For those who love spicy foods with a bold kick, Zaxby’s Tongue Torch is the ultimate sauce to add to your favorite dishes. This fan-favorite brings together hot, smoky, and savory flavors in a creamy texture, making it a popular choice for fried chicken, burgers, and chicken sandwiches. Whether you’re dipping crispy chicken fingerz, drizzling it over fries, or coating wings, this tasty creation delivers the perfect heat. Originating from Georgia, this delicious sauce is a go-to for those who enjoy a blend of spicy and sweet elements in their meals.

Recreating this homemade version in your kitchen is both fun and easy, allowing you to enjoy its flavorful magic anytime. My husband, mum, and sisters love adding this dipping sauce to their chicken fingerz, and it pairs perfectly with BBQ, ranch, and a variety of sides. The secret lies in crafting the right batch, balancing the spice, heat, and flavors for a fantastic taste. Whether you’re a fan of spicy sauces or looking to elevate your meal, this savory blend will quickly become your favorite. The textures add to the magic, making every bite unforgettable. Try it out, and experience why it’s a true fan-favorite!

What is Zaxby’s Tongue Torch Sauce?

Zaxby’s Tongue Torch Sauce is a spicy, zesty, and beloved addition to the restaurant’s cherished offerings. Known for its vibrant, smoky, and slightly sweet flavor, this special sauce brings the right balance of heat, creaminess, and tangy goodness to a variety of meals. The depth of taste comes from a peppers combination featuring Fresno peppers, red bell peppers, and charred onions, giving it a subtle smokiness that enhances its overall taste. Infused with garlic, vinegar, and butter, this delicious creation adds an irresistible kick to fried chicken, sandwiches, fries, and wings. Whether used as a dip or a marinade, its savory depth and balanced heat make it a fan-favorite.

For those who want to enjoy this restaurant classic at home, a copycat version is easy to prepare using simple ingredients. A smooth mixture of mayonnaise, ketchup, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and hot sauce creates the perfect thick, creamy texture. Blending everything in a bowl or a jar ensures a tangy, spicy, and satisfying result that elevates plain dishes to the next level. This homemade sauce is not just a fun kitchen experiment but a fancy way to recreate the taste people adore. Whether you order it at the restaurant or make a fresh batch at home, the exciting flavors and depth of flavor will leave you completely satisfied.

Ingredients

1 cup hot sauce (preferably cayenne pepper-based)
½ cup ketchup
½ cup water
¼ cup brown sugar
¼ cup white vinegar
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon black pepper

These ingredients will give you the perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and savory flavors, creating a delicious sauce for dipping, fries, or chicken wings!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Medium-sized saucepan – For simmering the sauce.
Measuring cups & measuring spoons – To get precise ingredient amounts.
Stirring spoon & whisk – For mixing the sauce smoothly.
Glass jar or airtight container – For storage and keeping the sauce fresh.
Mixing bowl – To combine ingredients before cooking.
Knife & cutting board – For chopping and preparing ingredients.
Blender (high-powered) – To blend the sauce into a smooth texture.
Gloves – For handling hot peppers safely.
Spoon – For scooping seeds out of peppers.

These tools make the cooking process easy and help achieve the perfect texture and flavor balance in your homemade sauce!

How To Make Zaxby’s Tongue Torch Sauce

Step 1:

Start by gathering ingredients, including 1 cup hot sauce (cayenne pepper-based), ½ cup ketchup, ½ cup water, ¼ cup brown sugar, ¼ cup white vinegar, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, and 1 teaspoon black pepper. Place all the ingredients in a mixing bowl and whisk until a cohesive mixture forms.

Step 2:

Heat a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat, then pour in the hot sauce mixture along with the water, vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir gently to let the flavors intertwine while bringing the sauce to a simmer. This will help the spiciness develop while maintaining the right balance.

Step 3:

Once the sauce starts to thicken, add brown sugar, ketchup, and lemon juice to enhance the tangy flavor and add a hint of sweetness. Stir well using a whisk to ensure an even blend. If the sauce feels too thick, adjust the consistency by adding a small amount of water.

Step 4:

Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and black pepper to deepen the savory and spicy profile. Let the sauce continue to simmer for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning and ensure the seasonings mix evenly.

Step 5:

Taste the sauce and make any necessary adjustments by adding more salt, black pepper, or vinegar if needed. This step helps fine-tune the flavor balance, ensuring the spiciness, heat, and tangy elements complement each other.

Step 6:

Remove the sauce from heat and let it cool slightly. Pour it into a glass jar, hot sauce bottles, or a mason jar for storage. Refrigerate for at least an hour to let the flavors meld, giving the sauce a smooth texture. Now, your homemade, delicious, and zesty Zaxby’s Tongue Torch Sauce is ready to enjoy with fries, chicken, or as a dip!

Pro Tips !

Use cayenne pepper-based hot sauce for an authentic spicy kick and bold flavor. Start with smaller amounts and gradually add more to reach your desired level of spiciness.
While stirring during the cooking process, keep the heat under control to prevent sticking and burning. This helps maintain the smooth texture of your homemade sauce.
Wearing gloves when handling Fresno peppers prevents skin irritation while cutting. Char the vegetables slightly for added depth of flavor.
To adjust consistency, add a bit of liquid like water or vinegar if the sauce becomes too thick. If you prefer a milder heat, reduce the cayenne pepper and use more fresh ingredients like herbs for balance.
Let the sauce rest in the fridge for a few hours so the flavors blend well. This makes it the best sauce for fried foods, giving a richer aroma and perfect sauce texture.
Store in an airtight container and consume within a week for the best experience. Experimenting with seasonings, herbs, and fresh veggies can help create new flavor combinations. Enjoy this easy recipe with your favorite meals!

Storing Leftovers

To store leftover Tongue Torch Sauce, pour it into a sealed container or airtight jars to keep it fresh in the fridge. Always use proper storage methods by keeping the sauce at a cold temperature to maintain its consistency and flavor. For longer preservation, follow proper canning methods and use airtight bottles for cold storage, extending its shelf life up to 2 weeks. Before using, always stir the sauce in case it starts to separate over time. To ensure safety, label the container with the date and do a freshness check—if it smells off or looks different, throw away immediately. Keeping the refrigerator at the right temperature and following these tips will help you store properly and enjoy your homemade Zaxby’s Sauce for longer!

Best Foods to Eat with Zaxby’s Tongue Torch Sauce

This versatile hot sauce is packed with spicy heat and a tangy flavor, making it a flavorful dipping choice for crispy chicken tenders, dipping crispy chicken tenders, and BBQ wings. The spicy taste perfectly complements chicken fingerz, spicy chicken wings, and shrimp sandwiches, creating a cohesive mixture of bold, savory, and delicious flavors. Drizzle it over hot fries, crispy fries, or use it as a fiery topping for a juicy beef burger, veggie burger, or a chicken sandwich. The flavor explosion makes it an excellent spread for burgers, adding a spicy kick to every bite.

Beyond traditional pairings, this sauce works as a marinade for grilled shrimp skewers, grilled vegetables, and cooked shrimp, creating a burst of flavors. The flavor infusion enhances dishes like Pad Thai, bringing out the sweetness and texture of mushrooms, caramelized onions, and crab. Whether used as a spicy seasoning for French fries or mixed into a meal pairing with sides, this sauce is a meal enhancement that turns any dish into a flavorful, bold, and savory experience. Pair it with a cold iced tea to balance out the heat, and enjoy a deliciously spicy snack that satisfies every craving. The ingredients truly meld together, making this sauce an essential part of any hearty meal!

FAQs

How Spicy is Zaxby’s Tongue Torch Sauce?

Zaxby’s Tongue Torch Sauce is moderately spicy, offering a spicy kick with a controlled heat that enhances its flavor balance. Made with cayenne pepper, it has a moderate level of spiciness, making it enjoyable but not overwhelming. The heat level is not too hot, allowing for spice control to match your taste in meals. Perfect for spice lovers who enjoy an enjoyable heat without it being overwhelmingly hot!

What is Zaxby’s Tongue Torch Sauce?

Zaxby’s Tongue Torch Sauce is a legendary, fan-favorite twist on Zax Sauce, packed with heat and a tangy flavor. Made with aged peppers, garlic, mustard seeds, and signature spices, this spicy sauce delivers a bold blend for heat lovers who enjoy a creamy, flavorful kick.

How to Make Tongue Torch Sauce from Zaxby’s

Mix ¼ cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon ketchup, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper until smooth. For the best flavor, refrigerate for 30 minutes to enhance the creamy, tangy, and spicy kick. Use as a dip for ranch, fries, or dip cups for a flavorful and homemade sauce!

What Does Tongue Torch Sauce Taste Like?

Tongue Torch Sauce has a piquant, spicy taste with a savory touch and a balanced sweetness that makes it mouthwatering. The spices blend, including garlic flavor, onion flavor, and onion powder, creates a delicious, flavorful experience with a spicy kick. Its creamy texture helps it cling perfectly to chicken, fries, and even the Z-Man, making every bite a tasty, sticky, and spicy sauce delight!

Conclusion

Zaxby’s Tongue Torch Sauce is a must-have in any spice lover’s kitchen, bringing a bold flavor, smoky heat, and a spicy kick to many dishes. Whether you’re dipping, drizzling, or spicing up a meal, this homemade sauce delivers the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. The flavorful recipe is easy to make and fun to customize, whether you prefer it hot or mild. Making at home allows you to control the ingredients and impress your friends and family with a fantastic addition to your meals.

If you loved this spicy sauce, don’t forget to share the recipe, try it in different meal pairings, and let us know your thoughts, comments, or questions. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and Reddit for the latest updates and more delicious recipes. This family-friendly, copycat recipe is the ultimate culinary inspiration for those who love a flavorful, spicy bite. Subscribe to our blog for more homemade deliciousness and spicy creations that will satisfy every craving!

Zaxby’s Tongue Torch Sauce Recipe

Recipe by flavorechoooCourse: SAUCESCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

Cup

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

kcal

Total time

minutes

Zaxby’s Tongue Torch Sauce is a smoky, spicy, and creamy favorite that adds the perfect kick to chicken, fries, and wings. Try this easy copycat recipe at home for a flavorful twist!

Ingredients

1 cup hot sauce (preferably cayenne pepper-based)
½ cup ketchup
½ cup water
¼ cup brown sugar
¼ cup white vinegar
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

Start by gathering ingredients, including 1 cup hot sauce (cayenne pepper-based), ½ cup ketchup, ½ cup water, ¼ cup brown sugar, ¼ cup white vinegar, 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, and 1 teaspoon black pepper. Place all the ingredients in a mixing bowl and whisk until a cohesive mixture forms.
Heat a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat, then pour in the hot sauce mixture along with the water, vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir gently to let the flavors intertwine while bringing the sauce to a simmer. This will help the spiciness develop while maintaining the right balance.
Once the sauce starts to thicken, add brown sugar, ketchup, and lemon juice to enhance the tangy flavor and add a hint of sweetness. Stir well using a whisk to ensure an even blend. If the sauce feels too thick, adjust the consistency by adding a small amount of water.
Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and black pepper to deepen the savory and spicy profile. Let the sauce continue to simmer for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning and ensure the seasonings mix evenly.
Taste the sauce and make any necessary adjustments by adding more salt, black pepper, or vinegar if needed. This step helps fine-tune the flavor balance, ensuring the spiciness, heat, and tangy elements complement each other.
Remove the sauce from heat and let it cool slightly. Pour it into a glass jar, hot sauce bottles, or a mason jar for storage. Refrigerate for at least an hour to let the flavors meld, giving the sauce a smooth texture. Now, your homemade, delicious, and zesty Zaxby’s Tongue Torch Sauce is ready to enjoy with fries, chicken, or as a dip!

Notes

Use cayenne pepper-based hot sauce for an authentic spicy kick and bold flavor. Start with smaller amounts and gradually add more to reach your desired level of spiciness.
While stirring during the cooking process, keep the heat under control to prevent sticking and burning. This helps maintain the smooth texture of your homemade sauce.
Wearing gloves when handling Fresno peppers prevents skin irritation while cutting. Char the vegetables slightly for added depth of flavor.
To adjust consistency, add a bit of liquid like water or vinegar if the sauce becomes too thick. If you prefer a milder heat, reduce the cayenne pepper and use more fresh ingredients like herbs for balance.
Let the sauce rest in the fridge for a few hours so the flavors blend well. This makes it the best sauce for fried foods, giving a richer aroma and perfect sauce texture.
Store in an airtight container and consume within a week for the best experience. Experimenting with seasonings, herbs, and fresh veggies can help create new flavor combinations. Enjoy this easy recipe with your favorite meals!