The No Salt BBQ Sauce Recipe is a delightful creation, a harmonious blend of tangy vinegar, rich molasses, and aromatic spices that brings a new level of flavor to any dish.
I’m preparing it for health-conscious friends who crave great taste without compromising on their dietary needs. As the sauce simmers on the stove, the kitchen fills with an inviting aroma, sparking excitement.
The process is simple yet rewarding, as I stir and adjust the flavors, enjoying the joy of creating something special for those I care about.
In this post, I’m going to walk you through every step of making this easy and delicious sauce. By the end, you’ll have a flavorful, tangy BBQ sauce that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, veggies, or anything your heart desires.
How To Prepare No Salt BBQ Sauce Recipe?
Recipe Details
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Course: Condiment/Dip
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American
Calories: Approximately 80-100 calories per serving (1/4 cup)
Yield: About 2 cups (16 oz)
Kitchen Utensils
- Saucepan
- Whisk or spoon for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife (if needed for portioning ingredients)
- Storage container (if saving leftovers)
Ingredients
- 1 cup no-salt-added tomato sauce
- 1 cup no-salt-added ketchup
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- 2/3 cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup molasses
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
How To Make No Salt BBQ Sauce Recipe
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the no-salt-added tomato sauce and ketchup. Stir them together well to create the base for your BBQ sauce.
2. Pour in the apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and molasses. Stir again until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
3. Add the onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, cinnamon, and black pepper to the saucepan. Stir until all the spices are well incorporated into the sauce mixture.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once the sauce starts simmering, reduce the heat to low and continue to cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. The sauce should thicken slightly and develop a rich flavor.
5. Taste the BBQ sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add a bit more vinegar for tanginess or brown sugar for sweetness based on your personal preference.
6. Once the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool. Transfer the sauce to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Special Notes
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a small amount of hot sauce to spice things up. You can increase the smoked paprika or even add a drop or two of liquid smoke.
Adjust the honey or maple syrup based on your taste preferences. The natural sweetness helps balance the acidity from the vinegar and adds depth to the BBQ flavor.

Why This Recipe Is A Must-Try?
This No Salt BBQ Sauce is a must-try because it delivers all the rich, smoky flavors of traditional BBQ sauce without the added salt.
The balance of sweet molasses, tangy vinegar, and aromatic spices creates a deep, satisfying taste that enhances grilled meats or vegetables.
It’s an excellent choice for those looking to reduce sodium intake without compromising on flavor. The simplicity of the recipe also makes it easy to prepare, giving you a homemade sauce that feels both special and wholesome.
Serving Suggestions
I love using this No Salt BBQ Sauce Recipe in so many different ways! Here are a few serving ideas to get you started:
➤ Grilled Chicken: Brush this No Salt BBQ Sauce Recipe on grilled chicken for a smoky, tangy coating that pairs perfectly with the crispy skin.
➤ Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Slather this No Salt BBQ Sauce Recipe onto pulled pork for a delicious, low-sodium alternative to traditional BBQ sandwiches.
➤ Vegetarian BBQ: This No Salt BBQ Sauce Recipe is perfect for grilled vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers. It adds a burst of flavor without the extra sodium.
➤ Dipping Sauce: Use it as a dipping sauce for fries, onion rings, or grilled tofu.
Tips and Variations
➤ Sweetness Levels: If you prefer a sweeter BBQ sauce, adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup to your liking. You can also add a little brown sugar for a deeper sweetness.
➤ Smokier Flavor: If you’re a fan of smoky flavors, consider increasing the amount of liquid smoke or smoked paprika. This will give the sauce a more pronounced smoky flavor.
➤ Make It Spicy: Add more cayenne pepper or even a few dashes of hot sauce to spice up the sauce to your liking.
➤ Texture: If you prefer a chunky BBQ sauce, skip the blending step. For a smoother consistency, blend it until it’s completely silky.
Health Benefits
This No Salt BBQ Sauce Recipe offers several health benefits, primarily due to its lack of added sodium. By cutting out the salt, you can reduce your risk of high blood pressure and promote better heart health.
The ingredients like apple cider vinegar, honey, and smoked paprika provide antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, supporting overall wellness.
Making your own BBQ sauce allows you to control the sweetness and spice, ensuring it’s a healthier alternative to store-bought versions that may be loaded with preservatives or excessive sugar.
How To Store No Salt BBQ Sauce Recipe
Once the No Salt BBQ Sauce Recipe has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container, such as a glass jar or bottle. Store the sauce in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 weeks.
Always use a clean spoon when serving to maintain its freshness. If the sauce thickens over time, you can gently reheat it on the stove with a little water or vinegar to achieve the desired consistency.
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FAQs
Can I use this No Salt BBQ Sauce on all types of meat?
Yes! This No Salt BBQ Sauce is versatile and can be used on a variety of meats, including chicken, beef, pork, and even seafood. It’s also a great topping for grilled veggies or plant-based alternatives like tofu and tempeh.
How long does the No Salt BBQ Sauce last in the fridge?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the No Salt BBQ Sauce can last for up to two weeks. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before storing.
Can I make this sauce spicier?
Absolutely! If you enjoy a little heat, you can easily adjust the recipe by adding cayenne pepper, chili powder, or a few dashes of hot sauce to taste. Start with a small amount and increase as needed.
Is this BBQ sauce suitable for people on a low-sodium diet?
Yes, this BBQ sauce is specifically designed to be low in sodium, making it a great choice for those on a low-sodium diet. It has no added salt, which is perfect for controlling your sodium intake.
Can I freeze the No Salt BBQ Sauce for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the BBQ sauce! To freeze, simply pour the cooled sauce into a freezer-safe container or ice cube trays for easy portioning. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, just thaw it in the fridge overnight or heat it gently on the stove.
Conclusion
The easy success of this No Salt BBQ Sauce Recipe has been truly enjoyable, with every step bringing the flavors together beautifully. Seeing the smiles of my friends as they savor the sauce makes all the effort worthwhile.
I hope this simple yet delicious No Salt BBQ Sauce Recipe continues to bring joy to many more meals, offering a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste.
No Salt BBQ Sauce Recipe reminder that cooking with care and love always leads to great results.

No Salt BBQ Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Whisk or spoon for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife (if needed for portioning ingredients)
- Storage container (if saving leftovers)
Ingredients
- 1 cup no-salt-added tomato sauce
- 1 cup no-salt-added ketchup
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- 2/3 cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup molasses
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the no-salt-added tomato sauce and ketchup. Stir them together well to create the base for your BBQ sauce.
- Pour in the apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and molasses. Stir again until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth.
- Add the onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, cinnamon, and black pepper to the saucepan. Stir until all the spices are well incorporated into the sauce mixture.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once the sauce starts simmering, reduce the heat to low and continue to cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. The sauce should thicken slightly and develop a rich flavor.
- Taste the BBQ sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add a bit more vinegar for tanginess or brown sugar for sweetness based on your personal preference.
- Once the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool. Transfer the sauce to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.