Ketchup is a classic—but that doesn’t mean it has to be boring. With just a few clever ingredients, you can turn that bottle of red into something bold, zippy, smoky, or sweet.
Whether you’re grilling burgers, dunking fries, or spreading it on a sandwich, these upgrades bring life to even the most basic squirt.
Think of this as ketchup’s glow-up—15 ways to remix it, revive it, and make it your own.
1. Smoked Paprika
This deep red spice adds a woodsy, campfire richness that makes ketchup taste grown-up. It adds warmth without heat and instantly evokes backyard barbecue vibes.
Even a pinch transforms the flavor into something fuller and more complex. It’s the kind of add-in that makes people ask, “What’s in this?”
2. Worcestershire Sauce
Salty, savory, and full of umami, a few dashes make ketchup taste deeper and more robust. It sneaks in layers of flavor like anchovy, tamarind, and vinegar without taking over.
The result feels almost steakhouse-worthy. Suddenly, your ketchup has gravitas.
3. Hot Sauce
This is the quickest way to bring heat, brightness, and a little chaos to your ketchup. Whether it’s vinegar-sharp or smoky-sweet, it wakes things up instantly.
It’s more than spicy—it’s lively. Think of it as ketchup with an edge.
4. Honey
Sweet and sticky, honey gives ketchup a rounded finish and a mellow sheen. It softens the acidity and adds golden warmth.
Perfect for dipping chicken tenders or glazing meatloaf. It’s ketchup with a sunny personality.
5. Garlic Powder
Just a shake delivers that mellow, familiar garlic hit without the bite. It makes ketchup feel more homemade and more savory.
The flavor sneaks in quietly but lingers. A must for garlic bread dippers and late-night fries.
6. Curry Powder
Suddenly, your ketchup gets bold, earthy notes and a golden glow. It’s unexpected, in the best way.
Fragrant, slightly spicy, and deeply aromatic. This twist feels like a street food secret.
7. Soy Sauce
Soy sauce offers a savory twist that can redefine ketchup’s taste. Its salty and umami-rich profile blends seamlessly with the sweetness of ketchup, creating a balanced, flavorful condiment.
Imagine the dark, glossy soy sauce swirling into the bright red ketchup, forming a harmonious blend.
8. Balsamic Vinegar
Tangy and syrupy, balsamic adds a fruity complexity that makes ketchup feel gourmet. It gives your sauce a touch of sweetness with a rich, aged twist.
This one belongs next to bruschetta or roasted veggies. The finish is smooth, but bold.
9. Horseradish
Sharp, bracing, and sinus-clearing—this turns ketchup into a fiery cocktail sauce doppelgänger. It brings a zing that cuts right through the tomato sweetness.
Great with seafood, roast beef, or anyone needing a wake-up call. It’s assertive and unforgettable.
10. Sriracha
Sweet, garlicky heat blends seamlessly with ketchup’s tang. This duo was made for burgers and breakfast sandwiches.
It’s saucy with swagger. A little drizzle goes a long way.
11. Mustard
Whether you go yellow, Dijon, or spicy brown, mustard adds tang and depth that ketchup alone can’t reach. The combo hits savory, sweet, and sharp all at once.
It’s got that diner-style magic. Balanced, bold, and slightly addictive.
12. Pickle Juice
A splash adds acidity, brine, and a little something funky. It brightens up ketchup like a twist of lemon in water.
Totally transforms the dip experience. Ideal for fry lovers who also sneak pickles from the jar.
13. Chili Flakes
Crimson flecks bring both visual heat and slow-building spice. It makes ketchup feel alive on the tongue.
There’s no hiding from this one—it demands attention. Excellent for adventurous eaters.
14. Maple Syrup
Rich, woodsy sweetness gives ketchup a fall-inspired spin. Think campfires, flannel, and sweet-savory breakfasts.
It’s smooth and indulgent, without being overpowering. Drizzle this version on roasted sweet potatoes.
15. Lemon Zest
Fresh, citrusy zest adds a zingy brightness that lifts ketchup’s heavier notes. It’s the flavor of sunshine in a red sauce.
Tart, fragrant, and just a little fancy. Great with fish, grilled veggies, or anything needing a spark.