What's the Best Substitute for Tomato Sauce?
Whether you're out of Tomato Sauce or looking for a healthier alternative, finding the right substitute can save your recipe. Smooth, thick sauce made from cooked tomatoes, used as a base for many dishes In this guide, we'll explore the best substitutes that work in most recipes and help you achieve similar results.
Quick Answer
The best substitutes for tomato sauce are tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, or a mixture of tomato paste and water, depending on the use.
Best Substitutes for Tomato Sauce
Tomato Paste
Ratio
1 cup sauce = 1/4 cup paste + 3/4 cup water
Best For
- cooking
- sauces
- stews
- soups
Description
Concentrated tomato puree with similar flavor
More concentrated, adjust liquid
Crushed Tomatoes
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- cooking
- sauces
- stews
- soups
Description
Similar tomatoes with chunky texture
Chunkier texture, similar flavor
Diced Tomatoes
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- cooking
- sauces
- stews
- soups
Description
Similar tomatoes with chunky texture
Chunkier texture, similar flavor
Tomato Puree
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- cooking
- sauces
- stews
- soups
Description
Similar tomatoes with smooth texture
Similar texture, similar flavor
Marinara Sauce
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- cooking
- sauces
- stews
- soups
Description
Similar sauce with herbs and spices
More seasoned, similar texture
Pizza Sauce
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- cooking
- sauces
- stews
- soups
Description
Similar sauce with herbs and spices
More seasoned, similar texture
How to Choose the Right Substitute
When choosing a substitute for Tomato Sauce, consider the recipe's requirements for taste, texture, and cooking method. Think about whether you need something that mimics the original exactly or if a different but complementary flavor would work. Also consider dietary restrictions and availability of ingredients.
Cooking Tips
Tomato sauce adds acidity and flavor to dishes
Tomato sauce can be used in both sweet and savory dishes
Tomato sauce pairs well with herbs, spices, and vegetables
Tomato sauce works well in pasta dishes and casseroles
Tomato sauce can be used to make soups and stews
Store tomato sauce in the refrigerator or pantry
Tomato sauce is a versatile base for many dishes
Always taste and adjust seasonings when using substitutes
Consider the cooking method - some substitutes work better in certain applications