Have you ever tried a white barbecue sauce? I know — it sounds a little strange if you’ve only ever had the typical brown, smoky kind. But trust me, once you dip your first piece of grilled chicken or drizzle it over pulled pork, you’ll never look back.

I first discovered Alabama white BBQ sauce at a neighborhood cookout years ago. I’d brought my usual homemade slaw and was standing by the grill when someone passed me a squirt bottle filled with what looked like ranch dressing. “You have to try this,” she said. One bite and I was hooked.

This creamy, tangy, peppery sauce is a Southern classic for a reason — it’s the perfect balance of bold flavor and smooth texture. And unlike traditional BBQ sauces, it’s mayo-based, which gives it that rich, velvety finish that clings beautifully to grilled meats.

Now it’s a staple in our summer dinners — and honestly, I even sneak it onto my roasted veggies and grain bowls. It’s that good.

Ingredients for Alabama White BBQ Sauce Recipe

• 1 cup mayonnaise

• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish (not creamy)

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon sugar

• Optional: a few dashes of hot sauce (like Tabasco), to taste

How to Make Alabama White BBQ Sauce Recipe

1. Whisk it all together. In a medium bowl, combine all ingredients. Whisk until smooth and fully blended.

2. Taste and adjust. Add more vinegar for extra tang, more horseradish for bite, or a few drops of hot sauce if you like heat.

3. Chill it. Let the sauce sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving — this helps the flavors come together.

4. Serve it up. Use it as a dipping sauce, drizzle over grilled chicken, pork, or even salmon. It’s also amazing as a sandwich spread or salad dressing.

Sarah’s Simple Tips

• Use full-fat mayo. This gives the sauce that luscious, creamy texture.

• Homemade horseradish = next level. If you can find fresh or refrigerated horseradish (not the creamy stuff), it gives the sauce that sharp, authentic kick.

• Make ahead. This sauce keeps well in the fridge for up to a week in a sealed jar. Perfect for meal prep!

Flavorful Conclusion

Once you make this tangy Alabama white BBQ sauce, you’ll wonder how you ever grilled without it. It’s simple, quick, and wildly flavorful — the kind of sauce that instantly makes dinner feel special, even on a busy weeknight. Try it once and it might just earn a permanent spot in your fridge door.

Nutrition (per 2 tbsp serving):

Calories: 120
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Carbohydrates: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 0g
Sodium: 160mg