Summer’s arrived, and there’s nothing finer than backyard heaven without the sound of the grill crackling and righteous BBQ sauce to goop on all the offerings. From ribs to wings, a fine sauce can elevate an otherwise boring cookout to legendary heights. We waded into the hot, smoky domain of commercial-strength BBQ sauces, sampling more than a dozen to arrive at the best of the pack. Condiment aisle is a jungle of grand boasts and local pride, but we know the inside scoop. These 14 bottles nail the sweet, tangy, smoky holy trinity right or dare to be different with innovative twists. Grill up and get addicted to your new favorite!
BBQ sauce is the summer condiment king, eclipsing ketchup and mustard with rich flavors. No matter if sweet and syrupy, hot and spicy, or umami-laden, there’s a sauce for every palate. We pitted these bottles against good old Tyson chicken nuggets (no regrets it’s a sure thing!) to discover the ones that truly sing. Some are the brands you know and adore, others the best-kept secrets, but all do something remarkable. The finest sauces combine ingredients for a perfect bite, and we’ve crowned the crème de la crème. Let’s get saucy on this tour!
This BBQ sauce heaven tour is for anyone who’s ever licked sauce off their fingers and said it was lunch. From Southern tradition to internationally-inspired flavors, these bottles are ready to take your grill game to new heights. We rallied our hungry friends, took a chance at sticky fingers, and worked our way to the top. No matter if you’re a purist or a thrill-seeking foodie, there’s a sauce on this list for you. Grab a bottle, light up the grill, and let’s make this summer sizzle and unforgettable
1. Rufus Teague Honey Sweet
Rufus Teague’s Honey Sweet sauce is a supermarket star, and it’s no secret why. Renowned for “making bad barbecue good and good barbecue better,” this brand’s marquee sauce delivers on the promise. It’s not sauce only you’ll see Rufus Teague turn up in spice blends, flavored nuts, even coffee! The Honey Sweet, priced at $5.49, has a bottle that looks like it would hold fine whiskey, exuding quality. The sauce has promised to elevate whatever it touches to new heights. It’s a bold promise we couldn’t help but reserve for.
- Distinctive Bottle: The flask shape screams handcraft.
- Deep Color: Dark copper coloring suggests deep flavor.
- Multi-Purpose Use: Excellent for nuggets, ribs, or anything that’s grilled.
Sauce is rich, glazing food like liquid honey with honey-centered sweetness that’s absolute heaven. Tomato puree, vinegar, soy sauce, and spices harmonize in a symphony of flavor that never gets boring. It transformed our plain nuggets into gourmet fare, leaving us to wonder what it would do to ribs. Creaminess is borderline mesmerizing, lingering on your tongue. Rufus Teague provides a sauce that’s as enticing to the eye as it is to the palate. This one’s a necessity for all BBQ lovers.
I first tried this at a friend’s cookout, and it was love at first bite. The balance of sweet and savory makes it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for everything from chicken to veggies. It’s not too spicy, so even picky eaters dive in. Rufus Teague’s Honey Sweet is proof that a great sauce can elevate any meal. Stock up you’ll want this in your fridge all summer long
2. Guy Fieri’s Flavortown Smokin’ Hickory
Guy Fieri’s name screams bold flavors, and his Flavortown Smokin’ Hickory sauce delivers. Snagged for $3.98 at Walmart, it’s one of four in his BBQ lineup, alongside Money Honey and Carolina Style. The dark, almost black sauce looks like it came from a smoky food truck, promising a rich experience. Its squeeze bottle is completely natural on a BBQ restaurant, hanging in there with the vibe. We were searching for a one-way ticket to Flavortown. Let’s find out if it did.
The rich color and gloopy texture of the sauce yield to a rich flavor profile. The Worcestershire contributes depth of savory flavor, while the molasses, brown sugar, and whisper of pineapple juice contribute to a sweetness. There’s smoke, but barely, and it pervades each bite. It’s not spicy, so it’s accessible but rich enough to become addictive. This sauce transformed our nuggets from good to BBQ-grade for use as a great alternative to wings or pork.
Fieri’s sauce is an extension of his larger-than-life personality bold, having a good time, and easy to work with. It clings wonderfully to food, so it’s ideal for glazing or in sandwiches. Even a BBQ cynic in my family couldn’t get enough of dipping his fries into it. This bottle is the proof you don’t need to heat anything up to create a thrilling sauce. It’s a flavor adventure you should have in your pantry. Pick it up for your next barbeque and see it take center stage
3. Heinz Original Sweet & Thick
Heinz is the condiment king of ketchup and mustard, but BBQ sauce? We were excited to challenge their $4.49 Original Sweet & Thick against BBQ behemoths. Of the five regional-inspired flavors they offer, this was the one that totally struck our fancy with its retro vibe. It is this thick that it grows upon the plate, a dark dark brown without so much as a whiff of red anywhere. It’s a full-fledged contender from a manufacturer with a reputation for dependability. Can Heinz catch us off guard in the BBQ arena?
- Thick Texture: Stacks high, perfect for coating food.
- Balanced Sweetness: Sweet without being cloying, with tangy undertones.
- Pepper Kick: Slight heat adds dimension without dominating.
It is a revelation of a sauce sweetness that welcomes the taste buds first, followed by tangy vinegar wave and peppery garlic undertones. It is not hot, but a soft warmth makes it fascinating, coating the tongue like high-quality gel. We didn’t think Heinz would wow us so much, but it is up there with the greatest. It took our nuggets to a flavor party, revealing its versatility. This is Heinz doing what it does best: delivering quality.
I was dubious, but this sauce converted me at a family barbecue. The consistency is perfect for chicken or ribs and stays with each bite. Even my spice-obsessed uncle enjoyed its mild kick. Heinz’s foray into BBQ is a home run, blending the familiar with bold flavor. It’s evidence that oftentimes the underdog gets accolades. Have this on your shelf in your fridge as a quick, crowd-pleasing go-to.
4. Sweet Baby Ray’s Original
Sweet Baby Ray’s Original is a BBQ classic, overrunning grocery store shelves with its vintage red, yellow, and white branding. At $2 (down from $2.49), it’s a steal for America’s best-selling sauce. Sure, they have sweeteners like Hickory & Brown Sugar and Sweet Vidalia Onion, but we stuck with the original to find out why it’s a favorite. Its rich chocolate-brown color and syrupy velvety texture are only the beginning. This sauce is ubiquitous for good reason. Let’s find out why everyone is so obsessed with it.
- Classic Flavor: Sweet, tangy, and smoky harmonized to perfection.
- Rich Texture: Sticks wonderfully to food for intense flavor.
- Subtle Zest: Delicate aftertaste that leaves you wanting more.
The flavor is all a BBQ sauce can be sweet and slightly acidic, hint of smokiness, and finish with a bit of sting. It is not the most robust we tried, but it clings to foods like a fantasy, elevating our nuggets to a whole new plateau. Its poise makes it an automatic choice for ribs, wings, or anything that’s grilled. Sweet Baby Ray’s is never disappointing, with consistent flavor. It’s a classic for a reason, and it can be used for any barbecue.
My neighbor is a Sweet Baby Ray’s addict, and now that I’ve tried it, I can see why. It’s a crowd-pleaser, pleasing anyone from the children to the BBQ aficionados. The perfect combination of flavor has you spooning it over anything without overpowering the food. This sauce is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Pick up a bottle (or two) and make your grill days a legend. It’s BBQ heaven
5. Montgomery Inn Sweet & Tangy Original
Montgomery Inn isn’t just a sauce it’s a Cincinnati institution, with a restaurant that’s a local legend. Their Sweet & Tangy Original, priced at $3.27, is a closely guarded secret, known only to the founder’s family. As an Ohioan, I’ve eaten at the Inn, and this sauce brings back memories of smoky meals. It’s the sole flavor available at retail, with a no-sugar-added variant rumored in the works. This bottle boasts an Ohio BBQ heritage flavor. Hopefully, it delivers.
The speckly, caramel-brown appearance and flavor from the assumption of spices gives it a homey feel. It’s neither too thin nor too thick, finding a handy middle point for glazing or dipping. Tomato concentrate is there, with honeyed sweetness and the umami undertones. It’s not too rich or too spicy, finding a middle point that fills most mouths. This sauce made our nuggets a homey favorite, conjuring up the image of a friendly BBQ shack.
Montgomery Inn’s sauce is a no-brainer choice for any gathering, delighting finicky eaters and BBQ lovers in general. The smooth, tomato-dominated taste is an excellent all-around choice. I can envision it on ribs at the Inn, gracing smiles around each table. This bottle holds the Ohio BBQ heritage’s pride. It’s an old-school favorite that shows less can be more. Keep it on hand for your next BBQ
6. Open Pit Original
Open Pit Original is a stalwart when it comes to BBQ, boasting over 70 years of saucy heritage. For an eye-watering $1 (from $1.69), it’s said to be the “secret sauce of pit masters.” From Thick & Tangy to Blue Label Honey, we opted for the original in order to try it out for size. Its shiny, red-tinged appearance with a purple tint makes it stand out, looking almost like hot sauce. This affordable bottle claims a big flavor. Let’s find out if it’s worth its legendary reputation.
- Weird Look: Shiny red with a purple color, similar to hot sauce.
- Spicy Kick: Provides a zesty, assertive tomato taste.
- Awesome Value: A bargain at $1, ideal for cheap BBQs.
The flavor is a departure from old-school style BBQ sauce, with strong tomato flavor and a spicy, tangy punch. It’s less smoky and lighter, more akin to a spicy hot sauce than an old-fashioned BBQ mix. My family devours it on spicy meatballs, but it’s controversial. My husband doesn’t care for it! It’s great for those who crave a strong, outside-the-box flavor. Open Pit’s quirky personality makes it a great guest at any grill party.
This sauce is a retro staple at my house, evoking memories of kids’ BBQs. Its hot-sauce-seasoning personality makes it ideal for adventurous eaters who want to stir the pot. Although it won’t win over purists, its price point and unique flavor make it worth recommending. Serve it on wings or meatballs for a kick. Open Pit reminds you that flavor with attitude doesn’t have to break the bank. It’s a fun experience you must try out
7. Jack Daniel’s Original
Iconic Tennessee whiskey label Jack Daniel’s enters the BBQ scene with its Original sauce at $4.73. Slow-cooked food lovers know their sauce employs “Old Time” kettle cooking with whiskey, brown sugar, tomato, and apple cider vinegar. Russet-hued, rich sauce, it pours like molasses. It’s fitting, since it’s a principal ingredient. Its glass container featuring a sleek appearance shouts high quality, giving one high hopes. Would this whiskey sauce have some kick to it? We were anxious to discover.
The sauce’s creamy consistency and traditional BBQ flavor coat food nicely, clinging to all with which it makes contact. It boasts a bold initial tartness that will catch you off guard, which then transitions into a smooth, warm flavor. As much as we hoped to have more of a whiskey kick, it’s nevertheless a good player, holding well to nuggets and beyond. It is not the home run that we hoped Jack Daniel’s would make, but it is a dependable hitter. This sauce will please those who enjoy a tangy, sticky BBQ.
I had it at a friend’s barbecue, expecting to feel a kick of booze, and it was a more restrained drink. It’s still a party favorite, great on ribs or chicken, with a wrapping texture around each bite. Jack Daniel’s applies a certain level of sophistication even when the whiskey takes the back seat. The plus for brand loyalists is the sauce. It’s not new, but performs well in style.
8. Bone Suckin’ Sauce Thick Sweet Southern
Bone Suckin’ Sauce gets its name from a mother-in-law who simply wouldn’t stop sucking bones clean, and that’s a story that grabs you! Priced at $8.49, this Thick Sweet Southern sauce was a winner of The NC Battle of the Sauces and promised to pack big flavor. Burnt-umber red, and sporting the chunky texture of probable mustard seeds and spices, it’s earthy in feel. It stands tall on our shelves amongst sweeter, smoother rivals. We couldn’t wait to try it and determine if it lived up to its bone-sucking fame.
- Award-Winner: Won first place in a North Carolina sauce competition.
- Chunky Texture: Spices visible provide a home-style feel.
- Distinct Flavor: More gourmet tomato soup than traditional BBQ.
The taste starts off sweet but with a kick of tomato-soup taste, seasoned by a earthy undertone. It’s not traditional BBQ sauce, and that will be a letdown to purists, but its uniqueness prevails on chicken. The jar even includes a Bone Suckin’ Chicken recipe, the mention of which indicates its best use. It’s an outlaw, an illicit selection that begs exploration. This sauce is perfect for those wanting something different at their BBQ.
I tested this out at a potluck and made it the highlight of grilled chicken. Its soup-mix consistency is great to have as a glaze, but not for dipping. Bone Suckin’ is a great representation of innovative BBQ, if not tradition. Adventurous palates will appreciate its offbeat personality. It’s an expensive but effective addition to your sauce rotation. Give it a go for a Southern flavor
9. Sticky Fingers Smokehouse Memphis Style Sweet & Smokey
Sticky Fingers, conceived in a Mt. Pleasant, S.C., smokehouse, brings hospitality to the South with its Memphis Style Sweet & Smokey sauce, which costs $2.99 at Kroger. Flavors of Carolina Gold and Kentucky Bourbon are available, making the company a BBQ enthusiast’s paradise. Its mocha-brown color and pourable consistency imply glaze, not dip. The name conjures finger-licking, sloppy fun, ideal for a raucous barbecue. We were eager to sample this Southern favorite. Does it deliver on its smoky promise?
It has a sudden sweetness followed by a peppery bite that’s lively but not spicy. The smokiness, so ironically subtle, is second to the pepper. It’s thin and stringy in texture, perfect for basting ribs or glazing meat during a marathon grilling session. As a dipping sauce, it was disappointing, but it’s a cook’s gem. Sticky Fingers is a handy, price-conscious option for barbecue enthusiasts.
- Southern Heritage: Born in a South Carolina smokehouse.
- Runny Consistency: Glazes beautifully, but dips not so much.
- Peppery Kick: Delicate pepper brings a zesty spin.
My children adored the name, but this sauce really excels when it’s slathered over ribs at a friend’s barbecue. Light texture is perfect for pairing with grill-grilled meats, bringing out deepening flavor. Sticky Fingers is an excellent choice for basting enthusiasts. It is not the most bold, but Southern charm gains it points. Use it on your next slow, smoky work of art
10. Stubb’s Original
Stubb’s Original, the brand of Austin, Texas, barbecue restaurant legend, has a “Love and Happiness” heritage. It’s one of 11 flavors at $5.29, from Jalapeno & Honey to Dr. Pepper. Maroon, taco-sauce color sets it apart, with the promise of a tangy, Texas kick. The restaurant’s smoked meats inspire this bottle, conjuring an unrestrained BBQ scene. We held our breaths to experience Lone Star State magic. Does Stubb’s deliver?
- Texas Flair: Chili powder provides authentic regional flavor.
- Tangy Profile: Spicier and more aromatic than sweet.
- Thin Consistency: Ideal for flavor infusion while cooking.
It’s strong-tasting, with pepper and chili powder giving it a spicy kick, reminiscent of taco sauce. It’s half-way towards being sweet, more emphasis instead on tangy, smoky flavor that yells Texas BBQ. Grill favorite, it really goes strong when seared onto meat, releasing its strong flavor. It’s not a dip sensation, but it’s a store-bought find for the adventurous eater. Stubb’s adds a zesty, unique spin to the realm of BBQ.
I met Stubb’s at a Texas-style barbecue, and the spicy flavor put some life into my brisket. It’s a sauce crying out to be grilled, and it blends perfectly with smoked meat. Purists will lament the lack of sugar, but thrill-seekers will adore its zing. Stubb’s is a happy celebration of regional pride and robust flavors. Grab it for a taste of Austin’s BBQ attitude
11. Full Moon Bar-B-Que Sauce
Winner of a taste test for “Best Overall,” Full Moon Bar-B-Que Sauce is made by an Alabama-Mississippi restaurant chain with origins dating back to 1986. Selling for $7.49 online, it’s a top seller never stocked in stores. With its timeless recipe, it strikes the perfect balance of sweetness, smokiness, acidity, and whisper of spice. This sauce is Southern BBQ tradition in a bottle, providing a cross-section, crowd-pleasing flavor. We were eager to try this award winner. Is it deserving of its title?
The balance of the sauce plays all the chords: sugar sweetness, hickory smokiness, and a zesty zip that keeps it lively. A hint of spice adds zing but doesn’t overpower, and it’s perfect for ribs, chicken, or pork. Its thickening doesn’t fade so every bite tastes like an explosion of flavor. Full Moon’s balance is its secret ingredient, and everyone will love it. That’s BBQ sauce perfection.
I bought this for a family barbecue, and everyone from all ages loved it. The versatility makes it good for any grill food, wings through vegetables. Full Moon’s status as a regional favorite translates beautifully to the bottle. It’s a bit pricier, but so much better. This sauce is an absolute necessity for those looking for a good old-fashioned BBQ taste. It’s the gold standard for a reason
12. Tamarind Heads BBQ Sauce
Tamarind Heads BBQ Sauce, a “Best Spicy BBQ Sauce,” is a burning experience for the burn-only crowd. The tamarind foundation replaces tomato and vinegar with sweet-sour tartness, which sets it apart from the rest. The “medium” heat delivers a Scoville kick, balanced by brown sugar and toasted sesame notes. More expensive than some, it’s an in-your-face option for the spice crowd. We were prepared for a rollercoaster ride. Does this sauce deliver?
- Tamarind Twist: Unique base offers a sweet-sour flavor.
- Fiery Heat: Medium level challenges even spice lovers.
- Complex Layers: Sesame and sugar balance the bold chili.
The heat from the chili is fierce but paired with tart depth of tamarind to create an elegant burn. Awesome for dipping or marinating, adding an international flair to wings or pork. My spice-loving friend couldn’t get enough, but it had me grabbing water! Tamarind Heads transforms BBQ with its new dimension. It’s for the thrill-seeking heat-lovers.
Tamarind Heads is a fresh departure from traditional BBQ, demonstrating that sauces are a game-changer. With its in-your-face flavor, it’s the perfect choice for those who are ready to take a chance. It’s not for the weak-hearted, but for those who can consume heat, it’s a revolution. Pour it over grilled chicken or shrimp to give it a punch of extra flavor. This bottle adds international heat to your BBQ plate
13. Bachan’s Japanese Barbecue Sauce
Bachan’s Japanese Barbecue Sauce, the “Best Japanese-Style,” introduces umami depth to the world of BBQ. Soy sauce, sesame, ginger, and a hint of sweetness make up its distinctive flavor profile away from aged American norms. A bit pricier, it’s worth every penny for its lively flavors, bulk purchases made to trim some dollars. The thinner body implies a finishing sauce use. We were addicted upon initial taste. Let’s dive into this Japanese gem
The smooth, silky texture of the sauce makes it perfect for drizzle on rice bowls, vegetables, or grilled meats, so its flavor is the highlight without being baked off. The ginger and soy have a rich umami bite, with sesame providing depth. It’s not thick enough to be used as a glaze but just perfect for a bright, light finishing touch. Bachan’s Japanese essence elevates food to new heights, our palates singing with joy. It’s an absolute must-have for taste explorers.
- Umami Bomb: The deep, savory flavor comes from soy and ginger.
- Light Texture: Don’t glaze with it, use it as a finishing sauce.
- Unique Flavors: Sweetness and sesame set it apart.
I found Bachan’s at a friend’s barbecue, and it was a revelation for grilled vegetables. Its lighter consistency brings a specialness to every meal, such as a restaurant secret. It is more expensive, but it is worth the taste. Bachan’s is ideal for those with an international flavor perception of BBQ. Keep a bottle handy for the next thrill-seeking BBQ.
14. Carolina Q’ Sweet Hickory Sauce
Carolina Q’ Sweet Hickory Sauce, the “Best Smoky Barbecue Sauce,” is from the BBQ heritage of North Carolina. Dark and smoky at about $7, it’s bold with Southern pride. With its rich sweetness, hickory smoke richness, and hot kick, it produces a rich, well-balanced taste. A small-batch winner that shouts regional authenticity, we couldn’t wait to taste the South. Does it deserve its smoky label?
The heavy sweetness of the sauce is balanced by the smoky pungency of hickory, and a warmth that keeps everything positive. It sticks fantastically to food, so it’s perfect for ribs or brisket. All the elements sweet, smoky, hot coexist with one another, creating a full-bodied but well-balanced experience. Carolina Q’ embodies Southern BBQ in every bottle. This product is a smokehead’s flavor bomb.
I tested this at a neighbor’s barbecue, and it made the ribs sublime. Its strong, well-balanced flavors enhance any food grilled, from pork to poultry. Carolina Q’ is a party of small-batch artistry, packing big taste. It’s a bit more difficult to locate, but well worth the hunt. This sauce is your key to a smoky Southern BBQ adventure
