Glen Powell’s culinary enthusiasm extends far beyond the plate – though one particular topping didn’t always sit well with him.

While promoting his new venture, Smash Kitchen, the 36-year-old Top Gun: Maverick actor revealed to PEOPLE his journey from sauce aversion to culinary creation. The star’s current passion for ketchup contrasts sharply with a childhood incident that temporarily soured his taste for the condiment.

“During my school years, I drowned every meal in ketchup,” Powell confesses. “It was my ultimate flavor booster.”

The actor then recounts how this preference shifted dramatically after an ill-fated slumber party. “We boys got banished to the backyard trampoline while my friend’s sister hosted her own gathering indoors,” he explains.

What followed became a formative food memory. “The girls ambushed us with ketchup bombs as we slept,” Powell recalls. “I woke up crusted in sun-baked tomato gloop. The trauma kept me away from ketchup for years – I even dove straight into the pool trying to escape the mess.”

Powell credits his new culinary project with healing this saucy scar. “Creating Smash Kitchen reignited my ketchup passion,” he reveals. “It’s poetic – from childhood disaster to crafting my own premium version.”

The recently debuted Smash Kitchen line features both classic staples and innovative twists, including Hot Honey Ketchup and Hot Honey BBQ Sauce. Powell emphasizes the collection’s Texan roots, shaped by family cooking traditions. “My grandmother sparked our kitchen creativity – we constantly experimented with homemade sauces during family feasts,” he shares.

“Our DIY barbecue and hot sauces became legendary,” Powell continues. “After years of friends begging us to bottle our recipes, we’re finally sharing them.” The actor-turned-entrepreneur prioritized accessibility, ensuring Walmart shelves and online portals offer the products under $5.

“Quality ingredients were non-negotiable,” Powell stresses, noting the use of organic tomatoes and cage-free eggs. “We’re proving gourmet flavors can be both accessible and affordable. This isn’t just sauce – it’s a game-changer for family meals.”

Explore the full Smash Kitchen range at smashkitchen.com.