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Classic BBQ Sauce Recipe

Classic BBQ Sauce recipe for BBQ. American classic style. Ready in 30 minutes. Pairs with Everything — ribs, chicken, brisket, burgers, snags. Step-by-step instructions.

By Bill Ohaire | Published: April 2026 | Last Updated: April 2026

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Quick Answer

Classic BBQ Sauce: 400g tomato sauce (passata), 120ml apple cider vinegar, 80g brown sugar... Ready in 30 minutes. Pairs with Everything — ribs, chicken, brisket, burgers, snags.

Ingredients

IngredientAmount
tomato sauce (passata)400g
apple cider vinegar120ml
brown sugar80g
Worcestershire sauce2 tbsp
smoked paprika1 tbsp
garlic powder1 tsp
onion powder1 tsp
cayenne1/2 tsp
salt and pepperAs needed

Method

Combine all ingredients in a saucepan. Simmer over medium-low heat for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.

Prep time: 30 minutes

Pairs With

Everything — ribs, chicken, brisket, burgers, snags.

The foundation sauce. Adjust sweetness (more/less sugar), heat (cayenne), and tang (vinegar) to your preference. Stores in the fridge for 2-3 weeks.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does classic bbq sauce go with?

Everything — ribs, chicken, brisket, burgers, snags.

How long does classic bbq sauce take to make?

30 minutes. The foundation sauce.

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Sources & References

1
America's Test Kitchen (YouTube)
Rigorously tested steak cooking methods with scientific precision.
Video
2
Guga Foods (YouTube)
Premium beef experiments — dry ageing, wagyu, and creative steak techniques.
Video
3
Serious Eats
Kenji Lopez-Alt's food science approach to grilling the perfect steak.
Reference
4
Weber Grill Skills
Australia's most popular grill brand — guides for every cut and cooking method.
Manufacturer