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The Best Quick & Easy Homemade BBQ Sauce (Sweet, Smoky, and Tangy)

A close-up of thick, glossy, dark red homemade bbq sauce served in a small white ramekin.
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Make this easy homemade BBQ sauce from scratch in minutes using simple pantry staples. It delivers the perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and tangy flavor that beats store-bought sauce every time. This is your go-to grilling sauce for ribs, chicken, and pulled pork.

Ingredients

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  • 1 1/2 cups ketchup
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients in a medium saucepan.
  2. Whisk the mixture well until the brown sugar dissolves.
  3. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
  4. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce gently simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring every few minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
  5. Remove the saucepan from the heat. The sauce will thicken more as it cools.
  6. Use immediately as a grilling sauce or transfer to an airtight container for storage.

Notes

  • For a Kansas City Style BBQ Sauce, add 1 tablespoon of molasses when simmering.
  • If you want a tangier, Carolina Vinegar BBQ Sauce base, reduce the ketchup to 1 cup and increase the apple cider vinegar to 1/2 cup.
  • This sauce is excellent for marinating chicken or pork for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
  • Store leftovers in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookerycourier.com/easy-homemade-bbq-sauce-recipe/