The Neelys BBQ sauce recipe is a delicious homemade barbecue sauce with a balance of sweetness, tanginess, and savory seasoning. Made with simple pantry ingredients like ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce, this sauce is easy to prepare and perfect for grilled chicken, ribs, pork, and other barbecue favorites.
If you enjoy classic Southern-style barbecue flavors, this homemade sauce is worth adding to your kitchen collection. For another comforting meal idea, try this delicious Sausage, Peppers, Onions Recipe. It makes a hearty dinner and pairs well with homemade barbecue sauce on the side.
What Is Neelys BBQ Sauce?
Neelys BBQ sauce is a Memphis-style barbecue sauce associated with Pat and Gina Neely. It has a tomato-based flavor with a combination of sweet brown sugar, tangy vinegar, and warm seasonings.
Unlike very spicy barbecue sauces, this version focuses on balancing sweet and tangy flavors. Slow simmering allows the ingredients to blend together and creates a thicker consistency that works beautifully as a barbecue topping or dipping sauce.
Neelys BBQ Sauce Recipe Ingredients
You only need a handful of everyday ingredients to prepare this flavorful sauce.
- 2 cups ketchup
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- 5 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 5 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ½ tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ tablespoon onion powder
- ½ tablespoon ground mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
These ingredients create a sweet, tangy, and savory flavor. For the best results, use good-quality ketchup and fresh lemon juice.
How to Make Neelys BBQ Sauce
Making homemade Neelys BBQ sauce is straightforward. You just need a medium saucepan, a spoon, and enough time to let the flavors develop.
Step 1: Combine the ingredients
Add ketchup, water, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, granulated sugar, black pepper, onion powder, ground mustard, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce to a medium saucepan.
Step 2: Bring the mixture to a boil
Place the saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir the ingredients frequently until the mixture reaches a gentle boil and the sugars begin dissolving.
Step 3: Reduce the heat
Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer uncovered. Stir occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Step 4: Simmer until thickened
Continue cooking for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. The sauce will gradually become thicker as the ingredients combine and excess liquid evaporates.
Step 5: Cool and serve
Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the sauce to cool. It will thicken further as it reaches room temperature. Serve it with your favorite barbecue dishes.
Tips for the Best Homemade BBQ Sauce
A few simple cooking tips can make a noticeable difference in the final flavor and texture.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet sauce, slightly reduce the granulated sugar.
- Control the tanginess: Add a little less apple cider vinegar if you enjoy a milder vinegar flavor.
- Stir regularly: Occasional stirring helps prevent the sauce from sticking or scorching.
- Allow enough simmering time: Slow cooking helps the ingredients blend and develops a richer flavor.
- Taste before serving: Once cooled slightly, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed.
If you enjoy tender, flavorful barbecue, try these Ribs Sous Vide. They make a delicious pairing with homemade Neelys BBQ sauce, which can be brushed over the ribs during the final stage of cooking.
What Can You Serve With Neelys BBQ Sauce?
This versatile sauce pairs well with several barbecue favorites. Brush it over grilled chicken during the final minutes of cooking, or serve it alongside slow-cooked ribs.
You can also enjoy it with pulled pork sandwiches, grilled beef, burgers, and roasted chicken. For a simple meal, serve it as a dipping sauce with homemade fries or crispy chicken pieces.
Avoid adding sugary sauce too early over high heat because the sugars can burn.
How to Store Homemade Neelys BBQ Sauce
Allow the sauce to cool before transferring it to a clean, airtight container. Keep it refrigerated and use a clean spoon whenever serving.
For the best quality, use it within about one week as a conservative homemade storage guideline. Discard it if you notice mold, an unusual smell, or other signs of spoilage. Do not leave the sauce sitting at room temperature for extended periods.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Neelys BBQ sauce ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare it ahead of your barbecue gathering. Refrigerating it also gives the flavors time to blend.
Is Neelys BBQ sauce sweet or spicy?
It is primarily sweet and tangy, with a mild peppery flavor. It is not traditionally a very hot barbecue sauce.
Can I use this sauce for chicken?
Absolutely. It works well with grilled, baked, and roasted chicken. Apply it near the end of cooking to prevent the sugars from burning.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
Simmer it uncovered over low heat for a little longer, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your preferred consistency.
Final Thoughts
This Neelys BBQ sauce recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a flavorful homemade barbecue sauce. Its combination of tomato, vinegar, sugar, and seasonings makes it a great match for chicken, ribs, pork, and grilled favorites. With a little patience during simmering, you can prepare a delicious sauce at home and enjoy classic Southern-inspired barbecue flavors. For the original ingredient measurements and cooking inspiration, you can also check out the BBQ Sauce Recipe.
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