BBQ Sauce
Rich, smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet, this homemade BBQ Sauce is the perfect balance of bold flavors. Made with simple pantry ingredients, it’s ideal for brushing over grilled meats, dipping, or adding depth to your favorite barbecue dishes. Quick to prepare and easy to customize, this sauce brings classic barbecue flavor right to your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon chili powder optional, for heat
Instructions
Combine ingredients:
- In a saucepan, add ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard.
Add spices:
- Stir in smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and chili powder (if using).
Simmer:
- Place over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
Taste and adjust:
- Adjust sweetness, tanginess, or spice to your preference.
Cool and store:
- Let the sauce cool completely before transferring to a jar or container.
Notes
- Consistency: Simmer longer for a thicker sauce or add a splash of water to thin it out.
- Flavor variations: Add honey for sweetness, liquid smoke for a smoky flavor, or hot sauce for extra heat.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Uses: Perfect for ribs, chicken, burgers, sandwiches, and dipping.