Nashville Hot Sauce Recipe is famous for bold heat and deep flavor. This sauce comes from Nashville’s hot chicken tradition. It is spicy, smoky and slightly sweet.
Many people love it on fried chicken, wings and sandwiches. You can also drizzle it on fries or burgers. The best part is how easy it is to make at home.
With simple pantry spices, you can control the heat level. This Nashville Hot Sauce Recipe brings restaurant-style flavor to your kitchen. Learn How to make Nashville Hot Sauce in simple steps below.
My Experience With This Recipe
The first time I made this sauce, I was surprised by the aroma. The spices bloomed in hot oil beautifully. It smelled warm, smoky and exciting. I tested it on fried chicken first.
One bite was enough to love it. The heat hits fast but feels balanced. The sugar and garlic help calm the spice.
Now I make it often for family meals. Everyone asks for extra sauce. It also works well for dipping and brushing. This recipe never disappoints.
Recipe Card info
- Recipe Name: Nashville Hot Sauce
- Servings: 8 servings
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Total Time: 15 mins
- Course: Sauce
- Cuisine: American
- Calories: 90 kcal per serving

Equipment List
- Small saucepan
- Heatproof bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cup
- Spoon
Ingredients You Need for Nashville Hot Sauce
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 1 teaspoon honey
Instructions
1. Heat the Oil
Pour vegetable oil into a small saucepan. Heat it on medium until hot but not smoking.
2. Prepare the Spice Mix
Add cayenne, paprika, chili powder, salt, pepper, sugar, garlic and onion powder into a bowl.
3. Bloom the Spices
Carefully pour hot oil over the spice mix. Whisk slowly until smooth and well combined.
4. Add Extra Flavor
Stir in hot sauce and honey. Mix well until the sauce looks glossy and thick.
5. Rest the Sauce
Let the sauce cool for five minutes. This helps flavors blend and deepen nicely.
6. Taste and Adjust
Taste carefully. Add more honey for sweetness or cayenne for extra heat.
Recipe Tips
- Use fresh spices for stronger flavor.
- Reduce cayenne if you prefer mild heat.
- Always pour oil slowly to avoid splashing.
- Stir constantly for smooth texture.
- Let sauce rest before serving for best taste.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 90 kcal |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 2 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Sodium | 180 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This sauce tastes amazing on crispy fried chicken. Brush it over hot chicken right after frying. It also works well on chicken wings and tenders. Drizzle it on burgers for spicy kick.
Use it as a dip for fries or onion rings. Some people enjoy it on roasted vegetables. You can even add it to sandwiches or wraps for bold flavor. Serve warm for best results.
Best Sides To Serve With
Nashville Hot Sauce pairs well with creamy coleslaw. Mashed potatoes help balance the heat. Cornbread is another classic choice.
Mac and cheese works great too. Pickles add a refreshing crunch. Simple white bread also helps cool spicy bites.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftover sauce in a glass jar with lid. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to one week. Always let it cool before storing.
Reheat gently on low heat before using. Stir well while reheating. Do not microwave on high heat. This keeps oil from separating.

Nashville Hot Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- 1 teaspoon honey
Instructions
Heat the Oil
- Pour vegetable oil into a small saucepan. Heat it on medium until hot but not smoking.
Prepare the Spice Mix
- Add cayenne, paprika, chili powder, salt, pepper, sugar, garlic, and onion powder into a bowl.
Bloom the Spices
- Carefully pour hot oil over the spice mix. Whisk slowly until smooth and well combined.
Add Extra Flavor
- Stir in hot sauce and honey. Mix well until the sauce looks glossy and thick.
Rest the Sauce
- Let the sauce cool for five minutes. This helps flavors blend and deepen nicely.
Taste and Adjust
- Taste carefully. Add more honey for sweetness or cayenne for extra heat.
Notes
- Use fresh spices for stronger flavor.
- Reduce cayenne if you prefer mild heat.
- Always pour oil slowly to avoid splashing.
- Stir constantly for smooth texture.
- Let sauce rest before serving for best taste.
FAQs about Nashville Hot Sauce Recipe
What makes Nashville Hot Sauce so spicy compared to others?
This sauce uses a large amount of cayenne pepper mixed with hot oil. This method creates strong heat quickly.
Can I make Nashville Hot Sauce less spicy for kids?
Yes, reduce cayenne and add more honey. The sauce will stay flavorful but much milder.
Is Nashville Hot Sauce only for chicken dishes?
No, it works well on burgers, fries, sandwiches, and even roasted vegetables. It is very versatile.
Can I use butter instead of oil in this recipe?
Traditional recipes use oil. Butter changes flavor and texture but can be used carefully.
How long does homemade Nashville Hot Sauce last?
When stored properly in the fridge, it stays good for about one week safely.
Conclusion
This Nashville Hot Sauce Recipe is bold, spicy and simple to prepare. It brings true Southern heat to your meals.
With easy Ingredients for Nashville Hot Sauce, anyone can make it at home. The steps are quick and beginner-friendly.
You can adjust heat to your liking easily. Try this sauce once, and it may become a favorite. Enjoy cooking and share it with family and friends.
Sara Collins is a food blogger at TastyDive. She shares simple and family-friendly recipes made with everyday ingredients. Her mission is to help home cooks enjoy tasty meals without stress.


















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