Description

This homemade BBQ sauce recipe delivers a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and smoky flavors. Made with simple pantry ingredients like ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and spices, it simmers gently on the stovetop to create a thick, flavorful sauce ideal for grilled chicken, ribs, or burgers. Easily customizable with optional heat or smokiness, it’s a delicious homemade alternative to store-bought sauces.

Ingredients

Scale

BBQ Sauce Ingredients

1 cup ketchup
½ cup apple cider vinegar
⅓ cup brown sugar
¼ cup honey
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

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Instructions

Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper if using. Stir well to blend all ingredients thoroughly.
Simmer the Sauce: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer to avoid burning.
Thicken and Flavor: Let the sauce simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This cooking time allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken to the desired consistency.
Taste and Adjust: After simmering, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. You may add more honey or brown sugar for sweetness or additional spices for smokiness or heat.
Cool and Store: Remove the sauce from heat and let it cool slightly before using. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. The sauce can be stored up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

Notes

For a sweeter sauce, increase the amount of honey or brown sugar.
Add a few drops of liquid smoke for enhanced smoky flavor.
This BBQ sauce pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, ribs, burgers, and other barbecue dishes.