Substitutes for BBQ Sauce

← Back to SubstituteFor

Sweet, smoky, tangy sauce used as a glaze, dip, and marinade for grilled and smoked meats.

Can't find BBQ Sauce in your kitchen? No problem! Below are 3 tested substitutes with exact ratios, perfect for baking, cooking, and everything in between.

Substitute Ratio Best For Dietary
Ketchup + Worcestershire + Brown Sugar 3 tbsp ketchup + 1 tbsp Worcestershire + 1 tsp brown sugar glazes, marinades, dipping
Vegan Gluten-Free
Hoisin Sauce 1:1 replacement glazes, marinades, ribs
Vegan
Teriyaki Sauce 1:1 replacement glazes, marinades, dipping
Vegan

How to Use

Quick DIY BBQ sauce. Add smoked paprika for smokiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best substitute for BBQ Sauce?
The best substitute depends on your recipe, but Ketchup + Worcestershire + Brown Sugar is a reliable choice for most applications. Use 3 tbsp ketchup + 1 tbsp Worcestershire + 1 tsp brown sugar.
What's a vegan substitute for BBQ Sauce?
Ketchup + Worcestershire + Brown Sugar is an excellent vegan option. Use 3 tbsp ketchup + 1 tbsp Worcestershire + 1 tsp brown sugar.
Can I use any of these substitutes interchangeably?
Most substitutes work well in their recommended use cases, but they may produce slightly different results. The notes above explain the differences and best practices.
Will the taste be affected?
Some substitutes may subtly change the flavor profile of your dish, but they'll work great in the recommended use cases. Start with the suggested ratio and adjust to your taste.

Related Ingredients

Explore substitutes for other common cooking ingredients.

Browse Condiments View All Ingredients