3 Ingredient BBQ Sauce - Easiest No Cook Recipe Ever

love this super simple 3 Ingredient BBQ Sauce. It’s quick, requires zero cooking, and honestly, it tastes way better than anything from the store.

Perfect for when you need some quick flavor for your burgers, ribs, or even as a dip. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll never go back to store-bought!

Let’s see how it’s made.

Recipe Information

Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: None
Course: Condiment
Cuisine: American
Servings: 1 cup (about 8 servings)
Calories: 40 per serving
Price: $2.50

Equipment Needed

Medium-sized mixing bowl
Whisk or spoon for stirring
Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients List

1 cup of ketchup
2 tablespoons of brown sugar
1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar

Instructions

Gather your ingredients: Get the ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar ready.
Combine in a bowl: In a medium mixing bowl, pour in 1 cup of ketchup. Add 2 tablespoons of brown sugar and 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar.
Mix well: Use a whisk or spoon to mix everything together until the sugar is fully dissolved, and the sauce is smooth.
Taste and adjust: If you want it sweeter, add a little more brown sugar. If you like it tangier, toss in a bit more vinegar.
Serve immediately or store: Use right away for your BBQ, or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

Cooking Tips

Add spice: If you like a bit of heat, you can mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.
Consistency: If you want a thinner sauce, add a teaspoon of water at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Flavor boost: For a smoky flavor, try adding a dash of smoked paprika or liquid smoke.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 40
Carbohydrates: 10g
Protein: 0g
Fat: 0g

Perfect Pairing

This BBQ sauce works great with a variety of dishes. Here’s a list of some perfect pairings:

Grilled chicken
Pork ribs
Beef burgers
Pulled pork sandwiches
Grilled vegetables (like corn, zucchini, or mushrooms)
French fries or sweet potato fries (as a dip)
BBQ chicken pizza (use it as a base sauce)
Baked potatoes
Meatloaf (as a glaze)
Chicken wings

Shelf Life

To keep your BBQ sauce fresh and ready for the next meal, follow these simple storage tips:

Store in an airtight container or jar.
Keep refrigerated for up to 1 week.
Stir before using, as ingredients may separate.
Avoid freezing, as it can alter the texture and flavor.

Custom Add-Ins

Take this simple BBQ sauce to the next level with these easy add-ins:

Smoky flavor: Add 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika or liquid smoke.
Spicy kick: Mix in 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
Sweetness: Add 1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.
Garlic: Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for added depth.
Tangy twist: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or mustard for more zing.

Make-Ahead Tip

Planning for a BBQ or gathering? Here are some tips to make your sauce ahead of time:

Make the sauce 1-2 days in advance for best flavor.
Store in the fridge and let the flavors meld together.
Stir before serving to ensure everything is well mixed.
Serve cold or at room temperature, depending on preference.

FAQs

Can I use honey instead of brown sugar in the 3 Ingredient BBQ Sauce?

Yes, honey works well as a substitute for brown sugar to add sweetness.

How long will the 3 Ingredient BBQ Sauce last?

The 3 Ingredient BBQ Sauce will last up to 1 week in the fridge if stored in an airtight container.

Can I freeze the 3 Ingredient BBQ Sauce?

Freezing the 3 Ingredient BBQ Sauce is not recommended as it may alter the texture and flavor.

Is the 3 Ingredient BBQ Sauce vegan?

Yes, as long as the ketchup and other ingredients are vegan-friendly.

Can I adjust the sweetness or tanginess in the 3 Ingredient BBQ Sauce?

Definitely! Add more sugar for sweetness or more vinegar for a tangier taste.

Last Words

The 3 Ingredient BBQ Sauce is the perfect solution for quick, no-fuss flavor. With just a few pantry staples and no cooking required, you can whip up a delicious sauce in minutes.

Use it on grilled meats, roasted veggies, or as a tasty dip. Try it out, experiment with different flavors, and enjoy a simple yet satisfying homemade BBQ sauce that beats store-bought any day!