Copycat Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe

Unlock the Secret: Homemade Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe

Craving that rich, creamy, and undeniably delicious garlic parmesan sauce from Buffalo Wild Wings? Look no further! This ultimate copycat recipe brings the authentic flavor of your favorite BWW sauce right into your kitchen. Made in just 10 minutes with simple, wholesome ingredients, this homemade version is free from preservatives, low-carb, gluten-free, and keto-friendly. It’s the perfect dipping sauce for chicken wings, a versatile addition to any meal, and a must-have for every sauce enthusiast. Prepare to impress your taste buds and bookmark this recipe today!

Image showing creamy garlic parmesan sauce in a bowl.

While often associated with crispy chicken wings, this luscious garlic parmesan sauce transcends its typical role. Its rich, savory profile and velvety texture make it an incredible enhancement for a multitude of dishes, even if you’re not typically a wing connoisseur. Imagine elevating your everyday steamed vegetables into a gourmet side dish, or transforming a simple garden salad into an exciting culinary experience. This sauce can also be a game-changer for pasta nights – just toss it with your favorite noodles for a quick, flavorful meal. Alternatively, keep a jar on hand in the fridge to use as a dynamic marinade for chicken, fish, or even a spread for sandwiches and wraps. Its versatility knows no bounds, making it an essential addition to your homemade condiment repertoire.

If you’re eager to explore more homemade sauce creations that rival your favorite restaurant offerings, we have plenty of other irresistible recipes for you to discover. Dive into our collection with the Wingstop Ranch Recipe, tantalize your palate with our unique Asian Zing Sauce, add a sweet and spicy kick with Homemade Hot Honey Sauce, or simplify your dipping game with our classic Mayo Ketchup Sauce. Once you embark on the journey of crafting your own sauces, you’ll quickly realize how effortlessly they come together and how profoundly superior their fresh, vibrant flavors are compared to any store-bought alternative. Say goodbye to artificial preservatives and hello to a world of culinary customization!

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Homemade Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Prepare to make this Buffalo Wild Wings copycat garlic parmesan sauce your new go-to recipe. Here’s why it’s destined to become a staple in your kitchen:

  • A Symphony of Flavors: This sauce delivers an exquisite blend of creamy richness, savory depth, and pungent garlic notes, perfectly balanced to tantalize your taste buds with every spoonful. The robust parmesan cheese melds beautifully with the subtle spices, creating an unforgettable flavor profile.
  • Effortlessly Simple: Forget complicated culinary techniques or obscure ingredients. This recipe is designed for ease, utilizing common pantry staples readily available at any local grocery store. It’s a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor payoff.
  • Unmatched Versatility: While it’s famously a chicken wing companion, this sauce is far more adaptable. Beyond wings, it brilliantly enhances vegetables, elevates salads, transforms pasta dishes into gourmet meals, and serves as an exceptional marinade for various proteins. Its multifaceted nature makes it a true kitchen MVP.
  • Recreate the BWW Experience at Home: The best part? You get to enjoy the beloved Buffalo Wild Wings garlic parmesan flavor from the comfort of your own home, whenever the craving strikes. Skip the drive and the wait, and create restaurant-quality taste in your very own kitchen – all while controlling the ingredients and ensuring freshness.
  • Healthier, Fresher Choice: Unlike many store-bought sauces that are packed with artificial preservatives and additives, this homemade version offers a clean, fresh alternative. You have complete control over the quality of ingredients, making it a healthier option for you and your family.

Understanding Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Garlic parmesan sauce is a culinary delight celebrated for its luxurious creaminess, robust garlic essence, and savory tang from aged Parmesan cheese. It’s an iconic dipping sauce, particularly renowned as a perfect accompaniment to hot and spicy chicken wings, where its rich, cool profile provides a welcome contrast to the fiery heat. Beyond its fame in the wing world, this versatile sauce has a cherished place in diverse cuisines. It’s a fantastic pasta sauce, coating fettuccine or penne with a velvety, flavorful embrace. It can also serve as a delectable pizza topping, adding a creamy, garlicky layer of goodness, or as a vibrant dip for an assortment of fresh or roasted vegetables. The combination of pungent garlic and salty, umami-rich Parmesan creates a deeply satisfying flavor that makes it incredibly addictive and widely adaptable.

The Legend of Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Buffalo Wild Wings, affectionately known as BWW, is an American casual dining restaurant and sports bar chain that has grown from its humble beginnings in Columbus, Ohio, in 1982, to an international phenomenon with over 1,200 locations worldwide. Their core appeal lies in their signature buffalo-style chicken wings, available in a staggering array of sauces and dry seasonings, alongside other complementary items like chicken tenders, burgers, and salads. The lively atmosphere, complete with numerous big-screen TVs showing live sports, makes it a popular destination for sports fans and families alike.

Among their impressive lineup of sauces, the Garlic Parmesan dipping sauce stands out as a crowd-favorite. It’s one of dozens of distinct flavor profiles available to complement their juicy wings, crispy chicken tenders, and other chicken-based entrees. This creamy, savory sauce offers a delightful counterpoint to the spicier options, providing a mellow yet incredibly flavorful experience that appeals to a wide audience.

Our copycat recipe meticulously recreates this beloved BWW classic. It combines the pungent kick of fresh garlic, the nutty, salty depth of Parmesan cheese, the rich emulsification of mayonnaise, and a blend of aromatic spices to achieve that signature taste and texture. The result is a smooth, velvety sauce that is neither too thick nor too runny, making it ideal for dipping everything from chicken wings and tenders to fries and vegetable sticks. Its consistency also allows it to be incredibly versatile – perfect as a marinade to infuse flavor, a decadent topping for various dishes, or a savory spread for sandwiches and wraps. The inclusion of garlic, a hint of chili flakes, and carefully selected spices contributes a subtle, warm, and slightly piquant undertone, while the Parmesan cheese delivers that characteristic salty, cheesy tang that truly makes your taste buds sing. It’s a symphony of flavors designed to replicate the authentic Buffalo Wild Wings experience right in your home kitchen.

Image showing buffalo wild wings garlic parmesan sauce recipe ingredients placed on an earthy background.

Essential Ingredients for Your Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Crafting the perfect Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce at home is surprisingly straightforward, thanks to a list of readily available ingredients. The quality of these components, however, will significantly impact the final flavor, so opt for the freshest options whenever possible:

  • Butter: Whether you choose salted or unsalted butter, this ingredient is crucial for imparting a rich, velvety texture and a foundational layer of flavor to the sauce. If using salted butter, remember to taste and adjust the amount of added salt later to avoid over-seasoning.
  • Fresh Garlic: The heart and soul of this sauce! Minced fresh garlic is non-negotiable for achieving the vibrant, pungent flavor characteristic of the Buffalo Wild Wings original. Avoid pre-minced jarred garlic if possible, as it often lacks the robust aroma and taste of fresh cloves.
  • Heavy Cream: This is key to creating that luxuriously thick and creamy consistency. Heavy cream adds unparalleled richness and body, ensuring your sauce clings beautifully to whatever you’re dipping or coating. Do not substitute with lighter creams or milk, as they will not yield the same texture.
  • Parmesan Cheese: The other star of the show! Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is absolutely essential for the best flavor. Pre-grated or powdered varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can make the sauce gritty and dilute its authentic cheesy goodness. Invest in a block of high-quality Parmesan and grate it yourself for an unrivaled taste experience.
  • Red Chili Flakes: These tiny flakes provide a subtle, welcome hint of warmth and a very mild spicy kick that balances the richness of the cream and cheese. You can easily adjust the quantity to suit your personal spice preference – add more for an extra zing, or less for a milder version.
  • Italian Seasoning: A blend of classic dried herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary, Italian seasoning infuses the sauce with a wonderfully aromatic and savory depth. If you don’t have a pre-made blend, you can create your own by combining these individual herbs.
  • Black Pepper: Freshly crushed black pepper offers a sharp, fragrant note that complements the other flavors. While pre-ground pepper works, fresh grinding releases more potent aromas and a livelier taste.
  • Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors. Add salt gradually and taste as you go, especially if using salted butter and Parmesan, which already contribute to the sodium content.
  • Mayonnaise: Full-fat mayonnaise is paramount for achieving the signature creamy texture and smooth mouthfeel of this copycat sauce. It acts as an emulsifier, binding all the ingredients together and adding a tangy richness. While any brand will work, many home cooks swear by options like Hellmann’s or Duke’s for their superior flavor and consistency.

Simple Steps to Your Perfect Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Creating this irresistible Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce at home is a straightforward process that yields incredibly delicious results. Follow these step-by-step instructions to master this copycat recipe:

  1. Preparation is Key: Before you begin cooking, ensure all your ingredients are measured and ready. This “mise en place” approach streamlines the cooking process and prevents any last-minute scrambling.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a small saucepan or skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced fresh garlic. Sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden, being careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
  3. Introduce the Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and stir it gently with the sautéed garlic and butter. Allow the mixture to warm through for about a minute, but do not bring it to a rolling boil.
  4. 4 Images showing sauteing the butter, garlic, mixing cream, parmesan, and spices, and combining the mixture with mayonnaise in a bowl.
  5. Incorporate Parmesan: Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the creamy base, creating a smooth mixture. Remove the pan from the heat immediately after the cheese has melted.
  6. Season to Perfection: To the warm cheese and cream mixture, add the Italian seasoning, red chili flakes, and freshly crushed black pepper. Stir these spices thoroughly to distribute their flavors evenly. Add salt to taste, remembering to factor in the saltiness from the butter and Parmesan.
  7. Cool and Combine with Mayonnaise: Transfer the seasoned mixture to a medium-sized mixing bowl. Allow it to cool down significantly, ideally to room temperature. Once cooled, add the mayonnaise. Mix vigorously with a whisk or spoon until the sauce is completely smooth, creamy, and evenly combined.
  8. Taste and Adjust: Give the sauce a final taste test. This is your opportunity to adjust the seasoning – add more salt, pepper, or chili flakes if desired. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later enjoyment.
Buffalo wild wings copycat garlic parmesan sauce closeup image.

Make Ahead and Storage Guidelines

One of the many benefits of this homemade garlic parmesan sauce is its excellent make-ahead potential. You can easily prepare a batch a few days in advance, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen even further, which often enhances the taste. To store, simply transfer the cooled sauce into an airtight container or a clean mason jar. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Always ensure the container is tightly sealed to maintain freshness and prevent any absorption of refrigerator odors. Before serving, give the sauce a good stir, and if it appears too thick after refrigeration, you can gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave for short intervals, stirring frequently, until it reaches your desired consistency. Avoid overheating, as this can cause the mayonnaise or cream to separate.

Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Is this garlic parmesan sauce spicy?

This copycat garlic parmesan sauce offers a mild warmth rather than intense spiciness. It contains red chili flakes, which contribute a subtle heat. If you prefer a spicier sauce, you can easily increase the amount of red chili flakes or stir in a few drops of your favorite hot sauce like sriracha or Tabasco to your personal preference.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this garlic parmesan sauce recipe is naturally gluten-free as written. All the core ingredients—butter, garlic, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, chili flakes, Italian seasoning, black pepper, salt, and mayonnaise—are typically gluten-free. However, it’s always prudent to double-check the labels of specific brands you purchase for any hidden gluten-containing additives, especially with seasonings or mayonnaise, to ensure full compliance for those with strict dietary needs.

Where can I buy Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce?

If you’re not making it from scratch, Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan sauce is available directly at Buffalo Wild Wings restaurants. You can also often find their branded sauces for sale on the official Buffalo Wild Wings website or through major online retailers like Amazon. Additionally, some larger grocery store chains and supercenters, such as Walmart or Target, occasionally stock BWW sauces in their condiment aisles.

Can I freeze this sauce?

Freezing this garlic parmesan sauce is generally not recommended. The dairy-based ingredients, specifically the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and mayonnaise, are prone to separating and developing an undesirable grainy or watery texture once thawed. This can significantly compromise the smooth, creamy consistency that makes the sauce so appealing. For the best quality, it’s always better to enjoy this sauce fresh or within its refrigerated shelf life.

Can I skip the heavy cream?

While you can technically omit the heavy cream from this garlic parmesan sauce recipe, be aware that the final product will have a noticeably different texture. The heavy cream is crucial for imparting the sauce’s characteristic richness and thick, luxurious body. Without it, the sauce will likely be thinner and less decadent, though it will still retain the delicious garlic and Parmesan flavors from the other ingredients. If you choose to skip it, consider adding a bit more mayonnaise or Parmesan to compensate slightly for the lost creaminess, but expect a lighter result.

Creative Substitutions and Exciting Variations

This Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce recipe is fantastic on its own, but it also serves as a wonderful canvas for culinary creativity. Feel free to experiment with these substitutions and variations to tailor the sauce to your unique preferences:

  • Cheese Power-Up: While Parmesan is the classic choice, don’t hesitate to experiment with other hard, flavorful cheeses. Substituting Asiago or Grana Padano can introduce slightly different nutty and sharp notes, adding a unique twist to the sauce’s overall profile.
  • Garlic Parmesan Buffalo Fusion: For those who love a bit more kick and a classic wing flavor profile, transform this into a garlic parmesan buffalo sauce. Incorporate a teaspoon of buffalo seasoning or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. You can also add a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper along with the original chili flakes for a complex, spicy depth. This variation is perfect for spicier wing lovers.
  • Roasted Garlic Elegance: For a milder, sweeter, and more sophisticated garlic flavor, pre-roast your garlic cloves in the oven until they are soft and caramelized before mincing and adding them to the sauce. Roasting mellows the garlic’s pungency and introduces a subtle sweetness, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a less intense raw garlic taste.
  • Herbaceous Twist: Enhance the aromatic profile by adding fresh herbs. Finely chopped fresh parsley or chives stirred in at the end can add a bright, fresh counterpoint to the rich sauce. A touch of fresh oregano or basil can also elevate the Italian seasoning blend.
  • Smoky Undertones: A tiny pinch of smoked paprika or a drop of liquid smoke can introduce a delicious smoky depth, pairing wonderfully with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables.

Expert Tips for the Ultimate Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Achieving the perfect homemade Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce is easy with these expert tips:

  • Embrace Freshness: The cornerstone of exceptional flavor lies in fresh ingredients. While jarred minced garlic and pre-shredded shelf-stable Parmesan cheese might offer convenience, they will invariably compromise the rich, vibrant taste of your sauce. Opt for fresh garlic cloves and a block of quality Parmesan cheese for grating to unlock the most authentic and delicious results.
  • Heavy Cream is Essential: Do not underestimate the role of heavy cream. It is paramount for achieving the sauce’s signature thickness, luxurious creaminess, and rich mouthfeel. Substituting with half-and-half, milk, or other lighter dairy options will result in a thinner, less decadent sauce that lacks the desired body and cling.
  • Heat Control is Key: When sautéing garlic and melting cheese, maintain a low to medium heat. High heat can burn the garlic quickly, leading to a bitter taste, and can also cause the Parmesan cheese to seize or become oily rather than melting smoothly into the cream. Gentle heat ensures a silky, well-emulsified sauce.
  • For an Extra Kick: If you desire a more pronounced spicy heat beyond the red chili flakes, consider stirring in a dash of sriracha, a few drops of Tabasco sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper at the end. Add gradually and taste often to achieve your preferred level of spice.
  • Allow to Cool for Best Texture: After cooking the cream and cheese base, allow it to cool down to at least room temperature before incorporating the mayonnaise. Adding mayonnaise to a very hot mixture can sometimes cause it to break or curdle, resulting in an undesirable texture.
  • Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Always taste and adjust seasoning throughout the process, especially before the final mix with mayonnaise. Different brands of butter, Parmesan, and even mayonnaise can vary in sodium content.

Versatile Uses for Your Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce

This homemade Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce is far too delicious to be confined to just chicken wings! Its rich, creamy, and savory profile makes it incredibly versatile, ready to elevate a wide array of dishes. Here are some fantastic ways to incorporate this delectable sauce into your culinary repertoire:

  • Ultimate Dipping Experience: Naturally, it’s a phenomenal dip for crispy chicken wings, but don’t stop there. Serve it alongside golden french fries, crunchy onion rings, soft breadsticks, or as a sophisticated dip for a fresh vegetable platter (carrots, celery, bell peppers, broccoli florets). It also makes an excellent dipping companion for pizza crusts.
  • Sandwich and Wrap Enhancer: Take your favorite sandwich, pita, or tortilla wrap to new heights. Slather a generous amount of this creamy sauce inside for an instant flavor boost. It pairs exceptionally well with chicken, turkey, or even vegetarian fillings.
  • Pasta Perfection: Transform simple cooked pasta or noodles into a rich, alfredo-like dish. Toss freshly cooked spaghetti, fettuccine, penne, or rotini with the garlic parmesan sauce for a quick, comforting, and incredibly flavorful meal. You can add grilled chicken or sautéed vegetables for a complete dish.
  • Marinade & Glaze: Use it as a tenderizing and flavor-infusing marinade for chicken breasts, thighs, or shrimp before grilling, baking, or pan-frying. It also works beautifully as a finishing sauce or glaze brushed over fried fish or baked salmon fillets. The garlic and Parmesan flavors penetrate the protein, ensuring every bite is succulent and savory.
  • Pizza Base: For a unique pizza experience, use this sauce as an alternative to traditional tomato sauce. Spread it on your pizza crust, add your favorite toppings, and bake for a creamy, garlicky, and incredibly delicious white pizza.
  • Roasted Vegetable Companion: Drizzle over roasted potatoes, asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts after they come out of the oven. The heat from the vegetables will warm the sauce, creating a wonderful fusion of flavors.
  • Breakfast Upgrade: A dollop on scrambled eggs or an omelette can add a gourmet touch to your morning meal.

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If you’ve enjoyed crafting this incredible garlic parmesan sauce, you’ll love exploring more of our homemade culinary delights. Dive into these other popular recipes:

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We love hearing from you! If you try this fantastic Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce recipe, please take a moment to leave a comment and a star rating below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps other home cooks discover and enjoy our recipes.

Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe

Creamy buffalo wild wings garlic parmesan sauce in a glass bowl.

This quick and easy recipe for Buffalo Wild Wings’ garlic parmesan sauce is the best homemade sauce you can make. It’s creamy, made with simple ingredients, and doesn’t have any preservatives.

Course: Appetizer, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe, Copycat BWW Sauce, Homemade Garlic Parmesan

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes

Servings: 4 (about 1 cup sauce)

Calories: 267 kcal

Author: Geetanjali

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • ½ teaspoon garlic (minced)
  • ¼ cup heavy cream
  • 3 tablespoon parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
  • ½ teaspoon red chili flakes
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper (freshly crushed)
  • salt (to taste)
  • ½ cup mayonnaise

Instructions

  1. Gather all the ingredients before you begin cooking to ensure everything is on hand.
  2. Heat and melt butter while sautéing minced garlic in a pan.
  3. Add the heavy cream and stir to combine.
  4. Add the grated parmesan cheese. Mix well and remove from flame.
  5. Add Italian seasoning, chili flakes, crushed pepper, and salt. Mix well and transfer the mixture to a bowl.
  6. Mix in the mayonnaise, taste, and adjust as needed. Serve.

Notes

  • Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Jarred garlic and shelf-stable parmesan will make preparing this sauce easier, but you will be compromising on the taste.
  • Heavy cream gives this dipping sauce the right amount of thickness and creaminess. Don’t substitute for half and half.
  • For more of a kick, stir in some sriracha or Tabasco sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 267kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 13g | Monounsaturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 34mg | Sodium: 254mg | Potassium: 35mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 378IU | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | Calcium: 63mg | Iron: 0.3mg

Nutrition Disclaimer:

Nutrition information is a general estimate only. Actual values may vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used. For the most accurate information, please consult a registered dietitian or use your preferred nutrition calculator.