Easy, Keto Low-Carb Homemade BBQ Sauce is the best sugar-free recipe for keto-friendly lifestyles. This recipe uses sugar-free ketchup, crushed tomatoes, apple cider vinegar, and herbs and spices to create the perfect sauce that is practically carb-free!
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This post was originally written in December 2018. It has since been updated.
FOR THE FULL LIST OF INGREDIENTS AND COMPREHENSIVE INSTRUCTIONS, PLEASE SEE THE RECIPE CARD AT THE END OF THIS POST. BEFORE YOU SCROLL, THERE’S IMPORTANT INFORMATION IN THIS BLOG POST.
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I like in Kansas City, Missouri. We are very picky about our sauce here. It really has to have the perfect flavor profile.
Can I Eat BBQ Sauce on Keto?
Is BBQ sauce allowed? Yes. I have not found a store brand of BBQ sauce that is suitable and does not have added sugar. So I decided to create my own! If you use ingredients that do not contain added sugar, this sauce will work perfectly for the keto lifestyle.
How to Make Keto BBQ Sauce From Scratch
- Combine crushed tomatoes, unsweetened ketchup, sweetener, apple cider vinegar, liquid smoke, paprika, chili powder, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and 2 tablespoons of water in a saucepan on medium-high heat.
- Reduce heat to low and cover the pan.
- Simmer for 5-8 minutes.
What Sauces are Low in Carbs?
The best low carb sauces are olive oil, fresh squeezed lemon, etc. I also have a Homemade Keto Ranch Dressing you should check out!
How to Thicken the Sauce
The crushed tomatoes used in this recipe will naturally thicken the BBQ sauce. If you would like your sauce a little thicker, combine 1 teaspoon of xantham gum with water and add it to the sauce.
How Long Will it Keep and Last in the Fridge?
I recommend storing it up to two weeks in the fridge. If you need it beyond that you can freeze it. Check out this post on How Long You Can Keep Opened Condiments.
Recipes to Make Using the Sauce
Instant Pot Pulled Pork
Air Fryer Ribs
Instant Pot Ribs
Instant Pot Pulled Chicken
More Keto Sauce Recipes
Keto Ranch Salad Dressing
Keto Low Carb Brown Gravy
Keto Cocktail Sauce
Keto Low-Carb Marinara Sauce
Popular Keto Recipes
Keto Cheeseburger Casserole
Keto Peanut Butter Cookies
Keto Shrimp Alfredo
Keto Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
You will also enjoy my Homemade BBQ Seasoning and Rub.
Easy, Keto Low-Carb Homemade BBQ Sauce
Ingredients
- ½ cup crushed tomatoes
- ⅓ cup unsweetened ketchup I used Primal Kitchen Organic Ketchup
- ½ cup sweetener
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon liquid smoke
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons water optional to thin the sauce if needed
Instructions
- Place a saucepan on medium-high heat. Add all of the ingredients to the pan and stir.
- Reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. Simmer for 5-8 minutes.
- Remove the cover and stir the sauce. I like thick BBQ sauce. If the sauce is too thick for your liking, add 2 tablespoons of water and stir. To continue to add an additional tablespoon of water until the sauce reaches your desired texture.
Monica O
Sunday 21st of May 2023
This was easy and delicious! Love making sauces at home because I know what's in them, and it's none of that junk from restaurants. This was great and will be a repeat!
staysnatched
Monday 22nd of May 2023
A great one to keep on repeat.
DL
Sunday 6th of June 2021
Just made your bbq sauce, doubled it in fact! It is DELICIOUS! Sweet & tangy with a bit of heat (swoon)! It is equal to or better than Head Country bbq sauce, while your carb count is only 2 carbs/2 T. Great job!!
staysnatched
Monday 7th of June 2021
Wonderful! I'm glad you enjoyed it!
Toni
Saturday 24th of October 2020
This is so good. I tasted it while making it and decided one recipe wasn't near enough and doubled it. The pork is in the crockpot and I can't wait to have BBQ tonight! Thanks Brandi for another amazing recipe!
staysnatched
Monday 26th of October 2020
Awesome. You're welcome. I'm glad you enjoyed it.
Andy
Saturday 13th of June 2020
I made the sauce and it was easy enough to make. My only correction would be to add the sweetener to taste. The recipe called for 1/2 cup but that made the sauce to sweet for my taste. Overall good sauce.
staysnatched
Sunday 14th of June 2020
Thanks for sharing!
Patti
Tuesday 13th of August 2019
Can I can this?
staysnatched
Wednesday 14th of August 2019
Have you canned similar items with similar ingredients?