Description
This Easy Homemade BBQ Sauce is a perfect blend of tangy, sweet, and smoky flavors, crafted with simple pantry ingredients. Ideal for glazing grilled meats, dipping, or adding a robust flavor boost to sandwiches and more, this sauce cooks quickly in just 15 minutes for a fresh and delicious condiment tailored to your taste.
Ingredients
Scale
BBQ Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (or honey for a different sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, add the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar (or honey), Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper if using. Stir well to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the Sauce: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Cool and Use: Once thickened to your desired consistency, remove the saucepan from heat. Let the BBQ sauce cool before using it as a glaze, dipping sauce, or condiment. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Notes
- You can substitute brown sugar with honey for a different type of sweetness.
- Adjust cayenne pepper based on your preferred spice level or omit it entirely for a milder sauce.
- Smoked paprika adds a smoky flavor without needing actual smoke.
- The sauce thickens more as it cools; if too thick, thin with a little water or more vinegar.
- Store unused sauce refrigerated in a sealed container for up to two weeks.
