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Easy Homemade BBQ Sauce Recipe

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4.1 from 11 reviews

This Easy Homemade BBQ Sauce is a flavorful and tangy condiment made from simple pantry ingredients. With a perfect balance of sweetness, smokiness, and spice, it enhances grilled meats, sandwiches, and more. Ready in just 25 minutes, this versatile sauce can be stored in the fridge for convenience and lasts up to three weeks.

Ingredients

BBQ Sauce Ingredients

  • 8 ounces tomato sauce
  • 1 cup ketchup (240g)
  • 2/3 cup light brown sugar (147g)
  • 1/4 cup unsulphured molasses (85g)
  • 2/3 cup red wine vinegar (159g)
  • 2 teaspoons hickory flavored liquid smoke
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (or more 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

Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: Add all the ingredients into a large saucepan and stir together until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
  2. Heat the Sauce: Place the saucepan over medium heat and begin cooking, stirring frequently to avoid sticking. When the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or for up to one hour if desired. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
  3. Cool the Sauce: Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the BBQ sauce to cool down. The sauce will thicken slightly as it cools, developing a richer texture.
  4. Store Properly: Transfer the cooled BBQ sauce to an airtight container or jar. Store it in the refrigerator where it will keep fresh for up to 3 weeks, ready to use whenever you need a delicious homemade BBQ flavor.

Notes

  • For a spicier sauce, increase the cayenne pepper slightly or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
  • Adjust the salt level to taste, especially if using salted tomato sauce or ketchup.
  • The longer you simmer the sauce (up to an hour), the deeper the flavor will become.
  • Use high-quality molasses for a richer, more complex taste.
  • Hickory liquid smoke adds authentic smoky flavor without grilling, but it can be omitted if you prefer a milder taste.