This creamy Cajun sauce is a quick, flavorful condiment that’s perfect as a spread for burgers and crab cakes or as a dip for shrimp and fries. Use your favorite Creole or Cajun seasoning—or a homemade Louisiana rub—to make a spicy sauce the whole table will enjoy.
My Louisiana Rub Recipe is an ideal homemade New Orleans–inspired spice blend to use for this dip.
Why you’ll love it
Minimal effort – No cooking required; it comes together in minutes.
Bold flavor – This creamy sauce is full of spice, perfect for seafood and anything that needs a little kick.
Simple ingredients – Pantry staples like mayonnaise and spices are all you need.
Versatile – Use it as a dip for shrimp, a spread for crab cakes or burgers, or a sauce for sandwiches and fries.
Ingredients
Scroll to the recipe card below for a printable version.
Mayonnaise – I used regular full-fat mayo. You can substitute vegan or light mayonnaise if you prefer.
Cajun seasoning – A pre-made Cajun or Creole blend works well; a homemade Louisiana rub is also great.
Garlic powder and paprika – Garlic for extra flavor and paprika for color. You can swap in onion powder or celery salt, or add a small amount of fresh minced garlic if desired.
Cayenne pepper – Adds heat. You can use hot sauce or red pepper flakes, or omit if your seasoning is already spicy.
Tomato paste – A touch of tomato paste deepens the flavor and adds body. Use more if you want a stronger tomato note.
Salt and black pepper (optional) – Taste before adding, since some seasonings are already salty.
Instructions
Mix the mayonnaise, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne, and tomato paste in a medium bowl until smooth and fully combined.
For best flavor, chill the sauce in the refrigerator for about an hour so the spices meld. It’s fine to serve immediately if needed.
Tips
- Adjust spice levels to suit your taste—add more or less Cajun seasoning or cayenne.
- Fresh chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro add brightness and color.
- A squeeze of lemon or lime brightens the sauce and balances the richness.
- Serve in a small bowl or ramekin for an attractive presentation.
It’s creamy, zesty, and spicy. The exact heat depends on how much cayenne or hot sauce you add, but the texture helps mellow the spice into an addictive condiment.
How to store
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to three weeks. Freezing is not recommended, as the texture may change.
What pairs well with Cajun sauce?
- Potatoes: kettle chips, waffle fries, steak fries, tater tots, or mixed into mashed potatoes.
- Seafood: shrimp, salmon, lobster tails, crab legs, and crab cakes.
- Poultry and beef: chicken nuggets, wings, turkey meatballs, BBQ chicken sandwiches, or sliced brisket.
📖 Recipe
The Easiest Cajun Sauce
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tsp Louisiana Rub or Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder (or ½ tsp garlic + ½ tsp onion powder)
- 1 tsp paprika (smoked or regular)
- ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper (or a few drops hot sauce)
- 2 tsp tomato paste
- Fresh lemon or lime juice and chopped herbs (parsley or cilantro), optional
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne, and tomato paste. Stir until fully blended.
- For best flavor, refrigerate about an hour before serving. It can be served immediately if needed.
Notes
Adjust spices to suit your heat preference. Add fresh herbs or citrus for brightness.
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to three weeks.
Nutrition
Calories: 97 kcal • Carbohydrates: 0.4 g • Protein: 0.2 g • Fat: 10 g
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