This is my go to recipe any time we want to make something with barbecue sauce. It requires just a few ingredients, is naturally sweetened and takes less than 30 minutes total- and only about 2 minutes of it is hands on!
The Ingredients
- Tomato Sauce
- Honey- You can substitute maple syrup or brown sugar if needed
- Balsamic Vinegar- You can substitute apple cider vinegar if needed
- Ground Mustard
- Paprika- Use regular or smoked
- Sea Salt
- Onion Powder
- Garlic Powder
- Cayenne- Adjust it to suit your desired level of spice or leave it out completely
The Method
- Whisk all ingredients together in a sauce pan.
- Simmer until thickened.
- Allow to cool completely and use!
Leftover Storage
Store leftovers in airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months. I like to freeze it in ice cube trays so that I can take out just the amount that I need for different recipes.
How to Serve Barbecue Sauce
Try this sauce out on grilled meats, Simple Barbecued Burgers, on Barbecue Chicken Pizza or in BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Boats!
Dietary Notes
If you have dietary restrictions, check the packaging of specific ingredients that you use to ensure they are compliant. This recipe is:
- Dairy Free
- Gluten Free
- Nut Free
- Paleo
- Vegetarian
- Vegan - If you use maple syrup in place of honey.
And if you liked this recipe...
...you might also like:
BBQ Sauce
Tangy, sweet and a little spicy, from scratch barbecue sauce is easier than you might think! Use it on your favorite grilled meats, pizza or in a sandwich.
Print
Pin
Rate
Servings: cup
Calories: 16kcal
Ingredients
- 1 (7 oz) can tomato sauce
- ¼ cup water
- 2 and ½ tablespoon honey plus additional to taste
- 2 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ⅛-1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the ingredients and cover.
- Heat over medium high until mixture is boiling, reduce heat to medium low and let simmer for 20-30 minutes until thickened, stirring occasionally.
- Allow to cool completely.
Notes
Substitutions
Apple cider vinegar can be used in place of balsamic.
Maple syrup can be used in place of honey.
Leftovers
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months. I like to freeze in ice cube trays to be able to take out small portions for use in recipes.
Nutrition
Serving: 1tablespoon | Calories: 16kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 139mg | Potassium: 49mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 70IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 3mg | Iron: 1mg
Did you make this recipe?Let me know what you thought in the comments below!
Tayler
This is my go to barbecue sauce! We put it on everything and I always keep some in the fridge!
Janessa
I'm glad you enjoy this recipe, Tayler!
Jamie
This was great on some grilled chicken. Perfectly seasoned and flavorful.
Janessa
I'm glad you enjoyed this recipe, Jamie!
Sharon
This super easy homemade BBQ sauce is the perfect addition for brushing on chicken or ribs.
Janessa
Thank you for your kind review, Sharon!
Neha
Looks like a super easy sauce recipe. I need to try this out for a barbecue party I am throwing this weekend!
Janessa
Thank you for your kind review, Neha!