What Is Taco Bell Red Sauce? Resolved (Updated)

Last Updated on September 14, 2024 by Shari Mason

Taco Bell’s red sauce stands out as a classic favorite for *years*. This **tasty tomato sauce** lands on tacos, burritos, and nachos, giving them a burst of flavor.

The red sauce has a unique flavor that many Taco Bell fans love, and it’s one of the many signature sauces that make Taco Bell’s menu stand out from other fast-food chains. 

We’ll explore what Taco Bell’s red sauce is made of, its use in menu items, and some tips for enjoying it.

What Ingredients Are In Taco Bell’s Red Sauce?

Taco Bell’s red sauce is made primarily from tomato paste, water, vinegar, spices, and dehydrated garlic [1].

The spices used in the sauce may include chili powder, cumin, and paprika, which give the sauce its signature flavor and kick of heat. 

Some variations of the red sauce may also contain other ingredients, such as onion powder, sugar, or natural flavors.

Ingredients List:

• 1 can tomato sauce 
• 1/3 cup water
• 1/3 teaspoon chili powder mild
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon sugar

Read: How Long Does Tomato Paste In A Tube Last?

How Is Taco Bell’s Red Sauce Made?

1. Combine tomato paste and water: The first step in making Taco Bell’s red sauce is to combine tomato paste and water in a large mixing bowl. The ratio of tomato paste to water can vary depending on the desired consistency of the sauce.
2. Add vinegar and spices: Vinegar is added to the tomato paste mixture, followed by a blend of spices. The spices typically used in the sauce include chili powder, cumin, and paprika, but the exact blend can vary depending on the recipe.
3. Simmer and stir: The mixture is then heated over low heat, and the sauce is allowed to simmer for several minutes. It’s important to stir the sauce frequently during this step to prevent it from burning or sticking to the bottom of the pan.
4. Cool and store: Once the sauce has thickened to the desired consistency, it is removed from the heat and allowed to cool. It can then be stored in an airtight container until ready to use.

What Menu Items Use Red Sauce?

1. Bean Burrito: The Bean Burrito is a classic menu item at Taco Bell that features refried beans, cheddar cheese, and red sauce wrapped in a flour tortilla.
2. Enchirito: The Enchirito is another classic Taco Bell item that features seasoned beef, refried beans, diced onions [2], red sauce, and cheddar cheese wrapped in a flour tortilla and topped with more red sauce and melted cheese.
3. Nachos BellGrande: The Nachos BellGrande is a popular menu item with a bed of crispy tortilla chips topped with seasoned beef, nacho cheese sauce, refried beans, diced tomatoes, sour cream, and a drizzle of red sauce.
4. Quesadilla: The Quesadilla at Taco Bell is a grilled flour tortilla filled with a blend of melted cheeses, seasoned chicken, and red sauce.
5. Mexican Pizza: The Mexican Pizza at Taco Bell is a unique menu item with a crispy tortilla shell topped with seasoned beef, refried beans, red sauce, and a blend of melted cheeses.

Can You Buy Taco Bell’s Red Sauce In Stores?

Yes, Taco Bell’s red sauce is available in select grocery stores. The bottled sauce is typically found in the condiment aisle alongside other hot sauces and salsa. 

It’s important to note that the bottled sauce’s flavor and consistency may differ slightly from the sauce served at Taco Bell restaurants, as the bottled sauce is formulated for a longer shelf life. 

“I love Taco Bell. Whenever I go there, I could get anything on the menu and be happy.”

– Chris Massoglia, American Actor

However, many Taco Bell fans still enjoy bottled sauce to recreate their favorite menu items at home.

The availability of the bottled sauce may vary depending on the region and the grocery store, so it’s always a good idea to check with your local store for availability.

Read: Taco Bell Kids Menu Options

Are There Any Tips For Enjoying It?

1. Start with a little bit: If you’re new to Taco Bell’s red sauce or need clarification on how spicy it is, start with a small amount and work your way up. The sauce can be quite spicy for some people, so it’s best to taste it in small amounts until you find the right heat level.
2. Mix it in: Taco Bell’s red sauce is excellent as a topping but can also be mixed into menu items for extra flavor. Try mixing the sauce into your burrito or nachos for a spicy kick.
3. Pair it with milder items: If you’re sensitive to spicy foods, pair Taco Bell’s red sauce with milder items like rice or beans. The mild flavors will help balance out the heat of the sauce.
4. Use it as a dip: Taco Bell’s red sauce is excellent for chips or veggies. If you find the sauce too spicy, mix it with sour cream or guacamole to mellow the heat.
5. Customize it: Taco Bell’s red sauce can be customized to suit individual tastes by adjusting the amount or type of spices used. Add more chili powder or cumin for a spicier sauce or less for a milder flavor.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Taco Bell’s red sauce is a flavorful and spicy sauce that is a staple ingredient in many popular menu items. 

Made from a blend of tomatoes, spices, and chili peppers, the sauce adds a bold and distinctive flavor to burritos, tacos, and nachos. 

Taco Bell fans can enjoy the sauce at home by purchasing the bottled version from select grocery stores. 

Whether you like it mild or hot, the red sauce is a versatile and delicious condiment that adds a zesty kick to any meal.

References:

1. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-300/garlic
2. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/276714