This spicy ketchup is a zesty upgrade from the bottled version you’re used to—bold, fiery, and laced with deep flavor. With just a few pantry staples and a quick stir, it transforms everyday meals into something far more exciting. Whether you’re dunking crispy fries or slathering it on burgers, this condiment delivers a punch of heat balanced by rich, savory undertones.
Ingredient Breakdown
At the heart of this recipe is classic ketchup—a smooth tomato base that delivers that signature tang and sweetness. It provides the perfect backdrop for layering other bold flavors.
Horseradish and cayenne are where the heat truly lives. The horseradish brings a sharp, nasal-clearing spice that builds quickly but fades fast, while the cayenne adds a deeper, throat-warming heat that lingers longer on the palate. Together, they create a bold flavor profile with both immediate and lingering intensity.
Worcestershire sauce introduces umami depth with its fermented complexity. It adds savory richness and makes the flavor more rounded, enhancing the overall balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy.
To tie everything together, brown sugar and garlic powder are used. The sugar tones down the heat and acidity with a touch of molasses-like sweetness, while the garlic powder delivers mellow savoriness in the background, grounding the sharper notes.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Begin by combining the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, horseradish, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder in a bowl. Stir the mixture thoroughly until it becomes completely uniform and smooth. There should be no streaks or separation—just one rich, cohesive blend.
If you’re heat-sensitive or making this for guests with varying spice preferences, start with a smaller amount of cayenne and add more gradually. The full 1½ teaspoons offers a fiery finish, but a teaspoon will still bring heat without overwhelming the palate.
Though you can serve it right away, this ketchup benefits from a rest in the refrigerator. Letting it chill for about two hours allows the spices to meld together, mellowing the raw edges of heat and enhancing overall depth. The flavor becomes smoother, bolder, and more cohesive.
Store the finished spicy ketchup in an airtight container, preferably a glass jar. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you’d like to keep it longer, portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge and stir before using to restore its texture.
Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions
Use freshly grated horseradish for extra bite:
Prepared horseradish is fine, but freshly grated root delivers sharper, brighter flavor.
Start with less cayenne and increase gradually to taste:
Especially helpful if you’re serving a mixed crowd or unsure of spice tolerance.
Letting the mixture rest allows the flavors to meld and deepen:
Two hours in the fridge brings out the best flavor.
Stir before each use to maintain consistency:
The spices may settle, especially after refrigeration.
Store in glass jars for better flavor retention:
Glass prevents absorption of odors and maintains freshness better than plastic.
Can I use prepared horseradish instead of fresh?
Yes, just make sure it’s unsweetened and free from added cream for best results.
How spicy is it with 1½ teaspoons of cayenne?
It’s hot but not unbearable—expect a steady, building heat rather than a sharp burn.
Can I make this ketchup less sweet?
Absolutely—reduce the brown sugar to 1 teaspoon or omit it entirely for a sharper flavor.
How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to one week when stored in an airtight container.
Is it freezer-friendly for longer storage?
Yes, freeze in small batches for up to one month. Thaw and stir before serving.
What to Serve With This Recipe
The obvious pairing is golden fries or onion rings—spicy ketchup and crisp potatoes are a match made in heaven. But don’t stop there. Use it to top grilled burgers, slather it inside a BLT, or drizzle it over a breakfast hash.
For wraps and sandwiches, this ketchup adds just the right amount of boldness. Try it in a spicy chicken wrap or with roasted vegetable pitas for extra punch.
It also makes an excellent dip for skewered meats, chicken tenders, and even roasted Brussels sprouts or sweet potato wedges. And when stirred into ground beef or slathered over meatloaf before baking, it becomes a flavorful glaze with attitude.
Creative Variations
Add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika for extra smokiness and depth. These additions blend seamlessly with the other ingredients while taking the heat up a notch.
Stir in a teaspoon of Dijon or whole-grain mustard to add sharpness and tang. It brings brightness and complexity without overpowering the existing flavor.
For a smoky, earthy flavor, blend in a small amount of chipotle peppers in adobo. Just a spoonful will lend rich depth and a touch of smokiness.
If you prefer a thicker version, swap a portion of the ketchup for tomato paste. It makes the spread more concentrated—ideal for sandwiches and burgers where you want it to stay put.
Spicy ketchup is more than just a condiment—it’s a statement. With bold heat, a touch of sweetness, and layers of umami and spice, this easy homemade version adds character to everything it touches. Whether used as a dip, spread, or sauce, it’s an unforgettable addition to any dish that needs a kick.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon horseradish
2 teaspoons brown sugar
1 cup ketchup
1 ½ teaspoons cayenne pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
In a small mixing bowl, combine the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, horseradish, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder. Stir vigorously until the mixture becomes completely smooth and the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Although it can be served immediately, the flavor intensifies beautifully if allowed to rest in the refrigerator for about two hours. This gives the spices time to meld and mellow for a more balanced heat.
Transfer the spicy ketchup to an airtight container or glass jar and refrigerate. It will keep fresh for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze in small portions for up to one month. Stir well before each use.
Spicy Ketchup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon horseradish
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1 ½ teaspoons cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, horseradish, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder. Stir vigorously until the mixture becomes completely smooth and the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Although it can be served immediately, the flavor intensifies beautifully if allowed to rest in the refrigerator for about two hours. This gives the spices time to meld and mellow for a more balanced heat.
- Transfer the spicy ketchup to an airtight container or glass jar and refrigerate. It will keep fresh for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze in small portions for up to one month. Stir well before each use.
