Name: Barbecue Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons canola oil; 1 medium yellow onion, coarsely chopped; 3 large garlic cloves, coarsely chopped; 1 cup ketchup; 1/3 cup water; 1 heaping tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1/8 teaspoon ground chipotle powder; 1 1/2 tablespoons ancho chili powder; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 3 tablespoons packed dark brown sugar; 3 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon molasses; Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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This homemade Barbecue Sauce is smoky, tangy, sweet, and spicy—everything you want in a classic BBQ sauce. With layers of flavor from caramelized onions, garlic, ancho chili powder, smoked paprika, honey, and molasses, this sauce is perfect for grilling, dipping, or slathering over meats. It’s simple to make and far more flavorful than store-bought versions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich, smoky, and perfectly balanced flavors.
Uses pantry staples with a homemade twist.
Thick, smooth texture perfect for coating meats.
Versatile—great for ribs, chicken, burgers, or as a dipping sauce.
Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 weeks.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 tablespoons canola oil
1 medium yellow onion, coarsely chopped
3 large garlic cloves, coarsely chopped
1 cup ketchup
1/3 cup water
1 heaping tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/8 teaspoon ground chipotle powder
1 1/2 tablespoons ancho chili powder
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
3 tablespoons packed dark brown sugar
3 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon molasses
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

Heat a heavy-bottomed nonreactive saucepan over medium to medium-high heat. Add the oil. When shimmering, stir in the onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until softened (do not brown).
Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
Stir in ketchup and water, bringing the mixture to a boil. Lower heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
Add Dijon mustard, red wine vinegar, Worcestershire, chipotle powder, ancho chili powder, smoked paprika, brown sugar, honey, and molasses. Stir well.
Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens.
Transfer to a food processor and puree until smooth, or carefully blend in the saucepan with an immersion blender.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Let cool to room temperature.
Use immediately or transfer to a jar with a tight lid. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 2 1/2 cups of sauce.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add a splash of bourbon or whiskey for a smoky kick.
Replace honey with maple syrup for a unique sweetness.
Stir in a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for extra heat.
Use apple cider vinegar instead of red wine vinegar for a tangier flavor.
Add a tablespoon of soy sauce for an umami depth.

Storage/Reheating

Store in a sealed jar or container in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
For longer storage, freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before using.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Can I use tomato paste instead of ketchup?

Yes, but increase the water and adjust seasonings to balance flavor.

Is this sauce spicy?

It has mild heat from chipotle powder. Add more chili powder or hot sauce if you prefer it spicier.

Can I make it vegan?

Yes, just use a vegan Worcestershire sauce.

Can I make it sugar-free?

You can substitute brown sugar and honey with a sugar-free sweetener or leave them out for a tangier sauce.

Can I can this BBQ sauce?

Yes, with proper sterilization and canning methods, it can be preserved for longer shelf life.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely—just use a larger pot and extend simmering time slightly.

What meats pair best with this sauce?

It’s excellent with ribs, pulled pork, chicken, brisket, and burgers.

Can I use this as a marinade?

Yes, it works well as a marinade or basting sauce while grilling.

How do I thicken BBQ sauce?

Simmer longer until reduced, or add a cornstarch slurry if needed.

Can I use olive oil instead of canola oil?

Yes, olive oil works fine, though it may slightly change the flavor.

Conclusion

This homemade Barbecue Sauce is bold, smoky, and perfectly balanced, making it an essential recipe for any BBQ lover. Whether you brush it over ribs, drizzle it on burgers, or use it as a dipping sauce, it adds irresistible flavor to your meals. Once you make it from scratch, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought again.

Maggie