What Is Arby’s Red Ranch & How to Make It? [Recipe]
Do you know that tangy, creamy red sauce Arby’s puts on their sandwiches? The one that adds a kick of flavor to their roast beef and makes their curly fries positively addictive? That’s their famous Red Ranch sauce, and once you’ve tasted it, you’ll want to put it on everything. I’ve been trying for years to replicate that zesty, southwest-inspired mixture at home with no luck.
After a lot of experimenting, I finally cracked the code. In the following article, I will share how I make authentic Arby’s Red Ranch at home. The ingredients are simple, but the proportions have to be just right. Follow along, and soon you’ll be drizzling this creamy, spicy sauce over all your favorite foods.
What Is Arby’s Red Ranch Sauce Made Of?
Arby’s signature Red Ranch sauce is made from a blend of ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire or any hot sauce, and spices. As for the spices, I can tell you it contains onion, garlic, cayenne pepper, and salt. Some say it also has hints of paprika and mustard.
All told, Red Ranch has the cool and creamy qualities of a ranch dressing with an extra zing from the blend of spices. It’s truly no wonder why this sauce has become so popular for dipping Arby’s famous curly fries and sandwiches.
Is It Vegan?
Though not officially confirmed as vegan, without eggs or honey in the ingredients, those following a plant-based diet can likely enjoy Arby’s Red Ranch.
This tomato-based sauce has simple ingredients, but though nothing too fancy, they are combined just right. Besides, it’s a lovely touch coming from Arby’s since most of the Ranch sauces are unsuitable for vegans.
What Does Arby’s Red Ranch Taste Like?
To me, the taste is reminiscent of a slightly spicy and garlicky ranch dressing. It has a nice balance of creamy and acidic, with subtle hints of pepper.
Overall, it’s a blend of savory, spicy, and tangy flavors in a creamy base. Not too thick, not too thin, the texture is just right for dipping and drizzling. Some people say it’s similar to fry sauce or tiger sauce.
Regardless of what you compare it to, Arby’s Red Ranch is uniquely delicious. Once you try it, you’ll be hooked!
How to Make Arby’s Red Ranch Sauce?
After a lot of experimenting in my kitchen, I think I’ve finally cracked the code and come up with a recipe that mimics the tangy, garlicky flavor of the original.
To make authentic Arby’s Red Ranch sauce at home, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients: ketchup, water, white vinegar, brown sugar, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and ground black pepper.
Mix all the ingredients thoroughly in a bowl or blender until smooth and creamy. For the best flavor, I chill the sauce in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to blend and develop. The sauce will last up to 1 week if refrigerated.
I served the Red Ranch sauce with Arby’s classic roast beef sandwiches and curly fries for a complete meal. The tangy, herb-y flavor of the sauce pairs perfectly with roast beef. Homemade Arby’s sauce — comfort food at its best!
How to Serve It?
The sauce keeps refrigerated for up to a week, so I like to make a double batch and use it on sandwiches, wraps, and as a dip for fries or onion rings.
For the best results, allow the flavors to blend for at least 30 minutes before serving. The longer it sits, the more the spices infuse into the ketchup base. When ready to serve, stir or shake to combine any settled ingredients.
Pour it on thick or thin, depending on your desired coverage. Either way, this homemade Red Ranch sauce hits the spot whenever an Arby’s craving calls!
Where Can You Buy Arby’s Red Ranch Sauce?
Unfortunately, Arby’s does not sell their signature Red Ranch sauce bottles in major stores. As much as I wish I could pick up a bottle to enjoy at home anytime and anywhere, the only way to get the authentic taste is to go to the official Arby’s store. However, the ingredients are relatively straightforward, and you can create a close copycat recipe with some experimenting.
While it may not be exactly like what you get at Arby’s, this easy homemade recipe can satisfy your craving for that cool, zesty Red Ranch taste.
The next time you crave Arby’s, skip the drive-thru and head to your kitchen instead. Whip up a batch of this easy homemade Red Ranch, and you’ll be in savory sauce heave!
What do you usually combine your Arby’s Red Ranch with? I cannot wait to try out your combo ideas, so make sure you write them down in the comments below!
Homemade Arby’s Red Ranch Sauce
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tsp white vinegar
- 2 tsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp hot sauce
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
Instructions
- Mix all the ingredients together, and put the mixture in the fridge.
- Once it cools down, it's ready to serve!
Nutrition
Before diving into the nutritional details, please review our Nutritional Disclaimer page for important context and clarifications.
