There’s something magical about a good aioli. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor—one of those simple condiments that can completely transform a dish. But when you add a little heat? That’s when it becomes truly irresistible. This Spicy Aioli is the perfect balance of smooth, garlicky goodness with a kick of spice that lingers just enough to keep you coming back for more.

Whether you’re using it as a dipping sauce for crispy fries, spreading it on a burger, or drizzling it over tacos, this homemade spicy aioli is a game-changer. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make with just a handful of ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – This aioli comes together in just 5 minutes with no special equipment required.
• Better Than Store-Bought – Freshly made aioli has a richer, creamier texture and no preservatives.
• Customizable – Adjust the heat level to your liking and experiment with different spices to make it your own.
• Versatile – Use it as a dip, spread, or drizzle to enhance all your favorite dishes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons sriracha (or more to taste)
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ⅛ teaspoon salt

How to Make Spicy Aioli

Step 1: Mix the Ingredients

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, sriracha, minced garlic, smoked paprika, and salt until smooth. Make sure everything is well combined so that every bite has the perfect balance of creaminess and heat.

Step 2: Taste & Adjust

Give your aioli a quick taste and adjust the spice level if needed. If you love extra heat, add a little more sriracha. If you want a hint of sweetness, a tiny drizzle of honey can mellow out the spice while adding depth to the flavor.

Step 3: Chill for Best Flavor

While you can use it right away, letting your spicy aioli rest in the fridge for 10-15 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully. This short resting time enhances the garlicky notes and gives you a smoother, more cohesive taste.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!

Drizzle it over tacos, slather it on sandwiches, or use it as a dipping sauce for fries, veggies, or crispy chicken. However you enjoy it, this spicy aioli will take your meal to the next level!

Helpful Tips

• Make it Spicier: Add extra sriracha or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra fiery kick.
• Make it Milder: Reduce the sriracha or add a little more mayo to tone down the heat.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, ¼ teaspoon of garlic powder can work too.
• Try Different Peppers: If you like experimenting, swap sriracha for chipotle sauce, hot sauce, or even harissa for a different kind of heat.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Yield: About ½ cup
• Category: Condiments & Sauces
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Notes

• Customize the Heat Level: If you prefer a milder aioli, start with 1 teaspoon of sriracha and gradually add more to taste. If you love extra heat, try adding a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
• Mayo Alternatives: For a lighter version, swap out the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or sour cream. It won’t be as rich, but it will still be creamy and delicious.
• Best Garlic Flavor: Fresh minced garlic gives the strongest flavor, but if you prefer a milder, less sharp taste, use roasted garlic or ½ teaspoon garlic powder instead.
• Let It Rest: For the best flavor, let the aioli sit in the fridge for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Pairing Ideas: This spicy aioli works great as a dip for fries, a spread for sandwiches, a drizzle over tacos, or a topping for grilled meats and veggies. Get creative!
• Double the Batch: If you’re making this for a crowd, you can easily double the recipe. Just keep the ratio of ingredients balanced for the perfect consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayo?

Yes! Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you want a lighter, tangier version of spicy aioli. It won’t be as rich, but it’s a great option if you prefer a healthier alternative.

How long does homemade aioli last?

Store your spicy aioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Make sure to give it a quick stir before using it again.

What’s the difference between aioli and mayonnaise?

Traditional aioli is made from garlic and olive oil emulsified together, while mayonnaise is an emulsion of egg yolk and oil. This recipe is technically a garlic mayo, but since “aioli” has become a more common term for flavored mayonnaise-based sauces, we’re going with it!

Can I make this aioli without garlic?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of raw garlic, you can leave it out or use a little garlic powder for a milder flavor.

Storage Instructions

To keep your spicy aioli fresh:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
• Avoid Freezing: Mayo-based sauces don’t freeze well since they can separate when thawed.

Related Recipes

If you love this Spicy Aioli, you’ll definitely want to try these other delicious sauces:

• White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers
• Crispy Air Fryer Mozzarella Sticks
• Spicy Aioli – The Perfect Zesty Sauce for Any Dish

Conclusion

This Spicy Aioli is proof that a simple sauce can make a big impact. With just a few pantry ingredients and five minutes of prep, you get a bold, creamy, and spicy condiment that elevates any dish. Whether you’re dipping, spreading, or drizzling, this aioli will become your go-to sauce in no time.

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