Pour the mayo and barbecue sauce into a mixing bowl. It's important to use measuring tools instead of guessing, as even small differences can affect the sauce's taste.

Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. These spices are small in quantity but add important flavor, so don't add extra until you taste the sauce.

Whisk the mixture for about 1 minute until it turns smooth tan-brown, with no white mayo visible.

Taste the sauce. You can add more barbecue sauce for sweetness, more smoked paprika for extra flavor and color, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier finish. Add small amounts at a time.

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This waiting period helps improve the flavor more than adding extra spices.

Stir the sauce again just before serving, as it may have settled in the fridge. Keep any leftovers in a sealed container.