Easy Barbecue Sauces You Can Make from Scratch

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Ready to elevate your grilling experience? Forget the store-bought sauces—these easy, flavor-packed barbecue sauces are all made from scratch using simple pantry staples. Whether you enjoy it sweet, smoky, tangy, spicy, or unique, there’s a homemade BBQ sauce in this roundup to suit every taste and every cut of meat.

Korean BBQ Sauce

A glass jar filled with homemade BBQ sauce with a basting brush resting on the rim, perfect for trying out your favorite BBQ recipes. — Image Credit: It Is a Keeper

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This savory-sweet Korean-style sauce is rich in umami, thanks to the combination of soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and a hint of brown sugar. It’s ideal for dipping grilled meats or brushing on skewers.

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Sweet and Spicy BBQ Sauce

A close-up of a glass jar filled with thick, reddish-brown homemade BBQ sauce, with a spoon inside the jar. — Image Credit: It Is a Keeper

This tried-and-true barbecue sauce is everything you want in a classic—sweet, tangy, smoky, and just a little spicy. It’s incredibly versatile and works with everything from chicken to ribs.

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Texas BBQ Sauce

A spoon scoops thick brown barbecue sauce from a glass jar, with a blurred container of brown sugar in the background. — Image Credit: It Is a Keeper

Big, bold, and smoky, this thick Texas-style glaze delivers heat and flavor with a blend of sugar, ketchup, and Worcestershire. Brush it onto brisket or ribs for that signature Lone Star taste. notes of brown

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Spicy Chipotle BBQ Sauce

A close-up of a glass jar filled with homemade BBQ sauce, with a basting brush coated in the best BBQ sauce resting on the rim. — Image Credit: It Is a Keeper

Smoky chipotle peppers take center stage in this bold sauce that’s got just the right amount of heat. It’s great for slathering on grilled chicken, burgers, or roasted veggies.

GET THIS RECIPE: Spicy Chipotle BBQ Sauce

Bourbon BBQ Sauce

A ceramic bowl filled with thick, dark brown homemade BBQ sauce sits on a wooden surface. — Image Credit: It Is a Keeper

A splash of whiskey brings depth and warmth to this smoky-sweet sauce that’s great for brushing on steak, ribs, or burgers. It’s rich, bold, and a little boozy—in the best way.

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Peach BBQ Sauce

A spoonful of thick, orange-red homemade BBQ sauce is being held over an open jar filled with the same sauce. — Image Credit: It Is a Keeper

This fun and flavorful BBQ sauce is sticky, sweet, and perfect for dunking crispy chicken tenders or using as a glaze. Kids love it—and so will you.

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Strawberry Chipotle BBQ Sauce

A clear glass bowl filled with smooth red strawberry sauce, reminiscent of homemade BBQ sauce, is surrounded by fresh strawberries on a wooden surface. — Image Credit: The Stay At Home Chef

Fruity meets fiery in this unique twist on BBQ sauce that blends sweet strawberries with smoky chipotle. It’s perfect for grilled chicken or as a glaze for pork tenderloin.

GET THIS RECIPE: Strawberry Chipotle BBQ Sauce

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Memphis Barbecue Sauce

A spoon holding thick brown BBQ sauce hovers above an open glass jar filled with the same sauce, resting on a wooden surface. — Image Credit: Ask Chef Dennis

This tomato-based sauce is a great balance of sweet and tangy, with a deep, molasses-like richness that coats ribs and pulled pork beautifully. It’s a true Southern staple.

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Alabama White BBQ Sauce

A spoon holding a thick, creamy, light-colored homemade BBQ sauce with visible specks, held over an open jar on a wooden surface. — Image Credit: Ask Chef Dennis

Creamy, tangy, and a little spicy, this mayo-based white BBQ sauce is a regional classic that’s perfect for grilled chicken or turkey. It’s unexpected and addictive.

GET THIS RECIPE: Alabama White BBQ Sauce

Carolina Vinegar BBQ Sauce

A close-up of a spoon holding a brown, speckled homemade BBQ sauce above an open glass jar filled with the same sauce. — Image Credit: Ask Chef Dennis

If you like your BBQ with a tangy bite, this vinegar-based Carolina sauce is a must-try. It’s perfect for pulled pork and adds a zesty, mouthwatering finish to smoked meats.

GET THIS RECIPE: Carolina Vinegar BBQ Sauce

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Coffee BBQ Sauce

A close-up view of a bowl filled with thick, reddish-brown homemade BBQ sauce, perfect for trying out new BBQ recipes. — Image Credit: Casual Foodist

Rich brewed coffee adds bold depth to this smoky, slightly sweet sauce. It’s an excellent pairing for beef or brisket and brings a gourmet twist to your BBQ lineup.

GET THIS RECIPE: Coffee BBQ Sauce

Sugar Free BBQ Sauce

A close-up of a metal spoon scooping thick, red homemade BBQ sauce from a bowl. — Image Credit: Wholesome Yum

Watching your carbs? This sugar-free BBQ sauce delivers big flavor without the added sugars. Great for keto or low-carb diets without sacrificing taste.

GET THIS RECIPE: Sugar Free BBQ Sauce

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Meet Christina

Woman in red blouse slicing lemons in a kitchen setting.

Hi there, it’s nice to meet you! I’m a recipe developer, author, TV contributor and recipe hoarder that shares tried and true recipes anyone can make. It Is a Keeper started in 2010 as a hobby that quickly grew. Spending time in the kitchen has always made me happy – whether I’m making an old favorite that I know by heart or trying a new recipe. You can learn more about me here.