Save
This creamy smoky dipping sauce brings the best of barbecue and chipotle flavors into one easy mix. It’s a game changer on fries burgers or onion rings and comes together in just minutes making it ideal when you want something flavorful without fuss.
I whipped this up once when I craved Red Robin but wanted to avoid the restaurant run and ended up making it a regular at our weekend cookouts
Ingredients
- Three quarters cup BBQ sauce: choose Hickory or Original flavor to control the depth of smokiness and sweetness
- One cup mayonnaise: this creates the creamy base so go for a good quality full fat mayo for richness
- Half teaspoon chipotle chili powder: it’s the secret smoky heat adding a subtle complexity pick a fresh tin for best flavor
- Quarter teaspoon garlic powder: adds a mild savory note make sure it’s not clumped for even mixing
Instructions
- Build The Base:
- In a medium mixing bowl pour the BBQ sauce and mayonnaise together. Use a whisk to combine them until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is key to ensuring your sauce has a uniform texture with a balanced flavor base from both components.
- Add The Heat:
- Sprinkle in the chipotle chili powder and garlic powder. Whisk again thoroughly so the smoky spice and garlic flavor are evenly distributed. The chili powder will transform the sauce giving it that distinctive warm smokiness.
- Chill For Flavor:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and deepen creating a well-rounded dip. Resist the urge to skip this since the sauce tastes much better after chilling.
My favorite part about this sauce is the chipotle chili powder. It adds a smoky heat without overpowering the BBQ sauce making it addictive. It always reminds me of summer evenings spent around a campfire where flavors are bold and warm.
Storage tips
Store this sauce in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep its flavor and texture for up to seven days. If it thickens too much refrigerate it a bit before serving or stir in a splash of water or extra BBQ sauce to loosen.
Ingredient swaps
Try swapping the mayo for Greek yogurt if you want a tangier slightly lighter version. Use a smoky chipotle hot sauce instead of powder for a different smoky heat profile. Replace garlic powder with fresh minced garlic if you like a more pungent garlic note just add it after mixing the sauce base and refrigerate.
Serving ideas
This sauce is fantastic drizzled over burgers or as a dip for crispy fries and onion rings. Mix it into potato salad for a smoky twist or use it as a spread in sandwiches. Try it as a dressing for taco bowls to add creamy smoky flavor without extra heat.
Seasonal twists
In summer add fresh chopped cilantro or green onions for a touch of brightness. In colder months stir in a dash of smoked paprika for extra warmth. For a holiday twist blend in some cranberry sauce to create a sweet and smoky contrast perfect for turkey sandwiches.
Keep a jar in the fridge because it elevates any quick meal with minimum effort.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What makes this sauce smoky?
The smokiness comes from the Hickory-flavored BBQ sauce and the chipotle chili powder, which adds a subtle smoky heat.
- → Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, add more or less chipotle chili powder to suit your preferred heat intensity.
- → How long should the sauce chill before serving?
Refrigerate the sauce for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld for a creamier texture.
- → What dishes pair well with this sauce?
It pairs wonderfully with fries, onion rings, burgers, or as a dipping sauce for grilled foods.
- → How long can the sauce be stored in the fridge?
Store in an airtight container for up to one week to maintain freshness and flavor.