As someone who loves cooking and experimenting in the kitchen, I often find myself looking for ways to enjoy my favorite flavors without compromising on health.
This No Salt BBQ Sauce Recipe is a flavorful alternative for those who want to enjoy their favorite grilled dishes without the added sodium.
Perfect for anyone following a low-sodium diet or simply looking to reduce their salt intake, this homemade BBQ sauce combines a mix of tangy vinegar, rich tomatoes, and a variety of aromatic spices for a bold and smoky flavor.
That’s why I decided to create my own No Salt BBQ Sauce Recipe, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer!
Not only does it taste amazing, but it’s also perfect for those who need to cut back on sodium or want a healthier option for their meals.
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,
- Spoon or whisk,
- Measuring cups
- Spoons
- Stove
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
- 2 teaspoons liquid smoke
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ cup water (adjust to your preferred thickness)
How To Make No Salt BBQ Sauce Recipe
1. Combine Ingredients:
In a medium saucepan, combine the no-salt-added tomato sauce, no-salt-added ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, molasses, liquid smoke, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, cinnamon, black pepper, ground mustard, and lemon juice.
2. Cook the Sauce:
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir the sauce occasionally to ensure the ingredients are well combined.
3. Simmer and Thicken:
Let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little water (start with ½ cup and adjust as needed) to reach your desired consistency.
4. Taste and Adjust:
Taste the BBQ sauce, and if you’d like a bit more sweetness, add more brown sugar. For more tang, add a bit more vinegar or lemon juice. Adjust the seasonings to your liking.
5. Cool and Store:
Once the sauce has thickened and the flavors are balanced, remove the saucepan from the heat. Let the sauce cool completely before storing in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to two 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.

What Is The Healthiest Barbecue Sauce To Eat?
When searching for the healthiest barbecue sauce, focus on varieties that are low in sugar, contain minimal processed ingredients, and avoid high fructose corn syrup.
Brands like Primal Kitchen, True Made Foods, and Tessemae’s are known for offering healthier BBQ sauce options with reduced sugar levels and more natural ingredients.
However, the best way to ensure a healthier sauce is to make it yourself at home.
This allows you to have complete control over what goes into your sauce, making it easy to customize flavors and maintain a nutritious, low-sodium, and sugar-conscious option.
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.
Plus, 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.
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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
Making your own BBQ sauce is one of the easiest and most rewarding ways to enjoy a healthier version of your favorite condiment.
This No Salt BBQ Sauce Recipe is rich in flavor, incredibly versatile, and a great way to control what goes into your food.
It’s perfect for anyone watching their sodium intake or simply looking for a clean and delicious option for their grilling adventures.
I can’t recommend this enough if you want to keep things flavorful without the added salt. Give it a try the next time you’re throwing something on the grill, and I’m sure you’ll love it as much as I do!

No Salt BBQ Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Spoon or whisk
- Measuring Cups
- Spoons
- Stove
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
- 2 teaspoons liquid smoke
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ cup water adjust to your preferred thickness
Instructions
Combine Ingredients:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the no-salt-added tomato sauce, no-salt-added ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, molasses, liquid smoke, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, cinnamon, black pepper, ground mustard, and lemon juice.
Cook the Sauce:
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir the sauce occasionally to ensure the ingredients are well combined.
Simmer and Thicken:
- Let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little water (start with ½ cup and adjust as needed) to reach your desired consistency.
Taste and Adjust:
- Taste the BBQ sauce, and if you’d like a bit more sweetness, add more brown sugar. For more tang, add a bit more vinegar or lemon juice. Adjust the seasonings to your liking.
Cool and Store:
- Once the sauce has thickened and the flavors are balanced, remove the saucepan from the heat. Let the sauce cool completely before storing in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to two weeks.