10 Minute Homemade Barbecue Sauce
This 10 Minute Homemade Barbecue Sauce is a must-try for anyone who loves grilling or barbecuing. With its perfect blend of sweetness, tanginess, and smokiness, this sauce elevates any dish it accompanies. Whether you’re slathering it on ribs, using it as a dip for chicken tenders, or adding it to burgers, this sauce is versatile enough for any occasion. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up in just 10 minutes with minimal effort!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: You can make this sauce in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.
- One-Pot Wonder: No need for multiple pots and pans; everything comes together in one saucepan.
- Customizable Flavor: Adjust the ingredients to suit your taste—add more cayenne for heat or skip the sugar for a tangier version.
- Perfect for Any Meal: Ideal for grilling season, but delicious year-round with meats, veggies, and even sandwiches.
- Homemade Goodness: Enjoy the satisfaction of making your own barbecue sauce without preservatives or artificial flavors.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Airtight container
Importance of Each Tool
- Medium saucepan: This is essential for combining all the ingredients evenly and allowing them to simmer together.
- Whisk: A whisk helps achieve a smooth texture by thoroughly mixing the ingredients without lumps.
- Airtight container: Use this to store your homemade barbecue sauce and keep it fresh in the refrigerator.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 240 g (1 cup) ketchup
– 110 g (1/2 cup) brown sugar, packed
– 80 g (1/4 cup) black treacle (cane molasses)
– 60 ml (1/4 cup) apple cider vinegar
– 30 ml (2 tbsp) cooking oil
– 2 tsp English or Dijon mustard
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
How to Make 10 Minute Homemade Barbecue Sauce
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, combine all the ingredients:
– ketchup
– brown sugar
– molasses
– apple cider vinegar
– oil
– mustard
– Worcestershire sauce
– smoked paprika
– black pepper
– cayenne (if using)
Whisk until the mixture is well combined.
Step 2: Simmer the Sauce
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This process allows the flavors to meld together and thicken. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer it longer.
Step 3: Taste and Store
Taste your homemade barbecue sauce and adjust if needed. Allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.
Enjoy your delicious 10 Minute Homemade Barbecue Sauce with all your favorite dishes!
How to Serve 10 Minute Homemade Barbecue Sauce
This 10 Minute Homemade Barbecue Sauce is versatile and can elevate many dishes. Whether you’re grilling or simply looking for a tasty condiment, here are some fantastic serving suggestions.
On Grilled Meats
- Chicken Wings: Toss grilled wings in the sauce for a sweet and smoky flavor.
- Ribs: Brush the sauce generously on pork or beef ribs for a mouthwatering glaze.
- Burgers: Add a spoonful on top of your burger for an extra layer of flavor.
As a Dip
- Veggie Platter: Serve with fresh veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers for a zesty dip.
- Chicken Tenders: Pair the sauce with crispy chicken tenders for a delightful contrast.
- Fries: Use as a dipping sauce for savory fries, adding a tangy twist.
In Sandwiches
- Pulled Pork Sandwich: Mix the sauce with pulled pork for a classic BBQ sandwich.
- Meatball Sub: Drizzle over meatballs in a sub for added richness and taste.

How to Perfect 10 Minute Homemade Barbecue Sauce
To really make this 10 Minute Homemade Barbecue Sauce shine, consider these helpful tips.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer your sauce sweeter, add more brown sugar or honey to taste.
- Add Heat: For those who like it spicy, increase the cayenne pepper or add hot sauce.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try incorporating other spices like garlic powder or onion powder for extra depth.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the sauce to sit for an hour enhances its flavors even more before use.
Best Side Dishes for 10 Minute Homemade Barbecue Sauce
Pair your 10 Minute Homemade Barbecue Sauce with these delicious side dishes that complement its rich flavors perfectly.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy and refreshing side that balances the sweetness of the sauce.
- Cornbread: Soft cornbread makes an excellent accompaniment to any BBQ meal.
- Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies bring out natural sweetness and pair well with BBQ flavors.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad adds richness alongside grilled meats.
- Baked Beans: Sweet baked beans create a comforting side dish that matches well with BBQ.
- Macaroni and Cheese: This cheesy favorite is always a hit at summer gatherings.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making homemade barbecue sauce can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid when preparing your 10 Minute Homemade Barbecue Sauce.
- Overcooking the Sauce: Simmering too long can lead to a burnt taste. Stick to the suggested 5-7 minutes for the best flavor.
- Skipping the Tasting Step: Not tasting your sauce before storing can result in an unbalanced flavor. Always adjust seasonings to your preference.
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap ingredients may ruin your sauce’s flavor. Choose fresh, high-quality items for the best results.
- Not Storing Properly: Storing in the wrong container can affect freshness. Use airtight containers for optimal shelf life.
- Ignoring Adjustments for Heat: If you skip adding cayenne pepper, you might miss that spicy kick. Adjust according to your heat preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your 10 Minute Homemade Barbecue Sauce in an airtight container.
- It will last up to one week in the refrigerator.
Freezing 10 Minute Homemade Barbecue Sauce
- Pour the sauce into freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It can be frozen for up to three months.
Reheating 10 Minute Homemade Barbecue Sauce
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals (about 30 seconds), stirring in between until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this BBQ sauce special?
This 10 Minute Homemade Barbecue Sauce stands out due to its perfect balance of sweetness, tanginess, and smokiness, all made in just ten minutes.
Can I customize this recipe?
Absolutely! You can adjust the sweetness or add spices like garlic powder or onion powder to tailor it to your taste.
How should I serve this homemade barbecue sauce?
This sauce is great on grilled meats, as a dipping sauce, or drizzled over roasted vegetables for added flavor.
Can I use this BBQ sauce for marinades?
Yes! The rich flavors make it perfect as a marinade for chicken, ribs, or veggies before grilling.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! The balance of flavors appeals to both adults and kids alike.
Final Thoughts
This 10 Minute Homemade Barbecue Sauce is not only quick and easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different spices or heat levels based on your preferences. Give it a try at your next barbecue, and enjoy the deliciousness!

10 Minute Homemade Barbecue Sauce
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
This 10 Minute Homemade Barbecue Sauce is a game-changer for any grilling enthusiast. With its perfect combination of sweetness, tanginess, and smoky undertones, this sauce enhances everything from ribs to burgers and even grilled veggies. The best part? You can whip it up in just 10 minutes using minimal ingredients and tools. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a delicious condiment, this quick and easy barbecue sauce will elevate your meals effortlessly. Enjoy the satisfaction of homemade flavors without preservatives or artificial additives.
Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup cane molasses (black treacle)
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp cooking oil
- 2 tsp mustard (English or Dijon)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine all ingredients: ketchup, brown sugar, molasses, apple cider vinegar, cooking oil, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Whisk until smooth.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors.
- Taste the sauce and adjust sweetness or spices as needed. Allow it to cool before transferring to an airtight container for storage.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 30g
- Calories: 60
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg