This spicy garlic sauce from Hooters packs a serious punch, and I make sure to keep extra on hand!
The key is balancing heat with just the right amount of butter to give it that signature texture.
Fresh garlic makes all the difference, so skip the jarred stuff and mince up a few cloves for the best result.
A splash of vinegar at the end brings everything together and keeps the heat from overpowering everything else.
This sauce is incredible on wings, but I also brush it on grilled shrimp and even drizzle it over roasted potatoes.
If you like a little extra heat, add a dash of cayenne or an extra swirl of hot sauce before serving!
How to Make Hooters’ Spicy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 cup Hot pepper sauce
- 1 tbsp Balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Onion powder
- 1/2 cup Unsalted butter
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Melt the unsalted butter over medium heat in a saucepan.
Keep a watchful eye so it doesn’t burn!
Step 2:
Mix in the hot pepper sauce, stirring gently.
Let the mixture warm up to meld the flavors.
Step 3:
Add the balsamic vinegar and Worcestershire sauce.
Stir well to combine all the liquid ingredients.
Step 4:
Sprinkle in the garlic powder and onion powder.
Mix thoroughly to disperse the seasonings evenly.
Step 5:
Simmer for 5-10 minutes on low heat until the sauce thickens slightly.
Adjust the taste as needed.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Choose Quality Hot Sauce
Opt for a high-quality hot pepper sauce.
This is important since it forms the base of the flavor profile for the entire recipe.
Adjust the Heat
If the sauce is too spicy for your liking, you can reduce the amount of hot pepper sauce slightly.
Start cautiously and taste as you adjust.
Mind the Butter
Butter is essential for a creamy texture.
Ensure it melts completely without browning for the best results in your sauce.
Balancing Flavors
You can tweak the vinegar or garlic amounts if you want a tangier or spicier taste.
Feel free to experiment to suit your taste preferences.
Stirring Thoroughly
While stirring, aim for a smooth consistency.
This ensures all the ingredients meld into a harmonious blend without any clumps.
What to Serve with Hooters Spicy Garlic Sauce
Classic French Fries
You can never go wrong by pairing the spicy garlic wings with a side of traditional French fries.
The crispy texture complements the wings perfectly.
Try using seasoned fries to add a little extra flair to your meal.
Creamy Coleslaw
Coleslaw adds a refreshing, creamy element that balances the heat of the spicy garlic sauce.
Its cool, crunchy texture works well alongside the savory wings.
You can use either a classic coleslaw or spice it up with a more tangy or apple-infused version.
Grilled Corn on the Cob
Grilled corn on the cob is a fantastic choice that adds a smoky flavor to your meal.
The natural sweetness of the corn pairs nicely with the spicy sauce.
A brush of melted butter and sprinkle of paprika can enhance the flavor even more.
Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a great choice if you’re looking for something a bit more hearty.
The extra hint of garlic complements the sauce, adding depth to each bite.
Consider topping with some Parmesan to add a cheesy twist.
Watermelon Salad
For something unique, try a watermelon salad with feta and mint.
The sweet, juicy flavors of watermelon contrast deliciously with the bold spiciness of the wings.
This refreshing combination makes for a great warm weather meal.
Avocado and Mango Salsa
Avocado and mango salsa is a fresh and vibrant option that adds a fruity dimension to your spread.
This salsa brings a touch of sweetness and creaminess that pairs well with the spicy and savory elements of the sauce.
Serve it with tortilla chips for some added crunch.
Variations and Substitutions
When making Hooters spicy garlic sauce, there are lots of ways you can adjust the ingredients to your liking.
You might like to swap the butter with margarine if that’s what you have on hand.
It gives a slightly different texture but remains creamy.
Spice Levels
Adjust the heat level by tweaking the amount of cayenne or hot sauce you use.
For a milder version, reduce these ingredients and add a bit of honey for a touch of sweetness.
Oil Options
Instead of vegetable oil, you could experiment with olive oil or even avocado oil.
Both bring a unique flavor that might add depth to the sauce.
Garlic Power
Consider using roasted garlic instead of garlic powder.
Roasted garlic can add an intense flavor profile that might surprise you.
Try using these variations to make the sauce more in tune with your personal taste!
How to Store Leftover Hooters Spicy Garlic Sauce
Storing leftover Hooters Spicy Garlic Sauce properly is key to keeping it fresh and tasty for as long as possible!
First things first, you want to refrigerate the sauce after opening it.
Container Choice
Always use an airtight container or glass jar to keep that spicy garlic flavor locked in tight.
A glass jar with a tight-fitting lid makes it easy to scoop out with a spoon, and it avoids any risk of the sauce absorbing unwanted flavors from the fridge.
Plastic containers work too, just make sure they’re odor-free.
Refrigeration
You can refrigerate the sauce for up to two weeks.
Always make sure the container is sealed properly to maintain the freshness.
Place it in the coldest part of your fridge for best results.
Freezing Leftovers
If you don’t plan on finishing the sauce within two weeks, freezing is a great option!
Use an ice cube tray to freeze portions for later use.
Once frozen, transfer the sauce cubes to a freezer bag or container and label with the date for easy reference.
Remember, this way you can enjoy the sauce anytime!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not Measuring Ingredients Properly
You might be tempted to eyeball your ingredients, but trust me, precision matters here!
Use measuring spoons and cups to get the perfect balance of flavors.
Without careful measurement, your sauce might end up too spicy or too bland.
Skipping the Fermentation Process
Skipping fermentation can lead to a flat and uninspired sauce flavor profile.
Fermentation allows time for flavors to fully develop and blend.
Ensure you follow proper fermentation steps for that special kick.
Overheating the Sauce
Overheating can cause your sauce to separate or lose its rich flavors, which can be a real bummer!
Cooking it on low heat helps maintain its consistency and taste.
Take it slow, and keep a watchful eye while cooking.

Hooters Spicy Garlic Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup Hot pepper sauce
- 1 tbsp Balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Onion powder
- 1/2 cup Unsalted butter
Instructions
- Melt the unsalted butter over medium heat in a saucepan.
- Keep a watchful eye so it doesn’t burn!
- Mix in the hot pepper sauce, stirring gently.
- Let the mixture warm up to meld the flavors.
- Add the balsamic vinegar and Worcestershire sauce.
- Stir well to combine all the liquid ingredients.
- Sprinkle in the garlic powder and onion powder.
- Mix thoroughly to disperse the seasonings evenly.
- Simmer for 5-10 minutes on low heat until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Adjust the taste as needed.