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The BEST 10 Minute Homemade BBQ Sauce Recipe

A spoonful of thick, glossy homemade bbq sauce is being poured over a small, round piece of food on a white plate.

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You can make this flavorful, tangy, and sweet homemade BBQ sauce from scratch in just 10 minutes. Skip the store-bought bottles and create your own summer cookout essential.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Instructions

  1. Combine the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using) in a small saucepan.
  2. Place the saucepan over medium heat.
  3. Stir the mixture constantly until the brown sugar dissolves completely and the sauce begins to simmer gently. This usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes.
  4. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld. Do not let it boil rapidly.
  5. Remove the saucepan from the heat.
  6. Let the sauce cool slightly. It will thicken as it cools.
  7. Transfer your homemade BBQ sauce to an airtight container.
  8. Use immediately on your favorite grilled meats or store it for later.

Notes

  • This recipe makes a classic sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, perfect for grilling season.
  • For a smoky barbecue sauce flavor, add 1/4 teaspoon of liquid smoke when combining the ingredients.
  • If you prefer a thinner sauce, add one tablespoon of water while simmering.
  • You can easily adjust the sweetness by adding more brown sugar or increase the tanginess with extra apple cider vinegar.

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