Hot sauce loyalty runs deep, and thanks to Instacart’s 2025 report, we now know which brands are winning the spice game across the U.S.
The grocery delivery giant analyzed purchase data to find the most-bought hot sauce in every state, and the results prove that while some classics still dominate, regional favorites are holding their ground.
Most Popular In: 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, Wisconsin
If Hot Sauce were a democracy, Frank’s would win in a landslide. Frank’s RedHot has been spicing up American kitchens since 1918 (including our own for a taste test), and based on Instacart’s latest data, it’s still more than relevant. This cayenne-packed classic is the big secret behind Buffalo wings, which — fun fact — were first made with Frank’s in 1964 at the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, New York. It’s got just enough heat to keep things interesting without setting your mouth on fire, making it the preferred choice of heat in 29 states.
Most Popular In: Florida, Kentucky, Mississippi, Montana, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Wyoming
Aldi shoppers know what’s up. Burman’s Hot Sauce is the budget-friendly underdog that punches well above its weight. It’s got that classic vinegar-cayenne kick, tastes eerily similar to pricier brands, and costs a fraction of the price. No wonder it’s the top pick in seven states.
Most Popular In: Oregon, Utah, Virginia, Wisconsin
Unlike some hot sauces that just slap you in the face with heat, Cholula actually elevates your foo. Made with arbol and piquin peppers, it brings a smooth, slightly smoky spice that doesn’t overpower your food.
Most Popular In: Arkansas, Louisiana, Tennessee, Texas
Louisiana Brand is the kind of hot sauce that’s been holding down Southern kitchens for generations. It’s a simple mix of aged peppers, vinegar, and salt, but somehow, that’s all it needs.
Most Popular In: North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia
So, Texas Pete isn’t from Texas — it was born in North Carolina, and honestly, that just makes it even more legendary. This sauce is mild, vinegary, and just spicy enough.
Most Popular In: California
California’s top pick, Tapatío, has a garlicky heat without the vinegar tang. It’s spicier than Cholula but smoother than Tabasco and perfect fortacos, eggs, burritos—pretty much anything.
Most Popular In: New Mexico
Made from fire-roasted Hatch chiles, 505 Southwestern brings a smoky, mild heat that tastes like the real thing. It’s the top pick in New Mexico and works great on burritos, tacos, and queso.
Most Popular In: Hawaii
The OG of American hot sauces, but these days, it’s only the top pick in Hawaii. Made on Avery Island, Louisiana, since 1868, Tabasco is all about thin, vinegary heat that works on everything from gumbo to Bloody Marys.
For more fun food trivia, sign up for our free newsletters.
