Arby's Sauce (Authentic)

Name: Arby's Sauce Recipe (Homemade)
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 1 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup water; 1/2 cup ketchup; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1/4 cup white vinegar; 3/4 teaspoon garlic salt; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons water

This homemade Arby's sauce replicates the fast-food original using ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and vinegar. It's a straightforward copycat recipe that eliminates the need to hoard restaurant packets.

🏷️Low cholesterol 🏷️Healthy 🏷️< 60 mins 🏷️Stove top 🏷️Small appliance

Total

35 min

Servings

1

Difficulty

Medium

Est. Cost

$20–$33

Recipe Source

View original recipe

From Food.com · by J. Hornsby

Ingredients

1 cup water
1/2 cup ketchup
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1/4 cup white vinegar
3/4 teaspoon garlic salt
1/2 teaspoon paprika
3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons water

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Instructions

1
Place all sauce ingredients in a blender and blend on high speed until thoroughly combined.
2
Pour mixture into a small saucepan, heat on medium low for 20 minute stirring occasionally.
3
Add thickening mix and stir well.
4
Reduce heat to low and let simmer 10 minute.
5
Remove from heat and cool completely before serving.
6
**Stores in covered container in the refrigerator**.

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Tips & Notes

Pro tips

Mix the cornstarch and water into a smooth slurry before adding to the hot sauce to prevent lumps and ensure even thickening.
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer after combining all ingredients so the cornstarch activates and the flavors fully develop.
Taste and adjust vinegar or Worcestershire sauce to match your preferred balance of tang and umami before the sauce cools.
Cool the sauce completely before storing—it will thicken further as it cools, so don't over-thicken during cooking.

Substitutions

Brown sugar → 2 tablespoons honey or 1.5 tablespoons white sugar (will be slightly less molasses-forward)
Worcestershire sauce → soy sauce (use 2.5 tablespoons; will be saltier and slightly deeper)
White vinegar → apple cider vinegar (will add subtle sweetness; use same amount)

Storage & make-ahead

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Reheat gently over low heat or use chilled straight from the fridge.

Common Questions

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. The flavors will meld and strengthen over time.

Why is my sauce too thin?

The cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) must be stirred into the hot sauce to thicken properly. Ensure the mixture reaches a simmer after adding it.