Elevate your grilling game with this irresistibly bold and tangy Root Beer BBQ Sauce, a perfect blend of sweetness, smokiness, and spice. This homemade barbecue sauce features the rich, caramelized essence of real root beer (not diet) melded with classic ingredients like ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. A dash of smoked paprika and optional liquid smoke adds a deep, smoky flavor, while honey and garlic powder balance out the tangy-sweet profile. Quick and easy to make in just 30 minutes, this versatile sauce clings beautifully to ribs, chicken, or pork, and doubles as a delectable dipping sauce. With its vibrant flavor and unique twist, this Root Beer BBQ Sauce is your secret weapon for unforgettable summer cookouts and weeknight dinners alike!
In a medium saucepan, combine the root beer, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Whisk together until the sugar begins to dissolve.
Add the honey, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, ground black pepper, and salt to the mixture. Stir until well combined.
Optional: If you’d like a smoky flavor, stir in the liquid smoke.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed. Add more sugar for sweetness, vinegar for tanginess, or extra spices for a bolder flavor.
Remove the saucepan from heat and let the barbecue sauce cool for a few minutes.
Use immediately as a glaze, basting sauce, or dipping sauce, or transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. The sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Serving size | 863.3 grams (863.3g) |
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Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
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Calories | 771 |
Total Fat 0.40g | 1% |
Saturated Fat 0.10g | 1% |
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g | |
Cholesterol 0mg | 0% |
Sodium 2468mg | 107% |
Total Carbohydrate 199.40g | 73% |
Dietary Fiber 1.70g | 6% |
Total Sugars 177.10g | |
Protein 1.40g | 3% |
Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
Calcium 104mg | 8% |
Iron 3mg | 14% |
Potassium 350mg | 7% |
Source of Calories