This homemade Cookout Sauce Recipe delivers that irresistible, smoky-tangy flavor you crave at every summer BBQ.
A riff on the classic Cookout Special Sauce, this recipe captures that signature balance of sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy notes.
It’s incredibly easy to whip up with pantry staples and adds a mouthwatering finish to burgers, hot dogs, grilled chicken, and even fries.
Once you taste this rich and creamy Cookout Sauce, you’ll ditch the store-bought bottles for good.
Why This Cookout Sauce Recipe?
In the world of grilling, a good sauce can make all the difference. It’s not just about adding flavor; it’s about creating a memorable experience that leaves everyone craving for more.
Our Ultimate Cookout Sauce is crafted with a blend of spices, sweetness, and a tangy kick, ensuring your meats and vegetables are nothing short of extraordinary.
Cookout Sauce Recipe
Whip up this bold and tangy Cookout Sauce Recipe in minutes! Perfect for burgers, fries, and BBQ favorites.
Recipe Details:
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Course: Sauce/Condiment
- Cuisine: American
- Yield: Makes about 2 cups
- Calories Per Serving: Approximately 70 calories per 2-tablespoon serving
Ingredients
To begin, gather the following ingredients for your sauce masterpiece:
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
- A dash of hot sauce (optional, for those who like it spicy)

Step-By-Step Guide To The Perfect Sauce
1. Combine The Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, mix together ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice. Stir well to combine.
2. Season And Simmer
Add smoked paprika, garlic powder, mustard powder, ground black pepper, and salt to the saucepan.
If you’re a fan of heat, this is the time to add that dash of hot sauce. Make sure all the ingredients are well combined by giving the mixture a good stir.
3. Let It Cook
After bringing the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, lower the heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 20 to 30 minutes. The sauce will thicken and the flavors will meld together beautifully.
4. Cool And Serve
Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove it from the heat and let it cool. After cooling, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Your Ultimate Cookout Sauce is now ready to complement your grilled meats, and vegetables, or as a dipping sauce.
Tips For Serving And Storage
- Serving: Brush the sauce onto your favorite grilled items in the last few minutes of cooking for a caramelized finish. It’s perfect for ribs, chicken, burgers, or even grilled vegetables.
- Storage: Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze the sauce for up to 3 months.
This Ultimate Cookout Sauce Recipe is more than just a condiment; it’s a game-changer for your grilling sessions. Its rich flavor profile complements a wide range of dishes, making it a must-have in your culinary repertoire.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply enjoying a meal with family, this sauce is guaranteed to impress.

Cookout Sauce Recipe For BBQ Lovers
Ingredients
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar packed
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
- A dash of hot sauce optional, for those who like it spicy
Instructions
Combine The Ingredients
- In a medium saucepan, mix together ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice. Stir well to combine.
Season And Simmer
- Add smoked paprika, garlic powder, mustard powder, ground black pepper, and salt to the saucepan. If you’re a fan of heat, this is the time to add that dash of hot sauce. Make sure all the ingredients are well combined by giving the mixture a good stir.
Let It Cook
- After bringing the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, lower the heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 20 to 30 minutes. The sauce will thicken and the flavors will meld together beautifully.
Cool And Serve
- Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove it from the heat and let it cool. After cooling, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Your Ultimate Cookout Sauce is now ready to complement your grilled meats, and vegetables, or as a dipping sauce.
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