Go Back
+ servings

The Ultimate Homemade Bourbon BBQ Sauce

A rich, smoky bourbon BBQ sauce with the perfect balance of sweet brown sugar, tangy tomato, and the complex flavor of bourbon whiskey. Perfect for ribs, chicken, and all your grilling favorites.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 32 servings
Course: Sauce
Cuisine: American
Calories: 53

Ingredients
  

  • ¾ cup quality bourbon whiskey
  • 1 large onion finely chopped
  • 4-5 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups ketchup
  • ¾ cup brown sugar packed
  • ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
  • ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons liquid smoke optional, for extra smokiness
  • 2 tablespoons molasses
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Method
 

  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the bourbon whiskey, minced garlic, and chopped onion. Simmer until the onions become translucent and soft, about 8-10 minutes.
  2. Stir in the ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, liquid smoke (if using), molasses, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and salt. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
  3. Reduce heat to low and simmer the sauce uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  4. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed.
  5. Allow the sauce to cool to room temperature. For a smoother consistency, you can blend the sauce in batches. Transfer to glass jars or containers and refrigerate.

Nutrition

Calories: 53kcalCarbohydrates: 8gFat: 1gSodium: 297mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!