Name: Whataburger Spicy Ketchup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 1
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 jalapeño; 6 ounces of tomato paste; 2/3 cup of water (you can use the water from boiling the jalapeño for added flavor); 1/8 cup plus 1 teaspoon of distilled white vinegar; 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon of honey; 3/4 teaspoon of sea salt; 3/4 teaspoon of onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper; 1 pinch of cinnamon; 1 pinch of ground cloves; Jalapeño: Replace with a banana pepper for a milder flavor.; Honey: Use agave syrup for a vegan alternative.; Sea Salt: Replace with kosher salt or low-sodium salt for a healthier option.; Small saucepan; Blender or food processor (I love using my NutriBullet!); Measuring cups and spoons; Wooden spoon or spatula

Jump to Recipe

Every weekend, we look forward to a special family dinner outing, and more often than not, we end up at Whataburger. There’s just something about the tasty burgers, crispy fries, and especially that famous spicy ketchup that makes it feel like a treat for everyone.

The kids always race each other to see who can dip their fries first, and they even started taking “extra” spicy ketchup home as a joke!

After one of these dinners, I thought, “Why not try to make this at home?” The idea of recreating Whataburger Spicy Ketchup recipe sparked a little project in my kitchen, and let me tell you—it’s just as good as the real thing!

Now, we don’t have to wait for our Whataburger nights to enjoy this tangy, sweet, and spicy ketchup. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you too can make it right at home.

So grab your fries (or whatever you love to dip) and let’s dive into making this iconic Copycat Whataburger spicy ketchup recipe.

Whataburger Spicy Ketchup Copycat Recipe

Why Whataburger Spicy Ketchup is So Hyped?

People go crazy for Whataburger’s Spicy Ketchup, and I totally get it. It’s not just any ketchup; it’s got this perfect mix of sweet, tangy, and a little heat that just takes things up a notch.

Made with red jalapeño pepper puree, it adds a bold kick you don’t get from regular ketchup. And then there are those extra flavors—tomato concentrate, a hint of sweetness from corn syrup, and a dash of vinegar and spices to balance it all out. It’s like a flavor upgrade that makes fries, burgers, and everything in between taste better.

What Is in Whataburger Spicy Ketchup Recipe

To create this deliciously spicy ketchup, you’ll need just a few everyday ingredients. Each one brings its own twist to the sauce, making it rich, tangy, and oh-so-tasty.

1 Jalapeño: Adds the signature kick. Keep the seeds for extra spice or remove them for a milder version.
6 ounces Tomato Paste: For that thick, rich tomato flavor that’s essential for ketchup.
2/3 cup Water: Helps get the right consistency. Use the water from boiling the jalapeño for added flavor.
1/8 cup + 1 teaspoon Distilled White Vinegar: Brings that tangy taste and balances the sweetness.
1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon Honey: Adds just the right amount of sweetness.
3/4 teaspoon Sea Salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
3/4 teaspoon Onion Powder: Gives a mild oniony depth.
1/4 teaspoon Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle garlic hint that blends well with the other spices.
1/4 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper: For a touch of warmth.
1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper: Boosts the spice to give it that extra zing.
1 pinch Cinnamon: Adds a unique, earthy depth.
1 pinch Ground Cloves: Just a little for a warm, subtle flavor twist.

Substitutions

Jalapeño: If you want a milder spice, use a banana pepper instead.
Honey: For a vegan version, swap honey with agave syrup.
Sea Salt: You can use kosher salt or a low-sodium alternative to make it a bit healthier.

Kitchen Tools Needed

Small Saucepan: For boiling the jalapeño and simmering the ketchup.
Blender or Food Processor: A blender works great to mix everything until smooth.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To measure out your ingredients precisely.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring while cooking.

How To Make Whataburger Spicy Ketchup (Step-by-Step)

Step 01: Prepare the Jalapeño

Start by slicing the jalapeño in half, then quartering it. Keep the seeds if you like extra heat; otherwise, remove them.

Step 02: Boil the Jalapeño

Place the sliced jalapeño in a small saucepan with enough water to cover it. Bring to a boil and let it cook until it’s softened, about 10 minutes.

Step 03: Combine Ingredients

While the jalapeño is boiling, measure out the tomato paste, water, vinegar, honey, sea salt, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, cinnamon, and cloves into your blender.

Step 04: Blend It Up

Once the jalapeño is soft, drain the water, add the jalapeño to the blender (seeds included if you kept them), and blend everything together for about 30 seconds until smooth.

Step 05: Simmer the Ketchup

Pour the blended mixture back into the saucepan. If it’s too thick, add a little more water until you reach your desired consistency. Simmer on low heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 06: Taste and Adjust

Once it’s done simmering, taste your ketchup. Feel free to add more honey if you prefer a sweeter flavor or more cayenne for extra heat.

Step 07: Cool and Store

Let the ketchup cool down, then transfer it to a container. You can store it in the fridge for up to 2-3 weeks.

Recipe Notes

If you prefer a sweeter ketchup, add a little extra honey.
Like it hot? Increase the cayenne pepper for a stronger kick.
Add water a little at a time until the ketchup is as thick or thin as you like.

Recipe Variations and Additions

Smoked Flavor: Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky twist.
Extra Garlic: If you’re a garlic lover, add an extra pinch of garlic powder.
Lemon Zest: For a tangy touch, add a little lemon zest to brighten up the flavors.

What To Serve With This Spicy Ketchup

French Fries: A classic pairing! The spicy ketchup brings fries to a whole new level.
Burgers: Add this to your burger for a flavorful kick.
Onion Rings: Dip your crispy rings in this ketchup for a zesty bite.
Sandwiches: Use it as a spread for a spicy twist on your favorite sandwich.

Whataburger Spicy Ketchup FAQs

What distinguishes Whataburger’s Spicy Ketchup from regular ketchup?

Whataburger’s Spicy Ketchup features a unique blend of spices and red jalapeño pepper puree that gives it a distinct flavor profile compared to regular ketchup.

Can I make this recipe milder?

Yes, use banana peppers instead of jalapeños and reduce the cayenne pepper to lessen the spice.

Is this ketchup vegan?

Swap honey with agave syrup, and this recipe becomes vegan-friendly

Can I use apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar?

Sure! Apple cider vinegar gives it a slightly different taste, but it’ll still be delicious.

Can I store homemade spicy ketchup for long periods?

While homemade spicy ketchup lasts about a week in the fridge, it can be preserved longer through canning methods or by sealing it in jars for future use