Bbq Sauce Recipe2

Bbq Sauce Recipe

This homemade BBQ sauce recipe delivers a rich balance of smoky, tangy, and sweet flavors using simple pantry ingredients. It is designed to be easy enough for beginners while producing a bold, restaurant-quality sauce suitable for ribs, pulled pork, chicken, burgers, or as a dipping and marinating sauce. Making BBQ sauce at home allows you to control sweetness, acidity, and spice while avoiding preservatives commonly found in store-bought versions. This recipe comes together quickly on the stovetop and thickens naturally as it simmers and cools.

Bbq Sauce Recipe1
Bbq Sauce Recipe1

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces tomato sauce
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 2/3 cup light brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsulphured molasses
  • 2/3 cup red wine vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons hickory-flavored liquid smoke
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/8 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground mustard
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions

  • Add all ingredients to a large saucepan, ensuring the tomato sauce, ketchup, sugar, and molasses are added first so they combine smoothly with the liquids and spices.
  • Whisk the mixture thoroughly over medium heat until the sauce is completely smooth and evenly blended with no visible streaks of sugar or spice.
  • Continue cooking while stirring frequently until the sauce reaches a gentle boil, which helps dissolve the sugar and activate the flavors.
  • Reduce the heat to low and allow the sauce to simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to encourage gradual thickening.
  • Taste the sauce during simmering and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, sweetness, or spice according to preference.
  • Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the BBQ sauce to cool slightly; it will continue to thicken as it cools to its final consistency.
  • Transfer the cooled sauce to a clean, airtight jar or container for immediate use or storage.
Bbq Sauce Recipe
Bbq Sauce Recipe

Preparation Details

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Yield: Approximately 2½ cups BBQ sauce