If you’re a fan of Arby’s barbecue sauces, this homemade Tangy BBQ Sauce is a must-try. It’s sweet, smoky, zippy, and ready in minutes—plus it pairs with just about anything. Whether you’re making copycat roast beef sandwiches or just want a killer dipping sauce, this recipe has you covered.
If you love that sweet, smoky zing from Arby’s iconic tangy BBQ sauce, this copycat recipe is about to be your new go-to. With just a few pantry staples, you can recreate this bold, craveable condiment at home in under 15 minutes. It’s perfect for dipping, drizzling, or slathering on everything from roast beef sandwiches to chicken tenders.
Whether you’re meal prepping or planning a family cookout, this homemade Arby’s barbecue sauce brings that fast-food flavor straight to your kitchen—no drive-thru required!
Why You Will Love This Recipe!
- Quick and Easy – Ready in under 15 minutes with no fancy tools needed.
- Tastes Just Like Arby’s – That bold, tangy-sweet flavor you crave at home.
- Pantry-Friendly – Uses simple ingredients you probably already have.
- Versatile – Perfect for sandwiches, fries, chicken, and more.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Stores well for a week and freezes beautifully!
Arby’s Tangy BBQ Sauce Ingredients
- Ketchup: Tangy, sweet tomato base for the sauce.
- Apple cider vinegar: Adds a sharp tang that balances the sweetness.
- Brown sugar: Gives the sauce a deep molasses-like sweetness.
- Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami depth and savory richness.
- Yellow mustard: Brings a tangy bite that complements the ketchup.
- Smoked paprika: Adds a smoky background flavor.
- Onion powder: Mild onion flavor without texture.
- Garlic powder: Adds savory warmth.
- Black pepper: Just enough spice to round out the flavor.
- Salt: Enhances all the other ingredients.
How To Make Arby’s Tangy BBQ Sauce
Step 1: In a small saucepan, add ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and all spices.
Step 2: Bring to a low simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently. Cook for 8–10 minutes, or until the sauce slightly thickens.
Step 3: Remove from heat. Let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the fridge.
Arby’s Tangy BBQ Sauce Recipe Tips
- Double it up – This sauce keeps for a week in the fridge, so make extra for dipping fries or topping burgers.
- Add heat – Want more of a kick? Stir in a dash of cayenne or hot sauce.
- Make it smoother – Blend for a silkier texture if you want it ultra-smooth like the original.
- Thicken if needed – If the sauce is too thin, simmer a few extra minutes uncovered to reduce.
- Try it warm – It’s great cold, but warming it up before serving enhances the flavor.
Storage Instructions
- Storing: Keep in an airtight jar or container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days.
- Freezing: Pour cooled sauce into a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a saucepan or microwave before serving, especially if using on hot sandwiches or meats.
🍽️ What to Serve It With
- Roast beef sandwiches (just like Arby’s!)
- Grilled chicken or pork
- Onion rings or curly fries
- Chicken nuggets or tenders
- Sliders, burgers, or hot dogs
Arby’s Tangy BBQ Sauce Recipe Faqs
Is this the same as Arby’s original sauce? Not quite—Arby’s original sauce is more like a spicy ketchup. This tangy BBQ version is smokier and slightly sweeter.
Can I use honey instead of brown sugar? Yes, but it will make the sauce a little thinner and more floral. Still tasty!
Does this taste like bottled BBQ sauce? This version is much closer to what Arby’s serves—less syrupy, with more tang and spice.
Is it gluten-free? It can be—just be sure to use gluten-free Worcestershire and ketchup.
More Copycat Arby’s Recipes
Arby’s Copycat Reuben Sandwich
Arby’s Brown Sugar Bacon BLT Recipe
Arby’s Bronco Berry Sauce Copycat Easy Recipe
Reheating Arby’s Premium Chicken Nuggets In Air Fryer
Arby’s Three Pepper Sauce Recipe
Air Fryer Copycat Arby’s Beef and Cheddar Sandwiches
Homemade Arby’s Cherry Turnovers
Arby’s Steakhouse Onion Rings Copycat Recipe
Ninja Creami Arbys Orange Creamsicle Shake Recipe
Ninja Creami Jamocha Shake (Arby’s Copycat)
Arby’s Horsey Sauce Copycat Recipe
Copycat Arby’s Chicken Tender Recipe
Arby’s Classic French Dip Sandwich Recipe
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Arby’s Tangy BBQ Sauce
Description
Ingredients
- 1 cup Ketchup,
- 1/4 cup Apple cider vinegar,
- 1/4 cup Brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Yellow mustard
- 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Onion powder,
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic powder,
- 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper,
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt, .
Instructions
- In a small saucepan, add ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and all spices.
- Bring to a low simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently. Cook for 8–10 minutes, or until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Remove from heat. Let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the fridge.
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Whisk
Nutrition
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