There’s a reason Sheetz Dr Pepper BBQ Sauce has developed a cult following—it’s the perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors, all with that unmistakable hit of Dr Pepper’s spiced cherry notes. If you’ve dipped your fries or slathered a burger with this sauce at Sheetz, you know exactly how addictive it is.
The good news? You can make an incredibly convincing copycat right at home. After much taste-testing and scouring of home cook secrets, this homemade recipe gets you right to that signature Sheetz flavor, and it’s simple enough for weeknight grilling or any time you want to elevate your barbecue game. For even more creative ideas, be sure to check out our sauce and meat categories!
Table of Contents
How to make Dr Pepper BBQ Sauce
Making Sheetz Dr Pepper BBQ Sauce at home is easy and fun! You’ll be simmering and whisking, but the real key is reducing the sauce just right to develop its rich, sticky, bold flavor. Classic barbecue ingredients are enhanced by Dr Pepper for a uniquely crave-worthy twist.
Nutrition facts
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 60
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Sugar: 13g
- Protein: 0g
- Sodium: 220mg
Ingredients
- 1 (12 oz) can Dr Pepper (not diet) — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- 2 cups ketchup — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- 1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- 1 teaspoon onion powder — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat) — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
- Salt and black pepper, to taste — 🛒 Buy on Amazon
Tools you’ll need
- Saucepan (medium-size, heavy-bottomed)
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Stovetop
- Jar or bottle for storage
Instructions
- 1. Prep: Gather all your ingredients and measure each one before you start cooking.
- 2. Combine: In a saucepan, whisk together Dr Pepper, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if you like heat).
- 3. Simmer: Bring mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
- 4. Reduce: Lower heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring often, until thickened and glossy.
- 5. Taste & Adjust: Sample the sauce and adjust sweetness, tang, or spice level as needed with extra brown sugar, vinegar, or red pepper flakes.
- 6. Cool & Store: Remove from heat and let cool. Pour into a clean jar or bottle; refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
What to serve with
Drinks
- Pair your Sheetz Dr Pepper BBQ Sauce-slathered meats with icy sodas, homemade lemonades, or a cold drinks like iced tea or craft beer.
Sides
- This sauce is a match made in heaven with crispy fries, onion rings, classic coleslaw, potato salad, or even baked beans. Don’t forget Texas toast for mopping up every last drop!
Main Dishes
- Brush this sauce on grilled chicken, ribs, pulled pork, burgers, or use it as a decadent dip for chicken tenders and meatballs.
Variations
- Add 2 tablespoons honey for extra sweetness and sheen.
- Mix in 1 teaspoon chipotle powder for a smoky kick.
- Stir in a splash of bourbon for depth and adult flair.
- Add 2 tablespoons molasses for a thicker, richer sauce.
- Try with Cherry Dr Pepper for a fruity twist.
Ingredient Substitutes
- Ketchup
- Crushed tomatoes mixed with tomato paste
- BBQ sauce (reduce added sugar)
- Brown Sugar
- Coconut sugar
- Maple syrup (use slightly less)
- Apple Cider Vinegar
- White vinegar
- Lemon juice
- Worcestershire Sauce
- Soy sauce with a splash of apple cider vinegar
- Liquid aminos plus a little sugar
- Dr Pepper
- Root beer
- Cherry cola (will change the flavor)
- Smoked Paprika
- Regular paprika + a dash of liquid smoke
- Red Pepper Flakes
- Cayenne pepper (use less)
Ingredients
1 (12 oz) can Dr Pepper (not diet)
2 cups ketchup
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Gather and measure all ingredients.
In a medium saucepan, whisk together Dr Pepper, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
Reduce heat to medium-low and allow sauce to simmer, stirring often, for 25-30 minutes until thickened.
Taste and adjust seasoning for sweetness, tang, or spice as desired.
Cool the sauce before transferring to a jar or bottle.
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
