Horseradish BBQ Sauce is a bold, tangy condiment combining the richness of butter, sharpness of horseradish, and the deep flavour of vinegar and Worcestershire.
I made this Horseradish BBQ Sauce after watching a Southern style cooking show that featured it during a backyard grilling segment.
The intense kick from horseradish is what sets this Horseradish BBQ Sauce apart, creating a fiery depth that pairs beautifully with grilled meats.
I was inspired by how the Horseradish BBQ Sauce brought energy to the dish. I will now show up and walk you step by step through making this flavourful recipe.
Why Peoples Like Horseradish BBQ Sauce?
People like Horseradish BBQ Sauce because it delivers a bold, sharp kick that wakes up the taste buds. The combination of rich butter, vinegar, and spicy horseradish creates a deep, exciting flavor.
It adds a unique twist to traditional barbecue dishes and brings a satisfying heat that lingers. This Horseradish BBQ Sauce stands out on grilled meats, sandwiches, and even as a dipping option.
Its strong character and smooth texture make it a favorite for those who enjoy something beyond the usual.
How To Prepare Horseradish BBQ Sauce?
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Course: Sauce / Condiment
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American (Southern inspired)
Yield: About 3 cups
Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk (optional)
- Jar or airtight container (for storage)
Ingredients
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- ½ cup ketchup
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ⅓ cup prepared horseradish
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 4 drops hot pepper sauce
How To Make Horseradish BBQ Sauce?
1. Melt Butter:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter completely.
2. Add Liquids:
Stir in the lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and ketchup. Whisk or stir until well combined.
3. Flavour Base:
Add the prepared horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, hot pepper sauce, salt, and black pepper.
4. Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavours to blend.
5. Taste & Adjust:
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning more salt, pepper, or hot sauce if needed, depending on your spice preference.
6. Cool & Store:
Remove from heat and let the sauce cool slightly. Transfer to a clean jar or airtight container.
Special Note
You can lighten this Horseradish BBQ Sauce by replacing butter with olive oil or a plant based alternative. If you prefer a thicker texture or want a keno version, try adding ⅛ tsp hexanes gum as others have done in mayo bussed.
Nutrition Facts Of Horseradish BBQ Sauce
Nutrition | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 300 kcal |
Cholesterol | 65 mg |
Sodium | 350 mg |
Carbohydrates | 2 g |
Protein | 1 g |
Fat | 15 g |
Saturated Fat | 10 g |
How To Make Horseradish BBQ Sauce Tastier?
To make Horseradish BBQ Sauce tastier, use high quality ingredients like fresh lemon juice and real butter. Roast garlic and blend it in for deeper flavor.
Add a touch of smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness. Use a bold horseradish that delivers strong heat. A splash of maple syrup or honey can balance the tang with a bit of sweetness.
Letting the Horseradish BBQ Sauce sit overnight helps all the flavors come together more fully and richly.

Hot Tips Horseradish BBQ Sauce
➢ Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and good quality butter to enhance the depth of flavor in the sauce.
➢ Choose a strong, prepared horseradish for a bold and spicy kick that stands out.
➢ Simmer the sauce gently to allow all ingredients to blend smoothly without burning the butter.
➢ Taste as you cook and adjust the seasoning gradually to balance heat, acidity, and saltiness.
➢ Let the sauce rest after cooking so the flavors can settle and deepen before serving.
Ways To Use It
➣ Brush over grilled chicken or pork during the last few minutes of cooking to create a tangy, spicy glaze.
➣ Mix into shredded meat for an extra flavorful pulled pork or brisket sandwich.
➣ Spread onto burgers or sandwiches in place of regular condiments for a bold flavor upgrade.
➣ Stir into baked beans or chili to add a sharp, smoky depth.
➣ Serve as a dipping sauce for onion rings, sweet potato fries, or roasted vegetables.
Storage and Shelf Life
Store Horseradish BBQ Sauce in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The cool temperature helps preserve the flavors and prevents spoilage.
The Horseradish BBQ Sauce typically stays good for up to one week when refrigerated properly. Before using, give the Horseradish BBQ Sauce a good stir to recombine any ingredients that may have separated.
For longer storage, freezing is possible, but texture and flavor may change slightly after thawing. Always check for any signs of spoilage before consuming.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Spicy Is Horseradish BBQ Sauce?
Horseradish BBQ sauce typically has a moderate to medium level of spiciness, but the “spice” it brings isn’t the same as chilli heat it’s more of a sharp, sinus clearing pungency.
Can This Sauce Be Made Ahead Of Time?
Yes, the flavours often improve when the sauce rests for several hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
Is This Sauce Good For Grilling?
Absolutely, it works well as a glaze or dipping sauce for grilled meats.
Can I Use Prepared Horseradish From A Jar?
Prepared horseradish from a jar works perfectly and provides consistent flavour.
Horseradish BBQ Sauce turned out to be an easy and delicious success that I truly enjoyed making. The bold flavor and smooth texture made it worth every step.
I hope you feel inspired to try this recipe yourself it’s simple to make and adds something special to your meals.
Now it’s your turn to give it a try soon, and I hope you’ll tell me how tasty it turned out after you make it. I’m excited to hear your thoughts!
More BBQ Sauce Recipes You’ll Love
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Horseradish BBQ Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter completely.
- Stir in the lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and ketchup. Whisk or stir until well combined.
- Add the prepared horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, hot pepper sauce, salt, and black pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavours to blend.
- Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning more salt, pepper, or hot sauce if needed, depending on your spice preference.
- Remove from heat and let the sauce cool slightly. Transfer to a clean jar or airtight container.
Notes
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 300 kcal | Cholesterol: 65 mg | Sodium: 350 mg | Carbohydrates: 2 g | Protein: 1 g | Fat: 15 g| Saturated Fat: 10 g
“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!”