Description
This smoky and savory bacon barbecue sauce is the perfect blend of crispy bacon, tangy vinegar, and sweet brown sugar. Ideal for grilling, burgers, and dipping, this homemade sauce will elevate any dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional)
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon – In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside on a paper towel to drain. Reserve some 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 cayenne pepper. 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 a smoother sauce is preferred, blend with an immersion blender or transfer 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 in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Notes
- Spicy Kick: Add more cayenne or a chopped chipotle pepper.
- Sweeter Flavor: Increase brown sugar or add honey.
- Smokier Taste: Use more smoked paprika or liquid smoke.
- Tangy Twist: Increase apple cider vinegar for extra tanginess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Condiments & Sauces
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: bacon barbecue sauce, homemade BBQ sauce, smoky BBQ sauce, grilled meat sauce, easy barbecue sauce