Homemade Gluten-Free BBQ Sauce
Published
BBQ sauce is one of my favorite things to lather on chicken, ribs, or pulled pork—especially during grilling season. This homemade gluten-free BBQ sauce is perfect for all my gluten-sensitive friends looking to enjoy a classic, bold sauce without worry. It’s got that rich tomato base with a sweet, tangy, smoky flavor and a thick, satisfying texture. You can whip it up in just 10 minutes using pantry staples—perfect for your next summer barbecue or as a go-to sauce for easy weeknight meals.
I was surprised to learn that most BBQ sauces are actually gluten-free, but nothing beats a homemade version. I use this homemade gluten-free barbecue sauce for marinades, dipping sauces, glazes, or even as a smoky topping for a juicy burger. With summer just around the corner, I’m starting to prep some of my warm-weather favorites, and having BBQ sauce ready in the fridge or freezer makes it easy to pull a meal together. Plus, if I ever run out, I know I’ve already got the ingredients on hand to whip up a fresh batch in no time.
Homemade Gluten-Free BBQ Sauce
Equipment
- 1 small saucepan
Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- ¼ cup molasses
- ¼ and 1/8 cups brown sugar
- 1 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¾ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- In a small saucepot on low heat, combine all your ingredients and give them a mix.
- Allow your sauce to come to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer for 5 minutes, then remove it from the heat and allow it to cool before jarring and storing it in the fridge.
Notes
- This recipe doubles easily if you want to stock your freezer or prep for a party.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
How to Make Homemade Gluten-Free Barbecue Sauce Step by Step
Gather the Ingredients: Gather all the ingredients together.
Cook the sauce: Grab a small saucepan and heat it on low. Combine 1 cup ketchup, ¼ cup molasses, ¼ and ⅛ cup brown sugar, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp salt, ¾ tsp onion powder, and ¼ tsp black pepper. Stir to combine.
Simmer the sauce: Let the sauce come to a simmer while stirring occasionally. Let it sit at a simmer for 5 minutes until it thickens a bit.
Serve, store, and enjoy: Once thickened, remove the sauce from the heat. Let the sauce cool before using or storing. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
This BBQ sauce is one I reach for all the time—it’s super versatile and adds bold flavor to just about anything. I love brushing it onto gluten-free fried chicken or spreading it on top of gluten-free meatloaf, or mixing it into shredded pork for a quick pulled pork sandwich. It’s also great as a dipping sauce for air fryer fries or gluten-free chicken tenders, and I’ve even drizzled it over a loaded burger when I want something a little smoky and sweet. Keep a jar in the fridge during grilling season, and you’ll always have an easy way to level up weeknight dinners, backyard cookouts, or weekend meal prep.
Storage Instructions
I like to store my cooled BBQ sauce in a jar in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Homemade barbecue sauce typically tastes better the longer it rests. Rest it in the fridge, and allow the flavors to meld. Before eating, I recommend making it ahead and jarring it for a couple of hours before using for the best flavor.
If you want to make a larger batch or aren’t using it all, store it in a freezer-safe container and freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or thaw it up to 2 days in advance. Be sure to use the sauce within 5 days of thawing it.
