Quick Barbecue Sauce

Looking for a flavorful condiment to elevate your grilling game? This Quick Barbecue Sauce is the perfect blend of tangy, sweet, and smoky flavors, coming together in just 15 minutes! Made with pantry staples like ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar, this easy homemade barbecue sauce is enhanced with bold spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a touch of cayenne for optional heat. Whether slathered on ribs, brushed over chicken, or used as a dipping sauce, this versatile recipe delivers rich, customizable flavor without the fuss. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and tastes better than anything store-bought! Say goodbye to store-bought sauces and hello to homemade perfection.

Nutriscore Rating: 59/100

Prep Time:5 mins

Cook Time:10 mins

Total Time:15 mins

Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 1 cup ketchup
• 0.25 cup apple cider vinegar
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 2 tablespoons water

Directions

Step 1

In a medium saucepan, combine the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey, and Worcestershire sauce.

Step 2

Place the saucepan over medium heat and whisk the ingredients together until smooth.

Step 3

Add the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir to combine.

Step 4

Pour in the water and stir to adjust the consistency to your desired thickness.

Step 5

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low.

Step 6

Let the sauce cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.

Step 7

Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed (add more vinegar for tang, sugar for sweetness, or cayenne for heat).

Step 8

Remove from heat and allow the sauce to cool slightly before using.

Step 9

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	420.2 grams (420.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	486

Total Fat 0.40g	1%
Saturated Fat 0.10g	1%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 1213mg	53%
Total Carbohydrate 125.10g	45%
Dietary Fiber 1.50g	5%
Total Sugars 104.90g
Protein 1.00g	2%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 63mg	5%
Iron 2mg	12%
Potassium 322mg	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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 0.7%

Protein: 0.8%

Carbs: 98.5%