Quick Homemade Ketchup: 7-Ingredient Recipe in 45 Minutes

Learn how to make delicious homemade ketchup from scratch with this simple recipe that takes just 45 minutes. Perfect for beginners, this easy method requires only 7 basic ingredients you likely have in your pantry and yields a flavorful condiment that beats store-bought versions.

Basic Homemade Ketchup	Prep Time	Total Time	Yield
7 simple ingredients	10 minutes	45 minutes	2 cups

Simple Homemade Ketchup Recipe (Beginner-Friendly)

This foolproof recipe makes perfect ketchup without complicated equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. Follow these 5 steps for restaurant-quality results:

1. Combine ingredients: In a saucepan, mix 1 cup tomato paste, ⅓ cup vinegar, ¼ cup brown sugar, 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp garlic powder, ¼ tsp onion powder, and ¼ tsp black pepper
2. Add liquid: Stir in 1 cup water until smooth
3. Simmer gently: Cook over medium-low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally
4. Cool completely: Let mixture cool to room temperature (this develops flavor)
5. Store properly: Transfer to glass jar and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks

Why This Basic Recipe Works for Beginners

Unlike complicated methods requiring fresh tomatoes or special equipment, this approach uses pantry staples for consistent results. The 3:1 ratio of tomato to acid (vinegar) ensures both great flavor and safe preservation. Most store-bought ketchups contain high-fructose corn syrup and artificial preservatives - this version uses natural ingredients you recognize.

3 Popular Flavor Variations to Try

• Spicy Kick: Add ¼ tsp cayenne pepper or 1 minced jalapeño (seeds removed) during simmering
• Smoky Version: Mix in ½ tsp smoked paprika and 2 drops liquid smoke for BBQ-style ketchup
• Sweet & Tangy: Substitute honey for brown sugar and add 1 tbsp lemon juice for brighter flavor

Troubleshooting Common Ketchup Problems

Issue	Easy Fix
Too thin	Simmer 5-10 minutes longer to thicken
Too sweet	Add 1 tbsp vinegar and simmer 2 minutes
Not tangy enough	Mix in 1 tsp lemon juice before serving
Separated layers	Whisk vigorously or blend for 10 seconds

Proper Storage for Maximum Freshness

Store your homemade ketchup in a clean glass jar in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for:

• 10-14 days in refrigerator (below 40°F/4°C)
• 3 months in freezer (portion in ice cube trays first)
• Do not leave at room temperature more than 2 hours

Signs it's time to discard: mold, bubbling, or sour smell. When in doubt, throw it out!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of paste?

Yes! Simmer 4 cups chopped tomatoes for 20 minutes first, then proceed with recipe. You'll need to cook longer (45-60 minutes) to reach proper thickness.

How can I make it sugar-free?

Substitute 2 tbsp monk fruit sweetener for sugar. Note: this changes texture slightly as sugar helps with preservation.

Is homemade ketchup safe without canning?

Yes, when refrigerated properly. The vinegar creates safe acidity levels. Never attempt water bath canning with this recipe - refrigeration is the only safe home method for small batches.

Why does my ketchup taste different each time?

Tomato paste brands vary in concentration. For consistent results, always use the same brand and check for "double-concentrated" on the label.

Perfect Pairings for Your Homemade Ketchup

Use your creation with:

• Freshly made french fries (homemade or oven-baked)
• Homemade burgers or meatloaf
• As a base for cocktail sauce (mix with horseradish)
• In meatloaf glaze (combine with 1 tbsp brown sugar)

Next Steps for Ketchup Mastery

Start with this basic recipe for your first batch, then experiment with flavors. Most home cooks find their favorite variation within 2-3 attempts. Keep a small notebook to track which adjustments you prefer - soon you'll have a signature ketchup that perfectly matches your taste preferences. Share your creation with friends and enjoy the satisfaction of making this kitchen staple from scratch!