Guy Fieri Kansas City BBQ Sauce
This Guy Fieri Kansas City BBQ Sauce has a rich tomato base, a sweet finish, and a noticeable tang from vinegar and lemon juice. Brown sugar gives it a smooth sweetness, while smoked paprika adds a gentle smoky character.
Equipment
- Medium heavy-bottom saucepan
- Measuring cups
- Wooden spoon
- Whisk
- Measuring spoons
- Heatproof spatula
- Ladle
- Clean glass jar or airtight container
Ingredients
- ⅛ cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups ketchup
- 1 cup water
- ⅛ cup yellow mustard
- ¹/₃₂ cup smoked paprika
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- ⅛ cup Worcestershire sauce
- ⅜ cup packed brown sugar
- ¹/₃₂ cup ground black pepper
- ⅛ cup fresh lemon juice
- ¹/₃₂ cup garlic powder
- ¹/₃₂ cup onion powder
Instructions
Step 1
- Place the butter in a medium saucepan over low heat. Let it melt completely without browning. Add the ketchup, water, yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
Step 2
- Stir in the brown sugar, smoked paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Continue stirring until the sugar dissolves.
Step 3
- Pour in the lemon juice and stir well. Keep the heat at medium-low so the sauce warms gently. Let the sauce simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally. It should thicken slightly and coat the back of a spoon.
Step 4
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the sauce to cool. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to use.
Notes
Recipe Notes: The sauce should simmer gently rather than reach a rapid boil. A heavy saucepan helps distribute heat evenly during reduction.
Taste near the end of cooking and adjust the sweetness or acidity only if needed. A longer simmer produces a thicker barbecue sauce, while a shorter cooking period leaves it looser for brushing.