10-Minute Homemade BBQ Sauce (Easy No-Cook Recipe)

Quick and Easy Homemade BBQ Sauce (No-Cook Recipe)

This homemade bbq sauce easy no cook recipe is the perfect solution when you need delicious barbecue flavor in minutes! With just a handful of pantry staples and absolutely no cooking required, you can whip up a versatile sauce that’s perfect for sandwiches, dipping fries, or glazing your favorite grilled meats.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes

Servings: 32 servings (approximately 3 cups)

Homemade BBQ Sauce in a glass bowl with a spoon

Why You’ll Love This No-Cook BBQ Sauce Recipe

There’s something special about homemade barbecue sauce that store-bought versions just can’t match. This quick no-cook version delivers rich, tangy flavor without the hassle of simmering on the stove. It’s:

  • Super quick – ready in just 10 minutes
  • Perfectly balanced – sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy
  • Customizable – easily adjust spices to your preference
  • Versatile – great for dipping, spreading, or glazing
  • Pantry-friendly – made with ingredients you likely have on hand

Ingredients for Easy Homemade BBQ Sauce

  • 1 ½ cups ketchup
  • ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

How to Make No-Cook BBQ Sauce at Home

  1. In a medium mixing bowl, add the ketchup as your base.
  2. Pour in the apple cider vinegar for tanginess.
  3. Add yellow mustard, which helps create that classic BBQ flavor.
  4. Sprinkle in the brown sugar for sweetness.
  5. Add all the spices: garlic powder, salt, chili powder, cayenne pepper, and black pepper.
  6. Whisk everything together thoroughly until completely smooth and well combined.
  7. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed – add more brown sugar for sweetness or cayenne for heat.
  8. Transfer to a jar or serving container and use immediately or refrigerate.

Recipe Variations for Your No-Cook Barbecue Sauce

One of the best things about making sauce at home is how easily you can customize it! Try these variations:

  • Sweet BBQ Sauce: Double the brown sugar or add 2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup
  • Smoky BBQ: Add 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke or 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika
  • Spicy Kick: Increase the cayenne pepper or add hot sauce to taste
  • Southern Style: Add 1 tablespoon of molasses for deeper flavor
  • Fruity Twist: Mix in 2 tablespoons of pineapple juice or applesauce
See also  Easy 5-Minute BBQ Dry Rub Recipes: Homemade Spice Blend for Grilling Perfection

Serving Ideas for Your Homemade BBQ Sauce

This versatile no-cook sauce pairs beautifully with so many foods:

  • As a dip for chicken nuggets, french fries, or onion rings
  • Spread on burgers, pulled pork sandwiches, or grilled chicken
  • Drizzled over baked potatoes or mac and cheese
  • As a glaze for meatloaf or baked chicken
  • Mixed with shredded chicken for quick BBQ chicken sliders
  • Served alongside smoked or grilled meats

Storage Tips for No-Cook Barbecue Sauce

This sauce keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator:

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks
  • Freezer: Freeze in small portions for up to 3 months
  • Make ahead: The flavor actually improves after a day in the refrigerator!

Nutrition Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 29 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 7g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Fat: 0g
  • Sodium: 287mg
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Fiber: 0g

FAQs About Homemade No-Cook BBQ Sauce

Can I make this sauce less sweet?

Absolutely! Simply reduce the amount of brown sugar or omit it completely for a tangier sauce.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can add 1 tablespoon of tomato paste to the mixture.

Is this BBQ sauce gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free ketchup and mustard, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Can I use this sauce as a marinade?

Definitely! It makes an excellent marinade for chicken, pork, or beef. Just allow the meat to marinate for at least 2 hours before cooking.

This homemade bbq sauce easy no cook recipe proves that delicious barbecue flavor doesn’t have to be complicated. In just 10 minutes, you can create a sauce that rivals anything from the grocery store, with ingredients you control and flavors you can customize to your family’s preferences. Give it a try next time you need BBQ sauce in a hurry!

Recipe adapted from All Recipes

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