Last Updated on December 10, 2024

Published June 29, 2024

I am a big fan of Popeyes chicken and their Popeyes sauces are just to die for.

Whether it is used as a dip or piled onto the entire sandwich, nobody can deny that Popeye’s sauce game is strong.

In my review of the Ultimate Popeyes sauces list I have included favorites such as Sweet heat, Blackened ranch, BoldBQ, Tartar sauce, Classic Buttermilk ranch, Wild Honey Mustard, Bayou Buffalo Sauce, Creole Cocktail and Mardi Gras Mustard.

Popeyes has come up with many signature sauces with a Louisanna twist. They have made flavors that vary from tart to hot and savory to sweet.

So if you like traditional tastes or something more exotic, don’t worry because they got it at Popeye’s! Now let’s get started on ranking these bad boys but first let me tell ya why they’re so dang tasty..

About Popeyes Louisiana

Popeyes is a famous fast food chain that serves chicken in the style of Louisiana.

They have been in business for more than 50 years and so they have perfected their recipe to offer some of the most delicious and authentic Louisiana cuisine available anywhere.

They are proud to use top-quality ingredients and an exclusive blend of spices which other fast-food joints can’t match.

Here’s what happens with every piece of chicken— each one is hand-battered with a special mixture of Louisiana seasonings then marinated, ensuring a crispy outside and juicy inside.

Their flavor has been described as savory, spicy, tangy; it’s like nothing else you’ve ever tasted!
But it’s not just about the Chicken.

Popeyes also serves a variety of sides such as red beans & rice or cajun fries or creamy coleslaw… And these all go great together because they’re full-flavored too!

If seafood is more up your alley than poultry, don’t worry — there are fish sandwiches on offer as well!

The Ultimate Popeyes Sauces List

So in ranking order, here are Popeyes sauces from best to still pretty darn good! Honestly there isn’t a bad sauce in the line up, and it really depends what you will be pairing the sauce with.

I have added in the sauce I like to have with which menu item.  Whether you’re eating their famous fried chicken or biting down on their crispy cajun fries — you need the right sauce, so I am here to help!

THE WORST

Read to the bottom of this article to see my best Popeyes sauce!

9. Tartar Sauce

Tatar sauce

This creamy condiment can be found on several seafood dishes such as Popcorn Shrimp or Fish Filet.

Made with mayonnaise, finely chopped pickles, herbs, and spices, it  has a slightly sweet taste due to the use of pickle relish.

The problem is it is pretty plain, but also Popeyes being a Cajan restaurant I don’t find alot to go with it, hence it’s the bottom pick

8. Mardi Gras Mustard

Mardi gras mustard

If you love bold yet creamy flavors then Mardi Gras Mustard is an obvious choice!

This stone-ground mustard has a thick texture that pairs well with spicy chicken tenders and crispy popcorn shrimp.

Personally I found the mustard a little forward and wasn’t quite to my taste. If you are a big mustard aficionado you may rank it higher!

7. Creole Cocktail Sauce: The Underdog with a Punch

creole cocktail

The Creole Cocktail sauce brings robust and slightly sweet flavors to the table, with a punch.

It’s perfect for fried fish sandwich or even popcorn shrimp! I found it a bit lacking in punch though, as the name sounds so exciting! Hence It’s pretty low on my list.

6. Bayou Buffalo Sauce: A Fiery Contender

Bayou buffalo

The Bayou Buffalo Sauce is an amazing combination of the classic buffalo flavor we all know and love but adds Louisiana heat to spice things up!

Another fan favorite for pairing it with is coleslaw and Cajun fries.

It was a bit thinner than the other sauces, so harder to dip.

5. Wild Honey Mustard

wild honey mustard

If you have a sweet tooth then Wild Honey Mustard will definitely satisfy your cravings!

With rich flavors derived from Creole influence, you’ll find that it matches perfectly with Cajun fries and crispy chicken tenders.

4. Classic Buttermilk Ranch

Buttermilk ranch

While the Classic Buttermilk Ranch is a fine option, it doesn’t stand out compared to the other Popeyes sauces.

Nevertheless, it still pairs well with chicken tenders, nuggets, and Cajun fries.

This sauce is based on the traditional buttermilk ranch dressing, known for its smooth and rich flavor profile, combining the tanginess of buttermilk, the aromatic flavors of herbs and garlic, and a subtle hint of sourness from vinegar or lemon juice.

3. BoldBQ Sauce

BoldBQ

BoldBQ Sauce does exactly what its name claims. With strong vinegar aromas and Worcestershire, it’s hard not to notice the tanginess in this barbecue sauce.

It’s a signature condiment offered by the fast-food chain known for its unique taste profile. The sweet yet tangy flavor with hints of smoke pairs well with Popeyes’ fried chicken. 

2. Blackened Ranch Sauce

blackened ranch

Popeyes’ Blackened Ranch Sauce is a creamy flavorful condiment that combines the zesty taste of ranch dressing with the bold smoky flavors of Cajun seasoning.

The ranch sauce is already known for its delicious taste but this one put’s it on another level with these additions — paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper — which are commonly used in blackening seasoning sauces.

The outcome is a sauce with a creamy texture, slightly smoked and spicy, that matches Popeyes fried chicken and other menu items perfectly.

The Blackened Ranch Sauce is sought after by many customers who love the blend of flavors it has to offer. It adds cajun vibes to your meal.

THE BEST

1. Sweet Heat Sauce

Sweet heat

My favorite one of them all. Popeyes’ Sweet Heat Sauce is a really decent condiment. It combines the sweetness of honey with the spicy kick of hot sauce and a touch of vinegar.

I think the sauce complements the flavors of Popeyes’ fried chicken best, adding a balance of sweetness and heat that many customers enjoy.

The sauce has a slightly sticky texture due to the honey which I love, and its flavor profile is a blend of sweet, spicy, and tangy elements, making it an ideal choice for those who like a little bit of heat without being overwhelmed by spiciness.

Personally I love spice, but I think even if you don’t like really hot food this sauce works well, as it’s not super hot.

 

SauceFlavor ProfileRecommended Pairings
Sweet Heat SauceSweet and SpicySpicy Chicken Tenders, Popcorn Shrimp
Blackened Ranch SauceCreamy and PepperyCajun Fries, Chicken Nuggets
BoldBQ SauceSmoky and TangyChicken Wings, Sandwiches
Tartar SauceCreamy and PungentPopcorn Shrimp, Fried Catfish
Classic Buttermilk RanchRich and CreamyChicken Tenders, Nuggets, Cajun Fries
Wild Honey MustardRich and SweetCajun Fries, Chicken Tenders
Bayou Buffalo SauceClassic Buffalo with a KickCajun Fries, Coleslaw
Creole Cocktail SauceRobust and Slightly SweetPopcorn Shrimp, Fried Catfish
Mardi Gras MustardBold and CreamySpicy Chicken Tenders, Popcorn Shrimp

 

Nuggets and sauces

Popeyes Sauce Nutrition Information

Ensuring you’re enjoying Popeyes sauces responsibly and mindfully is important when it comes to your nutritional goals.

Counting calories, fat content, and other key measurements can allow you to make educated choices that align with your dietary restrictions or fitness aspirations.

Starting with calorie counts, Popeyes sauces are all over the place. Some sauces such as the BoldBQ Sauce and Bayou Buffalo Sauce have higher calorie counts due to their rich flavor profiles.

While other options such as the Classic Buttermilk Ranch and Creole Cocktail Sauce offer a lower-calorie option.

Then there’s fat content. Though some sauces like Blackened Ranch Sauce may have more fat than others, Mardi Gras Mustard and Wild Honey Mustard are lighter alternatives. 

Lastly, keep an eye on sodium levels and sugar intake. Tartar Sauce has lower sodium levels if that’s something you’re watching out for while Sweet Heat Sauce offers less sugar in comparison to Mardi Gras Mustard and BoldBQ Sauce.

And just like that we’ve covered most of what you need! 

See this table to learn more!

Nutrition Facts SizeCaloriesCal from FatTotal fat (g)Sat Fat (g)Trans Fat (g)

Ch

(mg)

Sodium (mg)Total Carb (g) Fiber (g)Total Sugar (g)Protein (g)
BAYOU BUFFALO1 oz605061004502000
BOLDBQ SAUCE1.35 oz7000000440160130
BLACKENED RANCH1 oz120110122010250201<1
BUTTERMILK RANCH1 oz1401401530102302010
MARDI GRAS MUSTARD1 oz10080810102405141
SWEET HEAT®1.35 oz7000000290190160
TARTAR1 oz1401401530152301010
CREOLE COCKTAIL1.35 oz40000004009070

Source: Popeyes Nutrition link

FAQ

What are the best Popeyes sauces for 2024?

The best Popeyes sauces for 2024 include Sweet Heat Sauce, Blackened Ranch Sauce, BoldBQ Sauce, Tartar Sauce, Wild Honey Mustard, Bayou Buffalo Sauce, Creole Cocktail Sauce, and Mardi Gras Mustard..

What are the worst Popeyes sauces for 2024?

While all Popeyes sauces are delicious, if we had to choose the least popular options for 2024, it would be the Classic Buttermilk Ranch Sauce.

What sets Popeyes Louisiana apart from other fast-food chains?

Popeyes Louisiana is known for its flavorful and authentic Louisiana-style chicken. It’s the unique flavors and spices that set Popeyes apart from other fast-food chicken options.

What is Sweet Heat Sauce?

Sweet Heat Sauce is a Popeyes sauce that offers a perfect balance of sweetness and spiciness. It is a popular choice for pairing with spicy chicken tenders or popcorn shrimp.

What is Blackened Ranch Sauce?

Blackened Ranch Sauce is a creamy and peppery sauce that is a favorite among ranch lovers. It pairs well with Cajun fries and chicken nuggets.

What is BoldBQ Sauce?

BoldBQ Sauce is a smoky and tangy sauce with a strong vinegar and Worcestershire sauce flavor. It is perfect for chicken wings and sandwiches.

What is Tartar Sauce?

Tartar Sauce is a creamy sauce that adds a delicious twist to popcorn shrimp and fried fish. It has a dilly relish of cucumbers and pickles.

What is Classic Buttermilk Ranch Sauce?

Classic Buttermilk Ranch Sauce is a traditional ranch sauce that pairs well with chicken tenders, nuggets, and Cajun fries. It is a standard option but doesn’t stand out compared to the other Popeyes sauces.

What is Wild Honey Mustard Sauce?

Wild Honey Mustard Sauce has rich sweet flavors thanks to its Creole influence. Pairs perfectly with Cajun fries or chicken tenders.

What is Bayou Buffalo Sauce?

Bayou Buffalo Sauce is Popeyes’ own Louisiana take on the classic Buffalo sauce. It’s got spice from cayenne peppers and notes of celery that both pair well with Cajun fries and coleslaw.

What is Creole Cocktail Sauce?

Creole Cocktail Sauce is a robust and slightly sweet horseradish-style sauce that is a great choice for popcorn shrimp and fried catfish.

What is Mardi Gras Mustard Sauce?

Mardi Gras Mustard Sauce is a stone-ground mustard sauce that is bold and creamy. It pairs well with spicy chicken tenders and popcorn shrimp.

What is the nutritional information for Popeyes sauces?

The nutritional information for Popeyes sauces, including the calorie count and fat content, can vary depending on the specific sauce. We have included a table above and a link to Popeyes website for more information

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About the author

Noel’s first job was working in the kitchen of an American restaurant in the UK at the age of 16, washing up and busing! He eventually progressed to salads and desserts, and his love for food was set! In his 20’s he travelled the world Asia, Africa, Australia, New Zealand and has now visited over 40 countries, enjoying the local food and drink! He now writes about it here sharing the latest recipes, and reviews on all types of foods and Drink.

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  1. I don’t understand all the hype about these sauces. It’s just fast food and the flavors are nothing special. I’ve had better at other places.

  2. I love this article! Learning about all the different Popeyes sauces makes me want to try them all. Thank you for the recommendations!

  3. I love Popeyes chicken! The sauces are so delicious. My favorite is the Sweet Heat Sauce. It is sweet but not too hot. Perfect for chicken!

  4. I don’t get the hype about these sauces. They all taste pretty average to me and aren’t worth the extra calories.

  5. The review feels like an advertisement. I’ve tried Popeyes sauces and they’re nothing special. Overrated.

  6. Great article! I really like the Blackened Ranch Sauce. It is very flavorful and goes great with Cajun fries. Yum!

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