What dipping sauces come with Applebee's Happy Hour appetizers?

Applebee’s is known for its casual, crowd-friendly dining and especially for its satisfying Happy Hour offerings. During this time, customers can enjoy a selection of popular appetizers at reduced prices, making it the perfect moment to sample and share favorites. But what truly brings these appetizers to life are the dipping sauces that accompany them. Flavorful, bold, and thoughtfully paired, these sauces play a huge role in enhancing the overall experience. So, what dipping sauces come with Applebee’s Happy Hour appetizers? Let’s take a closer look.

Boneless Wings: A Choice of Bold Sauces

One of the most popular items on the Happy Hour menu is the boneless wings. These crispy, tender pieces of chicken are served tossed in your choice of sauce. While not a dip in the traditional sense, the coating itself functions as the main flavor enhancer. Options typically include:

• Classic Buffalo Sauce: Tangy and spicy, this is a go-to for wing lovers.

• Honey BBQ: Sweet and smoky, a great choice for those who like a milder kick.

• Sweet Asian Chile: A sticky, sweet sauce with a touch of heat and ginger.

• Garlic Parmesan: Rich, creamy, and savory with a strong garlic flavor.

Guests can often request additional sauce on the side, depending on availability.

Mozzarella Sticks: Marinara Sauce

Applebee’s mozzarella sticks are another Happy Hour staple. These golden-fried cheese sticks come with a classic marinara dipping sauce. The marinara is warm, slightly tangy, and seasoned with herbs like oregano and basil. It’s a traditional pairing that balances the richness of the melted mozzarella and the crisp coating.

Chicken Wonton Tacos: No Dip, But Plenty of Drizzle

Though not served with a side dipping sauce, the chicken wonton tacos are drizzled with a flavorful blend of Asian-style sauce—often a combination of soy, ginger, and sesame oil—adding a punch of flavor. While there’s no dip on the side, the built-in saucing makes these mini tacos flavorful on every bite.

Spinach & Artichoke Dip: Tortilla Chips and Creamy Dip

This appetizer flips the script—a dip comes first, and the tortilla chips are used to scoop it. The spinach and artichoke dip is a creamy mix of spinach, melted cheese, and chopped artichokes. It’s savory, cheesy, and slightly tangy. The chips are lightly salted and made for dipping into this hearty and warm bowl of comfort.

Brew Pub Pretzels & Beer Cheese Dip: Two Dips Included

The warm pretzel sticks served during Happy Hour come with not one but two delicious dipping options:

• Beer Cheese Dip: A smooth, cheesy dip with a subtle beer flavor that adds richness and depth. It’s creamy and slightly sharp from the cheese.

• Honey Dijon Mustard: A tangy, slightly sweet mustard-based dip that offers a contrast to the richness of the beer cheese.

The combination of these two dipping sauces gives customers the choice between creamy and tangy, making the pretzels a versatile option.

Chicken Quesadilla: Salsa and Sour Cream

The chicken quesadilla is a fan favorite for a reason. Filled with seasoned grilled chicken, melted cheese, and sometimes peppers or onions, this dish is served with:

• Salsa: A chunky tomato-based dip with herbs, mild spices, and a fresh, zesty flavor.

• Sour Cream: Cool and creamy, it balances out the heat and spice in the quesadilla.

Some locations may also offer pico de gallo or guacamole on request, though these aren’t always included in the Happy Hour version.

Neighborhood Nachos (If Offered): Loaded with Sauces

Not always available on the Happy Hour menu, but sometimes featured as a regional or seasonal item, the Neighborhood Nachos typically come pre-loaded with:

• Queso Cheese Sauce: Warm, creamy cheese with a mild heat and a rich texture.

• Sour Cream: Drizzled or dolloped on top for balance.

• Pico de Gallo or Salsa: Adds freshness and acidity.

Though not a side dip, the layers of sauces built into this appetizer give it tons of flavor.

Are Additional Sauces Available?

At many Applebee’s locations, customers can request extra sauce on the side, although some may charge a small fee. Common extras include:

• Ranch Dressing: Often requested with wings or mozzarella sticks.

• Blue Cheese Dressing: Another popular option for wing lovers who want a traditional pairing.

• Chipotle Lime Aioli: Sometimes available for items like tacos or quesadillas.

Whether or not these extras are included during Happy Hour depends on the specific location and manager discretion.

Why Dipping Sauces Matter

Dipping sauces may seem like a small detail, but they significantly influence the taste, texture, and enjoyment of an appetizer. Applebee’s recognizes this by offering distinct sauces that either complement or contrast with their food items. A good sauce enhances the flavor of an appetizer without overpowering it—and Applebee’s sauces strike that balance well.

Final Thoughts

Applebee’s Happy Hour isn’t just about discounted food—it’s about flavor-packed moments that feel indulgent yet affordable. From the spicy kick of buffalo wings to the warm, melty goodness of beer cheese dip, the dipping sauces at Applebee’s play a central role in making each appetizer unforgettable.