Cookout is a Southern favorite not just for its burgers and trays, but also for its iconic Cookout Sauce and other bold dipping flavors. From smoky to spicy, creamy to tangy, these sauces elevate everything—from fries to quesadillas.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan of their signature sauce or curious about the full Cookout Sauce lineup, this guide gives you all the details—ingredients, prices, calorie info, and even DIY recipes!
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What Is Cookout Sauce?
Cookout Sauce is the restaurant’s signature dipping sauce known for its rich, tangy, smoky, and slightly creamy flavor. While the exact recipe remains a secret, it’s often described as a blend of:
It’s the perfect companion for burgers, fries, nuggets, hushpuppies, and wraps.
Complete Cookout Sauces List
| Sauce Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Cookout Sauce | Tangy, smoky, creamy signature sauce |
| Honey Mustard | Sweet, smooth blend of honey and mustard |
| Barbecue Sauce | Smoky and sweet, Southern-style BBQ sauce |
| Ranch | Classic herb-seasoned creamy dip |
| Cajun Seasoning | Spicy dry rub with a bold Southern kick |
| Cheese Sauce | Rich, melted cheddar blend |
| Ketchup | Classic tomato-based staple |
| Mustard | Sharp, tangy yellow mustard |
| Mayo | Smooth and creamy base for burgers |
| Hot Sauce | Fiery vinegar-based chili sauce |
| Texas Pete | Iconic North Carolina hot sauce |
| Chili | Thick meaty sauce, often used on burgers & dogs |
| Tartar Sauce | Mayo-based tangy dip for seafood items |
| Quesadilla Sauce | Creamy, zesty dip made for quesadillas |
| Polynesian Sauce | Sweet-tangy tropical-inspired sauce |
Cookout Sauce Prices
| Sauce | Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Cookout Sauce | $0.50 |
| Honey Mustard | $0.50 |
| Barbecue Sauce | $0.50 |
| Ranch | $0.50 |
| Cajun Seasoning | $0.50 |
| Cheese Sauce | $0.75 |
| Ketchup | Free |
| Mustard | Free |
| Mayo | Free |
| Hot Sauce | $0.50 |
| Texas Pete | $0.50 |
| Chili | $0.75 |
| Tartar Sauce | $0.50 |
| Quesadilla Sauce | $0.50 |
| Polynesian Sauce | $0.50 |
Popular Cookout Dipping Sauces
| Dipping Sauce | Perfect Pairing |
|---|---|
| Cookout Sauce | Fries, nuggets, wraps |
| Honey Mustard | Chicken nuggets or tenders |
| Ranch | Onion rings, fries, wraps |
| Cheese Sauce | Fries, hushpuppies, onion rings |
| Hot Sauce | Chicken sandwiches or burgers |
| Quesadilla Sauce | Chicken quesadilla or bacon wrap |
| Polynesian Sauce | Chicken strips or cheese bites |
Sauce Calories Per Serving
| Sauce Name | Calories |
|---|---|
| Cookout Sauce | 70 |
| Honey Mustard | 100 |
| Barbecue Sauce | 45 |
| Ranch | 140 |
| Cajun Seasoning | 5 |
| Cheese Sauce | 120 |
| Ketchup | 20 |
| Mustard | 5 |
| Mayo | 90 |
| Hot Sauce | 0 |
| Texas Pete | 0 |
| Chili | 150 |
| Tartar Sauce | 90 |
| Quesadilla Sauce | 100 |
| Polynesian Sauce | 110 |
Make Your Own Cookout Sauce at Home
1. Classic Cookout Sauce Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions:
Whisk all ingredients until smooth. Store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
2. Creamy Cookout Sauce Version
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions:
Mix and chill. Perfect with chicken, burgers, or hushpuppies!
How to Use Cookout Sauce
- Burgers & Sandwiches – Slather it on for a juicy, tangy finish
- Fries & Onion Rings – Dip away for the perfect combo of crisp + creamy
- Chicken Nuggets & Strips – An ideal dipping partner for fried favorites
- Hushpuppies – Add a sweet contrast to these Southern staples
- Quesadillas – Drizzle or dip for next-level flavor
FAQs about Cookout Sauces
What is Cookout Sauce made of?
While the recipe is secret, it’s believed to include ketchup, mayo, mustard, vinegar, sugar, and spices.
Is Cookout Sauce spicy?
It has a mild kick, but it’s more tangy and smoky than hot.
Does Cookout offer free sauces?
Yes! Ketchup, mustard, and mayo are usually free. Specialty sauces cost around $0.50.
Can you buy Cookout Sauce in a bottle?
Unfortunately, Cookout does not currently sell bottled sauce for retail.
What’s the most popular sauce at Cookout?
Cookout Sauce itself is the most iconic and most requested.
Are there gluten-free sauces at Cookout?
Most sauces are gluten-free, but always ask the restaurant for allergen-specific info.
Can I mix sauces?
Absolutely! Try blending Cookout Sauce with Ranch or BBQ for something new.
What’s the best dipping sauce for fries?
Fans love dipping their fries in Cheese Sauce, Ranch, or classic Cookout Sauce.
Are Cookout Sauces vegan?
Some (like BBQ or hot sauce) may be, but Cookout Sauce, Ranch, and Cheese Sauce contain dairy or eggs.
Does Cookout have spicy sauce options?
Yes! Try Cajun Seasoning, Hot Sauce, or Texas Pete.
What does Cookout Polynesian Sauce taste like?
It’s a sweet-tangy sauce with tropical notes, great with chicken or fries.
Is Quesadilla Sauce only for quesadillas?
Nope! It also works great with nuggets, wraps, and hushpuppies.
Can you get extra sauce with your order?
Yes, just ask! There may be a small charge for extras.
What sauce goes best with burgers?
Cookout Sauce, BBQ, or Mayo are popular for burgers.
Can I make Cookout Sauce at home?
Yes! Try our two easy homemade recipes listed above.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re customizing a Cookout Tray or dipping your hushpuppies, the Cookout Sauces elevate every bite. From the beloved signature sauce to Polynesian, Ranch, and Cheese Sauce, there’s a dip for every craving. Don’t forget to experiment with combinations—and if you’re feeling adventurous, try recreating them at home!