I'll be honest. When it comes to hot and spicy, I am definitely a weakling. That said, it's well known that this homemade buffalo sauce recipe is a hit with those who like a little extra heat with their food. If you like buffalo wings, buffalo chicken dip, or simply a nice shot of extra flavor on your eggs or in your pasta, then this recipe is one that will become a favorite for your family.
Homemade Buffalo Sauce
Sometimes, a good easy sauce recipe can change your entire meal. Whether it's a savory or sweet choice, there is something about sauces that take basic ingredients and turn them into something incredible. So, if you are all about the extra spice on your food, then this is sure to be a hit. You can whip it up fast and add to your favorite buffalo meals to replicate those favorite finds from your local wing shop.
You can even serve those buffalo wings with this creamy blue cheese dip to cool down the heat if wanted. That makes it much easier to enjoy without feeling like it is too spicy.
What is the Difference Between Buffalo Sauce and Hot Sauce?
While some use the term interchangeably, they are two different products. The basic description is that buffalo sauce is a mixture of hot sauce, spices, and melted butter. This makes it richer and a bit smoother so easier to use in bulk in recipes.
Hot sauce is simply hot peppers, salt, and vinegar. It is pureed mixture of peppers that is used in smaller amounts as a shot of flavor on things like eggs, tacos, salads, or as part of a recipe. Hot sauce is rarely used in large amounts by itself. Buffalo sauce, however, is commonly used in large amounts.
What is Good With Buffalo Sauce?
If you ask one of my friends, the list of things not good with this sauce is much shorter. Buffalo sauce is a good choice to go on nearly any meat. Chicken is the most common choice, but I have also seen it on pork, beef, and occasionally on turkey. While it's not really something I would personally add to seafood like fish or shrimp in general, it can be nice as a dipping sauce with fried seafood.
Some recommend adding to loaded fries, over tater tots, or baked potatoes. I've also heard it is a good addition to ranch dressing or to use as a dipping sauce with a variety of baked or fried vegetables. I've even seen some kids dip their baby carrots in buffalo sauce. So, use it on anything you think it might taste good with, and experiment to add it to other items that are unique. You never know what might be great for dipping in this recipe.
We love these tasty buffalo cauliflower bites, and of course the classic keto buffalo chicken wings recipe. It's even perfect in these buffalo chicken enchiladas! A perfect choice for a tasty family-friendly meal. This sauce might even work with these cheesy sriracha chicken quesadillas. So yummy and easy!
How Long is This Good For in the Refrigerator?
I recommend using this homemade buffalo sauce within two weeks of preparing. Make sure you store it in a jar or container that is air tight to seal in the flavors. If you can't use it all within two weeks, I would suggest cutting the recipe in half so none goes to waste.
I have seen that others have success making in larger batches and freezing in small portions. Personally, I have not done so, but it is worth trying and I don't see any reason why it wouldn't work great and thaw beautifully. You may prefer to reheat before you add this to a recipe rather than using thawed. This will allow you to mix together so the butter won't separate from the hot sauce.
Can I Can This For Long Term Storage?
While I have found many methods of canning hot sauce, I have not been able to verify safety in canning prepared hot sauce. The addition of butter into the sauce changes the PH which means it may not be safe for long term canning storage. Instead, just keep general hot sauce on hand and mix up your own buffalo sauce when needed to pour over wings or use in other recipes.
You may find ready-made buffalo sauce in your grocery store, but it is processed safely using professional techniques. If you are able to locate a safe method for canning your own mixture at home, please let us know so we can add it to this note.
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter
- Hot sauce
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
Optional Add Ins:
Some recipes include more flavor additions. I like this for simplicity, but if you want a bit more elevated taste, you can add Worcestershire sauce, white vinegar, and cayenne pepper to increase the heat and overall flavor in the sauce.
How to Make Homemade Buffalo Sauce
In a medium sauce pan over medium heat, melt butter.
Add in the garlic powder and onion powder and stir to combine.
Pour in the hot sauce, stir, and continue cooking over medium heat for 1-2 minutes.
Pour into a jar or air tight container and refrigerate.
Stir well before using.
More Recipes You'll Love
Since buffalo sauce is a big part of appetizer recipes, you may also like some of our other favorite choices. From chicken wings to mac and cheese bites, below are a few more ideas that will easily fit into your meal plan for snacks and appetizers.
- Crispy Baked Salt and Pepper Chicken Wings
- No-Bake Jalapeno Popper Cheese Balls with Bacon & Chives
- Authentic Cheese Antojitos Recipe
- Insanely Delicious Jalapeno Dip
- Crispy Sticky Thai Chicken Wings
- Fried Cheese Sticks with Buttermilk Sauce
- Baked Tortellini Bites
- Best Ever Fried Mac and Cheese Bites
- Bacon Wrapped Dates with Goat Cheese
Chef's Tip
When storing homemade sauces in the refrigerator, I love using the classic mason jar. I can find them at the local Dollar Tree or even online and they are ideal for fitting a tight lid on top and sliding into the door of the refrigerator with ease.
📖 Recipe
Fast and Easy Homemade Buffalo Sauce Recipe
Create your own delicious fast and easy homemade buffalo sauce recipe in under 15 minutes! A great addition to your next batch of homemade chicken wings!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 ½ cups Frank's Red hot sauce
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter;
- Once the butter is melted, add in the garlic powder, onion powder, and hot sauce;
- Stir to combine and simmer for 2 minutes before removing from the heat and storing in an air tight container.
Notes
Good for up to 2 weeks when stored in an air tight container in the refrigerator.
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Nutrition Information:
Yield:
8Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 210Total Fat: 23gSaturated Fat: 14gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 61mgSodium: 1133mgCarbohydrates: 1gFiber: 0gSugar: 1gProtein: 1g
Ryan
I make a similar sauce but I also add sriracha and I use Crystals instead of Frank's . I will also puree a habanero or two if I'm feeling frisky and add that.