Cattleman’s BBQ Sauce Recipe is a bold, smoky, and slightly sweet sauce that brings out deep flavours in grilled meats.
I made this Cattleman’s BBQ Sauce Recipe because I was inspired while watching a cooking show where they prepared it from scratch.
I’ve made this sauce many times before, using my own experience to fine tune the flavor. Today, I’m ready to share the process.
I’ll walk through each step to show exactly how this Cattleman’s BBQ Sauce Recipe comes together.
Cattleman’s BBQ Sauce Recipe
This Cattleman’s BBQ Sauce Recipe is rich, thick, and packed with layers of flavor from smoky paprika, vinegar, molasses, and a touch of sweetness.
It’s crafted to bring a bold, authentic barbecue taste that clings beautifully to ribs, chicken, or pulled pork. The main speciality of this Cattleman’s BBQ Sauce Recipe lies in its deep, smoky profile combined with the perfect balance of tang and sweetness.
It’s a homemade favorite that captures the true spirit of classic American barbecue flavor.
How To Prepare Cattleman’s BBQ Sauce Recipe?
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: Makes about 2 cups
Course: Condiment / Sauce
Cuisine: American (Southern BBQ Style)
Difficulty: Easy
Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Airtight container or mason jar (for storing)
Ingredients
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup ketchup
- ¼ cup tomato paste
- ¼ cup molasses
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (packed)
- ¾ cup water
- ¼ teaspoon light corn syrup
- ½ teaspoon liquid smoke
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- A pinch of cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
1. Put Everything In A Pot
Grab a medium sized saucepan and set it over medium heat. Add in the ketchup, tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, molasses, yellow mustard, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, water, corn syrup, liquid smoke, and all the spices smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix It Up
Use a whisk and stir everything together until the sauce is smooth and the ingredients are fully blended.
3. Let It Cook
Bring the mixture just to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer without a lid for about 15 to 20 minutes. Stir it every so often so it doesn’t stick or burn on the bottom.
4. Taste Test And Adjust
Once it’s done simmering, give it a taste. Add more salt, pepper, or sugar if needed. Want it spicier? Toss in a little more cayenne.
5. Cool And Save
Let the sauce cool down to room temperature. Pour it into a jar or any airtight container. Keep it in the fridge it’ll stay good for about two weeks.
Note
Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning while the sauce simmers. Every BBQ and personal palate is different, so feel free to tweak the vinegar or sweetness to match your preference.
This sauce keeps well refrigerated but always smell and check for freshness before using.
Nutrition Facts Per Serving
| Nutrition | Amounts |
|---|---|
| Calories | 60 |
| Total Fat | 0.1g |
| Sodium | 350mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Sugars | 13g |
| Protein | 0.5g |
Expert Tips
● Start by using high-quality ketchup and tomato paste for a rich and consistent base.
● Slowly simmer the sauce over low heat to allow the flavors to meld and the texture to thicken naturally.
● Stir regularly during cooking to prevent the sauce from sticking or burning at the bottom.
● Let the sauce cool completely before storing, which helps develop a deeper flavor.
● Store in an airtight glass container and refrigerate overnight for the best taste.
Ways To Use It Cattleman’s BBQ Sauce Recipe
Cattleman’s BBQ Sauce Recipe works great as a glaze for ribs, chicken, or pork during grilling or baking. It can be used as a dipping sauce for fries, nuggets, or veggies.
Mixing it into pulled pork or shredded chicken adds rich flavor. It also makes a tasty sandwich spread or burger topping.
Drizzling it over roasted vegetables or even using it to enhance slow-cooked dishes brings a smoky, sweet boost to many meals.
Best Variations
➣ Add chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy kick that adds depth.
➣ Mix in bourbon or whiskey to introduce a rich, slightly sweet warmth.
➣ Use honey instead of molasses for a lighter, floral sweetness.
➣ Incorporate fresh grated ginger and a splash of soy sauce for an Asian-inspired twist.
➣ Blend in crushed pineapple or apple sauce to add natural sweetness and a fruity tang.
Why This Cattleman’s BBQ Sauce Recipe Is A Must Try?
This Cattleman’s BBQ Sauce recipe delivers bold, smoky flavor using simple pantry ingredients. The balance of sweetness from molasses and brown sugar, combined with the tang of apple cider vinegar and the kick of spices, creates a rich and satisfying taste.
Liquid smoke and smoked paprika bring authentic depth that enhances grilled or roasted meats. The sauce simmers into a thick, smooth finish that clings beautifully.
Every bite brings a touch of classic barbecue flavor that stands out on any dish.
Storage And Shelf Life Cattleman’s BBQ Sauce Recipe
Store Cattleman’s BBQ Sauce Recipe in an airtight glass container or jar to maintain freshness. Keep it refrigerated after cooking and cooling completely.
Properly stored, the Cattleman’s BBQ Sauce Recipe stays fresh for up to two weeks. For longer shelf life, freezing in small portions works well and preserves flavour for up to three months.
Always use a clean spoon to avoid contamination. Before use, give it a good stir, and check for any off smells or changes in color to ensure it is still safe to enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is This Sauce Spicy?
It has a mild heat from cayenne pepper but can be adjusted to taste.
Can I Use Other Types Of Vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar works best, but white vinegar can be a substitute.
What Meat Pairs Best With This Sauce?
It complements ribs, chicken, pulled pork, and grilled beef.
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead Of Time?
Yes, making it a day before allows flavours to deepen and improve.
Conclusion
I had an easy and enjoyable time making this delicious Cattleman’s BBQ Sauce Recipe, and the result was a flavorful success.
The process was simple, and the taste was bold, smoky, and satisfying. I truly hope you feel inspired to try it yourself.
It’s easy to make at home and brings out the best in any barbecue dish. Make it soon and let me know how delicious it turns out for you!
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Cattleman’s BBQ Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Airtight container or mason jar (for storing)
Ingredients
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup ketchup
- ¼ cup tomato paste
- ¼ cup molasses
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar packed
- ¾ cup water
- ¼ teaspoon light corn syrup
- ½ teaspoon liquid smoke
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- A pinch of cayenne pepper adjust to taste
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
Put Everything In A Pot
- Grab a medium sized saucepan and set it over medium heat. Add in the ketchup, tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, molasses, yellow mustard, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, water, corn syrup, liquid smoke, and all the spices smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
Mix It Up
- Use a whisk and stir everything together until the sauce is smooth and the ingredients are fully blended.
Let It Cook
- Bring the mixture just to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer without a lid for about 15 to 20 minutes. Stir it every so often so it doesn’t stick or burn on the bottom.
Taste Test And Adjust
- Once it’s done simmering, give it a taste. Add more salt, pepper, or sugar if needed. Want it spicier? Toss in a little more cayenne.
Cool And Save
- Let the sauce cool down to room temperature. Pour it into a jar or any airtight container. Keep it in the fridge it’ll stay good for about two weeks.
Notes
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 60 | Total Fat: 0.1g | Sodium: 350mg | Total Carbohydrates: 15g | Sugars: 13g | Protein: 0.5g“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!”