Gather ingredients: ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar (apple cider or white), Worcestershire sauce, yellow mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chili powder (or cayenne), black pepper, salt
Optional flavor additions: honey or molasses, hot sauce, liquid smoke, butter or olive oil
In a saucepan, combine ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar
Add Worcestershire sauce, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, black pepper, and salt
Stir until smooth and evenly mixed
Simmer over medium-low heat 15–30 minutes, stirring occasionally
If using, add honey/molasses, hot sauce, liquid smoke, and/or butter during the last 5 minutes
Taste and adjust: more sugar for sweetness, more vinegar for tang, more salt for balance, more chili/hot sauce for heat
Cool to thicken, then transfer to a jar or container
Refrigerate at least 2 hours before serving
Use within 1–2 weeks (or freeze up to 2–3 months)