Dave’s Hot Chicken Cheese Sauce: 5-Star Recipe + Expert Tips

There’s a good reason why Dave’s Hot Chicken Cheese Sauce has become a cult favorite among spice lovers and comfort food fans alike. Whether you’re dipping juicy tenders, smothering crispy fries, or layering it into a sandwich, this creamy, spicy, and indulgent sauce is the finishing touch that transforms any meal from good to unforgettable. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything about Dave’s signature sauces — especially their coveted cheese sauce — and teach you how to recreate it at home. You’ll also get insider tips, nutrition insights, creative variations, and answers to the most common questions people ask about this legendary condiment.

Looking for inspiration? Try this easy homemade pub sauce to level up your dipping game before you master Dave’s hot chicken cheese sauce!

JUMP TO

Table of Contents

Discovering the Magic of Dave’s Hot Chicken Cheese Sauce

Why This Sauce Stands Out

Dave’s Hot Chicken built its reputation on Nashville-style heat paired with bold flavors. But one unsung hero on their menu is the cheese sauce — a velvety, rich blend that cuts through the fiery spice with savory goodness. What makes it so special? The sauce strikes a perfect balance between creamy and tangy, with subtle notes of garlic and chili to complement the deep umami of the cheese. Whether you love your chicken blazing hot or mildly spiced, this sauce makes every bite more indulgent.

The History of Dave’s Hot Chicken & Its Signature Sauces

Started as a humble parking lot pop-up in East Hollywood, Dave’s Hot Chicken quickly rose to fame for its addictively crispy chicken and mouth-watering sauce lineup. While their hot sauces steal the spotlight, the introduction of a cheese sauce provided a decadent option for those who crave richness alongside spice. Today, whether you order a mild tender or brave the notorious “Reaper,” adding the cheese sauce is a pro move beloved by regulars.

How the Cheese Sauce Complements the Heat

Balancing heat with creaminess is an art, and that’s exactly what Dave’s Hot Chicken Cheese Sauce delivers. The natural fats in the cheese mellow out capsaicin — the compound that gives chili peppers their kick — without masking the complex flavors of the spice blend. The result? A harmonious experience where fiery heat and creamy comfort coexist on your palate. It’s especially popular with guests who enjoy the bold flavors of the chicken but prefer to tame the burn for an all-around satisfying bite.

Dave’s Hot Chicken Sauce Options: What You Need to Know

Full Range of Sauces on the Menu

If you’ve ever ordered from Dave’s, you know their sauce game is strong. Alongside the signature Dave’s Hot Chicken Cheese Sauce, you’ll typically find:

• Dave’s Original Sauce: A tangy blend of mayo, vinegar, and spices
• Reaper Sauce: Their hottest option — not for the faint of heart
• Honey: Perfect for balancing heat with sweetness
• Ranch: A cooling classic
• Cheese Sauce: The creamy counterpart that pairs beautifully with all spice levels

Each sauce is crafted to enhance the flavor of the chicken without overpowering it.

What’s Inside Dave’s Hot Chicken Sauce Packet Calories

If you’ve ever wondered about the nutritional impact of these flavorful packets, here’s a quick look. While official calorie counts vary, here’s a typical range:

Sauce Option	Calories per Packet
Original Dave’s Sauce	~100
Cheese Sauce	~120–150
Ranch	~90
Honey	~60
Reaper Sauce	~50

The Dave’s Hot Chicken Cheese Sauce tends to be the most calorie-dense due to its creamy base — but it’s well worth the splurge.

Understanding the Dave’s Hot Chicken Sauce Cup

When dining in, your cheese sauce usually arrives in a small plastic sauce cup, perfect for dipping. These cups typically hold about 2 oz of sauce — just the right amount to accompany a basket of tenders or a side of fries. You can always request an extra cup (and trust us, you’ll want to).

Ingredients in Dave’s Hot Chicken Sauce

Based on taste tests and insider recipes, the ingredients commonly found in Dave’s Hot Chicken Sauce (Original) include:

• Red chili peppers
• Garlic
• Apple cider vinegar
• Mayonnaise
• Salt & pepper
• Olive oil
• Optional honey for sweetness

For the cheese sauce specifically, it likely includes:

• Cheddar or American cheese base
• Heavy cream or milk
• Butter
• Garlic powder
• Paprika or cayenne for subtle heat
• Stabilizers (for restaurant versions)

Want to recreate it yourself? Keep reading for the exact homemade recipe.

Dave’s Hot Chicken Cheese Sauce Recipe: Make It at Home

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Before diving in, make sure you have the following tools ready:

• Medium saucepan
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Blender or immersion blender (for extra smooth consistency)
• Glass jar or sauce cup for storage

Having the right equipment ensures your dave’s hot chicken cheese sauce turns out silky and restaurant-worthy.

Full Ingredients List

To mimic the flavor and texture of the original sauce, you’ll need:

Ingredient	Quantity
Red chili peppers	5, stems removed
Garlic cloves	4, peeled and chopped
Olive oil	1 tbsp
Salt	1 tsp
Black pepper	1 tsp
Apple cider vinegar	½ cup
Honey (optional)	1 tbsp
Mayonnaise	¼ cup
Cheddar cheese (grated)	½ cup
Heavy cream	¼ cup
Butter	1 tbsp

The addition of cheddar cheese, heavy cream, and butter transforms the base recipe into the ultimate Dave’s Hot Chicken Cheese Sauce.

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating the Sauce

Follow these steps for a flawless batch:

Step 1: Prepare your peppers and garlic. Remove the stems from the peppers and chop them along with the garlic cloves.

Step 2: In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped peppers and garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until aromatic.

Step 3: Add salt, black pepper, and apple cider vinegar to the pan. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 4: Transfer the mixture to a blender and blend until smooth.

Step 5: Pour the blended mixture back into the saucepan. Add mayonnaise and stir to combine.

Step 6: Now, add the grated cheddar cheese, heavy cream, and butter. Stir continuously over low heat until the cheese fully melts and the sauce thickens.

Step 7: Taste and adjust seasoning. For a sweeter profile, add honey and stir well.

Step 8: Transfer your finished sauce into a glass jar or sauce cup. Allow it to cool slightly before serving.

Don’t miss our Cheesy Jalapeño Corn Bake for another spicy, cheesy treat that pairs perfectly with this sauce!

Pro Tips to Perfect the Recipe

• Balance the spice: Remove seeds from peppers if you want less heat. Keep them for a fiery punch.
• Texture is key: For ultra-smooth sauce, use an immersion blender after adding cheese.
• Taste as you go: Gradually add salt and honey to find your perfect balance.
• Adjust thickness: Add a splash of cream if the sauce becomes too thick after cooling.

How to Store and Reuse Your Sauce

Store your Dave’s Hot Chicken Cheese Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to one week. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a bit of cream to restore its silky texture if needed.

Discover great ideas like Cheesesteak Tortellini in Creamy Provolone Sauce to use up any leftover cheese sauce creatively!

Taste & Texture: What Does Dave’s Hot Chicken Cheese Sauce Taste Like?

Flavor Profile Breakdown

So, what does Dave’s Hot Chicken Cheese Sauce taste like? It delivers a mouth-coating richness with a balanced blend of creamy cheese and tangy, slightly spicy notes. The red chili peppers provide a gentle kick, while the garlic and vinegar add layers of umami and acidity that cut through the richness of the cheddar and butter. The result is a crave-worthy dip that enhances everything it touches without overpowering the main dish.

Ideal Pairings for the Cheese Sauce

Here’s how regulars and home cooks alike love to use this luscious sauce:

• Chicken Tenders & Strips
• Crispy French Fries
• Spicy Chicken Sandwiches
• Grilled Veggies
• Tortilla Chips

Check out this Creamy Garlic Shrimp for another decadent dish that benefits from a hint of cheesy goodness.

The Secret Behind Its Creamy Consistency

What sets Dave’s cheese sauce apart is its perfectly smooth texture. The use of real cheddar combined with heavy cream and butter ensures a luxurious mouthfeel. Additionally, the mayonnaise helps emulsify the sauce, making it stable even as it cools — ideal for dipping throughout your meal.

Customizing Dave’s Hot Chicken Cheese Sauce at Home

Making It Spicier or Milder

• For more heat: Add extra red chili or a pinch of cayenne powder.
• For less heat: Remove chili seeds entirely and use mild peppers like Fresno or Anaheim.

Adding Unique Flavors

Want to personalize your cheese sauce? Try these variations:

• Smoky: Add smoked paprika or chipotle powder.
• Herby: Stir in chopped chives or parsley.
• Garlicky: Double the amount of fresh garlic for a bolder bite.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to lighten up your Dave’s Hot Chicken Cheese Sauce:

• Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for protein-rich creaminess.
• Substitute light cream in place of heavy cream.
• Opt for a reduced-fat cheese if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dave’s Hot Chicken Sauces

Final Thoughts: Mastering Dave’s Hot Chicken Cheese Sauce at Home

By now, you’ve got the tools, the recipe, and the know-how to create your own version of Dave’s Hot Chicken Cheese Sauce at home. Whether you serve it alongside crispy tenders, pour it over fries, or incorporate it into your next game-day spread, this sauce is sure to become a go-to favorite.

Don’t miss our Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Potatoes for another indulgent, sauce-friendly dish to pair with your homemade cheese sauce!

Print