Homemade Seafood Sauce Recipe
Nothing elevates fresh seafood quite like a perfectly balanced seafood sauce. Creamy, tangy, and just the right amount of spice, a homemade seafood sauce transforms shrimp, crab, lobster, or fried seafood into a dish that feels both luxurious and approachable. This recipe is crafted for both flavor and simplicity, delivering a sauce that’s fresh, vibrant, and restaurant-quality without any fuss.
Ingredients List
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, and horseradish until smooth.
Step 2: Add Flavor Enhancers
Stir in Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and hot sauce. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Adjust Consistency and Flavor
If needed, add a little more lemon juice for tang or horseradish for extra bite. Mix until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Chill
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Serve
Transfer to a serving bowl and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Pair with shrimp, crab, lobster, or fried seafood.
Cook Time
Total: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Servings
Makes approximately 1 1/2 cups, serving 6–8
Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)
- Calories: ~120
- Fat: 11g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: varies depending on ingredients
Storage Instructions
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Stir before serving if the sauce has separated slightly.
Suggestions
- For a lighter version, substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne for a smoky kick.
- Pair with cold shrimp cocktails, crab cakes, or as a dipping sauce for fried calamari.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like dill or chives for added freshness.
Seasonal Relevance
Seafood sauce is versatile and works year-round, particularly in summer when shrimp and crab are abundant and seafood boils or barbecues are popular. It also elevates winter seafood dishes, adding brightness and creaminess.
Conclusion
This homemade seafood sauce is a timeless companion for any seafood dish, combining creamy, tangy, and subtly spicy notes in perfect harmony. Simple to prepare yet packed with flavor, it enhances the natural taste of seafood, making every bite memorable.
Homemade Seafood Sauce Recipe
8
servings10
minutes120
kcal10
minutesA creamy, tangy, and flavorful seafood sauce that pairs perfectly with shrimp, crab, lobster, or fried seafood. Quick to make and versatile, this homemade sauce elevates any seafood dish with fresh, restaurant-quality taste.
Ingredients
1 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons prepared horseradish (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Directions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, and horseradish until smooth.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and hot sauce. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Adjust flavor with extra lemon juice or horseradish if needed.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled, garnished with fresh parsley, alongside your favorite seafood.
Recipe Video
Notes
- For a lighter version, replace half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Add smoked paprika or cayenne for a smoky, spicy twist.
- Pairs beautifully with cold shrimp cocktails, crab cakes, or fried calamari.
- Can be prepared 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
