yields maximum impact. Pair it with your favorite seafood dishes and watch it disappear!