Creamy Alabama White BBQ Sauce skips the ketchup and is built on tangy apple cider vinegar, smooth mayonnaise, and just enough horseradish and cayenne to keep things interesting. There’s no cooking involved, just a quick whisk in a bowl and a short chill in the fridge. Spoon it over chicken, drizzle it on fried chicken, or serve it as a dip for crispy okra. This mayo-based barbecue sauce is sharp, savory, and ready in about five minutes.
Not Your Usual Barbecue Sauce
If you grew up on thick, sweet red barbecue sauce, this one might catch you off guard at first. It’s pale and creamy, but don’t let the color fool you. The apple cider vinegar gives it some tanginess, the squeeze of lemon keeps it bright, and the horseradish with Worcestershire adds just enough heat to make it interesting.
I reach for it anytime something crispy hits the table. Fried okra, fried pickles, crispy chicken wings, a pile of hot fries, it works on all of it. It’s also surprisingly good on a juicy burger or spread on a sandwich where you’d normally swipe on mayo. It coats beautifully but is loose enough to drizzle right over the top without feeling heavy.
The only thing you don’t want to skip is the chill time. Give it about 30 minutes in the refrigerator and everything settles. The flavors mellow, and the texture thickens slightly. It’s a small step, but it makes a difference.
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This is a slightly sweet bbq sauce and not tangy like a Southern comeback sauce. They can be served with the same type of food depending on what flavor you’re going for.
Southern Sauce Staples
A few basic pantry staples and you’re one step closer to the best white BBQ sauce you’ve ever had. You’ll find exact amounts in the recipe card at the bottom of the post.
Making the Best Alabama White Barbecue Sauce
Step One: Whisk Until Smooth
Whisk well: You want the brown sugar and spices fully dissolved so the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step Two: Chill Before Serving
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes so the flavor mellows and the sauce thickens a bit.
If you’ve never tried Alabama White BBQ Sauce, give it a try. I don’t really care for horseradish but it adds just the right flavor. It’s quick to whisk together, made with simple pantry ingredients, and brings a bright, tangy kick to anything you spoon it over. Keep a jar in the fridge and you’ll find yourself reaching for it more often than you expect.
Make ahead: This is even better after a few hours in the fridge.
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Creamy Alabama White BBQ Sauce That Skips the Ketchup
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons prepared horseradish
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne
Instructions
- Whisk together all of the ingredients in a bowl until it is smooth and creamy. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Barbara’s Tips + Notes
- Store: Keep Alabama White BBQ Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It holds well for up to a week. Stir before serving since it can settle slightly after sitting.
Nutrition
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