This might sound dramatic, but I don’t think I’ve gone a week without this sauce in my fridge since I first whipped it up. It’s THAT good. And if you’ve ever dipped an Arby’s curly fry into Horsey Sauce and closed your eyes in bliss, you’ll know exactly what I mean.
First of all, it’s just so easy. Like, stir-it-up-in-a-bowl easy. No cooking, no fancy equipment—just a spoon, a bowl, and a couple of minutes. I love recipes like this because they give me maximum flavor with minimal fuss.
But here’s the real reason you’ll fall in love: it tastes just like the real deal… only better. Creamier, fresher, and totally adjustable to your spice preferences. Want it punchier? Add more horseradish. Want it mellow and sweet? Ease up and maybe add a touch of sugar. It’s yours to play with.
And the versatility? Don’t even get me started. I spread it on burgers, use it as a dip for roasted veggies, and even stirred it into deviled egg filling once. Game changer. I even sneak it into my tuna salad from time to time—trust me, it works.
Table of Contents
What is Homemade Arby’s Horsey Sauce Recipe?
If you’ve never experienced the gloriousness of Arby’s Horsey Sauce, let me paint a picture. It’s a creamy, tangy sauce made with horseradish and mayonnaise that’s best known for adding that signature kick to Arby’s roast beef sandwiches. Think creamy with a punch—you feel it right in the nose, in the best way possible.
The fast-food version is shelf-stable and packaged in little packets, but the homemade version is fresher and way more flavorful. We’re talking real horseradish (none of that watered-down stuff), good-quality mayo, and a few pantry additions to bring balance—like a touch of sugar for sweetness and white vinegar for zing.
It’s essentially a horseradish mayo with a bit more personality. You can make it as mild or fiery as you like, which I absolutely love. And the best part? You’re not limited to roast beef sandwiches. This sauce can elevate just about anything it touches.
When I first set out to recreate this recipe, I thought it’d be hard to capture that classic Arby’s flavor. But with a few tweaks and taste tests (a lot of taste tests), I landed on a version that I honestly think outshines the original. And once you try it, I think you’ll agree.
Key Ingredients
Okay, let’s break down what you’ll need to make your own dreamy, creamy batch of homemade Horsey Sauce. It’s shockingly simple and you probably already have most of these in your fridge or pantry.
Mayonnaise
This is the creamy base of the sauce. I use full-fat mayo (I’m a Hellmann’s loyalist), but you could absolutely use low-fat or even avocado mayo if you prefer a healthier twist. Just keep in mind that different brands have slightly different flavors.
Prepared Horseradish
This is the magic ingredient that gives Horsey Sauce its iconic zing. Look for “prepared horseradish,” not “horseradish sauce.” Prepared horseradish is grated horseradish root mixed with vinegar and salt—it’s much stronger and more authentic. I love the refrigerated kind in a jar.
White Vinegar
A splash of vinegar brightens everything up and balances the creaminess. You could also use apple cider vinegar in a pinch, but I find plain white vinegar keeps the flavor profile closest to the original.
Sugar
Just a teaspoon of sugar adds a subtle sweetness that offsets the bite of the horseradish. It doesn’t make the sauce sweet—it just rounds out the edges.
Salt
Just a pinch, but it makes a big difference. Don’t skip it!
That’s it! Five ingredients. No preservatives, no weird additives, just pure, punchy goodness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s walk through this together—it’s truly one of the easiest recipes in my collection.
Step 1: Mix the base
In a small mixing bowl, add 1 cup of mayonnaise. This is your creamy canvas. I usually use a silicone spatula to get every last bit of mayo goodness into the bowl.
Step 2: Add the kick
Stir in 2 tablespoons of prepared horseradish. If you’re nervous about the heat level, start with 1 tablespoon and taste from there. I like mine bold, so I go all in.
Step 3: Brighten it up
Add 1 tablespoon of white vinegar and 1 teaspoon of sugar. These two ingredients are essential for balancing the richness of the mayo and the sharpness of the horseradish.
Step 4: Season and taste
Add a small pinch of salt—just enough to bring everything together. Then taste. Want it tangier? Add a splash more vinegar. Need more heat? Another spoonful of horseradish won’t hurt.
Step 5: Chill and serve
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors marry. This sauce gets even better the next day.
And that’s it. Five minutes of effort, and you’ve got a sauce that’ll knock your socks off.
Variations and Substitutions
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are a few variations I’ve played with (and loved), depending on what’s in my kitchen or what I’m craving.
Greek Yogurt Swap
Want to lighten it up? Sub half (or all) of the mayo with plain Greek yogurt. It adds a nice tang and still keeps the sauce creamy.
Spicier Version
Feeling fiery? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. I’ve even stirred in a bit of wasabi paste before, and WOW—it’s not traditional, but it’s amazing.
Garlic Twist
For an extra layer of flavor, a small clove of minced garlic or a sprinkle of garlic powder is a welcome addition. Especially good if you’re using it on grilled meats.
Sweet and Mild
If you’re not a fan of intense horseradish heat, cut the horseradish down to 1 tablespoon and increase the sugar slightly. You’ll still get that flavor without the burn.
Vegan-Friendly
Use a vegan mayo, and this recipe is totally plant-based!
This recipe is basically a blank canvas. Start with the base and let your flavor creativity shine.
Meal Ideas for Try
Okay, now for the fun part—what to slather this magical sauce on. Spoiler: the answer is EVERYTHING.
Roast Beef Sandwiches
Obviously. This sauce was born for roast beef. I toast a sesame bun, pile it high with thinly sliced beef, a slice of cheddar, and a heavy-handed drizzle of this sauce. Heaven.
French Fries or Curly Fries
Skip the ketchup and go straight for this zesty dip. It’s especially killer with curly fries, just like at Arby’s.
Grilled Burgers or Chicken
Try it in place of mayo on your burger or chicken sandwich. It gives everything a tangy punch that cuts through the richness.
Veggie Dip
Baby carrots, celery sticks, and cucumber slices love this stuff. It’s a great alternative to ranch when you want something with more character.
Deviled Eggs or Egg Salad
Swap out some of the mayo in your deviled eggs or egg salad for this sauce, and watch the compliments roll in.
I swear, once you make a batch, you’ll be finding excuses to put it on everything. It’s just that good.
FAQs
How Long Does Homemade Horsey Sauce Last?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it’ll stay fresh for up to a week. It usually disappears way faster in my house, though!
Can I Freeze It?
I don’t recommend it. Mayo-based sauces don’t freeze well—they tend to separate when thawed. It’s best made fresh (and it’s so easy, why not?).
What if I Can’t Find Prepared Horseradish?
Check the refrigerated section near the pickles or condiments. If you absolutely can’t find it, a mild horseradish sauce can work, but it’s much less potent. Just taste and adjust.
Is it Gluten-free?
Yes! As long as your mayo and horseradish are certified gluten-free, you’re good to go.
Can I Make it Vegan?
Totally. Just swap in vegan mayo. The rest of the ingredients are plant-based.
Homemade Arby’s Horsey Sauce Recipe Card
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish (or more to taste)
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- In a small mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise and prepared horseradish.
- Add white vinegar, sugar, and salt. Stir until smooth and well blended.
- Taste and adjust horseradish, sugar, or vinegar to your liking.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
