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Easy Sweet and Tangy Homemade BBQ Sauce

Close-up of grilled chicken breast generously coated in thick, glossy homemade bbq sauce.
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Make a classic, versatile BBQ sauce from scratch using simple pantry ingredients. This recipe yields a sweet, tangy, and smoky sauce perfect for grilling 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 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Instructions

  1. Combine the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and yellow mustard in a medium saucepan.
  2. Stir in the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper, if using.
  3. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
  4. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 15 minutes, stirring every few minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
  5. Remove the sauce from the heat. Allow it to cool slightly before using. The sauce will thicken more as it cools.
  6. Use immediately on ribs or chicken, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Notes

  • For a thicker sauce, simmer for an additional 5 to 10 minutes.
  • If you prefer a Kansas City style, increase the brown sugar slightly. For a tangier sauce, increase the apple cider vinegar by one tablespoon.
  • This sauce keeps well in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Nutrition

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