What's the Best Substitute for BBQ Sauce?
Whether you're out of BBQ Sauce or looking for a healthier alternative, finding the right substitute can save your recipe. Sweet and tangy sauce typically made with tomatoes, vinegar, sugar, and spices, used for grilling, roasting, and as a condiment In this guide, we'll explore the best substitutes that work in most recipes and help you achieve similar results.
Quick Answer
The best substitutes for BBQ sauce are ketchup-based sauce, teriyaki sauce, or homemade BBQ sauce using ketchup, vinegar, and brown sugar.
Best Substitutes for BBQ Sauce
Ketchup + Brown Sugar + Vinegar
Ratio
1:1 (1 cup BBQ sauce = 1/2 cup ketchup + 1/4 cup brown sugar + 2 tbsp vinegar)
Best For
- grilling
- roasting
- marinades
- dipping
- basting
Description
Simple homemade BBQ sauce using common pantry ingredients. Provides similar sweet and tangy flavor profile.
Add Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and paprika for more complexity. Simmer to thicken.
Teriyaki Sauce
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- glazing
- marinades
- stir-fries
- grilling
- roasting
Description
Asian-style sauce with similar sweet and savory profile. Works well for glazing and marinades.
Slightly thinner than BBQ sauce. May need to reduce or thicken with cornstarch.
Hoisin Sauce
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- glazing
- marinades
- roasting
- stir-fries
- dipping
Description
Chinese sauce with sweet and savory flavors. Provides similar glazing properties with more complex aromatics.
More complex flavor with garlic and spices. May need to thin with water or soy sauce.
Worcestershire Sauce + Ketchup + Sugar
Ratio
1:1 (1 cup BBQ sauce = 1/2 cup ketchup + 1/4 cup Worcestershire + 2 tbsp sugar)
Best For
- marinades
- glazing
- roasting
- grilling
- basting
Description
Tangy alternative with umami depth. Good for meat marinades and glazing.
More tangy and less sweet than traditional BBQ sauce. Adjust sugar to taste.
Tomato Sauce + Molasses + Vinegar
Ratio
1:1 (1 cup BBQ sauce = 1/2 cup tomato sauce + 1/4 cup molasses + 2 tbsp vinegar)
Best For
- ribs
- pulled pork
- brisket
- slow cooking
- smoking
Description
Rich, dark alternative with deep molasses flavor. Perfect for ribs and pulled pork.
Much darker and richer than regular BBQ sauce. Add spices like paprika and garlic powder.
Sriracha + Honey + Vinegar
Ratio
1:1 (1 cup BBQ sauce = 1/2 cup sriracha + 1/4 cup honey + 2 tbsp vinegar)
Best For
- spicy glazing
- marinades
- dipping
- grilling
- roasting
Description
Spicy alternative with Asian influence. Provides heat and sweetness for glazing and dipping.
Much spicier than traditional BBQ sauce. Adjust heat level with less sriracha.
How to Choose the Right Substitute
When choosing a substitute for BBQ Sauce, consider the recipe's requirements for taste, texture, and cooking method. Think about whether you need something that mimics the original exactly or if a different but complementary flavor would work. Also consider dietary restrictions and availability of ingredients.
Cooking Tips
Apply BBQ sauce in the last 10-15 minutes of cooking to prevent burning and maintain flavor
Brush sauce on meats while they're still hot for better adhesion and shine
Thin BBQ sauce with water, vinegar, or beer if it becomes too thick
Use a silicone brush to apply sauce evenly and avoid over-applying
Store homemade BBQ sauce in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks
Warm BBQ sauce slightly before using to make it easier to spread
Layer multiple thin coats of sauce rather than one thick coat for better results
Always taste and adjust seasonings when using substitutes
Consider the cooking method - some substitutes work better in certain applications