If you’ve ever dipped your sushi in that creamy, slightly spicy sauce and thought, “I need this at home,” then you’re in the right place. This spicy mayo recipe is ridiculously easy, super tasty, and works on almost everything — sushi rolls, burgers, fries, chicken sandwiches, and even salads.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make the best spicy mayo recipe with just a few ingredients. We’ll also cover how to adjust the spice level, store it, use it in creative ways, and answer some common questions that real readers like you ask every day.
What Is Spicy Mayo?
Spicy mayo is a creamy condiment made by blending mayonnaise with a spicy element — usually sriracha or another chili sauce. It’s smooth, zesty, and adds heat and richness to a wide range of dishes. This spicy mayo recipe is a staple in Japanese-American cuisine and has become insanely popular in sushi restaurants and home kitchens alike.
It’s not only addictive but also highly versatile. From sushi to chicken wraps to grilled veggies, this sauce levels up your meals in seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Spicy Mayo Recipe
Here are a few reasons this spicy mayo will become your go-to sauce:
- Made with only 3–4 ingredients
- Ready in less than 2 minutes
- Customizable spice level
- Budget-friendly and better than store-bought
- Great for dipping, spreading, or drizzling
You probably have everything you need already sitting in your pantry!
Ingredients for Spicy Mayo Recipe
Here’s what you need to make this classic sauce:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | 1/2 cup | Use Japanese mayo (like Kewpie) or regular |
| Sriracha | 1–2 tbsp | Adjust to taste |
| Lime juice | 1 tsp | Optional, adds brightness |
| Garlic powder | 1/4 tsp | Optional for extra flavor |
| Salt | A pinch | Optional if needed |
Feel free to swap out sriracha for another hot sauce like gochujang or sambal oelek depending on your flavor preference.
How to Make Spicy Mayo Recipe (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
In a small bowl, add the mayonnaise, sriracha (start with 1 tbsp), lime juice, and garlic powder.
Step 2: Mix Until Smooth
Whisk or stir with a spoon until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and well-blended. Taste and adjust the spice or tanginess as desired.
Step 3: Serve or Store
Use it immediately or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
That’s it! This spicy mayo recipe is all about simplicity and flavor.
Tips to Customize Your Spicy Mayo Recipe
- For extra spicy mayo, add cayenne or crushed red chili flakes
- Use wasabi instead of sriracha for a Japanese twist
- Add honey or sugar for a sweet-spicy combo
- Mix in chopped herbs like cilantro or chives for freshness
- For a smoky version, use chipotle chili sauce
How to Use Spicy Mayo
This sauce is not just for sushi! Here’s how you can use your spicy mayo:
| Use Case | Ideas |
|---|---|
| Sushi | Spicy tuna rolls, shrimp tempura rolls, poke |
| Burgers | Replace regular mayo with spicy mayo for a kick |
| Sandwiches | Spread on chicken, turkey, or veggie sandwiches |
| Tacos | Drizzle on fish or shrimp tacos |
| Salads | Use as dressing base (thin with lime juice) |
| Fries | Dip for sweet potato fries or loaded fries |
| Bowls | Top grain bowls, poke bowls, or taco bowls |
This one sauce can seriously do it all.
Why Use Kewpie Mayonnaise?
If you want an even richer spicy mayo recipe, try using Kewpie mayo. It’s a Japanese mayo made with egg yolks and rice vinegar, which gives it a creamier and slightly sweeter flavor.
You can find Kewpie mayo online or in most Asian grocery stores. If you’re looking to elevate your spicy mayo game, this is one upgrade worth making.
Nutrition Info (Per Tablespoon)
| Nutrient | Approximate Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 90–100 kcal |
| Fat | 10g |
| Protein | 0g |
| Carbohydrates | 1g |
| Sugar | 0.5g |
| Sodium | 150mg |
It’s rich, so moderation is key — but definitely worth it!
Storage and Shelf Life
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator
- Keeps well for up to 1 week
- Not freezer-friendly — mayo will separate
Always use a clean spoon to scoop out what you need to keep it fresh longer.
FAQs About Spicy Mayo Recipe
What’s the best hot sauce for spicy mayo?
Sriracha is classic, but you can use any hot sauce like gochujang, sambal oelek, Frank’s Red Hot, or chipotle sauce depending on the flavor profile you want.
Can I make it vegan?
Yes! Simply use vegan mayonnaise as the base. Brands like Hellmann’s or Vegenaise work well.
How long does spicy mayo last?
It typically lasts 5 to 7 days in the refrigerator when stored in a clean, airtight container.
Is spicy mayo the same as yum yum sauce?
Not exactly. Yum yum sauce is sweeter and more complex with ingredients like ketchup and paprika. Spicy mayo is simpler and spicier.
What if my spicy mayo is too thin?
Use a thicker mayo or reduce the amount of lime juice. You can also whisk in a touch more mayo to thicken it back up.
Can I buy spicy mayo?
Yes, but it’s usually more expensive and contains preservatives. Making your own lets you control flavor, spice level, and ingredients. One great place to explore variations is Umamicart, where you can even get different mayo bases like Kewpie.
Creative Variations of Spicy Mayo Recipe
1. Chipotle Spicy Mayo
Use chipotle peppers in adobo sauce instead of sriracha for a smoky flavor. Blend in a food processor for best texture.
2. Gochujang Spicy Mayo
Swap in Korean gochujang paste for a bold, fermented kick. It pairs especially well with rice bowls and Korean BBQ.
3. Honey Sriracha Mayo
Add 1 teaspoon of honey or maple syrup for a sweet-and-spicy flavor profile.
4. Avocado Spicy Mayo
Blend in 1/4 of an avocado for a creamy, green-tinted mayo with healthy fats.
5. Wasabi Mayo
Use wasabi paste instead of sriracha for sushi lovers. Great with raw fish and pickled ginger.
Spicy Mayo Recipe for Meal Prep
Want to meal prep your sauce? Here’s how:
- Make a large batch (double or triple)
- Store in squeeze bottles for easy use
- Add labels and date the lid
- Use throughout the week on multiple dishes
It can save so much time while keeping your meals flavorful!
Serving Suggestions
| Dish | How to Serve Spicy Mayo |
|---|---|
| Sushi rolls | Drizzle on top with a squeeze bottle |
| Chicken burgers | Spread directly on buns or mix into coleslaw |
| Rice bowls | Zigzag over protein and veggies |
| Shrimp tacos | Use as a drizzle + garnish with cabbage |
| Veggie wraps | Use as a base spread inside the wrap |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using too much hot sauce – it’ll overpower the mayo
- Overmixing with watery sauces – makes the texture runny
- Not tasting as you go – everyone’s spice tolerance is different
- Using old mayo – always check freshness for safety
Start small with spice and build up — it’s easier to add than remove heat.
Why This Spicy Mayo Recipe Is a Must-Have in Your Kitchen
This sauce is like a flavor bomb in a bottle. You can take bland meals and turn them into restaurant-quality dishes with just a drizzle. Plus, when you make it yourself, you control the ingredients — no additives, no artificial preservatives, just clean, bold flavor.
From sushi rolls to grilled meats, a good spicy mayo recipe adds that creamy heat that wakes up your taste buds and brings meals to life.
