Memphis Barbecue Sauce is the perfect companion for your summer grilling adventures. This sauce is a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors, making it an ideal choice for barbecued meats like ribs and pulled pork. Whether you’re hosting a family picnic or enjoying a quiet weekend cookout, this Memphis BBQ sauce enhances any dish. Its unique characteristics lie in its balance of spices and the ease with which it can be prepared ahead of time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This sauce comes together in just 25 minutes, making it a quick option for busy evenings.
- Flavorful: The combination of ketchup, vinegar, and spices creates a rich taste that elevates grilled meats.
- Versatile Use: Perfect as a basting sauce or dipping sauce, this Memphis Barbecue Sauce suits various meats and even veggies.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare this sauce in advance and store it for up to a month, ensuring you’re always ready for grilling.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice levels to suit your taste; more cayenne for heat or extra brown sugar for sweetness.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Memphis Barbecue Sauce, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Airtight container
Importance of Each Tool
- Medium saucepan: Ideal for simmering ingredients together to develop flavor without burning.
- Sharp knife: Ensures precise chopping of onions, allowing even cooking.
Ingredients
I created this Memphis BBQ sauce recipe for our summer picnics because we love to grill. It can be made ahead, so it’s ready whenever you fire up the grill. —Angela Spengler, Niceville, Florida
For the Sauce
- 1/3 cup finely chopped onion
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/3 cup white or cider vinegar
- 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
How to Make Memphis Barbecue Sauce
Step 1: Sauté Onions
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they are tender.
Step 2: Add Spices
Stir in the ground mustard, salt, and cayenne pepper. Cook this mixture for an additional minute to allow the spices to bloom.
Step 3: Mix in Remaining Ingredients
Add ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and yellow mustard into the saucepan. Bring this mixture to a boil while stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Simmer
Reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 10-15 minutes or until you reach your desired consistency. Remember to stir occasionally.
Step 5: Cool and Store
Once cooked, allow the sauce to cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and store it in your refrigerator for up to one month.
Enjoy this delicious Memphis Barbecue Sauce at your next outdoor barbecue!
How to Serve Memphis Barbecue Sauce
Memphis Barbecue Sauce is a versatile condiment that can elevate a variety of dishes. Whether you’re grilling meats or looking for a zesty dip, this sauce adds a rich, tangy flavor. Here are some serving suggestions to inspire your next meal.
Grilled Meats
- BBQ Ribs: Slather this sauce on tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs for a smoky flavor boost.
- Pulled Pork: Mix it into your pulled pork for added depth and sweetness.
- Chicken Wings: Brush onto grilled wings for a deliciously tangy glaze.
Dipping Sauce
- Vegetable Platter: Serve as a dip for fresh veggies; the tanginess pairs wonderfully with crunchy textures.
- French Fries: Use as an alternative dipping sauce for fries instead of ketchup.
Sandwiches
- Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Drizzle over pulled pork piled high on a bun for extra flavor.
- Grilled Cheese: Add a thin layer to your grilled cheese sandwiches for an unexpected kick.

How to Perfect Memphis Barbecue Sauce
To achieve the best flavor in your Memphis Barbecue Sauce, follow these tips. They help enhance the sauce’s complexity while keeping it easy to make.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer sweeter sauce, add more brown sugar. Taste as you go!
- Balance Vinegar: For a tangier taste, increase the vinegar slightly; this cuts through richness.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh onion and quality ketchup can dramatically improve flavor.
- Experiment with Spices: Try adding smoked paprika or garlic powder for additional depth.
- Let It Rest: Allow the sauce to sit in the fridge overnight; flavors meld beautifully over time.
Best Side Dishes for Memphis Barbecue Sauce
Pairing side dishes with Memphis Barbecue Sauce can create a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some tasty options that complement its bold flavors perfectly.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing contrast that adds crunch and creaminess alongside barbecue dishes.
- Cornbread: This slightly sweet bread balances the tang of the sauce and is perfect for soaking up juices.
- Baked Beans: Rich and hearty, they add protein and sweetness, making them an ideal pairing.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad provides a cool counterpoint to spicy barbecue sauce.
- Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies bring out natural sweetness and pair well with tangy sauces.
- Macaroni and Cheese: The creamy texture complements the zesty bite of Memphis Barbecue Sauce beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Memphis Barbecue Sauce, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Using low-quality ingredients: Always choose high-quality ketchup and fresh spices. This will enhance the overall flavor of your sauce.
- Not simmering long enough: Simmering allows flavors to meld together. Make sure to cook it for at least 10-15 minutes until it thickens.
- Skipping the cooling step: Allowing the sauce to cool before storage helps improve its flavor. Don’t rush this process!
- Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste your sauce before serving. Adjust salt or sugar as needed to achieve your desired balance.
- Not storing properly: Use an airtight container for storage. This prevents spoilage and keeps your sauce fresh longer.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Memphis Barbecue Sauce in an airtight container.
- It can last up to 1 month in the refrigerator.
Freezing Memphis Barbecue Sauce
- Pour the sauce into freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Memphis Barbecue Sauce
- Oven: Place the sauce in an oven-safe dish and heat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Memphis Barbecue Sauce.
What is Memphis Barbecue Sauce?
Memphis Barbecue Sauce is a tangy and slightly sweet sauce that pairs perfectly with grilled meats. Its unique blend of ingredients offers a robust flavor profile.
Can I customize my Memphis Barbecue Sauce?
Absolutely! You can adjust the sweetness or add more heat by increasing the brown sugar or cayenne pepper. Experiment based on your taste preferences!
How do I use Memphis Barbecue Sauce?
Use it as a basting sauce while grilling or as a dipping sauce for meats like ribs and pulled pork. It complements many dishes beautifully.
How long does homemade Memphis Barbecue Sauce last?
When stored properly, homemade Memphis Barbecue Sauce can last in the refrigerator for up to 1 month and can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Final Thoughts
Memphis Barbecue Sauce is not just a condiment; it’s a versatile addition that enhances your summer grilling experience. With its sweet and spicy notes, it pairs well with various meats and can easily be customized to suit your taste. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try at your next cookout!

Memphis Barbecue Sauce
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Memphis Barbecue Sauce is the ultimate summertime companion for your grilling escapades. This homemade BBQ sauce boasts a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors, making it an essential addition to ribs, pulled pork, and even grilled vegetables. With its rich and zesty profile, this sauce enhances every bite and brings a taste of Memphis right to your backyard. Easy to prepare in just 25 minutes, Memphis Barbecue Sauce can be made ahead of time, allowing you to focus on enjoying your cookout. Customize the spice levels to fit your palate—add more cayenne for heat or extra brown sugar for sweetness. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or having a cozy cookout, this sauce promises to elevate your dishes.
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup finely chopped onion
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/3 cup white or cider vinegar
- 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add chopped onions and sauté until tender.
- Stir in ground mustard, salt, and cayenne pepper; cook for an additional minute.
- Mix in ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and yellow mustard. Bring to a boil while stirring occasionally.
- Reduce heat and let simmer uncovered for about 10-15 minutes until desired consistency is reached.
- Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container for storage.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 30g
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 170mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 5mg