Whip up a batch of delicious, homemade barbecue sauce in just 15 minutes with this Easy and Quick Barbecue Sauce recipe! Featuring pantry staples like ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and honey, this foolproof recipe combines smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors with a subtle kick from optional cayenne pepper. Perfectly balanced and irresistibly thick, this versatile sauce is ideal for glazing grilled meats, slathering on burgers, or serving as a dipping sauce. With minimal prep time and a short simmering process, this no-fuss recipe is sure to become your go-to for all your barbecue cravings. Plus, it stores beautifully in the fridge for up to two weeks, making it a convenient way to elevate your meals anytime.
In a medium saucepan, combine the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey, and Worcestershire sauce.
Add the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the saucepan.
Stir in the water to thin the sauce slightly for a smoother consistency.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or burning.
Reduce the heat to low and simmer the sauce for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the flavors combine.
Taste and adjust the seasoning or sweetness if needed by adding more brown sugar for sweetness or additional spices for a stronger kick.
Remove the saucepan from heat and let the barbecue sauce cool slightly.
Transfer the sauce to a jar or container and let it cool completely before storing in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Use the barbecue sauce as a glaze for grilled meats, a dipping sauce, or a marinade!
Calories |
521 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 0.4 g | 1% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.1 g | 0% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1217 mg | 53% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 134.1 g | 49% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.4 g | 5% | |
| Total Sugars | 113.9 g | ||
| Protein | 1.0 g | 2% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 72 mg | 6% | |
| Iron | 2.2 mg | 12% | |
| Potassium | 335 mg | 7% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.