Kansas City BBQ Sauce

Name: Kansas City BBQ Sauce
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 10 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups ketchup; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup molasses; 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp garlic powder

10 servings5 min prep20 min cookEasy

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The Story Behind It

The Tale of Kansas City BBQ Sauce

Story updated September 18, 2026

Kansas City barbecue sauce traces to Henry Perry, often called the father of KC barbecue, who began selling slow-smoked meats in the early 20th century. The city's sauce style became known for its thick, sweet, tomato-and-molasses base.

Ingredients

Scale:· 10 servings

1 1/2 cups ketchup
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup molasses
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

1Combine all ingredients in a saucepan.
2Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3Simmer 15-18 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and glossy.

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