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Easy Homemade Sweet, Tangy, and Smoky BBQ Sauce Ready in 20 Minutes

Close-up of thick, glossy, dark red homemade bbq sauce served in a small white ramekin on a wooden board.

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You can make this incredible homemade barbecue sauce from scratch using simple pantry staples. It balances sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors perfectly and is ready faster than a trip to the store.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

  1. Combine the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using) in a medium saucepan.
  2. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir the ingredients constantly until the brown sugar dissolves completely.
  3. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld.
  4. Remove the sauce from the heat. The sauce will thicken more as it cools.
  5. Taste the sauce. Adjust sweetness with more brown sugar or tanginess with more vinegar if desired.
  6. Transfer the sauce to a clean jar. Let it cool completely before using.

Notes

  • This sauce makes about 1.5 cups. It is perfect for brushing on grilled chicken, ribs, or using as a dipping sauce.
  • You can store this homemade BBQ sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
  • For freezing, transfer cooled sauce to a freezer-safe container, leaving about an inch of headspace, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before use.

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