I’ve always been intrigued by making homemade barbecue sauce. Most people just pick up a bottle from the store, and while there are some really good ones out there, there’s something fun about making your own and tweaking it to your tastes.
When I was about 8, my dad’s friend shared his mom’s barbecue sauce recipe with us after we ate it while visiting. I think that’s what piqued my interest in making sauces. Since then, I love getting into the kitchen and experimenting with recipes. Even as a kid, it was something I could do, because it was so easy. Mom would give me full control of the pantry, spice cabinet, and refrigerator and let me go.
This recipe is one of my favorites. It’s tangy with just a bit of a bite. It also has great sweetness thanks to the secret ingredient – Coca-Cola.
And easy! It’s crazy easy! If you can measure, pour, and stir, you can make this one.
It is excellent on pulled pork (my favorite), grilled chicken, brisket, hot dogs and sausages; even as a dip for fried chicken!
And the best part is that you probably have all the ingredients you need at home in your pantry and fridge. And even if you don’t have everything, you can run to the nearest store and pick them up like I did.
Yes, I have everything I needed for this recipe and I also picked up hot dogs, sausages and chicken wings to throw on the grill. And with coupons you can save on already great prices. Fair register on their site and they will directly email you coupons suitable for what you buy the most.

coca cola barbecue sauce
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
For 4 cups
Ingredients
- 2 cups of ketchup
- 1 cup of Coca-Cola
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons dill pickle juice
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or more to taste)
Instructions
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the ingredients. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, for 10 to 15 minutes or until mixture has thickened slightly. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.