Georgia Mustard Barbecue Sauce is a tangy, slightly sweet, and bold sauce that perfectly complements grilled meats, pulled pork, chicken, and even burgers. With its signature mustard base, this Southern classic brings a delicious balance of vinegar, spices, and a hint of sweetness. Whether used as a marinade, basting sauce, or dipping sauce, it’s a must-have for any barbecue lover!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold and tangy with a rich mustard flavor
- Perfect for grilling, dipping, or drizzling over pulled pork and chicken
- Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
- Customizable—adjust the sweetness, heat, or tanginess to your preference
- Authentic Southern flavor, straight from the heart of Georgia
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Yellow mustard
- Apple cider vinegar
- Brown sugar
- Honey
- Worcestershire sauce
- Hot sauce (optional, for heat)
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Smoked paprika
- Black pepper
- Salt
Directions
- Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together mustard, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, honey, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt.
- Simmer: Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Let it cook for about 10 minutes until thickened slightly.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust sweetness, spice, or tanginess by adding more sugar, vinegar, or hot sauce as needed.
- Cool & Store: Remove from heat and let cool. Transfer to a jar or bottle and refrigerate until ready to use.
- Serve & Enjoy: Use as a marinade, basting sauce, or dip for grilled meats and sandwiches.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes about 2 cups of sauce
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add more hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Sweeter Sauce: Increase honey or brown sugar for a milder, sweeter taste.
- Smoky Flavor: Add a drop of liquid smoke or extra smoked paprika.
- Thicker Sauce: Simmer longer or add a small amount of cornstarch slurry.
- Tangier Sauce: Increase the apple cider vinegar for more acidity.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container or jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as mustard-based sauces can separate when thawed.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stove over low heat if needed, or use straight from the fridge.
FAQs
What is Georgia Mustard Barbecue Sauce best used for?
It’s perfect for pulled pork, grilled chicken, smoked ribs, burgers, and even as a dipping sauce for fries.
How does it differ from South Carolina mustard sauce?
Georgia’s version tends to be a bit sweeter and less tangy than the South Carolina variety.
Can I use Dijon mustard instead of yellow mustard?
Yes, but it will give the sauce a sharper, more intense flavor.
Is this sauce gluten-free?
Yes! Just ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free.
How can I make it less tangy?
Reduce the apple cider vinegar and add more honey or brown sugar.
Can I make this sauce in advance?
Absolutely! The flavors develop even more after a day or two in the fridge.
What’s the best way to apply it to meat?
Brush it on during the last few minutes of grilling or serve it as a side sauce.
Can I use this as a marinade?
Yes! It works great as a marinade for chicken, pork, or even tofu.
How do I make a low-sugar version?
Use a sugar substitute like monk fruit or stevia and reduce the honey.
What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?
Simmer it longer, or mix in a small cornstarch slurry if you prefer a thicker consistency.
Conclusion
Georgia Mustard Barbecue Sauce is a bold, tangy, and slightly sweet sauce that adds a Southern twist to any barbecue. Whether you’re using it as a marinade, glaze, or dipping sauce, this mustard-based classic is guaranteed to bring mouthwatering flavor to your favorite grilled and smoked meats. Try it today and elevate your next barbecue feast!
PrintGeorgia Mustard Barbecue Sauce
This Georgia Mustard Barbecue Sauce, also known as “Carolina Gold,” is a tangy and slightly sweet sauce made with yellow mustard, vinegar, honey, and spices. Unlike traditional tomato-based barbecue sauces, this mustard-based version is a Southern classic that pairs perfectly with smoked meats, grilled chicken, and pulled pork sandwiches.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: About 1 ½ cups 1x
- Category: Sauces & Condiments
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Southern, American
Ingredients
- 1 cup yellow mustard
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- ¼ cup honey (or brown sugar)
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Combine ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce (if using).
- Add spices: Stir in smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Simmer: Place the saucepan over low heat and let the sauce simmer for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until well combined and slightly thickened.
- Cool and store: Remove from heat and let cool. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- Serve: Use as a basting sauce, dipping sauce, or drizzle over pulled pork, ribs, or grilled chicken.
Notes
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less honey.
- Add cayenne pepper or extra hot sauce for a spicier version.
- This sauce thickens as it cools—reheat gently before serving if needed.