BBQ Sauce & Marinades

Madeline's BBQ Sauce & Marinades collection brings together small-batch barbecue sauces and marinades from independent US makers like JR's BBQ, Elijah's Xtreme, and Savannah Sauce Company, spanning Kansas City sweet, Carolina gold and vinegar, and bold bourbon and chipotle blends. It is best for anyone.

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Madeline's BBQ Sauce & Marinades collection brings together small-batch barbecue sauces and marinades from independent US makers like JR's BBQ, Elijah's Xtreme, and Savannah Sauce Company, spanning Kansas City sweet, Carolina gold and vinegar, and bold bourbon and chipotle blends. It is best for anyone who wants a craft sauce to mop, glaze, dip, or marinate for grilling and smoking. Every maker named below is in stock and ships nationwide.

How to choose

  • Match the style to the region. Kansas City sauces are thick and sweet, Carolina gold is mustard-based and tangy, and vinegar or Carolina red sauces are thin and sharp for pulled pork.
  • Sauce or marinade. Finishing sauces are brushed on late so the sugars do not burn; marinades and mop sauces go on before and during cooking to add flavor and moisture.
  • Sweet, smoky, or spicy. Honey and bourbon blends lean sweet, chipotle and pepper blends bring heat, and aged balsamic steak sauces add depth.
  • Think about the protein. Pork and chicken take sweeter sauces well, while beef and brisket pair with bolder, less sugary blends.
  • Buying as a gift. Bundles and variety packs let someone try several styles across one grill season.

Frequently asked questions

When should I add BBQ sauce while grilling? Brush sweet, tomato-based sauces on during the last few minutes of cooking so the sugars glaze rather than burn. Thin vinegar and mop sauces can go on earlier and throughout.

What is the difference between a BBQ sauce and a marinade? A marinade is used before cooking to flavor and tenderize the meat, while a BBQ sauce is usually brushed on near the end or served at the table. Some products here work as both.

What sauce is best for pulled pork? Carolina-style sauces suit pulled pork: a tangy vinegar or mustard-based Carolina gold cuts the richness, while a sweeter finishing sauce balances it. Many cooks mop with one and serve with another.

How should I store BBQ sauce? Keep unopened bottles in a cool, dark pantry and refrigerate after opening, using within the timeframe on the label.

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