Neelys BBQ Sauce Recipe is a sweet, tangy, Southern style barbecue sauce made with ketchup, vinegar, sugars, spices, and butter, popularised by the Neelys family on television shows.
I made this Neelys BBQ Sauce Recipe because I enjoy recreating traditional sauces at home and I have many years of experience making homemade barbecue sauces.
I was inspired after watching the Neelys prepare this Neelys BBQ Sauce Recipe on a cooking show, which brought back memories of family cookouts.
I will now show up and explain step by step how to make Neelys BBQ Sauce Recipe at home.
Why This Neelys BBQ Sauce Recipe Is The Only One You’ll Need?
You’ll need Neelys BBQ Sauce Recipe because it delivers bold balance of sweet heat and tang without extra steps.
This Neelys BBQ Sauce Recipe replaces store bottles and complex blends thanks to trusted flavours and reliable texture.
Years of backyard cooking taught me that one sauce should coat ribs brush chicken and finish burgers without changes.
This Neelys BBQ Sauce Recipe does exactly that every time. It saves effort reduces ingredients and keeps results consistent across grills smokers and weeknight dinners.
Families enjoy familiar taste and dependable results always.
How To Prepare Neelys BBQ Sauce Recipe?
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Course: Sauce
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American (Southern BBQ)
Yield: 25 servings
Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Stove or cook top
Ingredients
- 120 ml apple cider vinegar
- 240 g ketchup
- 120 ml water
- 60 g sugar
- 110 g packed light brown sugar
- 2 g smoked paprika
- 3 g garlic powder
- 1 g onion powder
- 1 g ground black pepper
- 0.5 g cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 14 g butter
- 3 g ground mustard
- 15 ml fresh lemon juice
- 15 ml Worcestershire sauce
How To Make Neelys BBQ Sauce Recipe?
1. Combine Ingredients
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, water, brown sugar, sugar, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and butter.
2. Season The Sauce
Whisk in the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and ground mustard until everything is well mixed.
3. Simmer
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then lower the heat and cook uncovered for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and glossy.
4. Cool And Serve
Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Transfer to an airtight container and serve when ready.
Nutrition Facts Per Serving
| Nutrition | Amounts |
|---|---|
| Calories | 55 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 13 g |
| Sugars | 11 g |
| Fat | 0.5 g |
| Protein | 0.4 g |
| Sodium | 180 mg |
About This Sauce Recipe
Neelys BBQ Sauce Recipe stands out for its classic Southern flavor profile that blends sweetness, tanginess, and mild heat in perfect harmony.
The rich tomato base is balanced by brown and granulated sugars, creating a deep, caramel like sweetness, while apple cider vinegar adds a sharp, mouthwatering tang.
Smoked paprika and cayenne pepper contribute a subtle smokiness and gentle spice, enhancing the sauce without overwhelming the meat.
What makes this sauce special is its versatility and smooth consistency, allowing it to cling beautifully to ribs, chicken, and pork.
Neelys BBQ Sauce Recipe delivers bold barbecue flavor while remaining approachable and family friendly.
How To Serve This Neelys BBQ Sauce Recipe?
1. Brush generously over grilled chicken during the last minutes of cooking for a glossy, flavourful finish.
2. Serve warm alongside ribs or pulled pork to enhance smoky and sweet flavours.
3. Use as a dipping sauce for fries, onion rings, or chicken tenders.
4. Spread on burgers or sandwiches to add a bold BBQ taste.
5. Stir into baked beans or drizzle over roasted vegetables for extra richness.
Secrets To Perfect Neelys BBQ Sauce Recipe
➢ Balance sweetness and acidity carefully so the sauce tastes rich without being overpowering. Measuring sugars and vinegar accurately keeps the flavor smooth and bold.
➢ Simmer gently at low heat to allow all spices to blend naturally and deepen the taste without burning or bitterness.
➢ Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure an even texture throughout the sauce. Consistent stirring improves thickness and shine.
➢ Use fresh spices and good quality ketchup to build a strong flavor base that tastes clean and homemade.
➢ Let the sauce rest after cooking so flavours settle and mature, creating a deeper and more satisfying BBQ taste.
How To Make More Delicious Neelys BBQ Sauce Recipe?
Use slow gentle heat to deepen flavor and allow sugars to dissolve smoothly. Stir often to prevent scorching and encourage even texture.
Choose high quality ketchup and fresh spices for cleaner taste. Increase smoked paprika slightly for richer aroma and warm depth.
Balance sweetness through small vinegar splashes tasted gradually. Rest the sauce after cooking so flavours settle and thicken naturally.
Refrigeration overnight improves body and intensity. Warm gently before serving to revive aroma and gloss. Butter adds silkiness and rounds edges while mustard sharpens finish. Taste and adjust spices.
Can You Eat Neelys BBQ Sauce Recipe Every Day?
Neelys BBQ Sauce Recipe can be part of daily meals in moderation. It enhances the taste of chicken, ribs, sandwiches, and vegetables while keeping cooking simple.
The Neelys BBQ Sauce Recipe contains sugar, vinegar, and spices, so using small amounts adds flavor without overwhelming nutrition.
Controlling portion sizes allows it to fit into a balanced diet. Homemade preparation allows adjusting sweetness or spice levels to personal preference.
Daily use adds consistency and enjoyment to meals while keeping overall intake reasonable.
Which Spices Add Smokiness And Mild Heat To Neelys BBQ Sauce Recipe?
Smoked paprika provides a rich, smoky flavor that forms the backbone of Neelys BBQ Sauce, giving it a deep, slightly charred aroma.
Cayenne pepper adds a gentle heat that lingers without overwhelming the palate, balancing the sweetness from the sugars.
Ground black pepper contributes a subtle spiciness, enhancing the overall complexity of the sauce. Garlic powder and onion powder add savoury warmth that complements the smoky and spicy notes.
Together, these spices create a well rounded, flavourful barbecue sauce that tastes bold and layered.
How To Store Leftovers?
Leftover Neelys BBQ Sauce Recipe should be kept in a clean, airtight container to maintain freshness. Cool the sauce completely before sealing the jar to prevent condensation and spoilage.
Store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, portion the sauce into smaller containers or freezer safe bags, leaving space for expansion, and freeze.
Gently thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator before use. Always stir the sauce before serving to restore its smooth consistency and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make It Spicier?
Yes, increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of chili powder to taste.
Is It Suitable For Grilling?
Absolutely, it works well brushed on meats during grilling or roasting.
Can I Adjust Sweetness?
Yes, reduce or increase brown sugar or granulated sugar to match taste preference.
Can It Be Used As A Dipping Sauce?
Yes, it works for fries, chicken tenders, or vegetables as a flavourful dip.
Conclusion
This Neelys BBQ Sauce Recipe is simple, fun, and incredibly delicious. The easy steps and common ingredients make it a great choice for anyone to try at home.
I hope this recipe inspires you to prepare it with confidence and excitement. It’s perfect for adding bold flavor to your favourite meals.
I encourage you to make it soon and share how delicious it turns out after you taste it. Your experience and feedback will make this recipe even more enjoyable for everyone.
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Neelys BBQ Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Stove or cook top
Ingredients
- 120 ml apple cider vinegar
- 240 g ketchup
- 120 ml water
- 60 g sugar
- 110 g packed light brown sugar
- 2 g smoked paprika
- 3 g garlic powder
- 1 g onion powder
- 1 g ground black pepper
- 0.5 g cayenne pepper adjust to taste
- 14 g butter
- 3 g ground mustard
- 15 ml fresh lemon juice
- 15 ml Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
Combine Ingredients
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, water, brown sugar, sugar, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and butter.
Season The Sauce
- Whisk in the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and ground mustard until everything is well mixed.
Simmer
- Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then lower the heat and cook uncovered for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thick and glossy.
Cool And Serve
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Transfer to an airtight container and serve when ready.
Notes
Nutrition Facts Per Serving
Calories: 55 kcal | Carbohydrates: 13 g | Sugars: 11 g | Fat: 0.5 g | Protein: 0.4 g | Sodium: 180 mgHi, I’m Samia! I’ve spent the past five years creating recipes that are both delicious and unique. Cooking is my passion, and I love exploring different cuisines, blending flavors, and turning everyday meals into something memorable. From quick weeknight dinners to festive feasts, I aim to make every dish special. I’d love for you to join me on this culinary journey together we’ll explore simple, easy-to-follow recipes and tips that make cooking fun, inspiring, and full of joy!