Strawberry BBQ Sauce Recipe || Sweet & Tangy

Strawberry BBQ Sauce Recipe is a sweet, tangy, and slightly smoky sauce made using fresh strawberries, ketchup, vinegar, spices, and brown sugar.

This Strawberry BBQ Sauce Recipe is rich, bold, and delicious on grilled chicken, ribs, or as a dip. I made this sauce after seeing it featured in a summer grilling video that caught my attention.

Inspired by the idea of fruit in barbecue, I decided to try it. Now I will show step-by-step how to prepare this flavourful Strawberry BBQ Sauce Recipe.

About This Recipe

This Strawberry BBQ Sauce Recipe is a unique twist on traditional barbecue sauce, blending the natural sweetness of fresh strawberries with tangy apple cider vinegar and smoky spices.

Its standout feature is the fruity depth it adds to grilled meats, burgers, or even as a dipping sauce. Quick and easy to make, it balances sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors beautifully.

The optional cayenne pepper adds a hint of heat, making it customisation. Perfect for summer grilling, it brings a fresh, gourmet touch to everyday barbecue dishes.

Strawberry BBQ Sauce Recipe
Strawberry BBQ Sauce Recipe

How To Make Strawberry BBQ Sauce Recipe?

Recipe Overview

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Course: Sauce / Condiment

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American / BBQ

Yield: About 2 cups of sauce

Equipment Needed

  • Medium saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
  • ½ cup ketchup
  • ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

How To Make Strawberry BBQ Sauce Recipe?

1. Get The Strawberries Ready:

Give the strawberries a good rinse, remove the green tops, and chop them into small pieces.

2. Mix Everything Together:

In a medium-sized pot, toss in the strawberries along with ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you want a little kick.

3. Cook The Sauce:

Put the pot on medium heat and stir now and then as it heats up. Let it simmer gently for about 10 to 15 minutes until the strawberries are soft and the flavors come together nicely.

4. Make It Smooth (If You Want):

If you like your sauce smooth, blend it right in the pot with an immersion blender or pour it into a regular blender and pulse a few times. If you like it chunkier, just leave it as is.

5. Taste And Tweak:

Give it a taste and add a bit more sugar, salt, or spice until it’s just how you like it.

6. Cool And Keep:

Take the pot off the heat and let the sauce cool a bit before using. Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge.

Nutrition Facts Per Serving

NutritionAmounts
Calories40
Carbohydrates10g
Sugars8g
Fat0g
Protein0g
Sodium180mg

What Is Special About Strawberry BBQ Sauce Recipe?

This Strawberry BBQ Sauce Recipe is a sweet, tangy, and smoky twist on a classic condiment. Made with fresh strawberries, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and warm spices, it delivers a bold flavour that enhances grilled meats, burgers, and even roasted vegetables.

The real speciality lies in its fruity richness, offering a refreshing balance to traditional BBQ sauces. It’s easy to prepare in under 30 minutes and can be blended smooth or left chunky for texture.

Perfect for summer cookouts or creative home cooking year-round.

Tips And Tricks

➢ Use ripe strawberries – Sweet, ripe strawberries give the best natural flavor and reduce the need for extra sugar.

➢ Adjust sweetness – Taste as you go and tweak the brown sugar depending on how sweet or tart your strawberries are.

➢ Blend for smoothness – Use an immersion blender or regular blender for a silky texture, or leave it chunky for a rustic style.

➢ Simmer slowly – Let the sauce simmer gently to deepen the flavors without burning.

➢ Let it rest – Cooling the sauce allows the flavors to meld better before serving.

Amazing Serving Ideas

1. Grilled Chicken Glaze – Brush the sauce over grilled chicken during the last few minutes of cooking for a sweet and tangy finish.

2. Pulled Pork Sandwiches – Mix into pulled pork for a fruity twist on a classic BBQ sandwich.

3. Burger Topping – Use as a bold, sweet-savory burger topping instead of ketchup.

4. Dip for Fries or Nuggets – Serve as a dipping sauce for crispy fries or chicken nuggets.

5. Pizza Base Sauce – Spread on pizza dough with cheese and grilled meats for a unique BBQ pizza.

Best Variations

➣ Add 1–2 minced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy kick. Great for ribs or grilled chicken.

➣ brown sugar with 2 tablespoons of honey for a floral sweetness and smoother glaze. Perfect for salmon or pork.

➣ Replace apple cider vinegar with balsamic vinegar for a richer, tangy depth. Excellent with grilled vegetables or flatbreads.

➣ Add 2 tablespoons of bourbon while simmering for a bold, boozy twist. Works well with brisket or BBQ wings.

➣ Mix in ½ cup diced ripe mango with the strawberries for a tropical flavor fusion. Pairs wonderfully with grilled shrimp or chicken skewers.

How To Store Strawberry BBQ Sauce Recipe?

Once the Strawberry BBQ Sauce Recipe has completely cooled, transfer it to a clean, airtight glass jar or container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

For longer storage, freeze the Strawberry BBQ Sauce Recipe in freezer safe containers or ice cube trays, then transfer the frozen cubes to a sealed freezer bag ideal for using small portions as needed.

Always use a clean spoon to avoid contamination. Shake or stir before each use, as natural separation may occur during storage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead Of Fresh?

Yes, frozen strawberries work well. Thaw them before cooking to release their juices.

Is This Sauce Spicy?

It has a mild heat from cayenne pepper, which you can omit or adjust to taste.

Can I Make This Sauce Ahead Of Time?

Absolutely! It tastes even better after resting overnight.

Can I Use This Sauce For Other Meats?

Yes, it pairs well with chicken, pork, beef, and even grilled vegetables.

Is This Sauce Gluten-Free?

Yes, all ingredients used are naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

This easy Strawberry BBQ Sauce Recipe was a delicious success, and I truly enjoyed making it from scratch. The combination of fresh strawberries and spices created a bold, sweet, and tangy flavour that turned out better than expected.

I hope you feel inspired to try this simple recipe in your own kitchen. It’s quick to prepare and full of flavour. Now it’s your turn to make it soon let me know how much you enjoyed it after tasting your homemade version.

Here Are Some Quick BBQ Sauce Recipes You Might Enjoy

No Ketchup BBQ Sauce Recipe | Best Ever

Easy Blueberry BBQ Sauce

Cherry Coke BBQ Sauce || Delicious

Prickly Pear BBQ Sauce || Vibrant Flavour

Blueberry Bourbon BBQ Sauce || Delicious Sauce

Strawberry BBQ Sauce Recipe

Strawberry BBQ Sauce Recipe

Samia
Strawberry BBQ Sauce Recipe combines fresh strawberries with tangy vinegar and smoky spices for a sweet, flavorful twist on classic BBQ. Easy to make and versatile, it’s perfect for grilled meats, veggies, or dipping. Store in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for longer shelf life. Stir before serving.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Sauce / Condiment
Cuisine American/BBQ
Servings 2 cups of sauce
Calories 40 kcal

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup fresh strawberries hulled and chopped
  • ½ cup ketchup
  • ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar adjust to taste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for heat

Instructions
 

Get The Strawberries Ready:

  • Give the strawberries a good rinse, remove the green tops, and chop them into small pieces.

Mix Everything Together:

  • In a medium-sized pot, toss in the strawberries along with ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you want a little kick.

Cook The Sauce:

  • Put the pot on medium heat and stir now and then as it heats up. Let it simmer gently for about 10 to 15 minutes until the strawberries are soft and the flavors come together nicely.

Make It Smooth (If You Want):

  • If you like your sauce smooth, blend it right in the pot with an immersion blender or pour it into a regular blender and pulse a few times. If you like it chunkier, just leave it as is.

Taste And Tweak:

  • Give it a taste and add a bit more sugar, salt, or spice until it’s just how you like it.

Cool And Keep:

  • Take the pot off the heat and let the sauce cool a bit before using. Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge.

Notes

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 40 | Carbohydrates: 10g | Sugars: 8g | Fat: 0g | Protein: 0g | Sodium: 180mg
Keyword Strawberry BBQ Sauce Recipe
Admin

“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!”

Leave a Comment

Recipe Rating