Can I reduce the sugar in this BBQ sauce recipe?

Absolutely! You can start by reducing the brown sugar by a third. Keep in mind that sugar contributes to the consistency as well as sweetness, so your sauce might be slightly thinner. To compensate, you could simmer it a bit longer to reduce and thicken.

My sauce seems too runny. How can I thicken it?

The easiest solution is to continue simmering the sauce uncovered for 5-10 minutes longer, allowing more liquid to evaporate. For an immediate fix, you can make a slurry with 1 teaspoon of cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of cold water, then stir it into the simmering sauce until it thickens.

Can I use this BBQ sauce for smoking meats?

This sauce works beautifully for smoking, but time it right! Because of its sugar content, apply it only during the last 30 minutes of smoking to prevent burning. For longer smokes, consider using it as a finishing sauce or serving it on the side.

I don't have smoked paprika. What can I substitute?

Regular paprika works fine, but you'll miss some of that smoky flavor. To compensate, add 1/4 teaspoon of liquid smoke or chipotle powder (if you don't mind some heat). Another option is to use 1/2 teaspoon of cumin, which has a different but complementary earthy quality.

Homemade Easy BBQ Sauce Recipe

Name: Homemade Easy BBQ Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 3 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 8 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cup light brown sugar, packed; 1 ¼ cup ketchup; 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon yellow mustard; 2 teaspoons smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper

Description

This Homemade Easy BBQ Sauce is the perfect blend of tangy, sweet, and smoky flavors. Made with simple pantry staples, it’s a quick and versatile sauce that pairs perfectly with grilling, dipping, or topping your favorite dishes. Ready in just 8 minutes, this easy-to-make recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Wet Ingredients

1 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
1 1/4 cup ketchup
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon yellow mustard

Dry Ingredients

2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

Combine the Ingredients
Place the brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, yellow mustard, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, and black pepper into a medium saucepan. Mix thoroughly with a whisk until all the ingredients are combined.
Simmer the Sauce
Set the saucepan over medium-low heat and stir the mixture occasionally. Allow it to come to a gentle simmer to let the flavors meld together.
Cool the Sauce
Once it has simmered, take the saucepan off the heat and let the BBQ sauce cool completely.
Store for Best Results
Transfer the cooled sauce into an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to enhance the flavor. For optimal taste, let it sit overnight.

Notes

This recipe yields approximately 24 servings with a serving size calculated at 2 tablespoons.
Adjust the recipe size easily by doubling or halving it, based on your needs.
If smoked paprika isn’t available, regular paprika can be used as a substitute.
Use this BBQ sauce as a marinade, grilling glaze, dipping sauce, or a topping for your favorite dishes.
To freeze this sauce, portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
Calories: 39
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 130mg
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg