Easy Slow Cooker Ketchup: Homemade Tomato Sauce from Scratch

Slow Cooker Homemade Ketchup Recipe

Ketchup lovers, get ready for a game-changing condiment: this slow cooker homemade ketchup melds crushed tomatoes and spices into a rich, thick tomato sauce with minimal effort.

Ingredients for Homemade Ketchup

• 2 (28 ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon celery salt
• 1 teaspoon mustard powder
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1 whole clove
• Water (to rinse cans, about ½ cup)

Instructions: How to Make Slow Cooker Ketchup

1. Pour both cans of crushed tomatoes into your slow cooker.
2. Swirl about ¼ cup water in each emptied can, then add that liquid to the cooker.
3. Add sugar, apple cider vinegar, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, celery salt, mustard powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and the whole clove.
4. Whisk all ingredients until evenly combined.
5. Cover and cook on LOW for 12 hours, stirring once halfway through to prevent sticking.
6. After cooking, remove the clove. Blend the mixture with an immersion blender for a super smooth ketchup—or leave it slightly chunky for rustic charm.
7. Let cool slightly, then transfer to sterilized jars and chill. The ketchup will thicken as it cools.

Tips & Variations for Perfect Ketchup

• Thicker Texture: Simmer uncovered for the last 30 minutes to concentrate flavors.
• Spice It Up: Add a dash of smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a smoky ketchup twist.
• Sweet Balance: Substitute brown sugar or honey for a deeper sweetness.
• Herbal Notes: Stir in finely chopped fresh basil or oregano after blending.

Why This Slow Cooker Method Works

Low-and-slow cooking in the crock pot lets the natural sweetness of the tomatoes emerge while spices infuse deeply. The result? A well-balanced ketchup without constant stirring.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic fries and burgers
• Homemade meatloaf glaze
• Dipping sauce for chicken tenders
• As a base for barbecue sauce or cocktail sauce

Serve this homemade ketchup with fries, burgers, or everything in between, and watch your taste buds celebrate the wonders of ketchup.