If you love seafood, you already know that the right sauce can make all the difference. The Crosse and Blackwell cocktail sauce is a timeless favorite that brings a zesty balance of sweetness and spice to shrimp, crab, or oysters. Its bold tomato base and tangy horseradish flavor turn every bite into a memorable experience. Inspired by traditional British flavors with an American twist, this sauce has earned its place at countless family dinners and holiday feasts. Whether paired with grilled shrimp or smoky meats like in this Wojapi BBQ Sauce Recipe, it always delivers restaurant-quality flavor at home.
Table of Contents
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- mixing spoon or whisk
- measuring spoons
- airtight container or jar
Ingredients
- 1 cup tomato ketchup or tomato puree
- 2 tbsp prepared horseradish
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 tsp sugar
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, add tomato ketchup, prepared horseradish, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix thoroughly until smooth and uniform.
- Add salt, black pepper, sugar, and cayenne pepper. Stir until evenly combined. Taste and adjust spice or sweetness as needed.
- Cover and refrigerate the sauce for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Stir before serving and pair with shrimp, oysters, crab, or grilled meats.
Notes
Nutrition
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s something special about making your own Crosse and Blackwell cocktail You’ll fall in love with this Crosse and Blackwell cocktail sauce because it delivers that perfect balance of tangy tomato sweetness and bold horseradish spice. This isn’t just another dip — it’s the flavor that brings seafood to life. Whether you’re serving shrimp, oysters, or grilled crab, this Crosse and Blackwell cocktail sauce adds the right amount of heat and zest every single time.
- Fast and Efficient: You can prepare this homemade Crosse and Blackwell cocktail sauce in less than 10 minutes, saving time without sacrificing flavor.
- Actually Healthy: Made with real tomato paste, lemon juice, and natural spices, it’s lighter and fresher than store-bought versions.
- Extremely Versatile: Use it with shrimp, crab cakes, or grilled meats. Its rich tang pairs beautifully with recipes like the BK Royal Sauce Recipe.
- Budget-Friendly: Every ingredient is simple and affordable, letting you enjoy restaurant-quality sauce at home.
For extra flavor inspiration, explore the Savory Royal Sauce Burger King Recipe. Once you taste this Crosse and Blackwell cocktail sauce, you’ll never want seafood without it again.
Ingredients Needed
To make the best Crosse and Blackwell cocktail sauce, you only need a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one plays a role in creating that signature bold, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor that makes this sauce unforgettable.
For the base:
- 1 cup tomato ketchup or puree for that rich, classic tomato sweetness
- 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish to give your Crosse and Blackwell cocktail sauce its sharp kick
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice for acidity and brightness
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce to deepen the flavor profile
For seasoning:
- ½ teaspoon salt to balance the tang
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper for mild heat
- A pinch of cayenne pepper if you want extra spice
- ½ teaspoon sugar to round out the acidity
You can explore similar flavor layering in the Angry Crab Trifecta Sauce Recipe, which also balances heat and sweetness beautifully. If you enjoy testing sauce variations, the Stingin Honey Garlic Sauce Recipe offers another creative twist.
With these ingredients, your Crosse and Blackwell cocktail sauce will taste vibrant, fresh, and restaurant-quality every single time.
How to Make Crosse and Blackwell Cocktail Sauce
Making your own Crosse and Blackwell cocktail sauce is quick and easy. In less than ten minutes, you’ll have a flavorful, restaurant-style condiment ready to serve with shrimp, oysters, or grilled favorites. Follow these simple steps for perfect results every time.
1. Combine the Base Ingredients:
In a medium mixing bowl, add tomato ketchup, prepared horseradish, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix thoroughly until smooth and uniform. This creates the signature flavor foundation of Crosse and Blackwell cocktail sauce.
2. Season and Balance:
Add salt, black pepper, sugar, and a small pinch of cayenne pepper. Stir until the flavors blend evenly. Adjust sweetness or spice based on your taste preferences.
3. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Chilling helps the flavors meld together, giving the sauce its bold, tangy bite.
For a deeper smoky pairing, serve it with grilled dishes like the How to Smoke a 15-Pound Brisket or enjoy it alongside seafood inspired by the Robert Rothschild Pineapple Habanero Sauce.
Your Crosse and Blackwell cocktail sauce is now ready to enjoy — fresh, flavorful, and completely homemade.
The Secret to Juiciness: A Section on Brining
One of the best-kept secrets in cooking, even when preparing dishes to serve with Crosse and Blackwell cocktail sauce, is mastering the art of brining. A simple saltwater brine transforms seafood or meat by helping it retain moisture during cooking. When you soak shrimp, crab, or chicken in a light brine before grilling or boiling, the salt penetrates the cells and locks in natural juices through osmosis. The result is tender, juicy texture and rich flavor in every bite. Once paired with your tangy Crosse and Blackwell cocktail sauce, the contrast of salty, smoky, and spicy flavors creates a perfect balance. It’s an easy step that guarantees every dish feels elevated and full of depth without needing extra seasoning or sauces.
Serving and Storage Tips
The best part about making Crosse and Blackwell cocktail sauce at home is how versatile it is when serving. For seafood lovers, it pairs beautifully with chilled shrimp, crab claws, or oysters on ice. You can also spoon it over grilled fish, spread it on sandwiches, or serve it as a dip with crispy fries or onion rings. The sauce’s rich tang and subtle heat make every dish more exciting.
If you’re serving grilled meats, pair this homemade Crosse and Blackwell cocktail sauce with smoky dishes like the Blackstone Alice Springs Chicken Recipe for a flavorful contrast. For something lighter, try it alongside the sweet balance of the Savory Royal Sauce Burger King Recipe.
To store, place your sauce in an airtight glass jar and refrigerate. It stays fresh for up to one week. Before serving, stir it well to restore its creamy texture. Avoid freezing since that can change the consistency. This way, every spoonful of Crosse and Blackwell cocktail sauce will stay as fresh, zesty, and flavorful as the day you made it.
Helpful Notes
When preparing Crosse and Blackwell cocktail sauce, a few smart tips can take it from good to great. Always start with quality ingredients — fresh lemon juice, real horseradish, and a good tomato base make all the difference. If you want a thicker texture, reduce the amount of lemon juice slightly or add a small spoon of tomato paste. For a spicier version, increase the horseradish or sprinkle in a touch more cayenne pepper.
Let the sauce chill before serving because the flavors deepen as it rests. The tangy sweetness will become more balanced, giving your Crosse and Blackwell cocktail sauce that perfect kick. You can even customize it to match your meal — a touch of smoked paprika pairs beautifully with grilled shrimp, while a little honey complements crab or lobster.
If you love experimenting with sauces, try the rich sweetness of the Robert Rothschild Pineapple Habanero Sauce or the bold layers of the Angry Crab Trifecta Sauce Recipe. Once you master the balance of flavor in Crosse and Blackwell cocktail sauce, you’ll have a go-to condiment that elevates every seafood dish.
Conclusion
Making your own Crosse and Blackwell cocktail sauce at home is one of those simple pleasures that truly transforms your cooking. In just a few minutes, you can create a bold, tangy sauce that brings out the best in shrimp, oysters, crab, and even grilled meats. Its perfect blend of tomato richness and spicy horseradish gives every dish an unforgettable flavor boost.
This homemade Crosse and Blackwell cocktail sauce isn’t just delicious — it’s healthier, fresher, and more affordable than store-bought versions. It proves that classic flavors never go out of style and that the best meals often come from the simplest ingredients.
If you’ve tried this recipe, leave a comment below and share your experience. Did you adjust the spice level or add your own twist? Let’s talk about it! Don’t forget to leave a star rating so others can find it too. Share this recipe with your friends and family on Facebook or Pinterest to inspire more homemade cooking. What’s your favorite seafood dish to enjoy with Crosse and Blackwell cocktail sauce? We’d love to hear your ideas below.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who makes Crosse & Blackwell cocktail sauce?
The Crosse and Blackwell cocktail sauce is produced by Crosse & Blackwell, a historic brand that originated in England and became popular in the United States for its gourmet condiments. Today, the brand is known for maintaining its classic British-style flavor while using modern production standards. The sauce is recognized for its balance of tangy tomato base and spicy horseradish, making it a favorite among seafood lovers worldwide.
What are the ingredients in Crosse and Blackwell cocktail sauce?
The signature flavor of Crosse and Blackwell cocktail sauce comes from a mix of tomato paste, vinegar, horseradish, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and spices. Each ingredient plays an important role in creating its bold and slightly spicy profile. While store-bought versions are convenient, making it fresh at home allows you to control sweetness, spice, and consistency to your liking.
Is Crosse and Blackwell being discontinued?
No, Crosse and Blackwell cocktail sauce is not discontinued. The brand continues to produce and distribute its popular line of condiments, including this iconic sauce. Availability can vary by location or store, but most major supermarkets and online retailers still carry it. For the freshest option, try making your own version using the recipe provided here — it tastes just as authentic.
What is a substitute for Crosse and Blackwell steak sauce?
If you can’t find the original, a good substitute for Crosse and Blackwell steak sauce is a mix of Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and a touch of balsamic vinegar. This blend delivers a similar savory, tangy depth that pairs well with grilled meats and roasted vegetables. You can also explore flavorful alternatives like the Wojapi BBQ Sauce Recipe or the Stingin Honey Garlic Sauce Recipe for a creative twist on your favorite dishes.
