There's something about a good dipping sauce that just makes everything taste better. This campfire sauce recipe is one of those easy little kitchen wins you'll keep coming back to. It's smoky, creamy, and has just the right amount of tang. Honestly, it's the kind of sauce that makes fries disappear faster than you expect.
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I first made this when Emily asked for a "special sauce" to go with burgers on a weeknight. I grabbed what I had on hand-BBQ sauce, mayo, and a little chipotle powder-and it turned out amazing. Now it's our go-to sauce for fries, onion rings, and even veggie sticks.
If you love dipping sauces, you should also try the homemade fry sauce recipe for another quick and tasty option.
What is campfire sauce?
Campfire sauce is a creamy blend of BBQ sauce and mayo with smoky seasonings mixed in. It's most famously known as the Red Robin Campfire Sauce, but the best part is-you can easily make it at home in just a couple of minutes.
It's smoky from the BBQ and chipotle, a little sweet, and super creamy thanks to the mayonnaise. Perfect for fries, burgers, or anything off the grill.
Ingredients you'll need
You don't need anything fancy for this recipe. Here's what goes into it:
- BBQ sauce - I used Sweet Baby Ray's Hickory and Brown Sugar, but any BBQ sauce works. A smoky one gives you that restaurant-style taste.
- Mayonnaise - Full-fat mayo like Duke's or Best Foods works best, but low-fat or vegan mayo works too.
- Chipotle chili powder - Adds a wonderful smoky kick. If you don't have it, use chili powder or paprika.
- Garlic powder - Balances out the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
That's it. Four simple ingredients, one incredible sauce.
How to make Campfire Sauce
This comes together in minutes, but letting it chill really takes it to the next level.
Step 1: Mix the ingredients
Add the BBQ sauce, mayonnaise, chipotle powder, and garlic powder to a medium bowl.
Step 2: Stir until smooth
Mix everything together until the sauce is completely combined.
Step 3: Chill the sauce
Cover the bowl and place it in the fridge for at least an hour. This gives the flavors time to blend together.
Recipe tips and variations
- Make it spicier - Add a splash of Tabasco or your favorite hot sauce.
- Ranch version - Mix half ranch dressing and half mayo with the rest of the ingredients for a fun twist.
- Keto-friendly - Use a sugar-free BBQ sauce.
- Extra smoky - Try smoked paprika in place of chipotle powder.
Storage instructions
Keep your campfire sauce in the fridge in an airtight container. It will stay good for about one week. Just give it a quick stir before serving.
How to use campfire sauce
- For dipping - Fries, onion rings, chicken tenders, or veggie sticks.
- On burgers - Spread it on buns instead of ketchup or mustard.
- With grilled food - Works great with chicken, hot dogs, or even grilled veggies.
- As a spread - Try it on wraps and sandwiches for extra flavor.
FAQ
Yes! In fact, it tastes even better if you make it a few hours ahead and let the flavors meld in the fridge.
About 5-7 days if kept in an airtight container.
Definitely. Add more chipotle powder, hot sauce, or even a pinch of cayenne.
As a dip for fries and onion rings, or as a spread on burgers and sandwiches.
Conclusion: Smoky, Creamy, and Unforgettable
This campfire sauce recipe is proof that the simplest recipes are often the best. Four ingredients, a quick stir, and a little chill time-and you've got a sauce that makes burgers, fries, and grilled food taste so much better.
It's one of those sauces that disappears fast, so you might want to make a double batch. Trust me, it won't last long in your fridge.
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📖 Recipe
Campfire Sauce Recipe
This easy campfire sauce recipe is smoky, creamy, and perfectly tangy. Made with just four pantry staples, it’s the ultimate dipping sauce for fries, burgers, and grilled favorites.
Ingredients
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (like Sweet Baby Ray’s Hickory and Brown Sugar)
- ½ cup mayonnaise (full-fat, low-fat, or vegan)
- ½ teaspoon chipotle chili powder (or paprika/chili powder)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine BBQ sauce, mayonnaise, chipotle chili powder, and garlic powder.
- Stir well until the sauce is smooth and fully blended.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Stir before serving. For a spicier kick, add Tabasco or cayenne. Try mixing in ranch or using smoked paprika for extra flavor.
Nutrition Information:
Serving Size:
2 tablespoonsAmount Per Serving: Calories: 120Total Fat: 11gSaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 5mgSodium: 180mgCarbohydrates: 5gFiber: 0gSugar: 4gProtein: 0g
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