Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Homemade Cocktail Sauce in 5 Minutes Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.8 from 83 reviews

This easy homemade cocktail sauce recipe is ready in just 5 minutes and is perfect for serving with large cooked shrimp. Made with a tangy blend of ketchup, fresh lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, horseradish, and spices, it offers a classic and flavorful accompaniment that can be lightly spiced up with optional hot sauce.

  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: 10 servings

Ingredients

Cocktail Sauce Ingredients

  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp prepared horseradish
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 1/8 tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp hot sauce (optional for an additional kick)

To Serve

  • Large cooked, cooled shrimp

Instructions

  1. Combine Base Ingredients: In a medium bowl, add 1 cup ketchup, 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp garlic powder, ¼ tsp salt, and 1/8 tsp black pepper. Stir well to thoroughly combine all these flavorful base ingredients into a smooth mixture.
  2. Add Horseradish: Next, incorporate 1 tbsp prepared horseradish into the bowl. Mix it evenly with the sauce base, then taste. If you prefer a stronger horseradish punch, feel free to add more to your liking and stir again.
  3. Optional Spice Kick: For those who enjoy extra heat, add ½ tsp hot sauce into the bowl and mix again to evenly distribute the spice. This step is optional and can be adjusted according to your taste preference.
  4. Serve: Serve the cocktail sauce chilled alongside large cooked and cooled shrimp for a classic appetizer or seafood accompaniment.

Notes

  • The sauce can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to meld flavors.
  • Adjust horseradish quantity based on your preferred level of pungency.
  • Use fresh lemon juice for the best bright citrus flavor.
  • For a lower sodium option, reduce the salt or use a low-sodium ketchup.
  • If you want a smoother texture, whisk the sauce before serving.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Sauce
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American