Ike’s Dirty Sauce Recipe

If you’ve ever visited Ike’s Love and Sandwiches, you’ve probably tasted their Dirty Sauce—a true game-changer for all sandwiches. This super creamy and super tangy sauce is so tastier and juicier than most others that it’s absolutely loved by many. I still remember trying it on a Jaymee Sirewich sandwich for the first time—the initial taste had me hooked. I knew I had to find out the secret behind this incredible sauce, so I did some research and discovered how to recreate it at home anytime.

The recipe is surprisingly simple, with mayo as the base ingredient, a touch of BBQ, Dijon mustard, and optional kicks of Sriracha or cayenne pepper to make it spicier. Whether you prefer it mild or hot, this sauce adds an amazing juiciness to chicken sandwiches, shrimp sandwiches, or any food you want to elevate. Many people are surprised to learn they can make this iconic restaurant favorite at home. It’s super easy and never disappoints, especially when recreating sauces from such a famous sandwich franchise.

Today, Ike’s also offers a new Atomic Sauce for the adventurous—it’s so hot, creamy, and perfect for spicy food lovers. Whether you’re inspired by a specific sandwich or love experimenting with many sauce recipes, this one deserves a place in your kitchen. I’ve shared it on my blog and love how it lets me get creative. The taste of Ike’s Dirty Sauce is one you’ll never forget—it’s an ideal blend of flavors for those who prefer bold, super yummy sauces.

What is Ike’s Dirty Sauce?

Ike’s Dirty Sauce is the special sauce that makes Ike’s Love and Sandwiches stand out. This super yummy mix is creamy, tangy, and just a tiny bit spicy, perfect for sandwiches, burgers, wraps, and even salads. It’s the secret behind why so many people always come back for more. You can even make it at home using simple ingredients like garlic, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and a dash of smoked paprika. This yummy sauce adds bold flavors that make everything extra delicious, from chicken sandwiches to shrimp dishes.

What makes it even better is the variety it offers. Some people like it mild, while others go for an extra hot version by adding more spicy sauce or spicy toppings. For vegans, the Vegan Dirty Sauce is also available at Ike’s Love & Sandwiches. Personally, I love how this sauce transforms the taste of my favorite food, especially when paired with garlic aioli and their secret blend of seasonings and spices. Once you put it on, it’s always ready to eat and really good after just a quick chill in the fridge.

Key Ingredients for Ike’s Dirty Sauce

Here’s everything you need to create the famous Ike’s Dirty Sauce at home. This mix is flavorful, creamy, and perfect for your favorite dishes:

• 1 cup mayonnaise (or Mayo as the base).
• 1/4 cup yellow mustard and 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard for tangy notes.
• 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce and 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce for richness.
• 1 tablespoon Sriracha and an optional 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or a tiny dash Cajun seasoning for a spicy kick.
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder, 1 tablespoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and 1 teaspoon black pepper for bold flavors.
• A pinch of salt, 1 teaspoon sugar, and 2 tablespoons pickle juice to balance the taste.
• Optional: Add 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, or 3 cloves garlic (minced) for extra depth.

This salt-free yet flavorful recipe can be adjusted to your taste, making it just as good as the original. McCormick Garlic & Herb seasoning or a touch of Cajun seasoning can elevate the mix for a signature twist!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make Ike’s Dirty Sauce, you’ll need a few basic items:

• A mixing bowl for combining ingredients.
• A whisk or spoon for thorough mixing.
• Measuring cups and measuring spoons to get the quantities just right.
• An airtight container, clean jar, or bottle for storage to keep the sauce fresh.

Steps to Make Ike’s Dirty Sauce

Follow these steps to make the delicious Ike’s Dirty Sauce at home:

Step 1: 

Take a medium-sized mixing bowl and measure 1 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup yellow mustard, and 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard. Add them to the bowl and mix thoroughly to form a smooth base.

Step 2: 

Measure 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, and 1 tablespoon Sriracha, then add these ingredients to the base. Stir well to ensure everything is fully incorporated.

Step 3: 

Begin seasoning by sprinkling 1 tablespoon garlic powder, 1 tablespoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon sugar for balanced flavors. Mix all the spices thoroughly.

Step 4: 

For a spicy kick, add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper, and for a tangy touch, pour in 2 tablespoons pickle juice. Stir well, then taste the sauce to ensure the flavors are balanced.

Step 5: 

Adjust to your liking—add more Sriracha for heat or a touch of sugar for a sweeter flavor. When perfectly seasoned, transfer the sauce to an airtight container or clean jar.

Step 6: 

Place the container in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes (or ideally an hour) to let the flavors meld together. After this resting period, your sauce is ready to use.

Enjoy your freshly made Ike’s Dirty Sauce on sandwiches, wraps, or any dish—it’s sure to impress!

Some Tips for Making Ike’s Dirty Sauce

• Taste the sauce periodically while mixing to ensure the ingredients are well-balanced. If using homemade BBQ sauce, you can control its sweetness and smokiness. For a spicier sauce, start with the recommended amount of Sriracha or cayenne pepper, then add more if needed.
• Allow the sauce to rest in the refrigerator for at least an hour, or preferably overnight, to let the flavors fully meld. If the sauce feels too thick, thin it with pickle juice. For a milder sauce, use less hot sauce, or for extra spice, add more hot sauce to your liking.
• Adjust the sweetness by tweaking the amount of brown sugar. For a stronger garlic flavor, add more minced garlic, or reduce it for a milder taste.
• Chill the sauce in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before using. This step ensures the flavors are at their best for any dish.
• Try recipe variations like adding honey for a sweet version, perfect for yummy BBQ dishes, or including apple cider vinegar or fresh lemon juice for a zesty taste that works great on fish sandwiches.
• For a non-spicy version, simply leave out the hot sauce if you don’t like spicy food. The result will still be super tasty and perfect for any sandwich.

Recipe Variations for Ike’s Dirty Sauce

• For a sweet version, add a touch of honey to the sauce. This creates a yummy flavor that pairs perfectly with BBQ dishes.
• Add a fresh, fruity twist by including apple cider vinegar or squeezing fresh lemon juice. This adds a zesty taste, making this version great for fish sandwiches.
• If you prefer a non-spicy version and don’t like spicy food, simply leave out the hot sauce. The result will still be super tasty and perfect for any sandwich.

Storing Leftovers of Ike’s Dirty Sauce

To keep Ike’s Dirty Sauce fresh, transfer it to an airtight container that is tightly sealed. Place the container in the fridge, where it can stay good for about one week. For longer storage, the sauce can last in the fridge for up to two weeks if stored properly. Before you use it again, give it a quick stir to ensure none of the ingredients have settled to the bottom, avoiding any unwanted stuff going down the sink when serving. This method helps to maintain the sauce’s freshness for all your dishes!

What to Pair with Ike’s Dirty Sauce

Ike’s Dirty Sauce is super versatile and can be paired with a lot of other dishes, but it truly shines with sandwiches. Enjoy classics like a turkey sandwich, layered with lettuce and tomatoes, or drizzle it generously on BBQ wings as a dipping sauce. For a light meal, try it on grilled vegetables.

For those who love spicy sandwiches, a spicy beef banh mi with sliced marinated beef and pickled veggies is a satisfying meal. Add it to a variety of sandwiches, such as a classic chicken sandwich with lettuce and tomato, a tasty shrimp sandwich with creamy avocado, or a savory beef sandwich topped with rich caramelized onions. Simply add a dollop of Ike’s Dirty Sauce for an extra taste and bold flavor, making every sandwich even more delicious!

FAQ

What Sets Ike’s Godfather Sauce Apart from Dirty Sauce?

Godfather Sauce is a bold combination of horseradish, garlic, and Dijon, creating a rich and garlicky concoction. On the other hand, Dirty Sauce is creamier and pairs well with a wide range of dishes. For a treat, try the Ménage à Trois chicken sandwich, which blends three sauces—real honey, honey mustard, and barbecue sauce—with three cheeses: Swiss, Gouda, and pepper jack. Both sauces bring unique flavors to your meal!

Does Ike’s Dirty Sauce Have Mayo?

Yes, Ike’s Dirty Sauce includes mayo as its base, along with Dijon mustard, sour cream, and a secret ingredient—prepared horseradish. It’s perfect for sandwiches, and while you can make it at home, enjoying it at Ike’s supports their business!

Can I Customize Ike’s Dirty Sauce with Additional Ingredients?

Yes, Ike’s Dirty Sauce is customizable! You can add chopped pickles, jalapeños, or fresh herbs like parsley or chives to make it your own. The rest is up to you!

Is Ike’s Dirty Sauce Suitable for Vegetarians?

Yes, Ike’s Dirty Sauce is suitable for vegetarians, as it doesn’t contain any meat-based ingredients. It’s perfect for adding flavor to vegetarian sandwiches and other plant-based dishes!

Can Ike’s Dirty Sauce Be Used for Meat Marinades?

Absolutely! While Ike’s Dirty Sauce is primarily for sandwiches, it works great as a marinade for meats. Simply coat the meat with the sauce, let it marinate for a few hours, and enjoy the enhanced flavor after cooking.

Conclusion

Making homemade Ike’s Dirty Sauce is a fantastic way to bring the signature flavors of Ike’s Love and Sandwiches to your own kitchen. Give this recipe a try to make your meals and sandwiches so much better and more enjoyable. It’s perfect to share with friends and family at any gathering. Don’t forget to subscribe to my blog for more delicious recipes. I’m excited for you to try this sauce and see how it makes your dishes extra tasty. Let’s make meals, share recipes, and enjoy more yummy recipes together!