Easy Homemade Gluten Free BBQ Sauce Recipe

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Making your own barbecue sauce at home is easier than you might think! This homemade gluten free BBQ sauce recipe is made with simple ingredients for a bold, smokey flavor that pairs perfectly with chicken wings, baby back ribs, pork chops, and more.

Unlike store-bought barbecue sauce, the best part about this healthy homemade sauce is the wholesome ingredients, and you get to control the sweetness and spice!

A glass jar full of gluten free bbq sauce.

Quick Info About This Recipe

Type: condiment, sauce
Cuisne: American
Time: 15 minutes
Number of ingredients: 5
Diets & Allergens: Gluten Free, Dairy Free Contains: anchovy
Equipment needed: none

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About the Ingredients

Ingredients for making a gluten free bbq sauce recipe.

Ketchup (we used Heinz Simply)
Apple-cider vinegar
Light-brown sugar (you can also use dark brown sugar if you prefer)
Worcestershire sauce (we used gluten-free Lea & Perrins brand from Costco)
Smoked paprika (this gives the sauce a wonderful color and smoky flavor)

Be sure to see the printable recipe card below for the full ingredients list with measurements, instructions and tips!

Step By Step Instructions

A pot full of ingredients for making a homemade gluten free bbq sauce recipe.

Step 1: Put all the ingredients in a small saucepan. Heat them over medium heat until they start to simmer.

Homemade gluten free bbq sauce in a pot on the stove.

Step 2: Cook and stir occasionally until the sauce gets thicker, which usually takes about 10 minutes.

A pitcher of homemade gluten free bbq sauce being poured on a plate of chicken.

Step 3: You can store the sauce in the fridge in a sealed container for up to one week.

Time Saving Shortcuts

Make a double batch and store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to have on hand.
Blend all ingredients before heating to speed up cooking time.
If making a big batch, you can use a smaller slow cooker to let the sauce simmer without constant stirring. Just stir occasionally.
To make a thinner sauce with a hint of extra sweetness, you can add a little maple syrup.

A jar of homemade gluten free bbq sauce.

Expert Tips

Use a good-quality tomato ketchup without high fructose corn syrup.
Make sure to simmer over medium to medium-low heat to let the flavors blend without burning the sauce.
Experiment with adding a little bit of liquid smoke to enhance the smokey flavor.
Stir occasionally while warming to prevent sticking and achieve a smooth consistency.
Taste as you go and adjust the balance of sweetness and acidity with a little extra sugar or extra apple cider vinegar as needed.

Substitutions & Variations

Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for extra heat.
Add a tang: Stir in a spoonful of mustard powder for a tangy kick.
Make it sweet: Use balsamic vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar for a sweeter flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Appetizer: drizzle the bbq sauce on these loaded tater tots
Side: dip these avocado fries in the sauce
Snack: dip these gluten-free corndogs in the BBQ.

Storage & Reheating

To store: Keep in a mason jar or any airtight container in the refrigerator for about two weeks. Let it cool before storing.

To freeze: After it’s cooled, pour it into freezer bags or a freezer-safe container. Label with the date and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before using.

To reheat: Warm over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. For quick reheating, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

A glass pitcher full of gluten free bbq sauce.

FAQ

What makes store-bought BBQ sauce not gluten-free?

Many barbecue sauce ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but not all store-bought options are safe. Some contain malt syrup, malt vinegar, or added flavorings that may include gluten.

How can you tell if BBQ sauce is gluten-free?

Carefully reading labels, checking ingredients, and checking for a gluten-free certification label are important when choosing a safe BBQ sauce.

Can I use tomato sauce instead of ketchup when making BBQ sauce?

I would not suggest using tomato sauce instead of ketchup because it will not have the same consistency.

What’s the best way to thicken homemade BBQ sauce?

Simmering longer over medium-low heat will naturally thicken it. If needed, stir in a small amount of tomato paste and adjust the flavors as needed.

What dishes pair well with this BBQ sauce?

This gluten-free version works well with gluten-free chicken tenders, barbecue chicken, pork chops, and even as a dipping sauce for fries, sweet potato fries, or gluten-free chicken nuggets.

More Yummy Recipes

If you love recipes that are great for dipping, you’ll also love this easy Mexican corn dip!

Please comment and rate below if you loved this recipe, and don’t forget to share with friends and family!

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