Description
This rich, tangy, and smoky Homemade BBQ Sauce comes together in just 20 minutes using pantry staples. It’s the perfect customizable base for everything from ribs and burgers to pulled pork and grilled chicken—far better than anything store-bought.
Ingredients
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2 cups tomato ketchup (no high-fructose corn syrup)
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¼ cup apple cider vinegar
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¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
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¼ cup packed brown sugar
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2 tbsp molasses
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2 tbsp yellow mustard
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1 tbsp liquid smoke (optional)
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2 tsp smoked paprika
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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½ tsp black pepper
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¼ tsp cayenne pepper (or to taste)
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1 tsp salt
Optional flavor enhancers (choose 1–2):
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2 tbsp bourbon or whiskey
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1 tbsp espresso or strong coffee
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1 tbsp grated orange zest
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2 tbsp maple syrup
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1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
Instructions
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Combine Ingredients: Whisk all ingredients in a medium saucepan until well combined.
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Simmer: Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce to low.
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Cook: Let simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Taste and Adjust: Balance to your preference (sweetness, tang, heat).
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Cool and Store: Let cool, then store in airtight containers in the fridge.
Notes
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Sauce thickens as it cools. For a thicker sauce, simmer longer.
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Use less sugar if using on high-heat grilled foods to prevent burning.
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Flavors deepen overnight—make ahead if possible.
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Sauce freezes well in portioned containers.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner Ideas
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 40
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 290 mg
- Fat: 0.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 0.3 g
- Protein: 0.3 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: Homemade BBQ Sauce, barbecue sauce recipe, easy BBQ sauce, grilling sauce, smoky BBQ sauce