Bobby Flay BBQ Sauce Recipe is a rich, smoky, and slightly spicy sauce made using chipotle, ancho chili powder, and sweeteners like honey and molasses.
This sauce turns out incredibly delicious, deep in flavor, and well balanced. I made this Bobby Flay BBQ Sauce Recipe because I was inspired while watching one of his grilling shows where the sauce was featured.
Now I will show up and walk step by step through how this bold and flavourful BBQ sauce is made.
Why We Love This Bobby Flay BBQ Sauce Recipe?
We love this Bobby Flay BBQ Sauce Recipe because it brings together a bold mix of smoky, sweet, tangy, and spicy flavours.
The depth from chipotle and ancho chili powder adds just the right amount of heat, while molasses, honey, and brown sugar create a rich sweetness.
Every bite delivers balance and complexity. It enhances grilled meats, burgers, and even roasted vegetables. The texture is smooth and satisfying, and the flavor lingers just enough to keep you coming back.
How To Prepare Bobby Flay BBQ Sauce Recipe?
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Course: Sauce / Condiment
Cuisine: American (Southwestern)
Difficulty: Easy
Yield: About 2 cups
Kitchen Utensils Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Blender or immersion blender (optional for smooth sauce)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and chopping board
Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (mild-flavored like canola or sunflower)
- 1 small sweet onion, roughly chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, roughly chopped
- 1/3 cup cold water
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or sherry vinegar
- 2 tablespoons ancho chili powder
- 2 tablespoons packed dark brown sugar
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon sweet smoked paprika (Spanish pimenton)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (heaping)
- 1 tablespoon honey & 1 tablespoon molasses
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce (from a can), chopped
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
How To Make Bobby Flay BBQ Sauce Recipe?
Step 1: Cook The Aromatics
Heat a bit of vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and garlic, and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring now and then, until they’re soft and smell amazing but don’t let them brown.
Step 2: Start The Sauce
Stir in the ketchup and water until everything’s well mixed. Add the Dijon mustard, vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce, give it another good stir, and let it come to a gentle simmer.
Step 3: Bring The Heat
Add the chopped chipotle pepper, ancho chili powder, and smoked paprika. Stir well so the spices are evenly mixed into the sauce.
Step 4: Add The Sweetness
Now add the brown sugar, honey, and molasses. Keep stirring until everything’s fully dissolved and the sauce starts to thicken up.
Step 5: Let It Simmer
Turn the heat down low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for about 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally, and season with a bit of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 6: Blend (If You Want) And Store
If you prefer a smooth sauce, use an immersion blender in the pot, or let it cool a bit and blend it in a regular blender. Whether smooth or chunky, let it cool completely, then pour into a jar and store in the fridge. It’ll keep for up to a week.
Nutrition Facts Of Bobby Flay BBQ Sauce Recipe
| Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 95 |
| Fat | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Sugar | 11g |
| Protein | 1g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 250mg |
About This Bobby Flay BBQ Sauce Recipe
Bobby Flay BBQ Sauce Recipe stands out for its rich, smoky flavor and perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy notes.
What makes it truly special is the combination of ancho chile powder and chipotle in adobo, giving it a deep, smoky heat that’s not overpowering. Blended with molasses, brown sugar, honey, and vinegar, it delivers bold complexity with every bite.
This sauce is a versatile companion for grilled meats, burgers, or ribs, reflecting Bobby Flay’s signature style of bold, layered flavours.
Ways To Use It
1. Brush generously over ribs or chicken during the last few minutes of grilling to build a caramelised, flavourful glaze.
2. Use as a dipping sauce for crispy fries, chicken tenders, or onion rings for a bold, smoky kick.
3. Stir into shredded pork or beef for a mouthwatering BBQ sandwich filling.
4. Spoon over burgers to add a rich, tangy layer of flavor.
5. Mix into baked beans for an extra depth of smoky sweetness.
Tips And Tricks For Perfect Bobby Flay BBQ Sauce Recipe
➢ Saute the onions until they’re soft and slightly caramelised to build a deeper base flavor.
➢ Use only one chipotle pepper to control the heat without overpowering the sauce.
➢ Simmer the sauce slowly to let the flavours meld and develop richness.
➢ Blend the sauce after cooking for a smooth, restaurant style texture.
➢ Adjust sweetness or acidity by tasting at the end and adding more brown sugar or vinegar as needed.
How To Make Bobby Flay BBQ Sauce Recipe Tastier?
To make Bobby Flay BBQ Sauce Recipe tastier, use fire-roasted tomatoes instead of plain ketchup for deeper flavor.
Roast the garlic and onion before adding them to bring out their natural sweetness. Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy kick.
Let the sauce simmer longer to intensify the flavours. A touch of smoked sea salt can enhance the smoky profile.
Finish it off with a hint of fresh lime juice for brightness that balances the richness beautifully.
Proper Storage
Store Bobby Flay BBQ Sauce Recipe in a clean, airtight glass jar or container after it cools completely. Keep it in the refrigerator, where it stays fresh for up to one week.
Stir the sauce before each use to maintain its smooth consistency. For longer storage, freeze it in small portions using ice cube trays or freezer safe bags.
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Always use a clean spoon to avoid introducing bacteria that could shorten shelf life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This BBQ Sauce Ahead Of Time?
Yes, the sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Is The Sauce Very Spicy?
The chipotle pepper adds a mild heat. You can adjust the spice by using less or omitting it altogether.
Do I Have To Blend The Sauce?
Blending is optional. For a smooth texture, use a blender or immersion blender after cooking.
What Can I Use Instead Of Ancho Chile Powder?
Substitute with regular chili powder or smoked paprika for a similar depth of flavor.
What Dishes Pair Well With This Sauce?
It goes well on grilled chicken, ribs, pulled pork, burgers, and even roasted vegetables.
Conclusion
I truly enjoyed making this easy and delicious Bobby Flay BBQ Sauce Recipe it was a simple success full of bold, smoky flavor!
I hope you feel inspired to try it yourself. It’s perfect for grilling season or anytime you want to elevate your meals.
Now it’s your turn give it a try soon and let me know how delicious it turns out for you. I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I did!
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Bobby Flay BBQ Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Blender or immersion blender (optional for smooth sauce)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and chopping board
Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil mild-flavored like canola or sunflower
- 1 small sweet onion roughly chopped
- 3 garlic cloves roughly chopped
- 1/3 cup cold water
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or sherry vinegar
- 2 tablespoons ancho chili powder
- 2 tablespoons packed dark brown sugar
- Kosher salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon sweet smoked paprika Spanish pimenton
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard heaping
- 1 tablespoon honey & 1 tablespoon molasses
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce from a can, chopped
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
Step 1: Cook The Aromatics
- Heat a bit of vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and garlic, and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring now and then, until they’re soft and smell amazing but don’t let them brown.
Step 2: Start The Sauce
- Stir in the ketchup and water until everything’s well mixed. Add the Dijon mustard, vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce, give it another good stir, and let it come to a gentle simmer.
Step 3: Bring The Heat
- Add the chopped chipotle pepper, ancho chili powder, and smoked paprika. Stir well so the spices are evenly mixed into the sauce.
Step 4: Add The Sweetness
- Now add the brown sugar, honey, and molasses. Keep stirring until everything’s fully dissolved and the sauce starts to thicken up.
Step 5: Let It Simmer
- Turn the heat down low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for about 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally, and season with a bit of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 6: Blend (If You Want) And Store
- If you prefer a smooth sauce, use an immersion blender in the pot, or let it cool a bit and blend it in a regular blender. Whether smooth or chunky, let it cool completely, then pour into a jar and store in the fridge. It’ll keep for up to a week.
Notes
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 95 | Fat: 4g | Carbohydrates: 15g | Sugar: 11g | Protein: 1g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 250mg“Hi, I’m Samia, a passionate recipe creator with 5 years of experience in crafting delicious, unique dishes. My love for cooking has led me to explore a variety of cuisines, combining flavors to create memorable meals for every occasion. Whether it’s a simple weeknight dinner or an elaborate feast, I believe in making every dish special. Join me on my culinary journey as I share easy-to-follow recipes and tips that will inspire your cooking and bring joy to your kitchen!”