Go Back Email Link
taco bell red sauce recipe

Taco Bell Red Sauce Recipe

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 tbsp white vinegar
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp cumin
  • 1/4 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp sugar

Method
 

  1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the tomato paste and water until smooth, then whisk in the white vinegar, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and sugar until no dry spice clumps remain.
  2. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then reduce to medium-low and cook uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring every couple of minutes, until the color deepens to brick-red and the sauce lightly coats a spoon.
  3. Remove from heat, taste and adjust salt or vinegar, then pour into a clean jar or bowl and serve warm spooned over a burrito or enchilada.

Notes

This sauce gets better after a day in the fridge once the spices settle, so it's a good candidate for making ahead. If it thickens too much after refrigerating, stir in a teaspoon or 2 of water when reheating. Gebhardt chili powder is the closest match to the original fast-food flavor if you can find it.