My love for cooking introduced me to the Starnes BBQ Sauce recipe, and making it quickly became a favorite ritual. The rich blend of tangy vinegar, sweet honey, and savory soy sauce creates a sauce full of depth and character.
Every time I make it, the flavors come together perfectly, making my meals more enjoyable and satisfying. This recipe stands out because of its balanced combination of ingredients that bring out the best in any grilled dish.
I found myself making it repeatedly because it always delivers consistent, mouthwatering results. Now, I’m excited to share the step-by-step process for preparing this classic BBQ sauce.
Starnes BBQ Sauce Recipe
This Starnes BBQ Sauce recipe delivers a bold, homemade flavor that blends sweet, tangy, and savory elements into one smooth, rich sauce.
Made with ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, honey, soy sauce, and a perfect mix of spices, it brings out the best in grilled meats, sandwiches, or even as a dipping sauce. The texture is thick and sticky, making it ideal for brushing onto ribs or chicken.
It simmers in just minutes and stores well in the fridge. This Starnes BBQ Sauce recipe has become a go-to in my kitchen for its flavor, ease, and consistently satisfying results every single time.
How To Prepare Starnes BBQ Sauce Recipe?
To make this Starnes BBQ Sauce recipe just right, I’ll guide you through every step clearly and simply. I’ve included tips and details to help you along the way.
You don’t need fancy tools just what’s in your kitchen. Follow along, and you’ll have a flavorful, homemade BBQ sauce that’s perfect for your favorite dishes every time.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Course: Condiment / Sauce
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American (Southern Style BBQ)
Yield: Makes about 2 cups of BBQ sauce
Kitchen Utensils Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Airtight jar or bottle for storage
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups ketchup
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup white vinegar
- ½ cup honey
- ⅓ cup soy sauce
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¾ teaspoon ground mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. In a medium-sized saucepan, pour in the ketchup, then add the brown sugar, white vinegar, honey, and soy sauce. Stir the mixture well until everything is combined smoothly.
2. Add the ground ginger, salt, ground mustard, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix again to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
3. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently to prevent it from sticking or burning at the bottom.
4. Once the sauce begins to bubble, reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the flavors come together beautifully.
5. Remove the pan from the heat. Let the sauce cool slightly before transferring it to a clean glass jar or bottle. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Shake or stir before each use.
Notes:
This sauce works beautifully as a glaze for grilled meats, a dip for fries or nuggets, or brushed onto pulled pork sandwiches. For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce. Letting it rest in the fridge overnight deepens the flavor.
Nutrition Facts Of Starnes BBQ Sauce Recipe
| Nutrition | Amounts |
|---|---|
| Calories | 80 |
| Total Fat | 0g |
| Saturated Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 370mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Sugars | 17g |
| Protein | 0g |
Why My Recipe Works
This Starnes BBQ Sauce recipe works because it balances sweet, tangy, salty, and savory flavors in just the right proportions. The ketchup and brown sugar create a rich, sweet base, while the vinegar adds brightness and acidity.
Honey smooths out the tang, and soy sauce brings depth and umami. Spices like ground ginger, mustard, and garlic powder layer in warmth and complexity without overpowering the sauce.
Simmering the ingredients allows everything to meld into a thick, cohesive sauce that clings beautifully to meat. It’s simple to make, uses everyday ingredients, and delivers consistent, bold flavor every single time.
Why We Love This Recipe
We love this Starnes BBQ Sauce recipe for its bold flavor, rich texture, and how well it complements grilled or smoked dishes. The combination of sweet, tangy, and savory ingredients creates a balanced taste that stands out.
It adds depth to meats, sandwiches, and even roasted vegetables. The sauce thickens perfectly while simmering, giving it that homemade feel we always look for.
It has become a staple in our kitchen because of its consistency, flavor, and how it transforms simple meals into something more satisfying and memorable. This recipe has truly earned its place at our table.
Usage Suggestions
Starnes BBQ Sauce Recipe pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, ribs, pulled pork, and burgers. Brush it on meat during the last few minutes of grilling for a flavorful glaze. Stir it into shredded chicken or pork for sandwiches or sliders.
Use it as a dipping sauce for chicken tenders, fries, or roasted vegetables. It also works well as a marinade let meats soak for a few hours before cooking to infuse them with flavor.
Drizzle over meatloaf or baked beans for a Southern-style twist. For pizza night, try it as a base Starnes BBQ Sauce Recipe in place of traditional tomato sauce.
Tips And Tricks For Starnes BBQ Sauce
➢ I always use packed brown sugar because it adds a deep, almost caramel-like sweetness that really enriches the sauce’s flavor.
➢ Simmering the sauce slowly on low heat is key for me—it prevents burning and gives the sauce time to thicken to just the right consistency.
➢ I make sure to stir the sauce frequently throughout cooking to keep it smooth and avoid any lumps or sticking on the bottom of the pan.
➢ I like to adjust the vinegar slightly depending on my mood—sometimes a little more for extra tang, sometimes less for a milder taste.
➢ Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes gives the sauce a subtle smoky warmth or gentle kick, which I find really elevates it.
➢ I always store the finished sauce in a clean, airtight glass jar in the fridge and shake it well before each use to keep the flavors blended.
➢ Making the sauce at least a day ahead is a trick I swear by—the flavors meld together beautifully, resulting in a richer, more complex taste when served.
Additions To Make Starnes BBQ Sauce More Delicious
➤ Liquid Smoke: Just a few drops add a rich, smoky aroma that mimics the flavor of slow-cooked barbecue, giving the sauce a deeper, authentic taste.
➤ Fresh Garlic: Minced garlic adds a bold, pungent kick that brightens the sauce and enhances its savory profile.
➤ Heat Boost: Adding cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, or your favorite hot sauce introduces a spicy warmth that balances the sweetness perfectly.
➤ Worcestershire Sauce: This adds complexity and layers of umami, enriching the sauce with a slightly tangy, savory depth.
➤ Onion Flavor: Fresh grated onion or onion powder provides a subtle sweetness and earthiness, rounding out the flavor and adding dimension.
How To Store Leftovers
To store leftover Starnes BBQ Sauce Recipe, let it cool completely to room temperature. Transfer the sauce into a clean, airtight container or jar, then refrigerate. Properly stored, it will stay fresh for up to two weeks.
Before using again, give Starnes BBQ Sauce Recipe a good stir or warm it slightly to bring back its smooth texture and rich flavor. Avoid leaving it out at room temperature for extended periods to maintain quality and safety.
FAQs About Starnes BBQ Sauce Recipe
How long can I store Starnes BBQ Sauce?
This sauce keeps well in the refrigerator for up to two weeks when stored in an airtight container. Always use a clean spoon to avoid contamination, and shake the jar before each use to mix any settled ingredients.
Can I adjust the sweetness or tanginess?
Absolutely. The recipe is flexible—if you prefer it sweeter, add a bit more brown sugar or honey. For more tang, increase the vinegar slightly. Taste as you go to find your perfect balance.
Is this sauce spicy?
The original recipe isn’t spicy, but you can easily add heat by including chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce during cooking. Start with small amounts and adjust according to your heat preference.
Can I use this sauce for other dishes besides BBQ?
Yes! It’s great not only on grilled meats but also as a dipping sauce for fries, a glaze for roasted vegetables, or even stirred into baked beans for extra flavor.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Making the sauce a day or two in advance is actually better. This resting time allows the flavors to deepen and meld, making the sauce taste richer and more balanced when served
Conclusion
This easy and delicious Starnes BBQ Sauce Recipe has brought so much joy to our meals. Whether served over grilled chicken, ribs, burgers, or as a dipping sauce for fries, every bite is full of bold, satisfying flavor.
It’s simple to make and always a hit at the table. We feel happy every time we enjoy it, and it’s become a favorite in our home.
Now you’ll be inspired to make it too and once you do, you’ll want to keep making Starnes BBQ Sauce Recipe again and again.
More BBQ Sauce Recipes You’ll Love
Homemade Hickory BBQ Sauce Recipe
Hawaiian Pineapple BBQ Sauce Recipe – Sweet And Tangy
Homemade Wendy BBQ Sauce Recipe
Spicy Blueberry BBQ Sauce Recipe – Easy & Sweet
Montgomery Inn BBQ Sauce Recipe – Top All
Starnes BBQ Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Airtight jar or bottle for storage
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups ketchup
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup white vinegar
- ½ cup honey
- ⅓ cup soy sauce
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¾ teaspoon ground mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a medium-sized saucepan, pour in the ketchup, then add the brown sugar, white vinegar, honey, and soy sauce. Stir the mixture well until everything is combined smoothly.
- Add the ground ginger, salt, ground mustard, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix again to ensure the spices are evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently to prevent it from sticking or burning at the bottom.
- Once the sauce begins to bubble, reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the flavors come together beautifully.
- Remove the pan from the heat. Let the sauce cool slightly before transferring it to a clean glass jar or bottle. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Shake or stir before each use.
Notes
Nutrition Facts Of Starnes BBQ Sauce Recipe
| Nutrition | Amounts |
|---|---|
| Calories | 80 |
| Total Fat | 0g |
| Saturated Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 370mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Sugars | 17g |
| Protein | 0g |