Ready to add some Southern flair to your next barbecue? Let me introduce you to the zesty magic of Alabama White Sauce. This creamy, tangy concoction is a staple at backyard cookouts across the South, renowned for transforming grilled or smoked chicken into something truly unforgettable. With a punchy vinegar bite, a sneaky kick of horseradish, and the effortless richness of mayonnaise, Alabama White Sauce brings complex, craveable flavor to everything it touches. Whether you spread it on pulled pork, drizzle it over veggies, or dunk your fries, this sauce is about to become your new favorite go-to condiment.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Alabama White Sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The secret to heavenly Alabama White Sauce is all in the smart, simple pantry staples. Each ingredient plays its own role—some add creamy body, some a hint of zing, and others just the right hint of heat. Here’s what you’ll need and why you shouldn’t skip any of them!

Mayonnaise: The creamy foundation—use a good-quality mayo for the smoothest, richest sauce.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Brings much-needed tang and brightness to cut through the richness.
Lemon Juice: Adds an extra pop of acidity and freshness that makes the flavors sing.
Prepared Horseradish: Gives the sauce its signature peppery bite (adjust to taste for more or less heat).
Dijon Mustard: Lends a mild sharpness and a subtle depth you’ll love.
Worcestershire Sauce: Adds umami and a touch of savoriness that rounds out the sauce.
Garlic Powder: For gentle garlicky warmth without overpowering the blend.
Onion Powder: Layers in an earthy undertone that makes every bite more interesting.
Black Pepper: Complements the horseradish and gives the sauce an aromatic kick.
Salt: Pulls all the flavors together; just a little goes a long way.
Cayenne Pepper (optional): If you want a subtle but unmistakable heat, don’t skip this!

How to Make Alabama White Sauce

Step 1: Gather and Measure All Ingredients

Begin by assembling everything you need for your Alabama White Sauce. Measure out each ingredient and have them ready to go—the mixing process goes quickly, and a little prep now saves you from frantic rummaging later.

Step 2: Whisk the Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, prepared horseradish, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk everything together until you have a smooth and uniform base. This is the creamy, tangy foundation your sauce is built on.

Step 3: Add Dry Spices

Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and (if you like things spicy) cayenne pepper. Stir until the mixture is thoroughly combined. At this point, the sauce should look creamy and flecked with spices.

Step 4: Chill and Let the Flavors Meld

Transfer your Alabama White Sauce to an airtight container or just cover the mixing bowl. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes—this short rest lets all the bold flavors mellow and mingle, resulting in a sauce that’s remarkably well-balanced.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your chilled Alabama White Sauce over grilled chicken, pulled pork, fresh veggies, or as a creative dip. Feel free to serve it at room temperature if that’s your style; just give it a stir before using for maximum creaminess.

How to Serve Alabama White Sauce

Garnishes

Give your sauce a hint of color and texture by topping it with fresh chives, a dusting of smoked paprika, or just a twist of black pepper. A sprinkle of finely chopped pickles can add unexpected crunch and brightness.

Side Dishes

Turn your barbecue into a feast by pairing dishes with big flavors and contrasting textures. Sweet cornbread, crisp coleslaw, juicy smoked chicken, or roasted potato wedges all make ideal companions for Alabama White Sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Think outside the squeeze bottle: drizzle Alabama White Sauce in zigzags over sliders, serve it in a ramekin for dunking fries, or swirl it across a platter of grilled veggies. A little presentation pizzazz means people are instantly intrigued—and coming back for seconds!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pour any extra Alabama White Sauce into a clean, airtight jar or container. It’ll keep beautifully in the fridge for up to one week. Be sure to give it a quick stir before each use to maintain that dreamy, silky texture.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t recommended for this sauce, as the mayonnaise base tends to separate after thawing. For the freshest flavor and creamiest texture, stick to making smaller batches and keeping them refrigerated.

Reheating

Alabama White Sauce is best enjoyed cold or closer to room temperature. If it’s overly chilled and you prefer it less firm, simply leave it out for 10–15 minutes before serving. Whisk to restore its luscious consistency and enjoy.

FAQs

Can I use light mayonnaise for this recipe?

Absolutely! Light mayo will still give you good creaminess, though the sauce will be a bit less rich. For the full Alabama White Sauce flavor, opt for a high-quality brand, whether full-fat or reduced-fat.

Is there a substitute for horseradish?

If you’re out of horseradish or don’t care for its flavor, try a little extra Dijon mustard for a mild kick, or add some prepared wasabi for more heat. The sauce’s character will change, but it will still be delicious.

Can I make Alabama White Sauce in advance?

In fact, letting it sit overnight in the fridge is even better! The flavors deepen and meld as it rests, so don’t hesitate to prepare this sauce up to two days ahead.

How spicy is this sauce?

It’s meant to be flavorful more than fiery. The horseradish and optional cayenne provide a controlled heat (nothing too overwhelming), but you can always adjust the amount to suit your own taste buds.

What meats pair best with Alabama White Sauce?

Traditionally, it’s unbeatable over smoked or grilled chicken, but don’t stop there! It’s also phenomenal on pulled pork, turkey, grilled vegetables, fried fish, or even as a fun twist in potato salad instead of regular mayo.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason Alabama White Sauce is legendary at Southern cookouts—one taste and you’re hooked. Give this recipe a spot in your condiment lineup, and let it steal the show at your next gathering. You’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

Alabama White Sauce Recipe

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4.7 from 29 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling)
Yield: 1 1/2 cups 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Alabama White Sauce is a tangy, creamy, and slightly spicy condiment that is perfect for pairing with smoked or grilled meats. It’s a versatile sauce that can also be used as a dipping sauce for fries and veggies.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Alabama White Sauce:

1 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

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Instructions

In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, horseradish, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
Add the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir until fully combined.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

Alabama White Sauce is perfect for smoked or grilled chicken, pulled pork, or as a zesty dip for fries and veggies.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Adjust the amount of horseradish or cayenne to suit your heat preference.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Condiment
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: Southern American