If you are looking for the best spicy BBQ sauce recipe, then you have to try my Hot BBQ Sauce. Filled with savory spices, plenty of heat, and a smidge of sweetness, it tastes great on basically any protein you can think of! It’s also perfect for dipping or basting some delicious ribs.
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Brown sugar and honey make the perfect sweeteners for this spicy BBQ sauce. They balance the hot sauce and tangy vinegar beautifully to achieve a truly craveable flavor and texture.
If you like spicy sauce recipes, you will love my Spicy Jalapeno Sauce and this Dairy-Free Buffalo Sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Spicy BBQ Sauce Recipe
- It has a great shelf life: When stored properly, it will last more than just a couple of days in the refrigerator.
- It takes less than 20 minutes to make: This recipe is ready in less than 20 minutes, but you still get amazing flavor and texture.
- It’s budget-friendly: The ingredients you’ll need to make it are inexpensive and won’t break the bank.
Ingredients
Here are all of the items you’ll need to make this sweet and spicy BBQ sauce recipe. They are common pantry staples that you can find easily at most grocery stores.
- Ketchup: This makes the perfect rich tomato base. I love using ketchup for BBQ sauce, as it combines well with other ingredients to create a truly balanced and tasty sauce. Use any brand that you like!
- Apple cider vinegar: I love the flavor of vinegar in BBQ sauce. Apple cider vinegar adds a subtle sweetness that keeps the BBQ sauce from being too tangy.
- Brown sugar and honey: The combination of brown sugar and honey works so well in this recipe. The brown sugar provides molasses and caramel notes, while the honey adds a delicate sweetness and helps to thicken the sauce.
- Worcestershire sauce: This savory sauce adds an umami punch that lifts the other flavors. A little goes a long way!
- Hot sauce: This is where you can get creative with your flavor profile and spice level. Choose your favorite brand and variety of hot sauce to make this recipe your own!
- Seasonings: I use smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt to add depth of flavor. Feel free to switch things up and use less or more of your favorites.
- Butter: I like to add butter to finish the spicy barbecue sauce. It adds fat and richness to make it glossy and delicious!
See the recipe card below for exact ingredient amounts, nutritional information, and detailed instructions.
Variations
- Extra hot: Try a spicy hot sauce like Tabasco or one with habaneros. Add jalapeno powder for even more heat to take it over the top.
- Peach: Swap the honey for peach jelly or jam to add a sweet flavor.
- Sweet and smoky: Try molasses and liquid smoke to add more smoky flavor and depth.
How to Make Hot BBQ Sauce
To get started, ensure your ingredients are measured and ready to go. You’ll also need to grab a medium saucepan.
Step 1: Combine the ingredients. Add the ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, honey, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and seasonings to a saucepan.
Step 2: Mix and simmer. Whisk the ingredients until they are well combined and cook the BBQ sauce over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Add the butter. Once the sauce has thickened, remove the pan from the heat and add the butter.
Step 4: Stir and serve. Stir until the butter is completely melted. Serve the sauce warm with your favorite protein. Enjoy!
⭐ Hint: Allow the BBQ sauce a few minutes to cool to a safe temperature to avoid any risk of burning yourself.
If you love sauce recipes like this one, you may also enjoy this Honey Hot Sauce.
Storage Directions
- Storing: Store leftover BBQ sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator. For longer storage, place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Make Ahead: I like to make this hot BBQ sauce ahead of time and use it for various foods throughout the week.
Serving Suggestions
- Use this homemade spicy BBQ sauce to baste on sous vide ribs or this tender crockpot beef brisket to add tasty flavor and moisture.
- It’s even great with chicken like these bone-in chicken breasts.
- Try this as a condiment for a yummy sandwich like fried pork chop sandwiches or these spicy blackened chicken sandwiches.
Recipe Tips
- Taste as you go: As the BBQ sauce cooks, give it a taste to ensure it has the right amount of seasoning to suit your preference. Adjust as needed!
- Allow time for it to simmer: Let the sauce simmer long enough for the flavors to fully develop.
- Watch the heat: Ensure the heat doesn’t get too high to prevent the BBQ sauce from burning.
Recipe FAQs
Sure! I recommend using an immersion blender to make the sauce smooth or straining it before serving to remove any chunks.
Of course! Add a little water or vinegar to loosen it up to your desired consistency.
Yes! Try this recipe with tomato sauce or a combination of tomato paste and a splash of water.
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More Delicious Sauce Recipes
Ready to get cooking? Remember that you can print this recipe if you would like.
Hot BBQ Sauce Recipe
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
- 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. 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.
- 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.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings if necessary. You can add more cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Let the BBQ sauce cool slightly before using. It can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- Taste as you go: Give the sauce a taste as it cooks to ensure it has the right amount of seasoning to suit your preference. This way you can easily adjust as needed!
- Storing: Store leftover BBQ sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator. It's also great to freeze! Place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Hot sauce: Feel free to get creative with your flavor profile and spice level. Choose your favorite brand and variety of hot sauce to make this recipe your own!
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