Top Hot Sauce Brands By State

A recent report from Instacart has revealed the leading hot sauce brands across the United States, showcasing both enduring favorites and regional contenders. By analyzing purchase data, Instacart identified the most popular hot sauces in each state.

Frank’s RedHot
This classic sauce, known for its cayenne pepper base, remains a staple in American kitchens. Frank’s RedHot, which gained fame as the original Buffalo wing sauce, is the top choice in 29 states, including Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Vermont, Washington, West Virginia and Wisconsin. Its moderate heat level makes it widely appealing.

Burman’s Hot Sauce
A favorite among Aldi shoppers, Burman’s Hot Sauce is recognized for its affordability and comparable taste to more expensive brands. It is the leading hot sauce in seven states, Florida, Kentucky, Mississippi, Montana, Oklahoma, South Carolina, and Wyoming.

Cholula Hot Sauce
Cholula brings a unique blend of arbol and piquin peppers for a smooth and slightly smoky flavor. This brand is preferred in Oregon, Utah, Virginia, and Wisconsin, offering a balanced heat that enhances dishes without overpowering them.

Louisiana The Perfect Hot Sauce
A staple in Southern kitchens, Louisiana Brand relies on a simple mix of aged peppers, vinegar, and salt. It is most popular in states including Arkansas, Louisiana, Tennessee and Texas, reflecting its strong regional roots.

Texas Pete Hot Sauce
Originating from North Carolina, Texas Pete is known for its mild, vinegary heat. It is a top choice in North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia, appreciated for its balance of flavor and spice.

Tapatio Hot Sauce
California’s favorite, Tapatio, offers a garlicky heat without the vinegar taste. Known for being spicier than Cholula but smoother than Tabasco, it is ideal for a variety of dishes from tacos to burritos.

505 Southwestern Hot Sauce
In New Mexico, 505 Southwestern is the preferred brand, known for its smoky flavor derived from fire-roasted Hatch chiles. It’s a versatile choice for enhancing burritos, tacos, and queso.

Tabasco Pepper Sauce
As one of the oldest American hot sauces, Tabasco maintains its presence primarily in Hawaii. With its thin, vinegary profile, it complements a wide range of dishes, from gumbo to cocktails, and has been produced on Avery Island, Louisiana, since 1868.