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Discover the perfect blend of sweet berries, spicy jalapeños, and tangy seasonings in my delicious homemade strawberry barbecue sauce recipe. This fruity twist on classic BBQ sauce is ideal for marinating meats and adding deliciously sassy strawberry flavor to all your grilled favorites.

“What a unique and delicious twist on BBQ sauce! I love that jalapeno-roasted strawberry combo!! Next time, I may have to make a double batch so I can just put it on all my food because it’s great with EVERYTHING. Just super deliciousness all around!!”

– JESSIE
Overhead photo of strawberry barbecue seasoning sauce in a glass saucepan.

Update: This recipe was originally published in August 2016. I made updates to the article below to include more information about making the best strawberry seasoned barbecue sauce at home. 

About this strawberry bbq sauce

Get ready to transform your BBQ game with this sensational recipe for strawberry barbecue sauce! More than just a sauce – it’s a summer flavor revelation that combines the unexpected, scrumptious juicy sweetness of roasted strawberries and spicy jalapenos with classic barbecue seasonings and spices.

Whether you’re a seasoned pit-master or a backyard grilling enthusiast, this strawberry BBQ sauce will add a burst of berry delicious flavor to all your favorite dishes, from ribs to chicken and beyond.

Why you’ll love this recipe

  • Unique flavor combination. This bbq sauce recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional sauces by incorporating the natural sweetness and caramelization of roasted fresh berries with a tangy, slightly spicy, and warm barbeque profile.
  • Beautifully versatile. This strawberry sauce isn’t just limited to bbq foods, it pairs wonderfully with a wide variety of dishes, such as salmon, chicken nuggets, and even fruits like grilled peaches.
  • Easy to prepare. Straightforward and simple to prepare, this recipe is ideal for home cooks who want to create a delicious homemade barbecue sauce without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Storage and Longevity: You can easily double this recipe and store it for later, making it convenient for future barbeque use.
Overhead photo of hulled strawberries tossed with light brown sugar in a medium mixing bowl.

Ingredients in strawberry barbecue sauce

  • Fresh Strawberries: Look for ripe berries with a vibrant color that feel firm to the touch. And be sure to rinse, dry, hull, and halve any large berries before roasting in the oven.
  • Light Brown Sugar: For sweetness and richness.
  • Neutral Oil: Be sure to use a neutral oil, such as canola oil or vegetable oil.
  • Sweet Onion: Select onions that are firm and heavy for their size for the best mild flavor.
  • Kosher Salt and Ground Black Pepper: To enhance all the delicious flavors.
  • Ground Coriander: For warm.
  • Jalapeños: For a spicy kick, be sure to leave the seeds and ribs in the jalapeno peppers. And, for a milder barbecue sauce, remove and discard them.
  • Aromatics: Peeled and finely chopped garlic cloves along with grated ginger lend aromatic depth of flavor and a hint of warmth.
  • Tomato Paste: For rich, caramelized tomato flavor. Consider purchasing tomato paste in a tube for easy storage.
  • Ketchup: Lends sweetness and tang. I recommend natural ketchup made with minimal additives.
  • Balsamic Vinegar: Provides acidity.
  • Soy Sauce: Be sure to opt for low sodium so you can control the salt levels in your bbq sauce.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: For complexity and umami.

If fresh berries are on sale at the store, pick up an extra container and put them to good use in these recipes: Strawberry Sangria with Sparkling Wine, Fresh Strawberry Sheet Cake with Strawberry Crumbles, and Strawberry Alcoholic Milkshake.

Recipe variations

  • Berry BBQ Sauce: Use a combination of strawberries with other fresh berries like raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries for a mixed berry barbecue sauce.
  • Chipotle Strawberry Barbecue Sauce: Add chipotle peppers in adobo to give this strawberry bbq sauce recipe a smoky, spicy kick.
  • Spicy Strawberry Sauce: Be sure to leave the seeds and ribs in the jalapeno peppers. And add some cayenne pepper for extra heat.
  • Maple or Honey Strawberry BBQ: Substitute some or all of the brown sugar with pure maple syrup or honey for a different type of sweetness.
  • Slow Cooker Version: If you’re looking for a hands-off approach, prepare the strawberry sauce in the slow cooker instead. Just be sure to cook it on low for several hours for the best, rich flavor.
Overhead photo of oven-roasted strawberries on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

How to make strawberries bbq sauce

  • Preheat Oven: Arrange oven rack to the middle position and then preheat the oven to 375-degrees Fahrenheit. Line a large, rimmed sheet pan with non-stick aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy clean up.
  • Prep Strawberries: Add the strawberries to a large mixing bowl and then sprinkle the sugar over the berries. Use a spoon to toss the berries in the sugar until they’re fully coated. Then, transfer the sugared strawberries to the prepared baking sheet, arranging them into a single layer.
  • Roast Strawberries: Transfer the strawberries to the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the strawberries are soft, slightly jam-y, and start to caramelize. Remove the strawberries from the oven and set aside.
  • Start the Barbecue Sauce – Sauté Aromatics: Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Once shimmering, add the onions, coriander, salt, and pepper. Cook until the onions are staring to soften. Then, add in the jalapeños and continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the peppers are softened, and onions are translucent. Next, add the garlic and ginger to the pan and cook, stirring, until fragrant.
  • Add the Tomato Paste: Add the tomato paste to the pan and cook, stirring frequently, until caramelized, about 2 minutes.
  • Add Remaining BBQ Sauce Ingredients and Roasted Strawberries: Add the sugar, ketchup, vinegar, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce, along with the roasted strawberries and any collected juices, to the pan and stir well to combine. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring to a gentle boil. Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to maintain a simmer.
  • Simmer Strawberry BBQ Sauce: Let the strawberries mixture simmer, stirring occasionally, for 18-20 minutes, or until the sauce is dark in color and has thickened slightly. Remove the sauce from the heat.
  • Let Cool Slightly, then Blend: Let to sauce cool for 8-10 minutes before using an immersion blender or high-speed stand blender to puree the sauce. Then, use a spoon to taste the strawberry sauce and adjust the flavors to suit your own tastebuds.

Expert tips for the best success!

  • Use ripe, fresh strawberries. For the best flavor be sure to select fresh strawberries at their peak ripeness. Or use overripe strawberries for a sweeter flavor.
  • Roast the strawberries for the most flavor. Roasting intensifies the strawberry flavor and adds a depth of delicious, caramelized flavor to create a more complex flavor.
  • Simmer to reduce. Gently simmer the barbecue sauce to concentrate the flavors and thicken the sauce.
  • Blend the sauce for smoothness. Use an immersion blender, food processor, or high-speed blender to achieve homemade bbq sauce with a smooth, consistent texture.
  • Balance the flavors to suit your taste. Be sure you continuously taste and adjust the strawberry barbecue seasonings as you cook the sauce. This allows you to perfectly balance the flavors of this strawberry bbq sauce recipe to suit your taste buds.
Overhead photo of roasted strawberries and barbecue seasonings in a medium saucepan.

FAQs: frequently asked questions

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Sure. Frozen strawberries are typically picked at peak ripeness, so they’re a great option if fresh aren’t in season.

Will the strawberry flavor be overpowering?

No. The key is to use the right ratio of strawberries to barbecue seasonings and other flavoring ingredients. When properly balanced, the strawberries add a subtle sweet and fruity flavor to bbq sauces.

Can I make the sauce less sweet?

Absolutely. Simply reduce the amount of brown sugar in this strawberry barbecue seasoning recipe. Alternatively, you can balance the sweetness with more vinegar or spices to achieve a less-sweet flavor profile.

Can I make the sauce spicier?

You sure can. Incorporate more heat by leaving the seeds and ribs in the jalapenos. Or simply incorporate cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.

What meats pair best with strawberry barbecue seasoning?

This recipe for strawberry barbeque sauce pairs exceptionally well with chicken, pork, salmon, and even grilled veggies.

Extreme close-up photo showcasing the thick texture of strawberry barbecue sauce.

Serving strawberries bbq sauce

Below are just a few of our favorite summer dishes that pair well with this strawberry bbq sauce recipe. Be sure to check out my side dish menu for more delicious inspiration.

Common serving suggestions

  • Bodacious BBQ Chicken. Brush the strawberry seasoned bbq sauce generously over poached chicken breast, smoked chicken, or grilled chicken for a sweet and tangy dinner.
  • Fruity Rib Finish: Slather this sauce on slow cooker or oven baked pork ribs during the last portion of cooking for a rib-tickling delicious finish.
  • Pulled Pork and Pork Chop Perfection: Drizzle the barbecue sauce over pulled pork, pulled pork sandwiches, or pork chops for a fruity twist on a bbq favorite.
  • Dipping Delight: Use the sauce as a dipping sauce for crispy Mc Donald’s chicken nuggets or chicken tenders for a family-friendly meal.
  • Sensational Salmon: Use the homemade sauce as a glaze for grilled salmon. I especially love using it to make cedar plank salmon for deliciously sweet and savory seafood meal.
  • Cookout Companion: Serve berry bbq sauce as a condiment alongside a platter of assorted grilled vegetables and meats, like this slow cooker beef brisket. Serve with Strawberry Vodka Cocktails or Strawberry Basil Cocktails for easy summer entertaining.

Unique uses

  • Strawberry Salad Dressing: Transform the sauce into a strawberry bbq salad dressing, perfect for summer salads. It’s especially delicious on this strawberry spinach salad with chicken.
  • Add Pizzaz to BBQ Pizza: Try it as a pizza sauce for a gourmet bbq chicken pizza twist with red onions, pineapple, and cilantro.
  • Burger Bliss: Mix the strawberry barbecue sauce with mayonnaise to create a delicious strawberry aioli for hand crafted ground beef burgers or as a delightful dip for sweet potato fries – SO good!!
  • Dessert Dazzler: If you’re looking for a unique and delicious summer dessert, use this strawberry barbeque sauce as a glaze on grilled peaches or pineapple slices. Finish with a generous pinch of Maldon salt for an exceptionally delicious fruit dessert.
Action photo of a spoon stirring barbecue sauce made with strawberries and jalapeños in a saucepan.

Storing leftovers

Refrigerator storage

  • Allow the strawberry barbecue sauce seasoning to cool completely to room temperature before placing into an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Freezer storage

  • Allow the strawberry bbq sauce recipe to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe storage containers or resealable storage bags, leaving some room for expansion.
  • Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
  • Tip: Consider freezing the bbq sauce in individual portion sizes, making it easy to thaw just what you need.
Overhead photo of thinly sliced smoked chicken breast drizzled with sweet barbecue sauce made with berries, brown sugar, and balsamic vinegar.

Whether you’re glazing meats, drizzling over veggies, or experimenting with creative pairings, this recipe for strawberry BBQ sauce is sure to elevate your culinary creations. Fire up the grill and impress your friends and family with a delicious twist on a classic favorite. Just don’t forget to share your delicious results and let us know how you enjoyed this delightful sauce!

Cheyanne

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More homemade bbq sauce recipes!

Overhead photo of strawberry bbq sauce in a medium saucepan with fresh strawberries, brown sugar, and balsamic vinegar off to the side.

Strawberry BBQ Sauce Recipe

5 from 6 votes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Discover the perfect blend of sweet berries, spicy jalapeños, and tangy seasonings in my delicious homemade strawberry barbecue sauce recipe. This fruity twist on classic BBQ sauce is ideal for marinating meats and adding deliciously sassy strawberry flavor to all your grilled favorites.

Equipment

  • 1 Large Mixing Bowl – for sugaring strawberries before roasting
  • 1 Large Rimmed Baking Sheet – for roasting strawberries
  • 1 Medium to Large Saucepan – to cook the barbecue sauce
  • 1 Immersion Blender or Stand Blender – to blend the BBQ sauce

Ingredients 

Instructions

  • Preheat Oven and Prep Pan: Arrange oven rack to the middle position and then preheat the oven to 375-degrees Fahrenheit. Line a large, rimmed sheet pan with non-stick aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy clean up. Then fold or roll up the sides of the aluminum or paper to catch the juices that will be released from the strawberries while they’re roasting in the oven. Set the pan aside.
  • Sugar the Strawberries: Add the strawberries to a large mixing bowl and then sprinkle the sugar over the berries. Use a spoon to toss the berries in the sugar until they’re fully coated. Then, transfer the sugared strawberries to the prepared baking sheet, arranging them into a single, spaced-out layer for even roasting.
  • Roast Strawberries: Transfer the strawberries to the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the strawberries are soft, slightly jam-y, and start to caramelize. Remove the strawberries from the oven and set aside.
  • Start the Barbecue Sauce – Sauté Aromatics: Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-low heat. Once shimmering, add the onions, coriander, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Cook, stirring frequently, until staring to soften, about 2-3 minutes. Add in the jalapenos and continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the jalapenos are softened, and onions are translucent, about 3-4 additional minutes. Add the garlic and ginger to the pan and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  • Add the Tomato Paste: Add the tomato paste to the pan and cook, stirring frequently, until caramelized, about 2 minutes.
  • Add Remaining BBQ Sauce Ingredients and Roasted Strawberries: Add the sugar, ketchup, vinegar, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce, along with the roasted strawberries and any collected juices, to the pan and stir well to combine. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring to a gentle boil. Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to maintain a simmer.
  • Simmer Strawberry BBQ Sauce: Let the strawberries mixture simmer, stirring occasionally, for 18-20 minutes, or until the sauce is dark in color and has thickened slightly. Remove the sauce from the heat.
  • Let Cool Slightly, then Blend: Let to sauce cool for 8-10 minutes before using an immersion blender or high-speed stand blender to puree the sauce. Then, use a spoon to taste the strawberry sauce and adjust the flavors to suit your own tastebuds.
  • Use or Store Strawberry Barbecue Sauce: Use the strawberry barbecue sauce as a marinade, glaze, or serving sauce and enjoy! Alternatively, transfer the sauce to an airtight jar or storage container and store in the fridge for up to 1 week.
    Overhead photo of strawberry bbq sauce in a medium saucepan with fresh strawberries, brown sugar, and balsamic vinegar off to the side.

Notes

  • Jalapeno Peppers: If you prefer a spicy bbq sauce, leave the seeds and ribs in the jalapeno. If you prefer a mild sauce, be sure to remove and discard all the seeds and ribs before dicing the pepper. And, if you prefer a barbecue sauce that’s moderately spicy, leave some of the seeds and ribs.
  • Need to Scale the Recipe? Hover your mouse over the number of servings in the recipe card. You’ll see a sliding scale pop up, you can use that to scale the recipe up or down as needed.
  • Got questions? I’ve got answers! If you ever run into an issue, have a question, or need any clarification – please feel free to drop them in the comments section. I’m happy to help when I can!
  • Recipe Yield: approximately 2 cups of strawberry bbq sauce.
Nutritional information is provided as a courtesy and the nutrition facts are an estimate based upon 4 (1/2 cup) servings. Exact information will depend upon the brands of ingredients and precise measurements used.

Nutrition

Calories: 196kcal    Carbohydrates: 40g    Protein: 2g    Fat: 4g    Saturated Fat: 0.3g    Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g    Monounsaturated Fat: 2g    Trans Fat: 0.01g    Sodium: 571mg    Potassium: 441mg    Fiber: 3g    Sugar: 33g    Vitamin A: 151IU    Vitamin C: 73mg    Calcium: 63mg    Iron: 2mg

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Close-up photo of two baby back ribs slathered with strawberry barbeque sauce.