🔥 Homemade Barbecue Sauce 🔥
Sweet, tangy, and just the right amount of heat—perfect for brushing on grilled favorites.
This Homemade Barbecue Sauce is an old-school staple with a bold kick. Made with pantry basics like catsup, vinegar, chili powder, and Worcestershire, it’s a deliciously balanced blend of sweet, spicy, and savory. Whether you're grilling chicken, pork, or beef, this sauce brings smoky backyard charm to every bite.
🔥 Estimated Calories: ~35 per tablespoon
🍖 Use With: Grilled beef, poultry, pork, or even roasted vegetables
🥄 Estimated Nutrition (per tablespoon)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | 1 tbsp |
| Calories | 35 |
| Total Fat | 0g |
| Sodium | 180mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Sugars | 7g |
| Protein | 0g |
Ingredients:
- 2 cups catsup
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (use Durkee if available, or McCormick or homemade blend)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (any brand; not garlic salt)
- ⅓ cup water
- ¼ cup vinegar (white or apple cider)
- 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ cup Frank's RedHot Sauce (or any mild vinegar-based hot sauce like Crystal or Louisiana)
Directions:
- Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl. Stir or whisk until fully blended.
- Use immediately to brush onto beef, poultry, or pork while grilling or broiling, or refrigerate in a sealed jar until ready to use.
🔥 Substitutions & Tips
- Swap catsup with tomato sauce for a slightly less sweet base.
- Use apple cider vinegar for a fruitier tang.
- Stir in a pinch of smoked paprika or liquid smoke for extra BBQ flavor.
- Homemade chili powder blend: 2 parts paprika, 1 part cumin, ½ part onion powder, ½ part garlic powder, pinch cayenne (optional).
🔥 FAQs about Barbecue Sauce
How long does it keep?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it will last about 2–3 weeks.
Can I freeze it?
Yes! Freeze in small batches for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
🛒 Shop This Recipe: Homemade Barbecue Sauce Edition
Revere Line 2-Quart Covered Saucepan
Perfect for simmering your homemade barbecue sauce, this classic saucepan offers even heat distribution and a nostalgic touch to your kitchen.
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OXO Good Grips Silicone Basting & Pastry Brush
Ideal for applying your sauce to meats, this brush features heat-resistant silicone bristles and a comfortable grip.
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Ball Regular Mouth 16-Ounce Mason Jars (Set of 12)
Store your homemade sauce in these classic mason jars, perfect for preserving freshness and sharing with friends.
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Cuisinart CBP-300 Cast Iron Basting Pot and Brush
Keep your sauce warm on the grill with this durable cast iron pot, which comes with a mop-style basting brush for easy application.
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Looking for the perfect potato side? Try our Crusty Baked Potatoes to soak up all that saucy goodness!
✨ Brush it on thick and let the flavor shine! ✨
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