Best Barbecue Sauces of 2026

Ashley Abels Avatar
Ashley Abels
Last Updated: Jan 27, 2026

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Barbecue sauces are a staple in American cuisine, adding flavor and depth to any dish. These sauces come in a range of flavors, from sweet and tangy to savory and spicy, and are perfect for marinating meats or as a finishing touch. Some popular flavors include hickory, mesquite, and honey mustard. Additionally, there are regional variations, such as the vinegar-based sauces of North Carolina and the tomato-based sauces of Kansas City. Whether you're grilling up some chicken, ribs, or brisket, a good barbecue sauce is a must-have to take your dish to the next level.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Amazon Grocery Honey BBQ Sauce 18oz Cover #TOP 1
Amazon Grocery Honey BBQ Sauce 18oz
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Stubb's Hickory Liquid Smoke 5oz Cover #TOP 2
Stubb's Hickory Liquid Smoke 5oz
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Kraft Sweet Brown Sugar Barbecue Sauce Cover #TOP 3
Kraft Sweet Brown Sugar Barbecue Sauce
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Barbecue Sauces

#TOP 1

Amazon Grocery Honey BBQ Sauce 18oz

Amazon Grocery
Brown
Amazon Grocery Honey BBQ Sauce 18oz Cover
Amazon Grocery, Honey BBQ Sauce, 18 Oz (Previously Happy Belly, Packaging May Vary)

The Amazon Grocery Honey BBQ is an 18-ounce bottle of flavorful honey BBQ sauce, perfect for adding a sweet and tangy taste to your meals. This product used to be under the Happy Belly brand, but now it's part of Amazon Grocery, ensuring the same great recipe despite packaging changes. You can easily keep it fresh by refrigerating after opening, which helps maintain its delicious flavor. Plus, Amazon Grocery offers this and many other favorites at affordable prices, making it convenient for you to find everything you need for tasty meals all in one place.

What We Like
Affordable price
Thick consistency
Versatile base sauce
Good for various meats
What We Don't Like
Packaging can be difficult
Flavor may be too sweet
#TOP 2

Stubb's Hickory Liquid Smoke 5oz

734756002086
5 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Stubb's Hickory Liquid Smoke 5oz Cover
Stubb's Hickory Liquid Smoke, 5 fl oz

Stubb's Hickory Liquid Smoke is a handy way to add a rich, smoky flavor to your grilled meats without needing a smoker. It’s perfect for enhancing the taste of your BBQ dishes, giving them that authentic smoked aroma. You can also use it to boost the flavor of sauces and dips, making them more savory and appealing. Plus, it’s gluten-free, so it fits well into various diets. Just remember, a little goes a long way, so start with a small amount to get the perfect smoky taste in your baked beans or any other dish.

What We Like
Authentic smoky flavor
Highly concentrated formula
Versatile culinary use
Long-lasting bottle
Natural ingredients
What We Don't Like
Poor shipping packaging
Mild smokiness for some
#TOP 3

Kraft Sweet Brown Sugar Barbecue Sauce

00021000052424
Kraft Sweet Brown Sugar Barbecue Sauce Cover
Kraft Sweet Brown Sugar Slow-Simmered Barbecue Sauce, 18 oz Bottle

Kraft Brown Sugar BBQ Sauce is a flavorful addition to your grilling favorites. Enhance your summer dishes with this sweet, slow-simmered sauce. Perfect for Memorial Day and Fourth of July gatherings, this quality sauce elevates the taste of wings, ribs, pulled pork, chicken, and burgers. Made by Kraft, this BBQ sauce is a must-have for delicious meals.

What We Like
Thick and hearty consistency
Bold, sweet, and smoky flavor
Convenient and ready to use
Versatile for grilling and marinating
What We Don't Like
Flavor leans slightly sweet
Salty if used heavily
#TOP 4

365 BBQ Sauce

365 BBQ Sauce Cover
365 by Whole Foods Market, Original Barbecue Sauce, 19.5 Ounce

Introducing 365 BBQ Sauce by Whole Foods Market, the perfect condiment to elevate your grilling experience. Made with premium ingredients, this barbecue sauce offers a range of flavors that will have you dancing down the virtual aisles of Whole Foods Market. Whether you're grilling chicken, ribs, or veggies, 365 BBQ Sauce will add a burst of deliciousness to your dishes. As an Amazon brand, you can trust the quality and taste of this sauce, as it meets rigorous standards. With 365 BBQ Sauce, your grocery shopping becomes more than just the basics, it becomes an exciting culinary adventure.

What We Like
Excellent smoky flavor
No preservatives or corn syrup
Great caramelization on grill
Convenient bottle design
Good value for price
What We Don't Like
A bit sweet for some
Slightly thin consistency

Bachan's Japanese Gluten-Free Barbecue Sauce 17 Oz

0850006883028
Bachan's Japanese Gluten-Free Barbecue Sauce 17 Oz Cover
Bachan's - Japanese Barbecue Sauce - Gluten Free, 17 Oz, Small Batch, Non GMO, No Preservatives, Vegan and BPA free. Condiment for Wings, Chicken, Beef, Pork, Seafood, Noodle Recipes, and More

Bachan's Gluten-Free BBQ Sauce offers a bold Japanese barbecue flavor without gluten, thanks to its use of tamari instead of traditional soy sauce. This makes it a great choice for those with gluten sensitivities or anyone seeking a gluten-free option. The sauce is crafted with high-quality, non-GMO ingredients like tamari soy sauce, cane sugar, and organic spices, ensuring you get a clean and natural taste. It's cold-filled to preserve the authentic flavor and avoid the need for preservatives or additives, giving you a fresh and full-strength sauce every time. Plus, it contains no preservatives, so you can enjoy a pure and wholesome condiment for your meals.

What We Like
Excellent flavor
Gluten free option
Versatile for many dishes
Good for marinades
Packed well, no leakage
What We Don't Like
A bit watery texture
Smaller bottle size
#TOP 6

Kraft Original Slow-Simmered BBQ Sauce (18 oz)

10021000052285
Kraft Original Slow-Simmered BBQ Sauce (18 oz) Cover
Kraft Original Slow-Simmered BBQ Barbecue Sauce (18 oz Bottle)

Kraft Original Slow-Simmered Barbecue Sauce & Dip has a bold, smoky flavor with a hint of sweetness, made with quality ingredients. With a thick texture, this sauce is easy to cook and dip. Each serving contains 60 calories.

What We Like
Authentic BBQ flavor
Thick, rich consistency
Sturdy plastic bottle
Long shelf life
Versatile with meats
What We Don't Like
High salt content
Seal difficult to open

Mr. Yoshida's Sweet Teriyaki Sauce

Mr. Yoshida's Sweet Teriyaki Sauce Cover
Mr. Yoshida's Original Japanese Barbecue Gourmet Marinade & Cooking Sauce, 2-48 oz Bottles

Mr. Yoshida's Teriyaki Sauce is a versatile marinade and cooking sauce that enhances your meals with its unique blend of flavors. You can use it to marinate chicken, beef, fish, or vegetables, adding a delicious teriyaki taste to your favorite dishes. Conveniently packaged in a resealable bottle, it makes pouring easy and mess-free. Plus, it’s ready to use, so you can spend less time preparing and more time enjoying your meals. This sauce is also a great option for those who keep Kosher, ensuring everyone can enjoy its rich taste.

What We Like
Versatile for many dishes
Rich, unique flavor
Great for marinating
Thick, perfect consistency
Excellent caramelization
What We Don't Like
Slightly weaker flavor than before
Hard to find in stores

Bachan's Japanese Barbecue Sauce, 17 oz

0850006883004
No Color
Bachan's Japanese Barbecue Sauce, 17 oz Cover
Bachan's - The Original Japanese Barbecue Sauce, 17 Ounces. Small Batch, Non GMO, No Preservatives, Vegan and BPA free. Condiment for Wings, Chicken, Beef, Pork, Seafood, Noodle Recipes, and More.

Bachan's Japanese Barbecue Sauce is a flavorful condiment made from clean ingredients. The sauce is a blend of salty and sweet, packed with umami, perfect for glazing grilled chicken, beef or seafood. It is versatile and can be used as a marinade on meat, veggies, rice and more. The sauce is cold-filled in small batches without the use of additives, preservatives, or flavorings. It is non-GMO, vegan, BPA free and does not contain any water.

What We Like
Rich umami flavor
Versatile for multiple dishes
Fresh, high-quality ingredients
Excellent as marinade or glaze
Consistent product quality
What We Don't Like
Thin, watery consistency
Premium pricing
#TOP 9

Kraft Hint of Honey Slow-Simmered BBQ Sauce 18 oz

10021000052384
Kraft Hint of Honey Slow-Simmered BBQ Sauce 18 oz Cover
Kraft Hint of Honey Slow-Simmered Barbecue BBQ Sauce, 18 oz Bottle

The Kraft Honey BBQ Sauce comes in an 18 oz bottle, making it easy to store and use whenever you want to add a sweet and smoky flavor to your meals. It’s made with quality ingredients, ensuring a classic barbecue taste that pairs well with grilling, baking, or slow cooking in a crockpot. Since it contains no fat or cholesterol, you can enjoy the rich flavor without worrying about unhealthy additives. This versatile sauce is perfect for dipping or cooking and helps you create delicious dishes with minimal effort.

What We Like
Premium quality sauce
Great value price
Perfect sweet and savory balance
Versatile for grilling
Rich honey and smoky flavor
What We Don't Like
Flavor not for everyone
#TOP 10

Arby’s Horsey Sauce 12 oz Horseradish

Arby's
Regular
Arby’s Horsey Sauce 12 oz Horseradish Cover
Arby’s Horsey Sauce, 12 fl. oz., All Purpose Horseradish Sauce for Sandwich Spreads, Seafood Cocktails, Chicken Marinades and More, Made with Vinegar, Horseradish Powder and Mustard

Arby’s Horsey Sauce brings the iconic Arby’s flavor right to your kitchen, allowing you to enjoy their famous tangy horseradish taste anytime. This creamy sauce, made with vinegar, horseradish powder, and mustard flour, adds a zesty kick that can enhance your sandwiches, seafood, and more. With a convenient 12-ounce bottle, you won’t need to ask for extra packets when you visit Arby’s, making it easy to keep your favorite condiment on hand. The bold horseradish flavor gives your meals a delicious boost without any extra hassle, perfect for elevating everyday dishes.

What We Like
Authentic Arby's flavor
Mild horseradish taste
Kid-friendly
Great for sandwiches
Creamy texture
What We Don't Like
Less horseradish flavor than expected
Slightly runny consistency
Buying Guide Image

Best Barbecue Sauces to Fullfill Your Needs

Introduction

No barbecue would be complete without the perfect sauce. Whether you’re grilling up some chicken, ribs, or even veggies, the right sauce can really transform the dish. But with so many options available, it can be tough to know what to pick. Fortunately, there are a few key criteria that can help you narrow down your choices and find the best barbecue sauce for your needs.

Understanding the Different Types of Barbecue Sauce

Before you can pick the right sauce, you need to understand the different types. The most basic distinction is between tomato-based and vinegar-based sauces. Tomato-based sauces usually have a thick, rich texture and deep flavor, while vinegar-based sauces are typically thinner and more tangy.

Most sauces also contain some combination of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors. Sweetness may come from ingredients such as molasses, maple syrup, or brown sugar. Salty flavors may come from soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or even anchovy paste. For a spicy kick, you’ll typically find ingredients like cayenne pepper, chili powder, or hot sauce.

Considering Your Cooking Method

When choosing a sauce, it’s also important to consider the type of cooking you plan to do. If you’re grilling, you’ll want a sauce that can stand up to the high heat without burning or becoming too thin. For this, you may want to go with a thicker, tomato-based sauce. If you’re smoking, you may want to choose a thinner sauce that will penetrate the meat more easily and provide a deeper flavor.

Looking at Ingredients

When you’re shopping for barbecue sauce, take a moment to read the ingredients list. Many store-bought sauces contain high-fructose corn syrup, which is often used as a sweetener. This can impart a cloying sweetness that may not be to your taste. If you’re looking for a healthier option, look for sauces made with natural sweeteners such as honey or molasses.

You should also be aware of any artificial colors, preservatives, or flavors. If you’re trying to avoid these types of ingredients, look for sauces labeled “all-natural” or “organic.”

Testing a Sauce

The best way to know if a sauce is right for you is to give it a try. If you’re shopping in a store, you can buy a small bottle or jar to taste-test. Or, if you’re shopping online, you can look for sample sizes or subscription boxes that let you try several different sauces.

Making Your Own Sauce

If you’d rather make your own sauce, it’s not as difficult as you might think. Start with a basic recipe of tomato paste, vinegar, and your choice of seasonings. Then, adjust the ingredients to taste. Experiment with different types of sugar, spices, and even fruits or vegetables to create your own signature sauce.

Conclusion

Choosing the right barbecue sauce doesn’t have to be daunting. With a few key criteria in mind, you can easily find a sauce that will add flavor, depth, and a delicious smoky sweetness to your next cookout. Whether you go for a store-bought variety or take a stab at making your own, the perfect sauce is out there waiting to be discovered.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the 4 types of barbecue sauce?

Barbecue sauces are generally categorized into four types: tomato-based sauces, vinegar-based sauces, mustard-based sauces, and mayonnaise-based sauces. Each type has its own unique flavor profile, ranging from sweet and tangy to hot and spicy. There is a wide variety of BBQ sauce styles within each category.

2. What sauce keeps pulled pork moist?

Piedmont Barbecue Sauce is a great option for keeping pulled pork moist. This traditional Southern barbecue sauce has a tangy flavor from the vinegar, along with a little bit of heat and sweetness. It is a thin sauce that is perfect for mixing into pulled pork immediately after shredding. This sauce helps to keep the meat moist and flavorful before serving.

3. What is the secret to juicy pulled pork?

The secret to juicy pulled pork is cooking it low and slow. Slow cook the pork for 6-8 hours if you split the meat in half, or about 8-10 hours if you leave the pork butt whole. This slow cooking process allows the collagen and connective tissues in the meat to break down, resulting in a tender and delicious texture. Patience is key when it comes to achieving juicy pulled pork.

Editor's Notes

During our barbecue sauce research, we found 26 barbecue sauce products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 127,278 customer reviews through our big data system to write the barbecue sauces list. We found that most customers choose barbecue sauces with an average price of $5.20.

The barbecue sauces are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of barbecue sauces, including Stubb's, Kraft, 365 by Whole Foods Market, Bachan's, Mr. Yoshida's. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Ashley Abels Avatar

Ashley Abels is a former restaurant executive and has worked in the restaurant industry for 15 years. She is also a gourmet who loves tasting different cuisines and trying out all kinds of cooking methods. The food she writes about will make you want to try it!

Barbecue Sauces Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Amazon Grocery Stubb's Kraft 365 by Whole Foods Market Bachan's Kraft Mr. Yoshida's Bachan's Kraft Arby's
Units 18.0 Ounce 5 Fluid Ounces 18.0 Ounce 19.5 Ounce 17.0 Ounce 18.0 Ounce 48.0 Ounce 17 Ounce 18 Fluid Ounces 12 Fluid Ounces
Flavor Honey BBQ Hickory Sweet Brown Sugar Original Gluten Free Original Original Original Honey Horsey
Package Information Bottle Bottle Bottle Bottle Bottle Bottle Bottle Bottle Bottle Bottle
Allergen Information Gluten Free Soy Mustard, Soy Fat-Free Soy Mustard - Soy Mustard, Sesame Seeds Eggs
Item Weight 1.2 Pounds - 1.1 Pounds 1.2 Pounds 1.1 Pounds 1.13 Pounds 96 Ounces 17 Ounces 1.13 Pounds -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.7
Where to Buy