5 Simple Ways To Elevate Store-Bought Guacamole

Pull from your pantry

Similar to adding a pinch of salt, the simplest way to enhance your store-bought guacamole can likely be found in your pantry. Start with salt, pepper, and dried red pepper flakes as your primary flavor enhancers. Cumin, a common ingredient in many guacamole recipes and some pre-made versions, can be added to elevate the taste of your avocados. Other pantry essentials like cayenne or paprika can introduce a bit of heat, so use them sparingly. If you have dried cilantro available, it can contribute an earthy note to your guac, but remember that a small amount is sufficient. Additional optional ingredients from your pantry include roasted pepitas for added texture, diced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (or just a touch of the sauce), or a spoonful of jarred salsa.

For a more adventurous twist, consider sprinkling everything bagel seasoning on top of your guac — the dried garlic and onion will provide a complex flavor, while the poppy and sesame seeds add a delightful crunch. Alternatively, if you have a can of chickpeas sitting in your pantry, roast them in the oven with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and cumin. Roasted chickpeas will add a satisfying crunch and a protein boost to your guacamole.

Find it in the fridge

Similar to your pantry, your refrigerator is an excellent source for guacamole ingredients, so be sure to check your crisper drawer for a splash of lime juice. Lime is a key component of guacamole, although it tends to be less pronounced in some store-bought versions that are designed for longer shelf life. A fresh squeeze of lime can significantly enhance the homemade taste of your guacamole and also help keep the avocados from browning. If you don’t have limes available, a dash of white wine vinegar can provide a hint of citrus brightness and elevate the flavor of your guac.

Other refrigerated essentials include pickled jalapeños (especially useful if fresh ones are unavailable) and some crumbles of cotija cheese or queso fresco for added texture. Finally, as you prepare the guacamole for serving, a spoonful of sour cream will introduce a tangy flavor and a creamier texture.

Forage for something fresh

If you find yourself at the store, a foolproof method to enhance your store-bought guacamole and give it a homemade touch is to incorporate fresh ingredients from the produce aisle. If you enjoy bold flavors, adding chopped cilantro will introduce a peppery, earthy note that beautifully balances the mild, creamy avocado. When in season, diced fresh tomatoes can add a chunkier texture that many store-bought guacamoles often lack, while their sweet acidity pairs perfectly with the rich avocados. While you're in the produce section, consider grabbing a red or white onion. Finely chopped, these will add a delightful crunch and a burst of sharp flavor to your packaged guac.

If you prefer a quicker option, look for containers of fresh pico de gallo. This premium guacamole enhancement includes tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and raw jalapeño peppers. With its vibrant and zesty flavors, you may only need a spoonful or two to elevate your dip.

For a twist on traditional guacamole, think about adding diced fresh mango, pineapple, or a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds. If cilantro isn't your favorite, fresh basil and parsley can serve as excellent herb alternatives or additions. (These can be store-bought, but if you have some growing in your garden or on your windowsill, that's even better.)

Search for some spice

To appeal to a wide audience, most commercially available guacamole options tend to be quite mild. Unfortunately, this mildness can often translate to a lack of depth and excitement. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to spice things up at home. Start by rummaging through your fridge for hot sauce. Even the mildest varieties will bring a wealth of flavorful components like vinegar, garlic, salt, and chiles, enhancing the complexity of your guacamole. Tapatio and Cholula are both tried-and-true favorites, but feel free to experiment with whatever you have on hand, such as Tabasco, sriracha, El Yucateco Black Label Reserve, or even chili crisp for an added layer of heat.

To really elevate your guacamole, think about incorporating a blend of chopped fresh peppers for a pop of color and added texture. Peppers come in various heat levels, so you can choose to be adventurous with jalapeños (with or without seeds, depending on your preference), serranos, or even habaneros, or keep it milder with poblano or Anaheim peppers.

Get to the grill (or your broiler)

While this technique for enhancing store-bought guacamole requires a bit more effort, using your grill or broiler can significantly elevate the flavor, making it taste more homemade. If you have some time to spare, consider roasting a head of garlic wrapped in foil in the oven for about 45 minutes. Once you extract the cloves from the bulb and chop them up, the resulting soft, caramelized garlic will impart a sweet, slightly nutty flavor to your guacamole, making it seem like you’re a culinary expert to your guests.

If you're entertaining outdoors or the weather is pleasant, your grill can be a fantastic ally for guacamole. Grilling ingredients like tomatoes, onions, or peppers and then chopping them into your guac will introduce a delightful charred texture and smoky flavor, along with a more visually appealing presentation. Some of the best ingredients to grill for guacamole include poblano peppers, pineapple, and especially corn on the cob. Simply slice the grilled corn off the cob and mix it directly into your store-bought guac for a sweet, smoky, and transformative upgrade.