Name: Homemade BBQ Sauce
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups ketchup; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar; 1/3 cup brown sugar; 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup; 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; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); 1/4 cup water

I make Homemade BBQ Sauce when I want deep, smoky, sweet, and tangy flavor that I can fully control. This sauce is rich, smooth, and far better than store-bought, and I love adjusting it to match whatever I’m cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s easy, customizable, and made with pantry staples. I can tweak the sweetness, tanginess, or heat depending on my mood, and it works perfectly for grilling, dipping, or glazing. Once I make it myself, I never want to go back to bottled sauce. Homemade BBQ Sauce

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ketchup
tomato paste
apple cider vinegar
brown sugar
honey or maple syrup
Worcestershire sauce
yellow mustard
smoked paprika
garlic powder
onion powder
black pepper
salt
cayenne pepper, optional
water

Directions

I start by adding all the ingredients to a saucepan over medium heat. I whisk everything together until smooth and well combined.

I bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then lower the heat and let it cook for about 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. As it simmers, the sauce thickens and the flavors deepen.

Once it reaches the consistency I like, I remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. I taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more vinegar for tang or sugar for sweetness.

Servings and Timing

I usually get about 2 cups of BBQ sauce from this recipe.
Prep time: about 5 minutes
Cook time: about 20 minutes
Total time: about 25 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add liquid smoke for a stronger smoky flavor. When I want it spicy, I stir in hot sauce or extra cayenne. I also like making a honey BBQ version by increasing the honey and reducing the brown sugar.

Storage/Reheating

I store Homemade BBQ Sauce in an airtight jar or container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. When reheating, I warm it gently on the stove or use it directly from the fridge for brushing or dipping.

FAQs

Can I make BBQ sauce without sugar?

I reduce the sugar and rely more on honey or natural sweetness from ketchup.

How thick should BBQ sauce be?

I like it thick enough to coat a spoon, but I thin it with water if needed.

Can I freeze homemade BBQ sauce?

I freeze it in small portions, and it keeps well for up to 3 months.

Is this sauce good for grilling?

I use it often for grilling, but I brush it on toward the end to avoid burning.

Can I blend the sauce?

I blend it when I want an extra-smooth texture.

Conclusion

I keep Homemade BBQ Sauce as a staple because it’s simple, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. With bold taste and easy prep, this recipe gives me a sauce that elevates everything from grilled meats to roasted vegetables.