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Smoky Kentucky Bourbon BBQ Sauce

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Straight from the Bluegrass: Homemade Kentucky Bourbon BBQ Sauce

There’s something unmistakably soulful about bourbon. Living in Kentucky, it’s more than just a drink—it’s a part of the culture. That slow burn, the smoky vanilla notes, the way it lingers… it’s only natural to let that flavor shine beyond the glass. That’s how this Smoky Kentucky Bourbon BBQ Sauce came to life.

I first made it on a whim during a weekend cookout. We had a few friends over, a grill full of ribs, and a bottle of bourbon I was saving for “something special.” That something special turned out to be this sauce.

I started with sautéed onions and garlic, added a generous pour of bourbon, and let it bubble into the base of a rich tomato sauce with brown sugar, molasses, and just enough spice to keep things interesting. What emerged was a beautifully balanced sauce which is sweet, tangy, smoky, and smooth, with that signature bourbon warmth rounding it all out.

Now, it’s my go-to for ribs, burgers, and pulled pork sandwiches. It’s also one of those sauces that gets people asking for the recipe (and usually going back for seconds). If you’re a fan of big flavor with a Southern soul, you’ll want to keep this one in your fridge year-round.

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 tbsp olive oil

1/2 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

3/4 cup ketchup

1/4 cup bourbon (good quality, but doesn’t need to be expensive)

1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

2 tbsp brown sugar

1 tbsp molasses

1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

1 tbsp Dijon mustard

1 tsp smoked paprika

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté 3–4 minutes until soft.

  2. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

  3. Add ketchup, bourbon, vinegar, brown sugar, molasses, Worcestershire, mustard, paprika, pepper, and cayenne.

  4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.

  5. Taste and adjust seasoning. Cool slightly before using or storing in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Notes

Serving Ideas:

  • Brush over grilled ribs or burgers

  • Drizzle on pulled pork or brisket sandwiches

  • Use as a dip for chicken tenders or smoked sausage

  • Swirl into baked beans or chili for smoky depth

 

Final Thought:

There’s just something about homemade sauce that brings a meal to life, especially when it’s kissed with a little Kentucky bourbon. Whether you’re slathering it on ribs, brushing it over grilled chicken, or stirring it into baked beans, this BBQ sauce adds a depth of flavor that store-bought versions just can’t match.

📌 Now it’s your turn!
Try this Smoky Kentucky Bourbon BBQ Sauce at your next cookout and taste the difference a little hometown pride can make. And don’t forget to pin this recipe, share it with your BBQ-loving friends, and let me know in the comments what you served it with! 💙

Alcohol: Most of the bourbon’s alcohol cooks off during simmering, leaving flavor behind.

Nutrition Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided is an estimate based on standard ingredients and serving sizes. Actual values may vary depending on specific products used and portion sizes. This information is provided for convenience and should not be considered medical or dietary advice

Nutrition

Find it online: https://joyistalife.com/recipe/smoky-kentucky-bourbon-bbq-sauce/