You won’t want to limit this recipe to Taco Tuesday, so turn up the heat and bring a zesty, tangy kick to your fiesta!
At my house, Tuesday dinner means tacos are being served. Not only are they simple, but tacos are crunchy and versatile. Everyone in the family can customize their tacos with a DIY “topping station.” So whether you’re adding shredded cheese, guacamole, salsa, or all of the above, a dollop of taco sauce is the perfect finishing touch.
Like many of you, I’ve turned to the grocery store shelves for packaged taco sauce. I’m not a fan of the sodium and artificial ingredients in some bottles, so I decided it was time to whip up a batch myself. This recipe is a replica version of classic taco sauce, minus the bad stuff!
When I found this recipe, I realized it was so easy to make my own taco sauce at home. It’s full of bold, zesty flavors like tomato, cumin, onion powder, and garlic powder. One of the easiest things about this recipe is the use of dry seasonings. I’ve tried to use fresh onion and garlic before, but I found that I could never dice it small enough. The texture wasn’t right, so I decided to go back to old faithful. Before I knew it, I was adding this taco sauce to more than just tacos!
Can I substitute ketchup for tomato sauce?
When I was searching for the perfect taco sauce recipe, I found that the biggest difference between a lot of them was the use of ketchup in place of tomato sauce. While some people think the two are similar enough, they’re not interchangeable in this recipe. Ketchup is sweet and tangy. There’s usually added sugar in the tomato blend to sweeten it. Tomato sauce, however, is more acidic and has a more natural tomato flavor.
There is also a difference in consistency, too. Ketchup is generally thicker than tomato sauce and will not make the taco sauce as fluid as tomato sauce would. While we’re thinking of substitutes, let’s remember that tomato sauce and tomato paste are different as well. For this recipe, I recommend sticking to the ingredient list, as the consistency and flavor is spot on!
How do I store leftovers?
To store your taco sauce, make sure it has cooled to room temperature. I find that it’s easiest to store in a mason jar or glass bottle for easy pouring. Leftovers will last in your refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. You can also store taco sauce in the freezer for up to 3 months. My tip is to freeze taco sauce in an ice cube tray so that you can portion out one or two for your next meal. You’ll just have to remember to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before using.
Serving suggestions
Of course, taco sauce is naturally a perfect topping to tacos like these Avocado Tacos. If you’re looking for some variety, try these Shrimp Tacos or Tasty Tofu Tacos.
But don’t stop there. Taco sauce is so versatile that it can be used on all of your favorite Mexican cuisine, like Healthy Nachos or a Healthy Chicken Quesadilla. Don’t skimp out on breakfast, as a drizzle of taco sauce is perfect on Huevos Rancheros.
As you branch out to other cuisines, consider taco sauce as a finishing sauce or a marinade for grilled meats like Grilled London Broil. The tangy sauce will really elevate the dish. This taco sauce also mixes well into a Bloody Mary for a spicy adult beverage.
Ingredients
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine tomato sauce, water, white vinegar, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, chili powder, paprika, sugar, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 20 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency. Season with salt to taste.
- Remove the sauce from the heat and allow it to cool before transferring to a jar or container for storage.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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