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The Best Quick & Easy Homemade BBQ Sauce (Sweet, Smoky, and Tangy)

A close-up of thick, rich homemade bbq sauce served in a small white fluted ramekin.
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Make this easy homemade BBQ sauce from scratch in minutes. It balances sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors perfectly, beating any store-bought version. Use it for ribs, chicken, or dipping.

Ingredients

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  • 1 1/2 cups 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 onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients in a medium saucepan.
  2. Place the saucepan over medium heat.
  3. Stir the mixture constantly until the brown sugar dissolves completely and the sauce begins to simmer lightly.
  4. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld.
  5. Remove the sauce from the heat. The sauce will thicken slightly as it cools.
  6. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings if needed; add more vinegar for tang or brown sugar for sweetness.
  7. Transfer the homemade BBQ sauce to an airtight container. You can use it immediately or store it for later use.

Notes

  • For a thicker sauce, simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
  • If you want a Kansas City Style BBQ Sauce, add 1 tablespoon of molasses.
  • To make this a Gluten Free BBQ Sauce Option, check that your Worcestershire sauce is certified gluten-free.
  • This recipe is great for marinating or as a dipping sauce for grilling.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://epicureempire.com/easy-homemade-bbq-sauce-recipe/