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Homemade Cocktail Sauce

This zesty, tangy homemade cocktail sauce is ready in under 5 minutes with zero cooking required. The fresh horseradish kick and bright lemon notes make it infinitely better than jarred versions.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer, Condiment
Cuisine: American
Calories: 25
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 3/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish or more to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Pinch of salt to taste
  • Pinch of black pepper freshly ground

Equipment

  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Whisk or spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Citrus juicer or reamer
  • Airtight container for storage

Method
 

  1. Add 3/4 cup of ketchup to a medium mixing bowl.
  2. Spoon in 2 tablespoons of prepared horseradish. Start conservative because you can always add more.
  3. Add 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice to balance the sweetness of the ketchup.
  4. Pour in 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce for savory, fermented complexity.
  5. Add 1/2 teaspoon of your favorite hot sauce for additional tanginess and heat.
  6. Sprinkle in 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder plus a pinch each of salt and black pepper.
  7. Whisk everything together vigorously for about 30 seconds until completely combined with no streaks visible.
  8. Taste and adjust seasonings, adding more horseradish for heat, more lemon for brightness, or salt to enhance flavors.
  9. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.

Notes

Make your cocktail sauce at least an hour ahead of serving for best results as the flavors develop and mellow beautifully. Use prepared horseradish from the refrigerated section for maximum heat and freshness. Homemade cocktail sauce keeps well in the refrigerator for up to two weeks in an airtight container.