How to Make Spicy Mayo
Published 2026-10-30
Spicy mayo is the creamy, orange sauce served with sushi rolls, poke bowls, burgers and fries at many restaurants. The good news is that it takes about two minutes to make at home with ingredients you probably already have. The basic version is just mayonnaise and sriracha, and from there you can adjust the heat, tang and sweetness. Here is a simple recipe and some easy ways to use it all week.
The basic ratio
Stir together 1/4 cup of mayonnaise with 1 to 2 tablespoons of sriracha. Start with 1 tablespoon, taste, and add more if you want it hotter. A teaspoon of lime or lemon juice brightens the flavor, and a few drops of soy sauce or a pinch of salt makes it more savory. For a smoother, restaurant-style texture, whisk it well or shake it in a small jar.
Choosing the mayo
Any real mayonnaise works. A rich, tangy mayo gives a bold sauce, while a mild mayo lets the chili and garlic flavor of the sriracha come through more. Light mayo works too, though the sauce will be a little thinner. If you want it extra creamy, use a full-fat mayo and chill the sauce for 15 minutes before serving.
Flavor variations
For a sweeter sauce, add a teaspoon of honey. For a smoky version, use a few drops of chipotle hot sauce in place of some of the sriracha. A spoon of the sweet chili or teriyaki sauce in your pantry makes it great for chicken. Garlic lovers can add a small grated clove, and a dash of sesame oil gives it a sushi-bar taste.
What to serve it with
Drizzle spicy mayo over rice bowls, sushi bake, fried rice and ramen, or use it as a dip for fries, chicken nuggets, onion rings and egg rolls. It is also great on burgers, fish tacos and breakfast sandwiches. Store leftovers in a covered container in the fridge and use within a few days.
