Kentucky Bourbon BBQ Sauce

This is one of those recipes that's almost too easy.

A little bourbon, a little sweetness, a little tang... and suddenly you've got a homemade BBQ sauce that tastes like you spent way more time on it than you actually did.

I love brushing this on grilled chicken, but it's just as good on ribs, wings, burgers, or pulled pork. It has that classic smoky-sweet BBQ flavor with a Kentucky twist from the bourbon.

Make a batch ahead of time and keep it in the fridge... you'll find plenty of ways to use it.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Ready in about 20 minutes.

• Sweet, smoky, and just a little tangy.

• Perfect for grilling season.

• Great on chicken, ribs, pork, burgers, and wings.

• Easy to make ahead.

  
  

Ingredients

Before you start, gather these simple ingredients.

• ½ cup ketchup

• ⅓ cup bourbon

• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Kentucky Bourbon BBQ Sauce

1. Simmer the bourbon.

Pour the bourbon into a small saucepan and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 2 minutes.

2. Add the remaining ingredients.

Stir in the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

3. Simmer.

Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and glossy.

4. Cool.

Let the sauce cool before transferring it to a jar or airtight container.

Make It Your Own

• Add a pinch of cayenne if you like a little heat.

• Stir in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for extra tang.

• Add a little honey for a sweeter BBQ sauce.

• A dash of liquid smoke gives it an even smokier flavor.

Storage & Leftovers

Store the BBQ sauce in an airtight jar or container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

The flavors get even better after a day or two, making this a great make-ahead recipe.

A Few Questions You Might Have

Does the alcohol cook out?

Most of the alcohol cooks off as the sauce simmers, while the bourbon flavor remains.

Can I freeze this sauce?

Yes! Let it cool completely, then freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.

What can I use this BBQ sauce on?

It's delicious on grilled chicken, ribs, pulled pork, burgers, wings, meatloaf, or even as a dipping sauce for fries and chicken tenders.

Can I make it ahead?

Absolutely. I actually think it tastes even better after it's had a day in the refrigerator for the flavors to come together.

A Few Final Thoughts

Homemade BBQ sauce is one of those little things that makes dinner feel a little more special without adding much extra work.

Whether you're grilling in the backyard or looking for a new sauce for burgers or pulled pork, this Kentucky Bourbon BBQ Sauce is one you'll come back to all summer long.

If you make it, I'd love to hear what you think or how you used it. Leave a comment below and let me know!

Thanks for stopping by The Schmidt Table. I hope this recipe finds its way to your table soon.