The History of Alabama White Sauce
Alabama White Sauce is one of the South's most unique barbecue sauces. Unlike traditional tomato-based BBQ sauces, Alabama White Sauce is made with mayonnaise, vinegar, black pepper, and seasonings.
The sauce originated in Northern Alabama at Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q in Decatur, Alabama during the 1920s. It was originally created as a basting and dipping sauce for smoked chicken, helping keep the meat moist while adding a tangy, peppery flavor.
Today, Alabama White Sauce has become popular across the country and is used on everything from chicken wings to sandwiches and grilled vegetables.
Why You'll Love This Alabama White Sauce
Bold tangy flavor
Ready in 5 minutes
Perfect for BBQ chicken
Easy pantry
Ingredients
Great as a dipping sauce
Authentic Southern recipe
Ingredients
1 cup mayonnaise
¼ cup apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon coarse black pepper
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Equipment Needed
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Airtight container
How to Make Alabama White Sauce
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
Add mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, horseradish, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper to a bowl.
Step 2: Whisk
Whisk until smooth and fully combined.
Step 3: Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Step 4: Serve
Use as a sauce, dip, or marinade.
What Does Alabama White Sauce Taste Like?
Alabama White Sauce is:
Tangy
Creamy
Peppery
Slightly smoky
Slightly spicy
The vinegar cuts through rich meats while the mayonnaise creates a creamy texture that's unlike any other barbecue sauce.
What to Serve with Alabama White Sauce
Proteins
Smoked Chicken
Grilled Chicken Thighs
Chicken Wings
Pulled Pork
Turkey Breast
Grilled Shrimp
Side Dishes
Coleslaw
Potato Salad
Baked Beans
Cornbread
Mac and Cheese
Grilled Corn
Drink Pairings
Sweet Tea
The classic Southern pairing.
Fresh Lemonade
Balances the tangy sauce beautifully.
Arnold Palmer
Tea and lemonade complement smoked meats perfectly.
Peach Sweet Tea
A Southern favorite for backyard barbecues.
Light Lager Beer
Pairs well with smoked chicken and tangy sauces.
Expert Tips
Use real mayonnaise.
Freshly cracked black pepper works best.
Let the sauce chill before serving.
Add extra vinegar for more tang.
Make a day ahead for even better flavor.
Variations
Spicy Alabama White Sauce
Add extra cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
Smoked Alabama White Sauce
Add ½ teaspoon smoked paprika.
Honey Alabama White Sauce
Add 1 tablespoon honey for sweetness.
Garlic Alabama White Sauce
Double the garlic powder.
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
Do not freeze.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Alabama White Sauce white?
The sauce uses mayonnaise as its base rather than ketchup or tomato sauce.
What meat is Alabama White Sauce traditionally served with?
Smoked chicken is the original and most popular pairing.
Can I use it as a marinade?
Yes. It works wonderfully as both a marinade and finishing sauce.
More Sauce Recipes You'll Love
Big Mac Sauce Recipe
Ed's Secret Sauce Recipe
Chick-fil-A Sauce Recipe
Cane's Sauce Recipe
Burger Sauce Recipe
Boom Boom Sauce Recipe
More BBQ Recipes You'll Love
Smoked Chicken
BBQ Chicken Thighs
Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Grilled Chicken Wings
BBQ Bacon Burger
Southern Coleslaw
Final Thoughts
This authentic Alabama White Sauce Recipe delivers the creamy, tangy, peppery flavor that made it a Southern barbecue legend. Whether you're serving smoked chicken, grilled pork, or crispy wings, this sauce adds unforgettable flavor to every bite.