Sometimes the best flavors come from the simplest combinations, and this 3-ingredient BBQ sauce is proof.
Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cookouts, this quick recipe delivers bold, smoky-sweet flavor in minutes.
With just three pantry staples, you can create a versatile sauce that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted veggies, or even as a dip.
No fuss, no complicated steps—just pure, mouthwatering BBQ goodness. This fuss-free BBQ sauce will become your go-to for adding instant flavor to any dish.
How To Make 3-Ingredient BBQ Sauce?
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Course: Condiment
Cuisine: American
Yield: About 2 cups (10 servings)
Equipment Needed
- Small saucepan
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Spoon or whisk
- Airtight jar or container
Ingredients
- 1 cup regular ketchup
- ¼ cup dark brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
1. Combine ingredients
In a small saucepan, add the ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar.
2. Heat and simmer
Place over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
3. Taste and adjust
Taste your sauce and add more brown sugar for sweetness or vinegar for tanginess if desired.
4. Cool and serve
Remove from heat. Let it cool before transferring to a jar or serving.
Nutrition Facts Of 3-Ingredient BBQ Sauce
- Calories: 54 kcal
- Carbohydrate: 13.8 g
- Sugar: 11.7 g
- Sodium: 306 mg
Which Goes Best With 3-Ingredient BBQ Sauce?
❖ Classic BBQ Chicken: Brush the sauce over grilled or baked chicken in the last few minutes of cooking.
❖ Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Mix shredded slow-cooked pork with the sauce and pile it high on toasted buns.
❖ BBQ Meatballs: Toss cooked meatballs in the sauce for a quick party appetizer or a hearty dinner over rice or mashed potatoes.
❖ Dipping Sauce: Serve it as a dipping sauce for fries, onion rings, chicken tenders, or roasted potato wedges.
Tips & Variations
✤ Adjust Sweetness: Add honey or maple syrup for a sweeter taste.
✤ Spice It Up: Mix in chili flakes, hot sauce, or smoked paprika for heat.
✤ Citrus Twist: Squeeze in lemon or lime juice for a tangy kick.
✤ Thicker Consistency: Simmer longer to make the sauce stickier.
✤ Flavor Boost: Add garlic powder, onion powder, or Worcestershire sauce for depth.
➤ This sauce serves as a versatile foundation. You can easily tweak it by adding spices, heat, or smoky elements to suit your taste without losing its simplicity.
➤ This sauce keeps well in the fridge for up to a month, so you can make a batch ahead and use it whenever you need a fast flavor boost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, it stores well in the fridge for up to a week.
Is it gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free ketchup and vinegar.
Can I make it spicy?
Sure, you can add the spice of your choice.
Does it work as a marinade?
Yes, it’s perfect for marinating chicken, pork, or tofu.
Can I freeze 3-ingredient BBQ sauce?
Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Can I make it sugar-free?
Yes, use sugar-free ketchup and a sugar substitute like stevia.
Can I freeze this?
Yes—freeze in ice cube trays for small portions. Thaw overnight or use directly in cooking.
Conclusion
This simple 3-ingredient BBQ sauce proves that amazing flavor doesn’t have to be complicated.
Quick, versatile, and irresistibly delicious, it’s perfect for any meal or occasion.
Make a batch today, and enjoy a homemade sauce that will keep everyone coming back for more.
3-Ingredient BBQ Sauce
Equipment
- Small saucepan
- Measuring cups/spoons
- Spoon or whisk
- Airtight jar or container
Ingredients
- 1 cup regular ketchup
- ¼ cup dark brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
In a small saucepan, add the ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar.
Place over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves, and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Taste your sauce and add more brown sugar for sweetness or vinegar for tanginess if desired.
Remove from heat. Let it cool before transferring to a jar or serving.
Notes
Welcome to Arora’s Sauce Recipe, where every drop tells a story of tradition, innovation, and a boundless love for culinary arts. My name is Brazen, and I am the founder and chief sauce creator at Arora’s Kitchen. Born into a family with a rich heritage of culinary arts, I grew up surrounded by the aromas of spices and the sounds of simmering pots, which ignited my passion for cooking from a young age.
Inspired by generations of culinary expertise, I embarked on a professional quest to capture these fleeting aromas and flavors in bottles of sauce that could bring a gourmet experience to every meal.
As the founder of Arora’s Sauce Recipe, my mission is to inspire your culinary adventures with the finest sauces. Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook, our sauces are crafted to elevate your cooking with every spoonful.
Thank you for choosing Arora’s Sauce Recipe. Here’s to a journey filled with flavor, passion, and unforgettable meals.