Here’s a simple, flavorful Homemade BBQ Sauce recipe that’s smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet—perfect for your Slow Cooker BBQ Beef Ribs. It’s inspired by popular recipes from sources like RecipeTin Eats and Allrecipes, designed for balance and versatility. (Makes 2 cups)
Ingredients:
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- 1 ½ cups Ketchup (use a good-quality brand like Heinz for best flavor)
- ½ cup Brown Sugar (packed, light or dark)
- ¼ cup Apple Cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp Molasses (for depth; can substitute with honey)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp Smoked Paprika (for smokiness)
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Onion Powder
- ½ tsp Black Pepper
- ½ tsp Salt
- ½ tsp Chili Powder or Cayenne (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp Liquid Smoke (optional, for extra smoky flavor)
- 2 tbsp Water (to adjust consistency, if needed)
Directions:
Combine Ingredients:
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- In a medium saucepan, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, chili powder (if using), and liquid smoke (if using).
Simmer:
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- Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce comes to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently, until slightly thickened and flavors meld.
Adjust:
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- Taste and adjust seasoning—add more sugar for sweetness, vinegar for tang, or chili powder for heat. If too thick, stir in water 1 tbsp at a time.
Cool and Store:
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- Let cool to room temperature. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or freeze for up to 3 months.
Notes:
For a sweeter sauce, increase brown sugar by 1-2 tbsp. For more tang, add an extra 1 tbsp vinegar. For spicier, double the chili powder or add a dash of hot sauce.
Great for brushing on ribs before broiling, as a dipping sauce, or for chicken, pork, or even grilled veggies.
Sauce flavors deepen after a day in the fridge, so consider making it ahead for your ribs.
This Homemade BBQ Sauce complements the slow cooker beef ribs perfectly, adding a rich, sticky glaze.
If you want a specific variation (e.g., honey-based or extra spicy) or tips for using it with other dishes, just let me know by sounding off in the comments.
