Wendy’s BBQ Sauce Recipe
Let me tell y’all, if you’re craving that smoky, tangy goodness of Wendy’s BBQ sauce but want something cleaner, richer, and just flat-out better-this homemade version is for you! We’re talking real ingredients, no preservatives, and no artificial anything. It’s a true dump-and-go recipe that’s simple enough for busy weeknights, cookouts, or anytime your taste buds need a BBQ boost.
Ingredients
- 1 ¼ cups ketchup go organic or low-sugar if you like
- 1 cup dark brown sugar
- ¼ cup molasses
- ¼ cup pineapple juice from a can works perfectly!
- ¼ cup water
- 1 tablespoon hickory liquid smoke
- 2 ½ teaspoons ground mustard
- 2 teaspoons paprika smoked paprika works great!
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of cayenne pepper about ⅛ tsp – adjust to taste
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper coarsely ground is best
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In your saucepan, add the ketchup, brown sugar, molasses, pineapple juice, and water. Whisk to combine.
- Add the Flavor Boosters: Stir in the liquid smoke, ground mustard, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, kosher salt, and black pepper.
- Cook It Down: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally.
- Simmer and Thicken: Once it hits a boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5–10 minutes. This gives the sugar time to fully dissolve and the flavors to meld.
- Cool and Store: Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before pouring into a jar or airtight container.
Video
Notes
In the fridge: Store in a sealed jar or container for up to 1 month.
In the freezer: Let cool completely, then freeze in small portions (ice cube trays or freezer-safe jars work great!). Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.