Quiznos Peppercorn Sauce Recipe
Peppercorn sauce is a classic choice for steak nights, and it always feels right on the table.
When I plan a big steak dinner, there is no question about the sauce. Creamy peppercorn sauce is always my top pick, and the Quiznos Peppercorn Sauce has that smooth, bold taste I enjoy. It brings rich cream, gentle heat, and deep flavor together in one spoon.
I first noticed how popular this sauce became when friends talked about the Peppercorn Steak sub nonstop. Fans love how it turns a simple sandwich into a standout bite.
That love inspired me to share my copycat Quiznos Peppercorn Sauce Recipe. This easy copycat peppercorn sauce is made with simple steps and fresh ingredients.
What Is Quiznos Peppercorn Sauce
Quiznos peppercorn sauce is a smooth and creamy condiment. This sauce combines cream, peppercorns, mustard, and savory ingredients to create a rich taste.
It became a signature component of their current Peppercorn Steak sub when they added it in March 2015.
The sauce has a silky texture with small bits of peppercorn throughout. These peppercorns add a mild spicy note that balances perfectly with the creaminess.
Many people order the Peppercorn Steak sub just for this sauce. The combination of tangy mustard and pepper creates a unique profile.
Why You’ll Love This Copycat Recipe
Authentic Flavor: Tastes just like the original Quiznos peppercorn sauce. You get that same creamy, peppery kick that made the restaurant version so popular.
Customizable: Adjust spice, tanginess, or creaminess to your preference. You control every flavor element to match your personal taste perfectly.
Budget-Friendly: Costs less than buying multiple sandwiches just for the sauce. One batch costs just a few dollars and gives you plenty of sauce.
Small batch Friendly: Makes just enough without waste. The recipe yields the perfect amount for several meals without excess.
Essential Kitchen Equipment
- Medium Saucepan – For cooking the sauce
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula – To stir ingredients smoothly
- Microplane or Grater – For fresh garlic prep
- Measuring Cups and Spoons – Accurate ingredient portions
- Small Cutting Board – To chop shallots safely
- Sharp Knife – For fine shallot chopping
Quiznos Peppercorn Sauce Ingredients
1. Rapeseed or Sunflower Oil (1 tablespoon): This neutral-flavored oil works as the cooking base for sautéing without adding competing flavors. Canola oil, vegetable oil, or light olive oil can be used instead. Avoid strongly flavored oils, such as sesame or coconut oil.
2. Medium Shallot, Finely Chopped (1): Shallots provide a delicate, sweet onion flavor that’s milder than regular onions. You can substitute one small yellow onion or two tablespoons of finely minced white onion. Red onions are also an option, although they may slightly alter the sauce’s color.
3. Garlic, Crushed or Finely Grated (1 clove): Fresh garlic adds aromatic richness and subtle sharpness that balances the peppercorns. As an alternative, use half a teaspoon of garlic powder or one teaspoon of jarred minced garlic; however, fresh garlic offers a superior flavor.
4. Black or Green Peppercorns (1 tablespoon): Whole peppercorns deliver the signature spicy, bold flavor defining this sauce. Black offers sharper heat, while green is milder and slightly fruity in taste. Cracked black pepper can work, but reduce it to two teaspoons. White peppercorns are also suitable if you prefer no dark specks.
5. Apple Cider Vinegar (2 teaspoon): Apple cider vinegar adds a rich flavor to the sauce. Alternatively, you can use extra beef stock if you prefer.
6. Fresh Beef Stock (500g pot or 2 cups): High-quality beef stock forms the savory backbone of the sauce. You may use low-sodium beef broth from cartons if needed, or mushroom stock for a vegetarian twist.
7. Whipping cream (100ml): Cream creates the signature smooth, velvety texture that makes this sauce perfect. Heavy cream or double cream works just as well, while half-and-half can be used for a lighter version, though it may not thicken as much.
8. Dijon Mustard (2 teaspoons): Dijon mustard contributes a tangy sharpness and helps emulsify the sauce, resulting in a smooth consistency. Whole-grain mustard is an excellent substitute for texture.
9. Salt (pinch): Salt enhances all flavors and helps draw moisture from shallots during cooking. Sea salt, kosher salt, or table salt are all suitable options. Adjust amounts based on the type, as different salts vary in concentration.
How to Make Quiznos Peppercorn Sauce Recipe at Home
Step 1 | Cook the Aromatics
Place a medium saucepan on the stove over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of sunflower or rapeseed oil and let it heat for about 30 seconds.
Then, add the finely chopped shallot and a small pinch of salt. Cook for about 5 minutes until the shallots are soft and clear.
Grate one garlic clove into the pan and stir for 30 seconds to 1 minute until you smell the garlic.
Step 2 | Toast the Peppercorns
Add 1 tablespoon of black or green peppercorns to the pan. Stir for about 30 seconds to release their flavor.
Step 3 | Add the Apple Cider Vinegar
Pour two teaspoons of Apple Cider Vinegar into the pan. Be careful, as it may spread shortly. Cook it for 2 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 4 | Add and Reduce the Stock
Add 500 grams (approximately 2 cups) of fresh beef stock. Please bring it to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Reduce the liquid by half over 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 5 | Finish with Cream and Mustard
Add 100 milliliters (just under ½ cup) of whipping cream and 2 teaspoons of Dijon mustard. Stir well and simmer for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, until the sauce has thickened.
Step 6 | Serve and Enjoy
Take the sauce off the heat and let it cool for a minute or two before serving – it will thicken slightly more as it cools.
Expert Tips for the Best Copycat Quiznos Peppercorn Sauce
1. Use Fresh Stock Always: Fresh stock makes a big difference in this sauce. Stock cubes are easy to use, but they often make the sauce too salty and dull. Store-bought fresh beef stock works much better.
2. Try Different Peppercorn Colors: Black peppercorns are classic, but green peppercorns give a fresher and slightly milder bite. Pink peppercorns add a soft, fruity note. I sometimes mix two types to create a more layered flavor.
3. Adjust the Cream for Richness: You can easily control the richness of the sauce. For a lighter version, use half cream and half milk. For an extra indulgent treat, stir in two more tablespoons of cream at the end. I adjust this based on the meal and my mood.
4. Keep Stirring While Reducing: Stir your sauce every 2 to 3 minutes while it reduces, preventing it from sticking to the pan bottom and burning. It also helps to reduce evenly.
8 Ways to Enjoy Quiznos Peppercorn Sauce
1. Classic Steak Topping: Pour it over grilled ribeye, sirloin, or filet mignon, and that’s what the sauce was born to do. The creamy pepper flavor complements beef perfectly.
2. Sandwich Spread: Use it on your homemade steak sandwiches just like Quiznos does. It works great on roast beef, turkey, or chicken sandwiches as well.
3. Burger Sauce: Forget plain mayo or ketchup. Put this peppercorn sauce on your next burger. It takes a regular burger and instantly elevates it to a gourmet level.
4. Chicken Topper: Grill some chicken breasts and spoon this sauce over them. The mild chicken really lets the sauce flavors shine through.
5. Dipping Sauce: Use it as a dip for French fries, onion rings, or crispy chicken tenders. I love dunking thick-cut fries in it.
6. Pasta Sauce: Toss it with fettuccine or penne for a quick cream sauce. Add some grilled chicken or shrimp, and you have a complete meal.
7. Turkey Cutlets Companion: This sauce pairs well with pan-seared turkey cutlets. The peppery kick balances the richness of the turkey.
8. Roasted Vegetable Drizzle: Pour it over roasted mushrooms, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts for a delicious addition. It makes veggies taste so much better.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Keep your sauce in a sealed container in the fridge. It will stay good for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm it slowly in a small pan on the stove over low heat. Stir it often. If the sauce seems too thick after storage, add a teaspoon of water or cream while reheating.
I don’t suggest freezing this sauce, as the cream can separate and change the texture when thawed.
Quiznos Peppercorn Sauce Recipe FAQs
1. Are green and black peppercorns the same?
They come from the same plant but are picked at different times. Green peppercorns have a milder, fresher taste.
Black peppercorns are dried and have a stronger, more familiar pepper flavor. For the most authentic copycat taste, look for jarred green peppercorns.
2. Can I make gumbo without a roux?
Yes, skip the roux in gumbo by using a slurry of cornstarch and water for thickening. Simmer the veggies and stock for an extended period to enhance the body.
Add filé powder at the end for flavor. My peppercorn sauce method demonstrates that reduction thickens nicely without the addition of flour. It works excellently for gluten-free gumbo as well.
3. Why did my sauce separate or look curdled?
It can happen if the heat is too high when you add the cream. Always simmer the sauce gently; don’t let it boil hard after the cream is in.
If it separates, remove it from the heat and whisk vigorously. Adding a spoonful of hot water and whisking can often bring it back together.
4. Can I make this sauce vegan or dairy-free?
You can replace the cream with coconut cream or another plant-based option. Use vegetable stock instead of beef stock.
This way, the sauce will still taste rich and creamy but will not contain any animal products.
5. Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, add more peppercorns for extra heat or reduce them for a milder taste. Taste as you go to get your preferred flavor.
Quiznos Peppercorn Sauce Recipe
Try this easy Quiznos Peppercorn Sauce recipe. Ready in 35 minutes, it’s creamy, peppery, and restaurant-style delicious!
Ingredients
- Rapeseed or Sunflower Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Medium Shallot, finely chopped: 1
- Garlic, crushed or grated: 1 clove
- Black or Green Peppercorns: 1 tablespoon
- Brandy: 2 tablespoons
- Fresh Beef Stock: 500 g (about 2 cups)
- Whipping Cream: 100 ml (just under ½ cup)
- Dijon Mustard: 2 teaspoons
- Salt: pinch
Instructions
- Place a medium saucepan on the stove over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of sunflower or rapeseed oil and let it heat for about 30 seconds.
- Then, add the finely chopped shallot and a small pinch of salt. Cook for about 5 minutes until the shallots are soft and clear.
- Grate one garlic clove into the pan and stir for 30 seconds to 1 minute until you smell the garlic.
- Add 1 tablespoon of black or green peppercorns to the pan. Stir for about 30 seconds to release their flavor.
- Pour two teaspoons of Apple Cider Vinegar into the pan. Be careful, as it may spread shortly. Cook it for 2 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Add 500 grams (approximately 2 cups) of fresh beef stock. Please bring it to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Reduce the liquid by half over 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add 100 milliliters (just under ½ cup) of whipping cream and 2 teaspoons of Dijon mustard. Stir well and simmer for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, until the sauce has thickened.
- Take the sauce off the heat and let it cool for a minute or two before serving – it will thicken slightly more as it cools.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 90
This Quiznos Peppercorn Sauce Recipe is rich, creamy, and full of flavor. It’s a must-try for anyone wanting authentic, easy copycat peppercorn sauce at home.
Try this easy Quiznos peppercorn sauce at home and share your favorite ways to enjoy it!
