Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Yum Yum Sauce is a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet condiment famously served at Japanese steakhouses. It’s the perfect dipping sauce for grilled meats, seafood, vegetables, or even fries and rice. With its signature pale pink color and smooth, savory flavor, this easy homemade version brings restaurant-quality taste to your kitchen.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
mayoketchupunsalted butter (melted)garlic powderpaprikasugarrice vinegarwateroptional: hot sauce or cayenne pepper (for heat)
directions
In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and ketchup until fully blended.
Stir in melted butter, garlic powder, paprika, sugar, and rice vinegar.
Add water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
Optional: add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper if you prefer it spicy.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 1 cup of sauce.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Variations
Use sriracha or chili paste for a spicy version.
Substitute rice vinegar with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice.
Add a pinch of onion powder for extra depth.
Use light mayo for a lower-calorie version.
storage/reheating
Store Yum Yum Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
Do not freeze, as the mayo base may separate.
Stir before serving if it settles.
FAQs
Is Yum Yum Sauce the same as hibachi sauce?
Yes, it’s often served at hibachi-style restaurants with meats and vegetables.
Can I use Miracle Whip instead of mayo?
It will change the flavor, but it can be used in a pinch.
Why is it called Yum Yum Sauce?
The name comes from its addictive flavor—everyone says “yum” after tasting it!
Is this sauce spicy?
Not by default, but you can make it spicy with hot sauce or cayenne.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, simply omit the butter or use a plant-based alternative.
How long does it last?
Up to a week when stored properly in the fridge.
Can I use it on more than just Japanese food?
Absolutely—it’s great on burgers, sandwiches, fries, and more.
Is it keto-friendly?
Use a sugar substitute and low-carb ketchup to make it keto-compatible.
Can I make it vegan?
Yes, use vegan mayo and plant-based butter.
Do I need to chill it before serving?
Chilling enhances the flavor, but it can be served immediately if needed.
Conclusion
Yum Yum Sauce is a quick, creamy, and versatile condiment that adds irresistible flavor to any dish. Whether you’re recreating a Japanese steakhouse experience at home or looking for a new favorite dipping sauce, this easy recipe delivers big on taste with minimal effort.
Print
Yum Yum Sauce
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes (including chilling)
- Yield: 1 cup
- Category: Condiment
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: Japanese-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Yum Yum Sauce is a creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet Japanese steakhouse-style condiment perfect for drizzling over grilled meats, seafood, rice, or vegetables.
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1–2 tsp rice vinegar
- 1–2 tbsp water (to thin, as needed)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, melted butter, sugar, garlic powder, and paprika until smooth.
- Add rice vinegar and water gradually, whisking until desired consistency and flavor are reached.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld.
- Stir before serving. Use as a dip, drizzle, or sauce for your favorite dishes.
Notes
- Adjust vinegar and sugar to taste for more tang or sweetness.
- Letting the sauce chill overnight enhances the flavor.
- Use Japanese mayonnaise for a more authentic taste if available.