Guy Fieri Bourbon BBQ Sauce Recipe

A good BBQ sauce should coat your ribs or chicken just right, and Guy Fieri’s version hit it 100%!

The bourbon isn’t just for show—it caramelizes with the brown sugar and gives a rich finish that lingers.

Letting it simmer for a while helps everything blend together, and the sauce thickens naturally without needing cornstarch or thickeners.

A splash of apple cider vinegar balances everything, cutting through the richness and adding just enough sharpness.

For the best results, make it a day ahead and let the flavors come together in the fridge overnight.

How to Make Guy Fieri’s Bourbon BBQ Sauce

Ingredients

• 1 cup Ketchup
• 1/2 cup Brown Sugar
• 1/4 cup Molasses
• 1/4 cup Distilled Vinegar
• 1/4 cup Pineapple Juice
• 2 tbsp Tomato Paste
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
• 2 tsp Mustard Powder
• 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Combine all the Ingredients

Start by gathering your ingredients.

Mix the ketchup, brown sugar, molasses, vinegar, and pineapple juice in a large saucepan.

Add tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, mustard powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper into the mix.

Step 2:

Simmer the Sauce

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

Stir occasionally to help dissolve the brown sugar and blend the flavors.

Step 3:

Reduce the Heat

Turn down the heat to low and let it cook for about 25-30 minutes.

Stir every few minutes to prevent sticking.

Step 4:

Taste and Adjust Flavors

Taste for seasoning and adjust as needed.

Add more brown sugar for sweetness or more vinegar for tang.

Step 5:

Cool and Store

Remove the sauce from heat and let it cool.

Store in a glass jar or container in the refrigerator.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Use Fresh Ingredients

Always use fresh ingredients to retain authentic and vibrant flavors in your BBQ sauce.

A fresh bottle of Worcestershire sauce makes a difference.

Don’t Rush the Simmer

Letting the sauce simmer allows the flavors to meld perfectly.

Take your time and let those flavors develop.

Substitute Bourbon

If you’re not into bourbon, try apple cider for a sweet and tangy twist.

It provides a different flavor profile while keeping the dish exciting.

Spicing It Up

To give the sauce a bit more kick, add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder.

Experiment with Sweeteners

For a different type of sweetness, try swapping brown sugar with honey.

It adds a floral note that complements the bourbon.

What to Serve with Guy Fieri Bourbon BBQ Sauce Recipe

Classic Cornbread

You can’t go wrong with a warm slice of cornbread alongside your barbecue.

It’s a traditional pairing that helps soak up all the rich sauce goodness.

Bake it fresh and serve it hot to add a cozy touch to your BBQ meal.

Grilled Pineapple Rings

If you’re looking to try something a little different, grilled pineapple rings add a sweet and smoky contrast.

Simply grill the pineapple slices until they get those beautiful char marks.

The natural sweetness of pineapple complements the bold flavors of the BBQ sauce perfectly.

Sriracha Coleslaw

For a twist on a classic side, try Sriracha coleslaw.

It’s got the crunch of traditional coleslaw but with a spicy kick.

This unexpected pairing brings an exciting heat to your meal while balancing the sweetness of the sauce.

Pickled Red Onions

Pickled red onions are a tangy and vibrant addition to any barbecue spread.

Their sharp flavor cuts through the richness of the BBQ sauce, making for a refreshing contrast.

You can easily prepare them in advance and serve throughout the meal.

Cheddar Jalapeño Biscuits

For a bit of spice and comfort, whip up some cheddar jalapeño biscuits.

They’re soft and cheesy with a hint of heat from the jalapeños.

These biscuits are an amazing companion to soak up any leftover sauce on your plate.

Baked Sweet Potato Fries

Sweet potato fries add a savory yet sweet flavor that pairs well with BBQ sauce.

Bake them until crispy and serve with a sprinkle of salt and pepper.

They’re a healthier yet irresistibly tasty side that everyone will enjoy.

Variations and Substitutions

Spice It Up!

Want to add more heat to your sauce?

You can incorporate cayenne pepper or chili flakes to bring a fiery kick.

It only takes a pinch to create a bold twist.

Make It Sweet

If you prefer your BBQ sauce on the sweeter side, you might want to add more brown sugar.

Honey is another fantastic option that complements the bourbon flavor nicely.

Both will add depth to the sauce’s sweetness without overpowering it.

Go Smoky

For those who enjoy a smokier flavor, adding smoked paprika can work wonders.

Liquid smoke is also an option if you’re looking for something more intense.

A few dashes can make all the difference in achieving that smoky richness.

Alternative Ingredients

Vegetarian or vegan?

Use a vegan Worcestershire sauce to keep this recipe plant-friendly.

Molasses or maple syrup are great substitutions for brown sugar to add a natural sweetness.

How to Store Leftover Guy Fieri Bourbon BBQ Sauce

Storing leftover Guy Fieri Bourbon BBQ Sauce is all about keeping it fresh and tasty for the next grilling session.

You have to make sure that every drop of flavor stays locked in!

First things first, always transfer the sauce into an airtight container.

It prevents air exposure, which is a key in preserving the taste and preventing spoilage.

Remember, once you’ve done that, the next step is to place the container in the fridge as soon as possible.

Maximize Freshness

Refrigerating your sauce is essential to retain its quality and flavors.

You can expect it to last up to two weeks if stored properly.

Portion for Easy Use

Consider portioning your sauce into smaller containers.

This can help minimize exposure to air each time you open it.

If you use the entire batch at once, you’ll enjoy convenience without compromising freshness!

Freeze for Longer Storage

If you plan on storing the sauce beyond a week, freezing is an option.

Pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving some room for expansion.

Label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness. You can have delicious sauce ready for future cookouts!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Too Much Vinegar

You might be tempted to add extra vinegar, thinking it’ll give the sauce a nice tang.

Adding too much can overpower the rich bourbon flavor that sets this sauce apart.

It’s best to taste as you go, ensuring a balanced mix of ingredients.

Ignoring the Sweetness

Using only granulated sugar can make the sauce one-dimensional.

Try incorporating sweeteners like brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup for a richer sweet taste.

These alternatives add complexity to your sauce.

Overlooking Spices

It’s easy to focus on main ingredients and forget the small spices that pack a punch!

Ensure you add the right amount of spices to avoid blandness in your barbecue sauce.

A well-balanced blend is key to achieving that perfect flavor.