8 Creative Ways to Use Ketchup

Who doesn’t love ketchup? It’s a burger buddy, a hot dog recipe helper, and a delightful dunk for fries and chicken nuggets. But that bottle of ketchup can be so much more than just a savory sidekick for backyard BBQs and fast food—especially when it’s made with real ingredients and no artificial sweeteners. Our delicious ketchup lineup brings a punch of flavor and a dash of excitement to dishes you never dreamed of pairing this classic condiment with.  

Welcome to a new era of ketchup creativity, where boundaries are meant to be pushed and culinary rules rewritten! Whether it’s your family’s everyday go-to condiment or you’re more of a burger-nights-only person, these innovative uses for ketchup will inspire you to think outside the bottle. 

1. Drizzle on Eggs & Omelets:

You probably already dip your hash browns and home fries in ketchup, but the tomato goodness doesn’t have to stop there. Instead of hot sauce, add a dollop of our Spicy Ketchup to omelets and scrambled eggs, or even breakfast tacos with cheesy shells. It’ll kick up the flavor with tangy tomatoes and a gentle jalapeño bite that won’t overpower the subtle egg flavor.

2. Make Ketchup Jam: 

If you picture jam as a sugary fruit spread, you’re not thinking big enough! Savory jams add richness and depth of flavor to wraps and sandwiches, grilled cheese, and charcuterie boards. Combine our honey-sweetened A Tad Sweet Ketchup with finely diced onions and garlic and simmer until reduced to make a savory jam redolent with the vibrant tang of tomato. For a smokier flavor, add crumbled pre-cooked bacon or diced chipotle to the mix while it’s on the stove.

3. Marinate Meats & Sweeten Stir-Fry:

Our original Unsweetened Ketchup or A Tad Sweet Ketchup provides a delicious base for simple meat marinades. Simply add coconut aminos or soy sauce, minced garlic or shallots, and ground ginger for an Asian-inspired marinade that elevates flank steak, pork chops, or chicken breast. It also adds a mellow sweetness and piquant flavor to stir-fry dishes like this easy sweet & sour pork recipe served over cauliflower rice.

4. Moisten Meatballs + Meatloaf:

Many traditional meatloaf recipes call for a ketchup-and-honey topping that bakes onto the loaf for a rich, zingy flavor. But ketchup can add even more flavor if allowed to permeate the meat—whether it’s pork, beef, veal, or a mashup of multiple meats (try it in these delicious bison meatballs). Incorporate ketchup directly into meatloaf or meatball mixtures for added moisture and a hint of tanginess.

5. Stir into Soups: 

The vinegar zing and sweet tomato undertone of ketchup make it a great flavor enhancer for soups & stews. Stick with unsweetened ketchup to play up the savory notes, or use our spicy ketchup for an extra peppery flavor. You’ll want to stick with tomato-based soups though, like chili, minestrone, tomato, or vegetable.

6. Use as a Pizza or Pasta Sauce: 

Kids everywhere are already on board with this suggestion—trust us. Tomatoes are the base of red pizza and pasta sauces, so ketchup can substitute when you’re craving something sweeter and tangier. It’s perfect for picky kids who smother everything in ketchup and anyone who doesn’t like garlic or traditional Italian spices. Pro tip: Spread ketchup on a gluten-free tortilla, sprinkle with cheese, and toast for a quick afterschool (or after work!) snack.

7. Braise & Glaze: 

Brown sugar is normally a key component of a meat glaze, but the organic honey and balsamic inside our A Tad Sweet Ketchup provide just enough sweetness to make a delicious glaze. Add Primal Kitchen Dijon Mustard and a splash of vinegar to create a simple yet delicious glaze for basting ham, chicken, or any roast. Ketchup can also be added to the braising liquid for short ribs for extra sweetness and depth.

8. Make Ketchup Butter: 

Say what? It might seem odd at first, but we’re convinced that ketchup butter is really going to… well, “ketch” on. Blend your favorite ketchup with softened butter and use it as a spread for sandwiches or a topping for grilled steak. It’s easier than you think: Just pop sticks into the microwave on defrost (about 30% power) for 10-15 seconds, then stir in a tablespoon of ketchup and mix well. 

Get Creative with Ketchup

If you weren’t convinced of ketchup’s versatility before, we hope that this roundup of clever ketchup uses has won you over. A staple of any family pantry, ketchup is a flavor powerhouse that can make any meal taste better. With its bright, lightly sweet tomato essence and sharp vinegar tang, this savory condiment staple is built for more than just BBQs and picnics. 

Our list of ideas is far from comprehensive, so keep experimenting! Tuck a spoonful of your favorite ketchup into casseroles, skillets, and even baked goods (hint: it adds depth to chocolate cakes). From sweet to spicy, our lineup of classic, crave-worthy ketchup varieties has everything you need to add delicious flavor to the real foods you love.