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–+ servings
Homemade barbecue sauce made with root beer in a mason jar.

Easy Homemade Barbecue Sauce

This homemade barbecue sauce has a secret ingredient: root beer. It adds a rich, caramel sweetness that makes this 20-minute sauce taste like it simmered all day. Sweet, tangy and deeply flavorful, it's perfect for slathering, dipping and basting all your favorite grilled foods.
4.80 from 5 votes
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 2 cups

Ingredients  

  • 1 Tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 Tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1 cup root beer
  • 1 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional)

Instructions 

  • Add the olive oil to a medium heavy-bottomed saucepot set over medium-low heat, then add the minced garlic and sauté, stirring constantly, for about 2 minutes until golden brown.
  • Stir in the root beer, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar and brown sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce it to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, for 6 to 8 minutes until the sauce has reduced by 1/4. Continue with the directions below for two sauce consistency options.

For a thinner sauce:

  • Remove the sauce from the heat, stir in the salt and pepper, and serve.

For a thicker sauce:

  • In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water. Whisk the cornstarch mixture into the sauce, bring it to a boil again then simmer it for 2 to 3 additional minutes until the sauce has thickened. Remove the sauce from the heat, stir in the salt and pepper, and serve.

Notes

  • This barbecue sauce recipe pairs perfectly with pulled pork, chicken, ribs, burgers and barbecue chicken pizza.
  • Make ahead: The flavors develop and deepen the longer the sauce sits. I almost always make it a day ahead. It tastes even better the next day once the flavors have had a chance to mellow.
  • To store: Refrigerate in an airtight container or mason jar for up to 2 weeks. Give it a quick stir before using.
  • To freeze: Transfer the cooled sauce to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.
  • To make it spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce. Start small and taste as you go.
  • Root beer substitute: Coca-Cola or Dr Pepper are the most common swaps and both work well. Avoid diet sodas as the artificial sweeteners can affect the taste.
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