Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bacon barbecue sauce is the ultimate blend of smoky, savory, and sweet flavors, making it a must-have condiment for grilling season. The rich, crispy bacon adds a deep umami taste, while the tangy tomato base and sweet brown sugar create a balance of flavors that enhance any dish. Perfect for brushing onto grilled meats, slathering over burgers, or even using as a dipping sauce, this recipe will elevate your barbecue game to a whole new level.

Ingredients

Bacon
Onion
Garlic
Ketchup
Apple cider vinegar
Brown sugar
Worcestershire sauce
Dijon mustard
Smoked paprika
Black pepper
Cayenne pepper
Liquid smoke (optional)
Water

Directions

Cook the Bacon – In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it becomes crispy. Remove it from the pan and set it aside on a paper towel to drain. Reserve some of the bacon grease in the pan.
Sauté the Aromatics – In the same pan, add chopped onions and cook until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Mix the Sauce Base – Add ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard to the pan. Stir well to combine.
Season – Sprinkle in smoked paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne for heat. If using, add a dash of liquid smoke for extra depth.
Simmer – Allow the sauce to simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens.
Blend for Smoothness (Optional) – If you prefer a smoother sauce, blend the mixture with an immersion blender or transfer it to a food processor.
Add the Bacon – Crumble the cooked bacon and stir it into the sauce. Simmer for another 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Cool and Store – Let the sauce cool before transferring it to a jar or airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add more cayenne pepper or a chopped chipotle pepper for extra heat.
Sweeter Flavor: Increase the brown sugar or mix in a bit of honey for a sweeter sauce.
Smokier Taste: Use more smoked paprika or a few extra drops of liquid smoke to intensify the smoky essence.
Tangy Twist: Increase the apple cider vinegar for a tangier sauce with a bit more bite.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: About 2 cups

Storage/Reheating

Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
For longer storage, freeze the sauce in a sealed container for up to three months.
To reheat, warm the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

How can I make this sauce less spicy?

Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and black pepper for a milder version.

Can I use turkey bacon instead?

Yes, turkey bacon can be used, though it won’t provide the same rich, smoky flavor as pork bacon.

Is this sauce gluten-free?

Most ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but check your Worcestershire sauce, as some brands contain gluten.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of ketchup?

Yes, blend fresh tomatoes with a bit of tomato paste to achieve a similar consistency and flavor.

What meats pair best with this sauce?

This sauce is perfect for ribs, chicken, burgers, pulled pork, and even grilled vegetables.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, it actually tastes better after sitting for a day, as the flavors meld together.

How can I thicken the sauce?

Let it simmer longer, or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken.

Can I use maple syrup instead of brown sugar?

Yes, maple syrup adds a unique sweetness and enhances the smoky flavor.

How do I make it vegetarian?

Omit the bacon and use a smoky, plant-based alternative like smoked tempeh or mushrooms.

What’s the best way to blend this sauce?

An immersion blender works best for a smooth consistency, but a regular blender can also be used.

Conclusion

This bacon barbecue sauce is a game-changer for your grilling sessions, offering the perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and sweet flavors. Whether you’re slathering it on ribs, drizzling it over burgers, or using it as a dipping sauce, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it today and elevate your barbecue experience!

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