5-Minute White BBQ Sauce Recipe

Whether you're grilling chicken or pulling together a Southern-style platter, this white bbq sauce recipe is a tangy twist on the classic. Inspired by Alabama white bbq sauce, it’s a smooth blend of mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, horseradish, and spices—delivering bold flavor with a peppery kick. It’s incredibly easy to make with just a few pantry ingredients and perfect for dipping, drizzling, or slathering over everything from smoked chicken to roasted veggies.

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It's a must-make.

This sauce is lightened up with flexible options and made with wholesome pantry staples—here’s why it’s a recipe you’ll make on repeat:

• Creamy and tangy: a bold twist on traditional barbecue sauces with a smooth, zippy finish.
• No cooking required: just whisk it all together—easy, fast, and no stovetop needed.
• Flexible ingredients: works with light, vegan, or dairy-free options to match your needs.
• Healthier than store-bought: no preservatives, low sugar, and easy to lighten up with better-for-you swaps.

Let’s talk texture and flavor.

Creamy, tangy, and bold with just a whisper of heat—this barbecue sauce is all about balance. The mayo base makes it rich and velvety, while the apple cider and lemon juice cut through with a bright acidity. You’ll get that distinct zip from the horseradish, the tang of Dijon mustard, and a nice back-end heat from the cayenne pepper and freshly ground black pepper. It’s smooth and pourable, perfect for coating anything you throw on the grill.

What you'll need.

Here's what you're going to need to make white bbq sauce:

• Mayonnaise: a rich, creamy base. You can use full-fat, light, or vegan varieties.
• Sour cream: adds a nice tang and helps lighten the texture. Swap in Greek yogurt or plant-based sour cream if needed.
• Lemon juice: for that citrusy pop of brightness.
• Horseradish: gives it just the right kick without overpowering.
• Dijon mustard: for complexity and that tangy edge.
• Seasonings: paprika, ground pepper, and salt to taste.

Customize it your way.

This white bbq sauce recipe is already flexible, but here are some fun swaps and additions to suit your taste.

• Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a higher-protein version.
• Yellow mustard instead of Dijon for a more mellow profile.
• Add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.
• Use smoked paprika in place of regular paprika for more smoky depth.
• Add extra horseradish if you like more heat.
• Add finely chopped herbs (like parsley or chives) for added color and garden-fresh flavor.
• Add a splash of hot sauce – if you like a bold heat finish.

Flexible dietary swaps.

Looking to make this Carolina white bbq sauce classic work for your dietary needs? You’re covered.

• Dairy-Free: use plant-based mayo and sour cream.
• Lighter options: substitute plain nonfat Greek yogurt or light mayonnaise for regular sour cream for less fat and higher protein (if using Greek yogurt).
• Low-Sugar: skip the brown sugar or use a brown sugar substitute.
• Vegan: sub in vegan mayo and plant-based sour cream.

How to make Alabama white bbq sauce.

This recipe couldn’t be easier—and there's no cooking required.

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Mix

Mix all ingredients together in a bowl. Adjust consistency by adding water. Season to taste. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

How to use it.

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This white bbq sauce is endlessly versatile—use it as a bold flavor booster in tons of ways.

• Slathered on grilled chicken or smoked chicken.
• Drizzled over brisket, pulled pork, or roasted turkey.
• As a creamy dipping sauce for wings or veggies.
• Spread onto sandwiches or wraps.
• Tossed with slaw or potato salad for a tangy twist.
• Served alongside grilled tofu or roasted vegetables.

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