bbq sauce recipe without ketchup

Bbq Sauce Recipe

This homemade BBQ sauce recipe delivers a rich balance of smoky, tangy, and sweet flavors using simple pantry ingredients. It is ideal for home cooks who want a reliable, versatile sauce that tastes bold and well-developed without requiring hours of cooking. Making BBQ sauce from scratch gives you full control over sweetness, acidity, and heat, allowing you to tailor it perfectly for ribs, pulled pork, chicken, burgers, or even as a dipping and glazing sauce.

Unlike many store-bought options, this sauce contains no preservatives and thickens naturally as it simmers and cools. It comes together quickly on the stovetop, making it an excellent last-minute addition to weeknight meals or weekend cookouts while still delivering deep, classic barbecue flavor.

bbq sauce recipe for pulled pork
bbq sauce recipe for pulled pork

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces tomato sauce
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 2/3 cup light brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsulphured molasses
  • 2/3 cup red wine vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons hickory-flavored liquid smoke
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/8 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground mustard
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions

  • Add all ingredients to a large saucepan, starting with the tomato sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, and molasses so they blend smoothly with the liquids and spices.
  • Whisk thoroughly over medium heat until the mixture is completely smooth, with no visible streaks of sugar or spice.
  • Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the sauce reaches a gentle boil. This helps dissolve the sugar fully and activates the flavors.
  • Reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and encourage gradual thickening.
  • Taste during simmering and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, sweetness, or heat to suit your preference.
  • Remove from heat and allow the sauce to cool slightly. The BBQ sauce will continue to thicken as it cools to its final consistency.
  • Transfer the cooled sauce to a clean, airtight container for immediate use or storage.
bbq sauce recipe for chicken
bbq sauce recipe for chicken

Preparation Details

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Yield: Approximately 2½ cups BBQ sauce