Looking for a delicious sauce for salads, chicken tenders, and more? This family favorite is perfect for dipping, dunking, and pouring over everything!
When my dad opened his restaurant, Grindhouse Gourmet Burgers, in 2012, he set out to craft a menu that made people say “wow”—no matter how small the item, whether it was a salad dressing or one of his famous burgers. Although Grindhouse Gourmet Burgers closed in 2016 when Dad accepted another job to help my brother and me pay for college—something I’ll always be grateful for—I still miss so many of his incredible dishes. From the secret-recipe ranch (which we still get calls about from former employees and friends) to the unforgettable Greek Burger, every dish had its own devoted fans.
Throughout his career, Dad collaborated with a rotating cast of talented chefs, and together, they created the now-legendary Hot Honey Mustard Dressing. Served warm, packed with a mustardy kick, and studded with freshly chopped crispy bacon, it was a total flavor bomb that knocked diners’ socks off. People didn’t just order it with their meals—they bought it by the quart to take home.
Now, we’re excited to start sharing more of his recipes here—an homage to a bygone era and a chance for you to enjoy them too. Trust me: they’re just that good. Below, you’ll find my dad’s original recipe, adjusted for a family-sized portion. Since all of his recipes were originally written for bulk restaurant service, Josh scaled this one down so we could enjoy it without needing a stockpot—although, honestly, that much would have been totally delicious.
If you enjoy the dressing drop a comment below to let us know how you feel! We can’t wait.
Hot Honey Mustard Bacon Dressing
Ingredients
- 12 oz Spicy Brown Mustard (Gulden's is preferable)
- 1/3 cup Sugar
- 8 1/2 tsp Orange Juice
- 4 1/4 tsp Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1 pinch Ground Mustard Seed
- 2/3 cup Honey
- 1/3 cup Bacon Grease
- 6 pieces Bacon
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the Bacon. Place the bacon strips in a single layer in a large skillet. Cook over medium heat, flipping occasionally, until the bacon is deep golden brown and crispy. For extra-crispy bacon, continue cooking until it’s just shy of burnt, but be careful not to let it burn completely. Remove the bacon and drain on paper towels. Reserve the grease in the bottom of the pan for the last step in the recipe.6 pieces Bacon
- Step 2: Make the Hot Honey Mustard Sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the spicy brown mustard, ground mustard seed, honey, sugar, and orange juice. Stir over medium-low heat until the sugar is completely dissolved and the sauce is smooth and glossy. The mixture should turn a rich golden-brown color as it comes together.12 oz Spicy Brown Mustard (Gulden's is preferable), 1/3 cup Sugar, 8 1/2 tsp Orange Juice, 4 1/4 tsp Apple Cider Vinegar, 2/3 cup Honey, 1 pinch Ground Mustard Seed
- Step 3: Simmer and Add the Bacon. Let the sauce simmer gently over medium-low heat for 3–5 minutes. Meanwhile, finely chop the cooked bacon. Add the chopped bacon to the saucepan and stir until it’s fully incorporated into the sauce.6 pieces Bacon
- Step 4: Finish the Sauce. Slowly pour the reserved bacon grease into the saucepan, stirring constantly to blend it in. Continue to simmer over medium-low heat for another 3–5 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes rich and glossy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed — it’s going to be the highlight of your day!1/3 cup Bacon Grease
- Storage:Let the sauce cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or jar. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving. This dressing is best served hot.
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