CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Not even a pandemic can squelch summer’s backyard barbecue season.
Warm weather and sunny skies have finally arrived in Northeast Ohio, so Greater Clevelanders are dusting off their grills. We’re here to help you find the tastiest barbecue sauce for your cookouts and there are flavors for all kinds of taste buds.
cleveland.com reporters Brenda Cain and Yadi Rodriguez conducted a taste test of all the BBQ sauces sold at Giant Eagle -- a whopping 79 bottles in all, featuring dozens of brands and flavor profiles. Dr. Pepper BBQ sauce, anyone?
The results of the taste test are below. Two of the Top 10 finishers cost just $2.
To keep safe during the coronavirus pandemic, we shopped at one major grocery store chain. We chose Giant Eagle. Whether you’re a fan of Memphis, Kansas City or Carolina-style barbecue, we have tasted -- and ranked -- several in each category, plus many more categories.
Methodology: We began by tasting the 79 BBQ sauces plain and ranking them from 1-5 for appearance, aroma, thickness, taste and how true they are to the description on the bottle. The scores were averaged before the judges met to debate the sauces and determine the rankings. They met one last time to sample the Top 5 sauces on various meats and then decided on the final order of those five.
We purchased almost all of the BBQ sauces at Giant Eagle’s Legacy Village location in Lyndhurst. It was out of stock in one flavor, which we found at the store on Chagrin Boulevard in Beachwood, along with four additional BBQ sauces.
And just like with our frozen pizza rankings, one brand took the top two spots here as well! The Pioneer Woman’s Frontier and Peach Whiskey BBQ sauces nailed down the Nos. 1 and 2 slots.
See how your go-to sauce did. Better yet, find a new favorite to try.
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $5.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 0 | Fat 0g | Sodium 210mg | Carbs 0g | Sugar 0g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Triple filtered purified water
Bottle says: No calories, fat, carbs, gluten or sugars of any kind! Switch and save 330 calories a day, lose 34 pounds a year “The Walden Way.” Great taste, no calories! How do we do it? Rich natural flavors - Walden Farms calorie free Original BBQ Sauce has a smoky flavor made with organic apple cider vinegar, dijon mustard and more. Delicious with steak, hamburgers, ribs, chicken or fish. An ideal marinade and great for dipping. Switch and save hundreds of calories every day “The Walden Way.”
We say: Obviously, not our team’s favorite. Hard to imagine this one would be anyone’s favorite! So thin and watery, it will not stick to anything and it has a sickening artificial sweetness taste. No calories = no taste!
Buy it on Amazon $14.89 (2-pack) | Buy it at Giant Eagle $4.99
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $3.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 60 | Fat 0g | Sodium 150mg | Carbs 14g | Sugar 13g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Tomato purée
Bottle says: Like a good country song in a bottle! They say country music is just three chords and the truth. Well, around the Hickey Bottom Barbecue Company we like that a whole bunch. We have a simple truth as well: work hard, make an honest natural product and always say thank you. Enjoy, and from all of us -- thanks, we really appreciate your support!" Rebecca McCrea, Founder.
We say: If you like your barbecue sauce thick you’ll like this one, but the texture may be all you like about it. This very dark sauce has a molasses-like texture, and chocolate aroma, but tastes like a cross between ketchup and bad chocolate. We say, no thanks!
Buy it on Amazon $7.99
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $3.79
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 30 | Fat 0g | Sodium 250mg | Carbs 7g | Sugar 5g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Tomato purée
Bottle says: Made right, this is the real deal, the original. And its tangy tomato, vinegar, molasses and black pepper are gonna treat you right.
We say: OK, the bottle did not mislead. This sauce takes tangy to a whole new level, but not a good one. You can see spices in the sauce, but you can’t taste them.
Buy it on Amazon $19.34 (gallon) | Buy it at Giant Eagle $3.79 | Buy it on Instacart $5.29
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $6.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 45 | Fat 0g | Sodium 330mg | Carbs 10g | Sugar 9g
First ingredient: Ketchup
Bottle says: This balanced and tangy sauce is crafted to honor Western Carolina BBQ tradition. Why Number 40? Visit our restaurants or LilliesQ.com for the full story. Hint: Not all highways are created equal.
We say: East Coast Carolina barbecue is known for its mustard-y sauce and Lillie’s got that part of the equation right. Slight kick came almost as an after-thought, but the dark caramel-colored sauce is runny and the mustard is all you can taste. We missed the balance.
Buy it on Amazon $22.25 (2-pack) | Buy it at Giant Eagle $6.79
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $2.39
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 35 | Fat 0g | Sodium 340mg | Carbs 9g | Sugar 8g
First ingredient: Distilled white vinegar
Bottle says: Heinz joined forces with Sam Jones of Skylight Inn BBQ to craft a true Carolina-style sauce blending the distinctive tang of apple cider vinegar with just the right hints of sweet & spice.
We say: The vinegar aroma and flavor is overwhelming in this runny sauce. Just pour straight vinegar over your ribs and call it a day.
Buy it on Amazon $14.18 (6-pack) | Buy it at Giant Eagle $2.39
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $3.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 70 | Fat 0g | Sodium 95mg | Carbs 17g | Sugar 15g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Tomato purée
Bottle says: Get Grillin'! When I started my company, I set out to make honest products that taste great without any of the bad stuff. That’s why we only use ingredients that are free of artificial colors, flavors and preservatives. Thanks for making your next barbecue great with the good stuff from the Hickey Bottom Barbecue Company!
We say: This sauce is dark and looks thick, but appearances can be deceiving. It has a strong chocolate aroma, and has a decidedly bitter -- baking chocolate powder-like -- flavor. Not a lot to like with this one.
Buy it on Amazon $7.99
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $1
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 45 | Fat 0g | Sodium 510mg | Carbs 10g | Sugar 9g
First ingredient: High fructose corn syrup
Bottle says: True pitmaster’s choice.
We say: Not sure many pitmasters would choose this one. First of all, this sauce is so runny, you might want to supply bibs to your guest to spare their shirts. A very sweet flavor, with just a hint of tomato sauce and BBQ spices.
Buy it on Amazon $10.95 three pack | Buy it at Giant Eagle $1.50
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $2.39
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 50 | Fat 0g | Sodium 330mg | Carbs 12g | Sugar 10g
First ingredient: Cane sugar
Bottle says: From Columbia to Charleston, mustard-based BBQ sauce reigns supreme. Bryan Furman of the award-winning B’s cracklin’ BBQ partnered with Heinz to deliver this authentic sauce.
We say: If you are a mustard fan, then you’re in luck with this one! Mustard is the dominating flavor -- followed by a heavy peppery aftertaste. And be careful where you point the squirt nozzle, this sauce is thin and comes out much faster than you expect.
Buy it on Amazon $15.54 (6-pack) | Buy it at Giant Eagle $2.39 | Buy it on Instacart $2.99
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $3.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 60 | Fat 0g | Sodium 210mg | Carbs 15g | Sugar 13g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Water
Bottle says: All natural, no junk. It’s time to spice things up. Real food for real cookin'.
We say: Not worthy of its name. This sauce delivers no heat on first bite and takes several tastes to get it to build. In addition, we’ve seen regular hot sauces thicker than this BBQ sauce.
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $1
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 50 | Fat 0g | Sodium 510mg | Carbs 11g | Sugar 10g
First ingredient: High fructose corn syrup
Bottle says: Made with pure honey. True pitmaster’s choice.
We say: You’ll know as soon as you shake the bottle this one is not thick! As for the flavor, holy honey! Plenty of sweetness tempered only by the ketchup.
Buy it on Amazon $3.73 | Buy it at Giant Eagle $1.50 | Buy it on Instacart $2.50
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $4.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 15 | Fat 0g | Sodium 300mg | Carbs 2g | Sugar 1g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Water
Bottle says: Eat like your life depends on it. In the world of real food eating, it’s the sauces, dressings and toppings that make a meal exciting. That’s why I created Primal Kitchen pantry staples -- to add uncompromisingly delicious flavor to every single bite.
We say: The appearance of this sauce may remind you more of butternut squash soup, but don’t expect that consistency or sweetness. This unsweetened thin sauce delivers only a strong mustard, garlic and onion flavor with a strong vinegar after-taste.
Buy it on Instacart $5.49
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $2. Note: This was of four sauces purchased at the Giant Eagle in Beachwood.
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 45 | Fat 0g | Sodium 140mg | Carbs 10g | Sugar 10g
First ingredient: Tomato purée
Bottle says: Full bodied.
We say: Lovers of sweets will love this sauce but beware, the kids -- and you, too -- will suffer a sugar rush from this one!
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $3.79
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 60 | Fat 0g | Sodium 230mg | Carbs 14g | Sugar 11g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Tomato purée
Bottle says: Made right, the unique taste of Dr. Pepper and the rich flavor of Stubb’s Bar-B-Q Sauce is a mouth-watering and unforgettable duo.
We say: The Dr. is not in -- in the ingredient list to be specific. While this sauce gives the impression it was made with the popular soda, with its dark caramel color and its thick consistency, it presents all the sweetness of a flat soda.
Buy it on Amazon $19.33 (2-pack) | Buy it at Giant Eagle $3.79
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $2.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 70 | Fat 0g | Sodium 300mg | Carbs 17g | Sugar 15g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: High fructose corn syrup
Bottle says: The sauce is the boss!
We say: If you are a honey fan this is a good choice for you, though the honey flavor is a bit artificial. This one is overly sweet for our tastebuds.
Buy it on Amazon $11.65 (2-pack) | Buy it at Giant Eagle $2.99
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $1
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 45 | Fat 0g | Sodium 500mg | Carbs 10g | Sugar 9g
First ingredient: High fructose corn syrup
Bottle says: True pitmaster’s choice.
We say: This was the thickest of the Open Pit brand, but had a “skunk-like smell” Rodriguez struggled to get past. The hickory flavor did little to temper the sweetness and the ketchup overload. Save your dollar.
Buy it on Instacart $1.50
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $2.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 70 | Fat 0g | Sodium 280mg | Carbs 18g | Sugar 16g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: High fructose corn syrup
Bottle says: The sauce is the boss!
We say: If you are throwing some bacon or sausage on the grill for breakfast, this may be a great choice. It is very reminiscent of the pancake syrup sold two aisles over.
Buy it at Giant Eagle $2.99 | Buy it on Instacart $2.50
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $3.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 10 | Fat 0g | Sodium 200mg | Carbs 2g | Sugar 0g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Vine-ripened crushed tomatoes
Bottle says: “Award-winning” and “pitmaster” are words that stand alone, but when they are used together, they are simply impressive. G Hughes is someone who knows his barbecue. Whether it’s a cooking technique or a secret ingredient, he knows where to start and how.
We say: A smooth, though not thick, caramel-colored sauce that offered up an artificially sweet flavor.
Buy it on Amazon $21.37 (3-pack) | Buy it at Giant Eagle $3.99 | Buy it on Instacart $3.79
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $3.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 10 | Fat 0g | Sodium 200mg | Carbs 2g | Sugar 0g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Vine-ripened crushed tomatoes
Bottle says: "Award-winning” and “pitmaster” are words that stand alone, but when they are used together, they are simply impressive. G Hughes is someone who knows his barbecue. Whether it’s a cooking technique or a secret ingredient, he knows where to start and how.
We say: A sugar-free sauce that offers plenty of sweetness, though artificial, overwhelms the slight hickory smell and flavor. This one looks thicker than it actually is. Not sure where the “secret ingredients” were…perhaps they forgot to add them to this batch.
Buy it on Amazon $19.07 (3-pack) | Buy it at Giant Eagle $3.99 | Buy it on Instacart $3.79
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $1.50
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 40 | Fat 0g | Sodium 270mg | Carbs 9g | Sugar 8g
First ingredient: High fructose corn syrup
Bottle says: 25% less sugar than the leading BBQ sauce.
We say: The texture of this sauce is the most objectionable thing about it -- more gelatin-like, with no detectable smoothness. You can smell the sweetness when you open the bottle, but the “hint” of honey is absent. While very sweet, it’s also bitter on the backside.
Buy it on Instacart $2.99
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $3.09
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 60 | Fat 0g | Sodium 190mg | Carbs 16g | Sugar 14g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Water
Bottle says: All natural, no junk good eats sweet & tangy treats.
We say: This caramel-gold sauce is a bit on the runny side. It has a very honey-like flavor, with a lingering metal can after-taste.
Buy it on Amazon $17.01 (4-pack)
by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $6.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 150 | Fat 16g | Sodium 170mg | Carbs 1g | Sugar 0g
First ingredient: Soybean oil
Bottle says: This tangy sauce is true Northern Alabama with a pinch of cayenne. Why No. 65? Visit our restaurants or go to LilliesQ.com for the full story. Hint: It will take you straight to the source.
We say: While Rodriguez said this sauce reminded her of caesar salad dressing, Cain thought it tasted more like ranch. What we did agree on is it’s tangy -- with a sharp vinegar flavor -- and a bit on the salty side. Visually it had a lot of spices.
Buy it on Amazon $17.42 (17 ounces) | Buy it at Giant Eagle $6.79 | Buy it on Instacart $6.99
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $4.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 40 | Fat 0g | Sodium 370mg | Carbs 9g | Sugar 7g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Water
Bottle says: Eat because it’s good! Slightly sweet. With a kick! Here at Woodstock we celebrate foods that make you feel great about what you buy, eat, and serve your family. Our team has been at it for over 30 years bringing passion for organic, non-GMO, and totally delicious food to the table.
We say: Very sweet -- so sweet, in fact, you can actually smell the sweetness when you open the bottle. Has slight heat that is slow to creep up on you. There is a gel-like consistency to this thick orange sauce.
Buy it on Amazon $21.49 (2-pack) | Buy it at Giant Eagle $5.79 | Buy it on Instacart $5.99
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $3.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 40 | Fat 3.5g | Sodium 115mg | Carbs 2g | Sugar 1g
First ingredient: Water
Bottle says: Salted bourbon delivers a warm caramel aroma to this sweet and tangy BBQ sauce. Try as a dip, drizzle, or spread for burgers, ribs and anything else that could use a touch of excitement.
We say: Best thing about this sauce is the bottle. We loved the smaller squeezable bottle and nozzle. This sauce is so thick, it is more of a dip with an onion/garlic after-taste. There is just a hint of bourbon flavor.
Buy it on Amazon $3.69
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $1.50
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 60 | Fat 0g | Sodium 350mg | Carbs 14g | Sugar 12g
First ingredient: High fructose corn syrup
Bottle says: Slow-simmered original barbecue sauce & dip.
We say: This is the sauce of your childhood. Nothing fancy, a “regular” sauce that will work on anything in a pinch.
Buy it at Giant Eagle $1.89
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $2.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 50 | Fat 0g | Sodium 340mg | Carbs 13g | Sugar 12g
First ingredient: Prepared mustard
Bottle says: The sauce is the boss!
We say: If you run out of this one, just pull out that bottle of honey mustard salad dressing. They don’t taste that much different. There is plenty of sweetness and plenty of mustard in this sauce. Unfortunately, they don’t balance all that well.
Buy it on Amazon $21.99 (3- pack) | Buy it at Giant Eagle $2.99 | Buy it on Instacart $2.50
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $3.79
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 60 | Fat 0g | Sodium 230mg | Carbs 14g | Sugar 11g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Tomato purée
Bottle says: Made right. Thick, rich and loaded with brown sugar and molasses, this sauce is dripping with sticky sweetness that you’re gonna love.
We say: Holy sugar overload! The label does not lie. This one is so sweet it will almost make your teeth hurt. The only thing tempering the sweetness is the hint of cinnamon on the back end.
Buy it on Amazon $39.99 (6-pack) | Buy it at Giant Eagle $3.79 | Buy it on Instacart $5.29
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $2.49
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 70 | Fat 0g | Sodium 350mg | Carbs 15g | Sugar 13g
First ingredient: High fructose corn syrup
Bottle says: Slow-simmered sweet brown sugar barbecue sauce & dip.
We say: Smooth and creamy but, whoa, more sweetness overload. Once you get past the sweet, you can enjoy the slow vinegar burn that develops in the back of your throat.
Buy it on Amazon $30.65 (12-pack | Buy it at Giant Eagle $1.89 | Buy it on Instacart $2.49
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $2.49
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 10 | Fat 0g | Sodium 200mg | Carbs 2g | Sugar 0g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Vine-ripened crushed tomatoes
Bottle says: “Award-winning” and “pitmaster” are words that stand alone, but when they are used together, they are simply impressive. G Hughes is someone who knows his barbecue. Whether it’s a cooking technique or a secret ingredient, he knows where to start and how.
We say: This smooth, thick, brown sugar-based sauce sports bits of onion and garlic, but tastes more like a kid’s breakfast cereal. Really. Fans of Cinnamon Toast Crunch -- this one is for you!
Buy it at Giant Eagle $3.99 | Buy it on Instacart $3.79
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $2.49
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 50 | Fat 0g | Sodium 310mg | Carbs 13g | Sugar 11g
First ingredient: Tomato purée
Bottle says: Slow-simmered hickory smoke barbecue sauce & dip.
We say: One of the thicker-looking sauce & dips and sweet, with a hint of artificial-tasting smoke. The darker sauce has no visible spices.
Buy it at Giant Eagle $1.89
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $3.79
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 50 | Fat 0g | Sodium 220mg | Carbs 14g | Sugar 12g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Water
Bottle says: A flavor “Slam-Dunk.”
We say: This sauce is by the former Cavs 7-footer. Its dark molasses appearance and sweet aroma are deceiving. It is not at all thick and is a bit on the bland side. The ever-so-slight sweetness is overpowered by the vinegar after-taste.
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $3.79
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 45 | Fat 0g | Sodium 270mg | Carbs 10g | Sugar 8g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Tomato purée
Bottle says: Made right. Real bourbon and hickory smoke make for a sauce that’s thick, tangy and the right amount of sweet.
We say: You can smell both the bourbon and hickory as soon as you crack the seal of this bottle. And you can definitely taste both as soon as the sauce hits your tastebuds. It is tangy and sweet. All in all, a decent sauce though it doesn’t pull you back for more.
Buy it on Amazon $4.69 | Buy it at Giant Eagle $3.79 | Buy it on Instacart $4.99
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $1.50
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 40 | Fat 0g | Sodium 260mg | Carbs 9g | Sugar 8g
First ingredient: High fructose corn syrup
Bottle says: 25% less sugar than the leading BBQ sauce.
We say: Too much sweet and not enough smoky, although you get a smoky after-taste that isn’t necessarily a good one. The smoke is artificial. Not as thick as we would like, either. It had a more ketchup-like consistency.
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $2.49
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 60 | Fat 0g | Sodium 340mg | Carbs 14g | Sugar 12g
First ingredient: High fructose corn syrup
Bottle says: Slow-simmered sweet honey barbecue sauce & dip.
We say: A bit of honey taste was present, but this sauce was more tart than sweet because of the vinegar that came through. A slow burn developed in the back of our throats later.
Buy it on Amazon $23.76 (12-pack) | Buy it at Giant Eagle $1.89 | Buy it on Instacart $2.69
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $3.79
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 60 | Fat 0g | Sodium 370mg | Carbs 14g | Sugar 12g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Tomato purée
Bottle says: Made right. Honey & rich spices combine to create a sweet warm flavor made with extra love & happiness.
We say: This sauce has a pungent aroma -- in a good way -- with plenty of honey detectable right off the top. It had a traditional homemade flavor with a sweet kick at the end.
Buy it on Amazon $21.82 (6-pack) | Buy it at Giant Eagle $3.79
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $2.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 15 | Fat 0g | Sodium 360mg | Carbs 4g | Sugar 1g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Water
Bottle says: The sauce is the boss! Straight from the grill pits at Sweet Baby Ray’s comes a no sugar added barbecue sauce that’s actually worth eating! Lay it on thick and enjoy the signature flavor that only Ray can deliver.
We say: The vinegar and salty tang is so strong it can make you pucker. This sauce has an artificial sweetener that leaves behind a diet pop after-taste.
Buy it on Instacart $4.29
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $2.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 70 | Fat 0g | Sodium 290mg | Carbs 18g | Sugar 16g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: High fructose corn syrup
Bottle says: The sauce is the boss!
We say: Its traditional flavor is tasty, but not so much that it will have you clamoring for more. The underlying hickory smoke taste is a bit overwhelmed by the sweetness of the sauce.
Buy it at Giant Eagle $2.99 | Buy it on Instacart $4.99
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $4.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 15 | Fat 0g | Sodium 160mg | Carbs 3g | Sugar 2g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Water
Bottle says: Eat like your life depends on it. In the world of real food eating, it’s the sauces, dressings and toppings that make a meal exciting. That’s why I created Primal Kitchen pantry staples -- to add uncompromisingly delicious flavor to every single bite.
We say: This dark sauce is dotted with tiny pieces of peppers and tomato, and possibly mustard seeds. It’s tangy and spicy and has a kick that lingers. The heat builds as you eat it.
Buy it on Amazon $4.04 | Buy it on Instacart $5.49
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $6.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 50 | Fat 0g | Sodium 190mg | Carbs 12g | Sugar 11g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Water
Bottle says: I've always been the guy behind the grill. Now I'm the man behind the sauce. I've eaten my way all around the world but whether growing up in my own neighborhood or traveling abroad, Latin flavors have always been a constant in my life. Meet Hak's BBQs new fiery addition: a robust balance of sweet, zesty and explosive heat! Habanero Pineapple. You need this.
We say: Sweet, but caliente! Upon opening the bottle, you can smell the habanero, along with a touch of the pineapple. The flask bottle shape makes it seem drinkable with the thin consistency, but we wouldn’t advise it! Heat lovers will dig this sauce.
Buy it at Giant Eagle $6.29 | Buy it on Instacart $3.25
With this many options at just one Giant Eagle in Greater Cleveland, how do you choose a sauce? Read on for our favorites. (photo by Kristen Davis, cleveland.com)
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $3.79
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 50 | Fat 0g | Sodium 250mg | Carbs 12g | Sugar 10g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Tomato purée
Bottle says: Made right. Molasses and brown sugar balance perfectly against chipotle peppers. Starts out sweet but ends with Texas style heat.
We say: The sweet takes a backseat to the heat in this sauce. The heat kicks in right away, and depending on your affinity to heat, it could clear up your sinuses! Much of the heat comes from the pepper. There is a tinge of smoky flavor at the end.
Buy it on Amazon $36.37 (6-pack) | Buy it at Giant Eagle $3.79 | Buy it on Instacart $4.99
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $5.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 50 | Fat 0g | Sodium 220mg | Carbs 14g | Sugar 12g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Water
Bottle says: A flavor "Slam-Dunk.”
We say: Dark, slimy, heavy molasses taste. Very sweet. Not much flavor, just sweet. Has a slight smoky smell to it.
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $3.79
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 30 | Fat 0g | Sodium 250mg | Carbs 7g | Sugar 5g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Tomato purée
Bottle says: Made right. We start with Stubb’s Original sauce and add habanero, cayenne and black pepper. Get ready folks -- when we say spicy, we mean it.
We say: This sauce is pure heat! The kick hits you with the very first taste and overpowers any other flavor.
Buy it at Giant Eagle $3.79
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $5.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 50 | Fat 0g | Sodium 220mg | Carbs 14g | Sugar 12g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Water
Bottle says: A flavor “Slam-Dunk.”
We say: This thick and dark sauce smells sweet and tastes sweet at first bite... and then bam! The heat hits you hard! Good choice for those wanting a kick.
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $2.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 15 | Fat 0g | Sodium 350mg | Carbs 4g | Sugar 1g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Water
Bottle says: The sauce is the boss! Straight from the grill pits at Sweet Baby Ray’s comes a No Sugar Added barbecue sauce that’s actually worth eating! Lay it on thick and enjoy the signature flavor that only Ray can deliver.
We say: There is a definite smokiness to this sauce, which makes you forget it’s sugar-free. It has a nice vinegar-based tang, but a metallic after-taste.
Buy it on Instacart $4.29
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $3.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 70 | Fat 0g | Sodium 290mg | Carbs 16g | Sugar 14g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: High fructose corn syrup
Bottle says: The Sauce is the boss!
We say: The pepper was visible in this thick traditional sauce that’s a little more spice than sweet.
Buy it on Amazon $14.97 (2-pack) | Buy it at Giant Eagle $2.99 | Buy it on Instacart $2.99
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $3.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 10 | Fat 0g | Sodium 200mg | Carbs 2g | Sugar 0g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Vine-ripened crushed tomatoes
Bottle says: “Award-winning” and “pitmaster” are words that stand alone, but when they are used together, they are simply impressive. G Hughes is someone who knows his barbecue. Whether it’s a cooking technique or a secret ingredient, he knows where to start and how to finish. Sugar free, Gluten free, High Fructose corn syrup free and now free for you to enjoy on anything you choose to put it on. Try them all and don’t be afraid to mix or match, flavor is just waiting to happen.
We say: There are tiny bits of onion in this thick sauce that’s more sweet than spice at first blush but the more you have, the spicier it gets. Sadly, there is a bit of artificial sweetener after-taste.
Buy it on Amazon $21.97 (3-pack) | Buy it on Instacart $3.79
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $3.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 70 | Fat 0g | Sodium 290mg | Carbs 19g | Sugar 17g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: High fructose corn syrup
Bottle says: The sauce is the boss!
We say: Take a trip to the tropics with your first whiff of this smooth, sweet sauce. It’s pineapple with a kick!
Buy it on Amazon $10.97 (2-pack) | Buy it at Giant Eagle $2.99 | Buy it on Instacart $2.50
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $4.79
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 40 | Fat 0g | Sodium 220mg | Carbs 10g | Sugar 8g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Tomato purée
Bottle says: Chef Guy’s Sweet Sriracha BBQ Sauce brings on boisterous heat with a fierce punch that will animate your palate and liven any red protein dish such as grilled steak or ribs!
We say: Visually, this sauce is full of spices and minced peppers and garlic. It offers up a milder BBQ flavor, until the sriracha kicks in.
Buy it at Giant Eagle $4.29 | Buy it on Instacart $4.29
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $4.79
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 50 | Fat 0g | Sodium 80mg | Carbs 11g | Sugar 10g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Tomato purée
Bottle says: Chef Guy’s Apple BBQ Sauce is a lively combination of smoke and fruit flavors that create an off-the-hook complement to chicken or pork that will satisfy your wicked & wild side.
We say: This takes the flavor of a caramel apple to a whole new level. Smoky sweet smell invades your nostrils when you open the bottle. Not too thick -- more like a thicker syrup.
Buy it at Giant Eagle $4.29 | Buy it on Instacart $4.29
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $2.39
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 80 | Fat 0g | Sodium 310mg | Carbs 19g | Sugar 17g
First ingredient: Sugar
Bottle says: Heinz traveled the country to bring you a sauce that captures the real flavors of American Barbecue: Sweet, thick, deliciously balanced and sure to please!
We say: This is the thickest of the Heinz sauce line. It has a traditional homemade flavor that definitely delivers a lingering sweetness.
Buy it at Giant Eagle $2.39 | Buy it on Instacart $3.49
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $2.50
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 45 | Fat 0g | Sodium 340mg | Carbs 11g | Sugar 9g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Water
Bottle says: Using the contents of this bottle will cause your friends and family to think that you’re a barbecue pro! With an authentic flavor that’s steeped in tradition, our Memphis Original Barbecue Sauce makes everything it touches taste even better.
We say: “Having lived in Memphis for years, this sauce doesn’t create memories of the BBQ houses there," Cain said. Sweet, rather pedestrian sauce that would be great as a kid’s dipping sauce.
Buy it at Giant Eagle $3.29 | Buy it on Instacart $3.49
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $6.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 15 | Fat 0g | Sodium 440mg | Carbs 2g | Sugar 0g
First ingredient: Filtered water
Bottle says: This balanced and tangy sauce is crafted to honor Western Carolina BBQ tradition. Why Number 40? Visit our restaurants or LilliesQ.com for the full story. Hint: Not all highways are created equal.
We say: One of the better sugar-free sauces, but the artificial sweetener flavor overcame the mustard. This one left a definite after-taste.
Buy it at Giant Eagle $6.79 | Buy it on Instacart $6.99
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $2.50
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 45 | Fat 0.5g | Sodium 180mg | Carbs 10g | Sugar 9g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Water
Bottle says: Contents have proven to be highly addictive! Our Carolina sauce is a tribute to South Carolina's barbecue tradition. This mustard-based sauce is so full of flavor you'll want to put it on everything.
We say: This very sweet mustard-based sauce delivers just a hint of a kick on the backside. Definitely true to the South Carolina BBQ houses. If you are not a mustard fan, don’t choose this one.
Buy it at Giant Eagle $3.29 | Buy it on Instacart $3.49
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $6.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 50 | Fat 0.5g | Sodium 330mg | Carbs 10g | Sugar 9g
First ingredient: Mustard
Bottle says: This tangy sauce is true South Carolina BBQ. Why No. 27? Visit our restaurants or go to LilliesQ.com for the full story. Hint: It's for the only food critic we've ever really cared about.
We say: Darker than typical mustard sauces with lots of visible spices, though a tad bit on the watery side. The mustard does not overpower like in some others, although it is the first thing you smell. Rodriguez thinks it’s one of the saltiest we tried.
Buy it on Amazon $6.99
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $2.39
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 60 | Fat 0g | Sodium 310mg | Carbs 15g | Sugar 13g
First ingredient: Distilled white vinegar
Bottle says: Heinz partnered with Kansas City pitmasters Joe and Mike Pearce to craft this mouthwatering sauce with the perfect balance of thick, sweet & smoky that the region is known for.
We say: A light, smoky aroma is your first indication of this sauce. Its tangy sweetness does not disappoint. Definitely true to KC BBQ.
Buy it on Amazon $11.82 (6-pack) | Buy it at Giant Eagle $2.39 | Buy it on Instacart $2.99
photo by Brenda Jackson, cleveland.com
Price: $2.39
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 50 | Fat 0g | Sodium 280mg | Carbs 13g | Sugar 12g
First ingredient: Water
Bottle says: Heinz teamed up with Dan Brown of Memphis's famed Leonard's pit barbecue to craft this sweet & spicy sauce with brown sugar and the flavors of the region's traditional dry rubs.
We say: The sauce offers a good balance between sweet and spicy. The thick sauce is a bit gritty -- perhaps it’s the cayenne pepper? The heat in this one comes on the back side.
Buy it on Amazon $12.49 (6-pack) | Buy it at Giant Eagle $2.39 | Buy it on Instacart $2.99
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $6.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 60 | Fat 0g | Sodium 270mg | Carbs 15g | Sugar 13g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Brown sugar
Bottle says: This Memphis-style fire starter is sweet up front but finishes with plenty of heat. Why No. 05? Visit our restaurants or LilliesQ.com for the full story. Hint: It’s the most wonderful time of the year.
We say: It starts with a nice sweetness, but be prepared because the heat hits you hard and it lingers. It’s difficult to taste any of the promised smokiness because once the heat happens, there is little else.
Buy it on Amazon $15.95 (21 ounces) | Buy it at Giant Eagle $6.79 | Buy it on Instacart $6.69
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $2.50
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 50 | Fat 0g | Sodium 330mg | Carbs 12g | Sugar 10g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Water
Bottle says: With a splash of liquid gold straight from the Bluegrass State, our Sweet Kentucky Bourbon is a warm, savory take on traditional southern barbecue. It’s the perfect pairing of sauce and spirits.
We say: There is definitely bourbon in this sauce, you can smell it as soon as you crack the seal. And you can taste it too! Rich bourbon with sweet undertones.
Buy it at Giant Eagle $3.29 | Buy it on Instacart $3.49
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $6.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 60 | Fat 0g | Sodium 260mg | Carbs 14g | Sugar 13g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Brown sugar
Bottle says: This Memphis-style sauce is sweet and mild with a dash of smoke. Why No. 22? Visit our restaurants or LilliesQ.com for the full story. Hint: It’s the place that put us on the map.
We say: “This is the sauce I remember from my time living in Memphis," Cain said. Sweet -- with honey and brown sugar undertones. And don’t forget the smokiness, in the aroma and flavor! This is not a thick sauce so have plenty of napkins available.
Buy it at Giant Eagle $6.79 | Buy it on Instacart $6.99
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $3.79
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 35 | Fat 0g | Sodium 300mg | Carbs 8g | Sugar 5g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Tomato purée
Bottle says: Made right. This carefully crafted Bar-B-Q sauce has the perfect blend of brown sugar, tomato, molasses and quality spices.
We say: For a low-sugar sauce, this one is sweet, but not overwhelmingly so, and has a little kick. This is a decent sauce with a solid taste.
Buy it on Amazon $2.03 | Buy it on Instacart $3.49
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $2.50
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 50 | Fat 0g | Sodium 240mg | Carbs 13g | Sugar 12g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Water
Bottle says: Contents will quickly disappear upon opening! Our Carolina Sweet Barbecue Sauce is made with real honey and is so full of southern flavor that you’ll find yourself using it on everything. We recommend our signature sauces to enhance your favorite Barbecue recipe, ribs, chicken or even to add some zip to your burgers. Our loyal customers say our sauces are a must on turkey, seafood and even baked potatoes.
We say: The smokiness pours out of the jar as soon as it’s opened. A sweet sauce with just enough kick to make it interesting.
Buy it at Giant Eagle $3.29
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $3.79
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 60 | Fat 0g | Sodium 350mg | Carbs 15g | Sugar 12g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Tomato purée
Bottle says: Made right. Brown sugar, molasses and natural smoky bacon flavor are perfectly blended with a hint of black pepper to create this legendary Bar-B-Q sauce.
We say: Don’t be put off by the burnt sugar smell when you open the jar. This is a thicker molasses-style sauce that will stick to any meat you are craving. Sweet and subtle flavor.
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $4.79
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 45 | Fat 0g | Sodium 270mg | Carbs 10g | Sugar 9g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Tomato purée
Bottle says: Chef Guy’s Kansas City BBQ sauce is your traditional go-to sauce that you’ll dig on just about everything. Sweet, smoky molasses, a hint of apple cider vinegar and a little black pepper heat will rock everything from beef brisket to chicken wings or anything else you can throw on a grill.
We say: This darker, thicker sauce is so true to its name -- smoky and sweet -- in both aroma and flavor. It is also true to the Kansas City way of smoking meats.
Buy it on Amazon $21.98 (3-pack) | Buy it at Giant Eagle $3.99 | Buy it on Instacart $3.99
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $3.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 60 | Fat 0g | Sodium 210mg | Carbs 14g | Sugar 13g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Water
Bottle says: Smooth as a Kentucky summer. Real food for real cookin'. What’s inside: tomatoes, bourbon splash, onions, garlic. Real food simply tastes better. Always has, always will... The only thing we preserve is our collection of favorite recipes handed down from generations of passionate grillers and shakers.
We say: Bourbon aroma assails your nostrils when you open the bottle. Your tastebuds will not be left out of the party since you can taste the organic spirits, which combine well with the sweet taste of molasses. Sadly, it has a bit of an after-taste.
Buy it at Giant Eagle $3.99 | Buy it on Instacart $4.99
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $5.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 45 | Fat 0g | Sodium 360mg | Carbs 10g | Sugar 9g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Water
Bottle says: Eat because it’s good! Sweet with a hint of smoke! Here at Woodstock we celebrate foods that make you feel great about what you buy, eat, and serve your family. Our team has been at it for over 30 years bringing passion for organic, non-GMO, and totally delicious food to the table.
We say: There is a certain brightness to this sauce. We saw plenty of visible pepper flecks in this thick, slightly sweet and smoky sauce. The kids will like this one!
Buy it at Giant Eagle $5.79 | Buy it on Instacart $5.99
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $2.99. Note: This was of four sauces purchased at the Giant Eagle in Beachwood.
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 50 | Fat 0g | Sodium 300mg | Carbs 13g | Sugar 11g
First ingredient: Liquid cane sugar
Bottle says: Whether you use it to simmer meatballs or to brush on a brisket, you're sure to fall madly in love with this tangy-sweet homestyle BBQ sauce. Chunks of tart apples and the comforting flavor of brown sugar set this sauce apart from all others. Good enough to eat with a spoon!
We say: This sauce looks more like the apple butter your grandmother used to make than a barbecue sauce. There are plenty of tiny pieces of tart apple throughout that will make you pucker. It definitely qualifies as tangy and sweet.
Buy it on Amazon $10.67 (18.5 ounces)
photo by Brenda Jackson, cleveland.com
Price: $3.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 70 | Fat 0g | Sodium 290mg | Carbs 18g | Sugar 17g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: High fructose corn syrup
Bottle says: The sauce is the boss!
We say: If you’re looking for a good, traditional sauce, this is the one to choose. Baby Ray’s is the standard we all grew up with and it still stands up today to many of the trendy sauces.
Buy it on Amazon $13.70 (two 40-ounce bottles) | Buy it at Giant Eagle $2.99 | Buy it on Instacart $11.89 (two 40-ounce bottles)
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $3.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 50 | Fat 0g | Sodium 580mg | Carbs 12g | Sugar 10g
First ingredient: Frank’s hot sauce
Bottle says: “Delish Dunk’d or Dip’d. For dipping sandwiches and more. Dip it -- perfect for fries, nuggets and wraps. Top it -- spread it on burgers and sandwiches. Cook it -- cook boneless pork shoulder with sauce in slow cooker and serve on buns.”
We say: What a spectacular combination of barbecue and buffalo flavors! The cayenne pepper rules in this one. You can smell the buffalo sauce as soon as you open it and you get the kick on your tongue right away. By the way, that kick lingers.
Buy it on Amazon $24.27 (6-pack)
Photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $6.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 50 | Fat 0g | Sodium 160mg | Carbs 12g | Sugar 11g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Molasses
Bottle says: I’ve always been the guy behind the grill. And now I’m the man behind the sauce. I nailed the perfect balance: spice, sweetness, smokiness, and bourbon smack! Bottom line, it is your ultimate secret weapon. I cooked my way onto a hit television show and TV’s toughest food critics loved the sauce. Now I’m bringing the bottled stuff to you."
We say: They call this one the "ultimate secret weapon” and we’re inclined to agree. It is definitely one of the better bourbon-based sauces. Even though it’s very dark, it is not too thick and full of bits of onion and garlic. The mild, smoky flavor offers a nice little kick that’s not too over-powering.
Buy it on Amazon $29 (3-pack) | Buy it at Giant Eagle $6.29 | Buy it on Instacart $3.25
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $3.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 60 | Fat 0g | Sodium 210mg | Carbs 15g | Sugar 13g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Water
Bottle says: All natural--no junk, open a jar of backyard brilliance.
We say: One of the better “original” sauces we ate, with a smooth consistency that will stick to just about any meat. This one would also make a great dipping sauce. Nice aroma and flavor -- not too sweet, with just the right amount of tang.
Buy it on Amazon $14.99 (two 19-ounce bottles) | Buy it at Giant Eagle $3.99
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $1.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 60 | Fat 0g | Sodium 240mg | Carbs 15g | Sugar 12g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Tomato purée
Bottle says: Thick, rich and bold. Loaded with molasses, onions & spices. KC Masterpiece BBQ Sauce is kettle cooked to produce rich layers of sweet, smoky flavor. This award-winning sauce has the perfect blend of tomato, onion, molasses and spices to please your whole family. Add this deliciously rich and complex KC Masterpiece sauce to make any meal delicious.
We say: Truly the sauce your remember from your childhood: thick, with a smoky aroma and a sweet undertone on the tongue. There is a tang and a nice, slight kick in the after-taste.
Buy it on Amazon $19.38 (six 40-ounce bottles) | Buy it at Giant Eagle $1.99 | Buy it on Instacart $2.79
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $4.79
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 40 | Fat 0g | Sodium 135mg | Carbs 10g | Sugar 8g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Tomato purée
Bottle says: “Chef Guy’s sweet, sticky Bourbon Brown Sugar BBQ Sauce rocks on just about anything. Smoky bourbon, sweet brown sugar and a hint of spicy black pepper creates off-the-hook flavor that’s a perfect complement to everything from beef to chicken, pork and seafood.”
We say: Molasses and bourbon are the strong notes that assail your nostrils when this bottle is opened. You’ll head out on a journey of flavors once this sauce hits your tastebuds as well. The bourbon definitely comes through, providing just the right amount of kick to light up your mouth before the sweetness settles in. Be prepared though, the burn does linger.
Buy it on Amazon $16.55 (19 ounces) | Buy it at Giant Eagle $4.79 | Buy it on Instacart $4.29
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $4.79
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 60 | Fat 0g | Sodium 210mg | Carbs 13g | Sugar 12g
First ingredient: Tomato purée
Bottle says: “Infused with our own award-winning Edmund Fitzgerald Porter, our Cleveland brewpub’s signature from-scratch BBQ sauce has long delighted customers with its bold, roasted flavor and spicy kick. We’re proud to bring a taste of our pub to your kitchen, patio, or wherever good food, friends, and beer meet.”
We say: You don’t have to be a beer fan to enjoy this local creation. We aren’t beer fans, so we weren’t sure what to expect when tasting this one. Surprisingly, we both enjoyed this sauce. Its deep red color and consistency makes it look like ketchup out of the bottle, but it has a delightful peppery flavor that provides a mild kick in the back of your throat. There’s a tinge of sweetness on the back end. The best surprise is the tiny bits of real tomato and the flecks of herbs throughout. The kick sticks around for a while.
Buy it at Giant Eagle $4.79 | Buy it on Instacart $4.99
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $2
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 60 | Fat 0g | Sodium 290mg | Carbs 13g | Sugar 11g
First ingredient: Tomato purée
Bottle says: A tangy mingling of mustard and molasses. Full of flavor and texture. All BBQ sauces are not created equal, but they all have their own distinct flavor and flair. Market District’s Memphis Style BBQ Sauce has a combination of spices that has pledged an allegiance to keeping its customers happy. The zesty, full-flavored BBQ sauce meets all your “needs and wants” with a style all its own!
We say: This Memphis-style sauce is sweet and tangy, and just a little tart, with mustard undertones. It’s a thick sauce guaranteed to stick to your ribs!
Buy it at Giant Eagle $3.49
photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
Price: $3.29
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 50 | Fat 0g | Sodium 290mg | Carbs 13g | Sugar 11g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Tomatoes
Bottle says: “Contains no high fructose corn syrup. Our sauce is naturally flavored. Unlike many others, the #1 ingredient is tomatoes. It’s meticulously made from the finest ingredients in small batches, just like it has been for over 60 years.”
We say: An Ohio original. Not as sweet as some of the others, this sauce is more of a tomato base. But the flavor will stand up to just about any meat your choose to put it on. It’s not as thick as others we tried, but the taste compensated for that.
Buy it on Amazon $17.95 (28 ounces) | Buy it on Instacart $3.99
We put our Top 5 to the test with a final sampling of the barbecue sauces, this time paired with meats. Photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com
We topped brisket with Great Lakes Brewing Co.'s Dortmunder Gold Lager BBQ Sauce. (photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com)
Price: $4.79
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 35 | Fat 0g | Sodium 270mg | Carbs 9g | Sugar 8g
First ingredient: Crushed tomatoes
Bottle says: “Flavorful from-scratch beer infused sauces and dressings have long been a signature at our Cleveland brewpub. With a dash of hickory smokiness and a subtle sweetness reminiscent of Dortmunder Gold Lager’s balanced malt character, we’re proud to bring a taste of our pub to your kitchen, patio, or wherever good food, friends, and beer meet.”
We say: Great Lakes has created a very well-balanced BBQ sauce that has a sweeter taste, with a kick. The thick sauce is filled with onion and garlic pieces to ramp up the flavor of anything you pour it over. While you can definitely taste the lager, it doesn’t overpower and allows the spices to shine through. We tried this on brisket and it was delicious.
Buy it at Giant Eagle $4.79 | Buy it on Instacart $4.99
Rib Rack Campfire Cider really ramped up the flavor of pulled pork. (photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com)
Price: $3.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 60 | Fat 0g | Sodium 200mg | Carbs 15g | Sugar 13g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Water
Bottle says: "Add some zing and your BBQ will sing. Real food for real cookin'.”
We say: Love apples? Then you will love this sauce! Come to think of it, even if you don’t like apples you may still like it. This smooth, semi-thick sauce is not too sweet, and not too over-the-top. And while it will charge up the flavor of anything on your grill, we recommend trying this one with pork. We tried it on pulled pork and it was a great choice.
Buy it on Amazon $19.99 (4-pack) | Buy it at Giant Eagle $3.99
We topped pulled chicken with Hak's Smoked Maple Mustard BBQ Sauce. (photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com)
Price: $6.99
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 60 | Fat 0.5g | Sodium 115mg | Carbs 12g | Sugar 11g | Gluten-free
First ingredient: Salad Mustard
Bottle says: “Made world famous on TV and coined the “Perfect Sauce.” I’ve always been the guy behind the grill. Now I’m the man behind the sauce. I take a global approach to all of my BBQ flavors and I made no exception with this South Carolina inspired addition. Maple syrup is smoked for depth and sweetness and the perfect blend of whole grain mustards deliver texture along with a tangy finish. Put it on everything! I certainly do.”
We say: Cain’s personal favorite, this sauce is so thick we had to work to get it out of the bottle. But it was worth the effort! Unless you are a fan of true Carolina BBQ, this may not be one you opt for on steaks or pork, but it will be a definite winner on chicken or a burger. It has a smoky mustard flavor, with just enough sweetness and the tiniest of kick. The mustard seeds give it a unique texture. It was a winner on the shredded chicken we poured it on.
Buy it on Amazon $18.90 (15.5 ounces)
The Pioneer Woman Frontier BBQ Sauce gave a very traditional flavor to ribs. (photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com)
Price: $2.99. Note: This was of four sauces purchased at the Giant Eagle in Beachwood.
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 50 | Fat 0g | Sodium 350mg | Carbs 13g | Sugar 11g
First ingredient: Liquid cane sugar
Bottle says: “My classic Frontier BBQ sauce is nice and sweet, with a yummy, mild spice -- just enough to keep you on your toes! Use it to top cheeseburgers, drizzle it on cooked veggies, and brush it on juicy roasted chicken. It’s the BBQ sauce I reach for again and again!”
We say: This very traditional sauce was Rodriguez’s personal favorite. It is so thick, you will need a spoon or a brush to add it to your meat. It does not pour. But its old-fashioned, homemade flavor bangs the back of your throat with deliciousness. It will brighten the flavor of any protein you choose, but will make you a winning pitmaster if you slather it on a meaty slab of ribs. That’s exactly what we did! Bonus points for the visible spices. This sauce is sweet and has an immediate kick. “Tastes like grape jelly elevated to a whole new level,” Rodriguez said. Warning: the kick lingers.
Buy it on Amazon $9.51 (18.5 ounces)
The Pioneer Woman's Peach Whiskey Sauce was perfect atop a half-chicken (photo by Brenda Cain, cleveland.com)
Price: $2.99. Note: This was of four sauces purchased at the Giant Eagle in Beachwood.
Nutrition per serving:
Calories 50 | Fat 0g | Sodium 320mg | Carbs 13g | Sugar 11g
First ingredient: Liquid cane sugar
Bottle says: “My Peach Whiskey Chicken is one of the Drummond family’s favorite dinners, and this BBQ sauce brings those same scrumptious flavors to your kitchen! Sweet chunks of juicy peaches and sassy southern whiskey perfect an unexpectedly delicious dip for fried chicken tenders.”
We say: There was no debate to be had. We whole-heartedly agreed this thick, succulent sauce is the perfect topper for just about anything you choose to grill. It will add a refreshing summertime twist to your barbecue. The fresh, fruity aroma greets your nostrils as soon as you open the jar. Chunky pieces of peaches can be found throughout. Be sure to have a spoon handy because this sauce is too thick to pour. And besides, you’ll want to lick the spoon so you don’t miss one drop of this barbecue sauce.
Buy it on Amazon $10.46 (18.5 ounces) | Buy it at Giant Eagle $2.99
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