I remember when I first moved to the U.S., craving the perfect steakhouse Horseradish Cream Sauce to complement my dinners. It felt impossible to find a quick recipe that didn’t skimp on flavor. That’s why I created this 5-minute Horseradish Cream Sauce—easy, creamy, and ready to elevate any meal without stress.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Foolproof Recipe
- Better Than a Steakhouse (and cheaper!): You get that rich, zesty flavor without the restaurant price or wait time.
- Completely Customizable Spice: Adjust the horseradish to suit your heat preference with simple tweaks.
- Insanely Quick & Easy: Just a few ingredients and about five minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Incredibly Versatile Condiment: Use it not just for steak but also sandwiches, dips, and more.
The Role of Each Ingredient
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Sour Cream | Adds a tangy, creamy base that balances heat |
| Mayonnaise | Provides richness and smooth texture |
| Prepared Horseradish | Delivers the spicy, pungent kick |
| Apple Cider Vinegar | Brightens flavor and adds acidity |
| Salt | Enhances all the flavors |
| Black Pepper | Adds subtle warmth and depth |
| Chives (finely chopped) | Freshness and mild onion flavor |
How to Make Horseradish Cream Sauce
- Drain the horseradish: Remove excess liquid to prevent a watery sauce and keep it thick and creamy.
- Whisk the creamy base: Combine sour cream, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Fold in horseradish and chives: Gently mix the horseradish and chopped chives to evenly distribute flavor.
- Let it rest: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.
Variations on the Classic Horseradish Cream Sauce
Try these simple twists to keep your sauce exciting:
- Smoky Horseradish Sauce: Add smoked paprika for a deep, smoky flavor.
- Fresh & Herby Sauce: Mix in fresh dill and parsley for a bright, garden-fresh taste.
How to Control the Spice Level
- For a MILD sauce, start with 1.5 Tbsp of horseradish.
- For a MEDIUM kick (most popular), use the 2 Tbsp called for in the recipe.
- For an EXTRA-SPICY punch, add 3 to 4 Tbsp of “extra hot” prepared horseradish.
Troubleshooting Your Sauce: Tips for Perfection
Why is my sauce watery?
You likely didn’t drain the horseradish enough before mixing. Make sure to squeeze out or drain the prepared horseradish well.
Why isn’t my sauce spicy?
Your horseradish might be old or less potent. Also, letting the sauce rest for at least 30 minutes helps the heat develop and bloom.
What to Serve with Horseradish Cream Sauce
This sauce pairs beautifully with:
- Prime Rib — the classic steakhouse combo everyone loves
- Beef Tenderloin — adds a creamy kick to tender cuts
- Steak Sandwiches — spread it on for an irresistible flavor boost
- Onion Rings — a perfect dipping sauce to complement crispy bites
Explore my [Prime Rib recipe], [Beef Tenderloin recipe], and [Steak Sandwich recipe] for dishes that shine with this sauce.
Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions
Store your Horseradish Cream Sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Avoid freezing as sour cream’s texture changes. This sauce actually tastes better a few hours after making as the flavors meld.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between prepared horseradish and horseradish cream sauce?
Prepared horseradish is just grated root mixed with vinegar, while horseradish cream sauce adds creamy ingredients like sour cream and mayonnaise for smoothness.
Can I use fresh horseradish root instead?
Yes! You’ll need to grate it fresh and adjust vinegar and seasoning since fresh root is more potent.
Why use both sour cream and mayonnaise in this recipe?
Sour cream adds tanginess while mayonnaise brings richness and creaminess, creating a balanced and smooth sauce.
Conclusion: Your New Favorite Sauce!
This Horseradish Cream Sauce is the only one you’ll ever need—fast, easy, and endlessly customizable for your taste. Whether you like it smoky or loaded with fresh herbs, this sauce brings comfort and confidence to your kitchen. Which variation are you excited to try first—the smoky or the fresh and herby? Let me know in the comments below!
Horseradish Cream Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, combine sour cream, horseradish, mayonnaise, vinegar, salt, pepper, and chives until smooth.
- Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks; stir before serving.
