Healthier Barbecue Sauce Recipe

Craving barbecue but watching your sugar intake? This healthier barbecue sauce delivers BIG on flavor without the guilt! Made with less butter and sugar than traditional recipes, this easy 20-minute recipe yields 1 1/2 cups of delicious, tangy sauce perfect for grilling chicken, pork, ribs, or even vegetables. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 20 mins
Calories 465.5 kcal
Protein 15g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
Healthier Barbecue Sauce 18

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Healthier Barbecue Sauce

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How to Make Healthier Barbecue Sauce

  1. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add 1/2 cup chopped onion and 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup ketchup, 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional), and 1/4 cup water.
  3. Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the skillet with the sautéed onions and peppers. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally, and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
  4. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Add more brown sugar for sweetness, vinegar for tang, or cayenne for heat.
  5. Pour the barbecue sauce over your favorite grilled meat or vegetables and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

227 g

Sugar

295g

Fat

38g

Carbs

29g