Low-Carb Sauces: Your Go-To Options
Navigating a restaurant menu on a low-carb diet can be a challenge, especially when it comes to sauces loaded with hidden sugars. At Buffalo Wild Wings, however, many of their signature sauces are surprisingly low in carbohydrates, allowing you to enjoy your wings guilt-free. The key is to stick with traditional bone-in wings, as the boneless wings are breaded and contain significantly more carbs. When choosing a sauce, you'll generally find that the spicier hot sauces have the lowest carb counts, as they rely on peppers for flavor rather than sugary ingredients.
The following is a breakdown of the best low-carb sauces and dry seasonings available at Buffalo Wild Wings, based on a typical serving size. Carb counts may vary slightly by region and formulation, so it's always a good idea to check the most current nutritional information on the official website if you are tracking your macros meticulously. For simplicity, the following table summarizes carb counts for a single-wing serving, using the most recent data available.
The Hottest and Spiciest Options
When it comes to the lowest carb counts, the spicy flavors are your best bet. Hot sauces are typically made with a base of vinegar, peppers, and spices, which are naturally low in carbohydrates. Sauces like Mild, Medium, Hot, and Spicy Garlic are classic choices that offer great flavor without the carb load. Even the fiery Blazin' sauce is remarkably low-carb, allowing even the most adventurous eaters to stay on track.
The Flavorful and Savory Options
If you prefer savory over spicy, Buffalo Wild Wings still has you covered. The Parmesan Garlic sauce is a creamy, rich option that is surprisingly low in carbs. It combines roasted garlic and Italian herbs for a decadent taste that feels indulgent without the high carb count. While the Hot BBQ sauce adds a bit of smoky sweetness, it is important to remember that it has slightly more carbs than the pure pepper-based options.
The Dry Seasoning Alternative
For those who want zero-carb flavoring, the dry seasonings are the perfect solution. These rubs add a punch of flavor with virtually no carbohydrates. The Lemon Pepper, Salt & Vinegar, Chipotle BBQ, and Desert Heat seasonings are all excellent choices. Dry rubs allow you to control the exact amount of flavor without any of the added sugars found in many wet sauces. This is an ideal choice for strict keto dieters or anyone looking to minimize their carbohydrate intake as much as possible.
Comparison Table: Low-Carb Sauces at BWW
| Sauce/Seasoning | Carbohydrates per serving | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mild | ~1g | Classic, low-heat buffalo flavor. |
| Medium | ~1g | Perfectly balanced heat, still very low carb. |
| Hot | ~2g | Memorable heat for spice lovers. |
| Spicy Garlic | ~2g | Combines heat with a savory garlic finish. |
| Wild | ~3g | Blistering heat for the truly adventurous. |
| Parmesan Garlic | ~3g | Creamy, savory, and rich, great alternative to hot sauces. |
| Nashville Hot | ~3g | Regional hot sauce with a spicy kick. |
| Blazin' | ~4g | The spiciest sauce on the menu, still low carb. |
| Hot BBQ | ~4g | Some sweetness, but still manageable for low-carb dieters. |
| Dry Rubs (Lemon Pepper, Chipotle BBQ, etc.) | ~1g | Almost zero-carb flavor, great for keto. |
Sauces to Avoid on a Low-Carb Diet
While Buffalo Wild Wings offers many low-carb options, a significant portion of their menu is full of sugary sauces that can quickly derail your diet. These typically include any flavor that sounds sweet or fruity. You should actively avoid sauces such as Asian Zing, Honey BBQ, Teriyaki, Mango Habanero, and Caribbean Jerk. These sauces rely heavily on sugar and contain a high amount of carbohydrates per serving, which would be an issue for those monitoring their intake. For example, the Asian Zing sauce contains as much as 21g of carbohydrates per serving, a sharp contrast to the 1-2g found in the classic hot sauces.
The Best Way to Order Low-Carb Wings
To ensure your meal is as low-carb as possible, follow these tips: First, always order traditional bone-in wings instead of boneless, which are breaded. Second, ask for your wings to be "naked" or extra crispy if you prefer less coating, and request your sauce on the side so you can control the amount you use. Pair your wings with celery sticks and blue cheese or ranch dressing, which are also low-carb options. Avoiding high-carb sides like fries or slaw is also a must. For the most accurate nutritional information, consider referencing the official Buffalo Wild Wings nutrition guide on their website before your visit, as ingredients and carb counts can sometimes change.
Conclusion
Eating low carb at Buffalo Wild Wings is entirely achievable with the right strategy. By focusing on traditional wings and opting for dry seasonings or classic pepper-based sauces like Mild, Medium, Hot, and Spicy Garlic, you can enjoy a flavorful meal while staying within your dietary restrictions. Remember to be wary of sweet or fruity sauces, which are high in sugar and carbohydrates. With these tips, you can confidently navigate the menu and indulge in your favorite wings without a carb overload.
