The smoky grills take over the air, and backyard gatherings shift into high gear—nothing draws people together as well as the best barbecue sauce. Whether you’re cooking slow-smoked ribs or seeking an extra flavorful kick for your favorite meal, the right sauce feels like summer in a bottle. With countless options on shelves, which one deserves a permanent place on your kitchen counter? We surveyed kitchen experts to find their top picks for BBQ sauce, and their favorite might just surprise you for all the right reasons.
Your Essential BBQ Sidekick: The Rise of Stubb’s Bar-B-Q Sauce
If you’re wondering why barbecue enthusiasts and experienced cooks alike opt for Stubb’s, it’s much more than just tradition. Stubb’s Bar-B-Q Sauce was created in 1968 in Lubbock, Texas, by the legendary Christopher B. “Stubb” Stubblefield. The local favorite soon became a nationwide phenomenon, especially after a push by music legend Joe Ely led to a major break on “Late Night with David Letterman” in 1991. In 1992, BBQ lovers across America could buy bottles of Original or Spicy Stubb’s in their supermarket aisles.
What Sets Stubb’s Apart? A Taste of Real Texas
Why does Stubb’s sauce win the hearts (and taste buds) of so many? It’s thanks to its 100% natural ingredients—an undiluted sauce that is free from high fructose corn syrup, plus the added benefit of being certified gluten-free. Beyond the health perks, it’s the flavor that truly makes this sauce stand out. Stubb’s BBQ Sauce is known for being warm, spicy, and sweet—and balanced, just like homemade. It’s thick enough to beautifully glaze ribs, yet light enough to not overpower chicken or vegetables. One kitchen test expert said: “It tastes like someone made it with their own two hands.”
Stubb’s in Numbers: Fast Facts
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1968 | Founded in Lubbock, Texas |
| 1991 | The spotlight is on the nation’s capital show “Late Night with David Letterman” |
| 1992 | Available at grocery stores |
| 2015 | Acquired by McCormick & Company |
Ways to Use Stubb’s: More Than Just Ribs
What makes Stubb’s such a versatile BBQ? Here’s how BBQ fans use it:
- Brush it on ribs during the last few minutes of grilling for a caramelized, sticky finish.
- Mix it into chicken or beef marinades for extra zest.
- Use it as a dip for vegetables, potatoes, or even drizzle over fries—great for weeknight meals!
- Add it to brisket or pulled pork sandwiches for an oozy punch.
- With ranch, it’s an interesting twist for salad dressing.
“It’s exactly how I want my barbecue sauce to be: balanced, a little peppery, and always reliable.”
Runner-Up Fans Love: Sweet Baby Ray’s
If there’s a rival that could be a contender for the top spot, it’s Sweet Baby Ray’s. Testers love its consistent flavor and budget-friendly price. Home cooks can easily modify it by stirring in cayenne, jalapeños, or bourbon, without worrying about wasting expensive sauce. It’s an excellent choice for classics like baking ribs in the oven or spreading it on brisket sandwiches. Still, it's a popular choice for many, but Stubb’s offers a bit more complexity and a nod to authentic Texas barbecue.
Why Stubb’s Remains a Grocery Store Favorite
The reason Stubb’s has lasting appeal is its story, rooted in the smoky pits of Texas, yet made with pure, natural ingredients. After McCormick & Company acquired the brand in 2015, distribution grew, but the recipe’s core principles—bold flavors, simple ingredients, and no fillers—remained unchanged. Plus, knowing it’s easy to find in most stores (and at the renowned Stubb’s Bar-B-Q restaurant in Austin) makes it a comfort staple, no matter where in the U.S. you’re grilling.
Expert Opinion: My Take on the BBQ Flavor Showdown
Looking back at countless family dinners and cookouts I’ve enjoyed, there’s always a debate about the best bottled sauce. Personally, I turn to Stubb’s whenever I want something that tastes like it came straight from an authentic smokehouse, yet plays well in complex recipes. The balanced sweetness and spice elevate my ribs and spice up sandwiches. There’s something about its traditional Texas barbecue roots—every time I pop the lid, it reminds me how barbecue brings us together and flavors every bite with good memories.
Why Picking the Right BBQ Sauce Matters
Grabbing the wrong bottle can turn a summer meal into disappointment. Stubb’s offers a dependable foundation—its pure ingredients, real flavor, and gluten-free assurance means everyone at your table can enjoy. Use it as a glaze, dip, or your own custom blend; Stubb’s stands out as the top BBQ sauce available for just about any grill-day craving.
FAQ
- What makes Stubb’s Barbecue Sauce distinct from other brands?Stubb’s uses only natural ingredients and excludes high fructose corn syrup, plus it’s gluten-free, making it healthier and richer in flavor than many other brands.
- Is Stubb’s BBQ Sauce suitable for people with allergies?Yes—Stubb’s is gluten-free and contains no high fructose corn syrup, but always check the label for potential allergens before use.
- How versatile is Stubb’s BBQ Sauce?Extremely versatile: use it for dipping, glazing, marinating, or as a base for unique flavors on all kinds of meats and veggies.
- Is Stubb’s easy to find in supermarkets?Yes—since McCormick & Company’s acquisition, Stubb’s is available at most major U.S. supermarkets.
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