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Homemade BBQ Sauce

Homemade BBQ Sauce

Make this Homemade BBQ Sauce with simple pantry ingredients for a sweet, smoky, tangy sauce perfect for ribs, chicken, burgers, and more.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 16 about 2 tablespoons per serving
Calories: 45
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Method
 

  1. Add the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, honey, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard to a medium saucepan.
  2. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
  3. Add the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and salt.
  4. Place the saucepan over medium heat.
  5. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer while stirring frequently.
  6. Reduce the heat to low.
  7. Cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  9. Remove from the heat and allow the sauce to cool.
  10. Transfer to a clean jar or airtight container.
  11. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Notes

  • Simmering helps develop deeper flavor and thickens the sauce.
  • The sauce will continue to thicken slightly as it cools.
  • Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar.
  • For a smoother sauce, blend it briefly after cooking.