Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe (Better Than the Original!)
If you’re obsessed with the creamy, garlicky, and cheesy flavor of Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce, you’re in for a treat. This homemade version captures that same irresistible flavor — rich, savory, and slightly tangy — without leaving your kitchen. Whether you want to toss it with crispy wings, drizzle it over pasta, or dip your fries, this Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce recipe will quickly become your new go-to sauce.
In this article, we’ll cover everything: from the original flavor inspiration to step-by-step instructions, pro cooking tips, storage advice, and fun ways to use it. Let’s dive in!
What Makes Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce So Special?
Buffalo Wild Wings, affectionately known as B-Dubs, is famous for its lineup of signature sauces. While the spicy options like Blazin’ or Mango Habanero get plenty of attention, the Garlic Parmesan Sauce stands out for its smooth, buttery flavor and cheesy richness.
It’s not spicy — instead, it’s full of flavor and umami from roasted garlic, real Parmesan cheese, and creamy butter. The sauce is thick enough to cling to every bite of chicken but versatile enough to use as a dipping or pasta sauce.
The best part? You can easily make it at home with ingredients you already have in your pantry!
Ingredients You’ll Need for Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe
To recreate the Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce at home, you only need a handful of simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Sauce Base:
- 1 cup mayonnaise – the creamy base that gives the sauce its rich texture
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – for that signature cheesy bite
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – adds smoothness and depth
- 3 tablespoons olive oil – helps balance the flavors
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced – fresh garlic gives the best flavor
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar – adds a touch of tang
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice – brightens the flavor
- ½ teaspoon salt – enhances the overall taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper – for a hint of spice
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – brings in subtle herb notes
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – if you want a mild kick
How to Make Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce
This recipe is incredibly simple and takes less than 15 minutes to prepare. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making your own garlic Parmesan perfection:
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and olive oil, then cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to brown the garlic — you just want it soft and aromatic.
Pro Tip: Use fresh garlic for the best results. Pre-minced garlic can make the sauce taste bitter.
Step 2: Combine the Creamy Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, add the mayonnaise, vinegar, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Blend the Flavors
Pour the warm garlic-butter mixture into the bowl with your creamy base. Add Italian seasoning, black pepper, and salt. Mix until fully combined.
If you like a little heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes. Adjust the seasoning to taste — more Parmesan for cheesiness, more lemon for brightness.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Transfer the sauce to a glass jar or airtight container. Let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together perfectly.
How to Use Garlic Parmesan Sauce
This versatile sauce can elevate almost any dish! Here are a few of the best ways to use your homemade Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
1. Toss with Crispy Chicken Wings
The classic use! Fry, bake, or air fry your wings until golden and crispy, then toss them in this creamy garlic Parmesan sauce for restaurant-quality flavor at home.
2. Pasta Sauce
Add a splash of milk or cream to thin the sauce, and toss it with fettuccine or penne for a quick and delicious meal. Top with grilled chicken or roasted vegetables for extra flavor.
3. Pizza Drizzle
Drizzle it over your favorite pizza instead of marinara for a rich, cheesy twist.
4. Sandwich or Wrap Spread
Use it as a spread for grilled chicken sandwiches, wraps, or burgers. It pairs beautifully with lettuce, tomato, and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
5. Dip for Fries or Veggies
Serve it as a creamy dipping sauce for fries, onion rings, celery sticks, or even cauliflower bites.
How to Make Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Want the full Buffalo Wild Wings experience? Here’s how to make the perfect crispy wings to go with your sauce:
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken wings
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
- Pat the chicken wings dry with paper towels — this is key to getting them crispy.
- Toss the wings with baking powder, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange them on the rack in a single layer.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
- Toss the hot wings in your homemade garlic Parmesan sauce and serve immediately.
Storage Tips
Your Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce will last up to 1 week in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.
To Freeze:
If you want to make a bigger batch, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight, and whisk it before serving to restore its smooth texture.
How to Adjust the Flavor
- Too thick? Add a tablespoon of milk or cream.
- Too thin? Mix in extra Parmesan cheese.
- Want it tangier? Add a splash more lemon juice or vinegar.
- Like it spicy? Sprinkle in cayenne or red pepper flakes.
This sauce is incredibly forgiving, so feel free to adjust the flavor balance to your liking.
Nutrition Information (Per 2 Tbsp Serving)
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 140mg
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredients used.)
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Garlic Parmesan Sauce
✅ Better than store-bought: Fresh, flavorful, and customizable.
✅ Budget-friendly: Uses basic pantry ingredients.
✅ Versatile: Perfect for wings, pasta, sandwiches, and more.
✅ Quick & easy: Ready in under 15 minutes.
✅ Kid-friendly: Mild and creamy without being spicy.
Common Questions (FAQ)
1. Is Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce spicy?
No — it’s mild and creamy with a savory garlic-cheese flavor. You can add red pepper flakes for a little heat if desired.
2. Can I use this sauce on boneless wings?
Absolutely! It works beautifully on both traditional and boneless wings. Just coat your chicken evenly and enjoy.
3. Can I make this sauce dairy-free?
Yes! Use vegan mayonnaise and dairy-free Parmesan alternatives. The flavor will still be delicious and creamy.
4. What’s the best Parmesan to use?
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese gives the best flavor and texture, but pre-grated works if you’re short on time.
5. Can I use this sauce as a marinade?
Definitely! It makes a fantastic marinade for chicken or shrimp. Just let your protein sit in the sauce for 30–60 minutes before cooking.
Final Thoughts: Bring Buffalo Wild Wings Home
There’s something special about that first bite of Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce — creamy, cheesy, and garlicky perfection. But now, you don’t have to wait for takeout night to enjoy it.
This Buffalo Wild Wings Garlic Parmesan Sauce recipe delivers all the rich, buttery flavor of the original — and maybe even a little more — right from your own kitchen. Whether you’re hosting game night, craving comfort food, or just want to level up your chicken wings, this sauce will be your new secret weapon.
