12 BBQ Sauce Recipes That Will Make You Ditch The Store-Bought Stuff

12 BBQ Sauce Recipes That Will Make You Ditch The Store-Bought Stuff bring the true flavor of summer right to your table, offering a range of mouthwatering homemade sauces that will transform your grilling experience. Whether you’re firing up the grill for burgers, ribs, or grilled veggies, the right BBQ sauce can elevate your dish from ordinary to extraordinary. While store-bought sauces may seem convenient, they often lack the depth and freshness that homemade recipes deliver.

In this collection, you’ll find a variety of BBQ sauce options that cater to all tastes, from tangy and sweet to smoky and spicy. These recipes are easy to make and require just a few simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Each one is packed with bold flavors, perfect for glazing, marinating, or serving on the side.

Say goodbye to the overly processed, sugary store-bought varieties, and discover how quick and satisfying it is to create your own BBQ sauces. Whether you’re a fan of classic ketchup-based sauces or looking to try something new like a mustard or fruit-infused version, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s dive into these recipes and bring your BBQ game to the next level!

Herbed Garlic BBQ Sauce

This Herbed Garlic BBQ Sauce packs a delightful punch of flavor. It’s rich with the essence of fresh herbs and has a robust garlic kick, making it a perfect complement to grilled meats and vegetables. Simple to whip up, this sauce will have you ditching the store-bought varieties in no time.

With a blend of tangy, sweet, and savory elements, each bite is bound to be a hit at your next barbecue. Plus, it only requires a few basic ingredients, so it’s an easy choice for any grilling occasion!

Ingredients

• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Stir until well mixed.
2. Add the minced garlic, parsley, cilantro, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Mix thoroughly.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
4. Use it as a marinade or brush it onto your favorite grilled dishes.

Smoky Chipotle BBQ Sauce

Looking to spice up your grilling game? This Smoky Chipotle BBQ Sauce brings together the perfect blend of heat and sweetness, making it a fantastic addition to any barbecue. With its smoky flavor and a hint of tang, it’s a standout sauce that can elevate any dish, from ribs to grilled vegetables.

What’s great about this sauce is how simple it is to whip together. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned chef, you’ll find that it requires minimal ingredients and time. Just mix, simmer, and slather it on your favorite meats for an irresistible kick!

Ingredients

• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Combine all the ingredients in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir until well mixed.
2. Bring the sauce to a simmer and reduce the heat to low. Allow it to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before using.
4. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Savory Honey Mustard BBQ Sauce

This Savory Honey Mustard BBQ Sauce strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tangy, making it a delightful accompaniment for grilled meats and veggies. The honey adds a natural sweetness, while the mustard provides a zesty kick that elevates your BBQ experience.

Best of all, it’s super simple to whip up! You’ll find that the combination of ingredients blends beautifully, creating a sauce that’s not only delicious but also versatile enough for dipping or marinating. Get ready to ditch the store-bought stuff!

Ingredients

• 1 cup honey
• 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix together the honey and Dijon mustard until well combined.
2. Add the apple cider vinegar and Worcestershire sauce, stirring until smooth.
3. Mix in the smoked paprika and garlic powder, adjusting with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Store the sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for at least an hour to let the flavors meld.
5. Use it as a marinade or brush it on your favorite grilled dishes for a tasty boost!

Classic Tomato-Based BBQ Sauce

Classic tomato-based BBQ sauce is a staple for any grill enthusiast. This sauce strikes a perfect balance between sweetness and tang, making it an ideal partner for ribs, chicken, or even grilled vegetables. With just a few ingredients, it’s simple enough for anyone to whip up at home, transforming your BBQ experience into something special.

The rich flavors of tomatoes combined with spices and a hint of sweetness create a sauce that adds depth and character to your dishes. Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout or just craving some comfort food, this BBQ sauce is sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

• 2 cups tomato ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the tomato ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard. Stir well to mix.
2. Add in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasonings to your liking.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly before using. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Tangy Apple Cider Vinegar BBQ Sauce

This tangy apple cider vinegar BBQ sauce brings a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity to your grilled dishes. It’s simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry.

The sauce has a zesty kick that enhances everything it touches, making it an excellent choice for pork, chicken, or even vegetables. You’ll find that making your own BBQ sauce is not only satisfying but also allows you to customize the flavors to your liking.

Ingredients

• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Combine all ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Stir well to mix and bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
4. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Let it cool and store in an airtight container for up to two weeks in the fridge.

Sweet and Spicy Pineapple BBQ Sauce

This Sweet and Spicy Pineapple BBQ Sauce is the perfect blend of tropical sweetness and zesty heat. It’s a breeze to whip up and will have your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re grilling chicken, ribs, or veggies, this sauce adds a delightful touch that will have everyone asking for the recipe.

The combination of juicy pineapple, a hint of chili, and a touch of brown sugar creates a mouthwatering flavor profile. It’s not just a sauce; it becomes the star of your barbecue. Give it a try, and you might find yourself ditching store-bought options for good!

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

Instructions

1. Blend the Pineapple: In a blender, combine the pineapple chunks and blend until smooth.
2. Cook the Sauce: In a saucepan, combine the blended pineapple, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, minced garlic, chili flakes, salt, pepper, and ground ginger. Stir well.
3. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Cool and Store: Remove from heat and let it cool. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
5. Serve: Use it as a marinade or brush it on your grilled favorites!

Tropical Mango BBQ Sauce

Tropical Mango BBQ Sauce is a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors that will elevate any grilling experience. This sauce combines ripe mangoes with a mix of spices, creating a deliciously refreshing alternative to traditional BBQ sauces. It’s easy to whip up, making it perfect for last-minute cookouts or planned family gatherings.

The sweetness of the mango pairs beautifully with the smoky undertones, providing a unique twist that works well with chicken, ribs, or even grilled vegetables. Plus, it’s a breeze to make with just a few ingredients, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen!

Ingredients

• 2 ripe mangoes, peeled and diced
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Blend the Ingredients: In a blender, combine the diced mangoes, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, ground cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Blend until smooth.
2. Simmer the Sauce: Pour the mixture into a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently, for about 10-15 minutes. This will help thicken the sauce and develop the flavors.
3. Cool and Store: Once thickened, remove from heat and let it cool. Transfer the sauce to a glass jar or container and store in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to two weeks.
4. Enjoy: Use this Tropical Mango BBQ Sauce to slather on grilled meats, as a dipping sauce, or even on sandwiches for an extra kick of flavor!

Zesty Orange BBQ Sauce

This Zesty Orange BBQ Sauce brings a refreshing twist to your grilled favorites. The bright citrus flavor cuts through the richness of meats, making it a perfect companion for chicken, ribs, or even veggies. It’s easy to whip up with just a few ingredients, and the balanced sweetness and tanginess can elevate any meal.

Making this sauce is a breeze; you just mix the ingredients, simmer, and you’re ready to go! It’s a fantastic way to add some zing to your BBQ spread. Give it a try, and you might just find yourself tossing out that store-bought stuff for good!

Ingredients

• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Combine the ketchup, orange juice, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly before using. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Fiery Sriracha BBQ Sauce

This Fiery Sriracha BBQ Sauce packs a punch with its bold flavors and spicy kick. It perfectly balances sweetness and heat, making it an exciting addition to any grilled dish. Whether you’re slathering it on ribs or using it as a dipping sauce, this recipe is both simple and quick to whip up.

With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a homemade BBQ sauce that will leave store-bought options in the dust. It’s perfect for those who love a little spice in their life!

Ingredients

• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup Sriracha sauce
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, Sriracha sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until heated through and slightly thickened.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust Sriracha for desired heat level.
4. Remove from heat and let cool. Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
5. Enjoy with your favorite grilled meats, veggies, or as a dipping sauce!

Smoky Beer BBQ Sauce

Smoky Beer BBQ Sauce is a delightful blend that brings a unique twist to your grilling game. The combination of beer and smoky flavors creates a rich and complex taste that perfectly complements everything from ribs to burgers. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it a go-to recipe for any BBQ enthusiast.

This sauce is not just about the bold flavors; it also adds a touch of sweetness and tang, thanks to the mix of ingredients. You’ll love how it enhances your favorite grilled dishes, leaving your guests asking for the secret ingredient!

Ingredients

• 1 cup of your favorite beer
• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, mix together the beer, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce.
2. Add Spices: Stir in the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix well until fully combined.
3. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld.
4. Cool and Store: Once done, let the sauce cool before transferring it to a jar or airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to two weeks.

Creamy Avocado BBQ Sauce

This creamy avocado BBQ sauce is a delightful twist on traditional barbecue flavors. It combines the rich creaminess of avocado with the tangy notes of BBQ sauce, creating a perfect blend that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Simple to whip up, it makes a fantastic addition to grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a dip for veggies.

The flavor is a wonderful mix of smokiness, creaminess, and a hint of spice that will have you reconsidering store-bought options. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative, packed with good fats and nutrients, making it a great choice for any meal.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe avocados
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional)

Instructions

1. In a blender or food processor, combine the avocados, barbecue sauce, lime juice, honey, garlic powder, salt, and chili powder.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more lime juice or honey for balance.
4. Transfer to a bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Enjoy as a dip, spread, or drizzle over your favorite grilled dishes!

Maple Bourbon BBQ Sauce

If you’re looking for a BBQ sauce that balances sweet and smoky, this Maple Bourbon BBQ Sauce is the perfect choice. It’s easy to whip up and adds a unique twist to your grilled meats. The rich flavors of maple syrup and bourbon create a delightful taste that pairs wonderfully with chicken, ribs, or even veggies.

This sauce is not only simple to make, but it also elevates your BBQ game without a lot of fuss. Just combine the ingredients, simmer for a bit, and you’re ready to impress your guests with a homemade sauce that beats anything from the store.

Ingredients

• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, maple syrup, bourbon, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until mixed well.
2. Add in the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix until fully combined.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes to thicken.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before using. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Final Thoughts:

These 12 BBQ Sauce Recipes That Will Make You Ditch The Store-Bought Stuff offer the perfect blend of flavors and creativity to make your next barbecue or cookout truly memorable. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up delicious, homemade sauces that will have your guests asking for the recipe. From the smoky richness of a traditional BBQ sauce to the sweetness of a fruit-based option, each sauce is a fantastic way to enhance your grilled dishes.

Homemade BBQ sauce not only tastes better but allows you to tailor the ingredients to your personal taste—whether that means adjusting the sweetness, heat, or tanginess. So next time you’re grilling, skip the store-bought bottles and go for a homemade sauce that adds that perfect finishing touch.

Enjoy experimenting with these sauces, and get ready to take your BBQ meals to new heights of flavor and satisfaction!