Description
This Hot BBQ Sauce recipe is a quick and spicy condiment made entirely on the stovetop. It’s a bold, flavorful sauce simmered until thick and rich, perfect for adding a smoky, spicy kick to your grilled meats, sandwiches, and more.
Ingredients
Hot BBQ Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 3 tablespoons hot sauce
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ¾ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to desired heat)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized saucepan, add the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. Stir all the ingredients together until they are well combined.
- Simmer the Sauce: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Allow the sauce to simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Finish with Butter: Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove the pan from the heat and stir in the unsalted butter. Stir until the butter is fully melted and incorporated into the sauce.
- Adjust Seasoning & Cool: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings if necessary, adding more cayenne pepper for extra heat if desired. Let the BBQ sauce cool slightly before using.
- Storage: Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- Adjust cayenne pepper to control the heat level of the sauce.
- Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness, or replace with a vegan butter alternative for a dairy-free version.
- The sauce thickens more as it cools, so simmer to slightly thinner consistency if you prefer a thicker final texture.
- This sauce pairs well with grilled chicken, ribs, burgers, or as a dipping sauce.
- Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks; reheat gently before serving if needed.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Condiment, Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
