Tomato sauce is a pantry staple used in pasta dishes, stews, casseroles, and countless other meals. But what happens when you run out mid-recipe? Don’t worry—you probably have more than one tomato sauce substitute already in your kitchen.
Whether you’re cooking Italian, Mexican, or comfort food classics, there are plenty of flavorful swaps that can save your dish without sacrificing taste.
Table of Contents
Best Tomato Sauce Substitutes (Tomato-Based)
These options start with tomatoes and closely resemble the flavor and consistency of tomato sauce.
Tomato Paste + Water
Best for: Pasta, chili, sauces
- Ratio: Mix 1 part tomato paste with 1 part water
- Example: ½ cup tomato paste + ½ cup water = 1 cup tomato sauce
- Add a pinch of sugar, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder for flavor
Why it works: Tomato paste is thick and concentrated. When diluted, it mimics the texture and taste of tomato sauce very well.
Canned Tomatoes (Crushed, Diced, or Whole)
Best for: Soups, stews, pasta dishes
- How to use: Blend canned tomatoes until smooth, simmer to thicken
- Optional: Add herbs and a pinch of sugar to balance acidity
Why it works: With the right seasoning and consistency, canned tomatoes become a solid stand-in.
Marinara or Pasta Sauce
Best for: Pizza, baked dishes, quick pastas
- Use the same amount as tomato sauce
- Adjust seasoning since many jarred sauces include herbs, sugar, or garlic
Why it works: Marinara is essentially seasoned tomato sauce. It may change the flavor slightly but adds convenience.
Tomato Soup (Condensed or Ready-to-Eat)
Best for: Casseroles, chili, meatloaf
- Ratio: 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed soup = approx. 1 cup tomato sauce
- Reduce other liquids in the recipe slightly
Why it works: It has a similar base and can add a slightly sweet and creamy flavor—great for comfort food.
Salsa (Mild or Smooth Style)
Best for: Mexican dishes, casseroles, chili
- Use mild or blended salsa for smoother texture
- Watch the spice level and salt content
Why it works: Salsa has tomatoes, onions, and spices—offering depth in recipes where tomato sauce is more of a base than a highlight.
Best Tomato Sauce Substitutes (Non-Tomato Options)
These are great for tomato allergies, acid reflux, or when you want a totally different flavor profile.
Red Pepper Puree
Best for: Pasta sauces, pizza base
- Roast red bell peppers, blend until smooth
- Add olive oil, garlic, and a touch of vinegar
Why it works: Sweet and savory, red pepper puree adds color and richness without tomatoes.
Pumpkin or Butternut Squash Puree
Best for: Creamy pasta sauces, fall-inspired dishes
- Mix with sautéed onions, garlic, broth, and seasonings
- Add paprika or cayenne for a little kick
Why it works: The texture is similar to tomato sauce and can take on a savory or sweet profile with ease.
Beet Sauce (Cooked Beets + Garlic + Vinegar)
Best for: Vegan or allergy-friendly meals
- Blend cooked beets with oil, vinegar, and seasoning
- Earthy and colorful, works as a tomato-free base
Why it works: Beets provide richness and color—especially useful in recipes where appearance matters.
Pesto (as a Flavor Swap)
Best for: Pasta, pizza, sandwiches
- Use ½ the amount of pesto in place of tomato sauce
- Consider thinning with olive oil if needed
Why it works: It’s not a direct match, but pesto adds strong, savory flavor for a different take on your dish.
Tomato Sauce Substitute Comparison Table
| Substitute | Ratio | Best Use | Notes |
| Tomato paste + water | 1:1 | Sauces, chili, pasta | Add seasoning to match tomato sauce flavor |
| Canned tomatoes | Blend & simmer | Stews, pasta, soups | Add salt and sugar to taste |
| Marinara or pasta sauce | 1:1 | Pizza, baked dishes | Already seasoned |
| Tomato soup | 1:1 (reduce other liquids) | Casseroles, chili, meatloaf | Slightly sweet, creamy |
| Red pepper puree | 1:1 | Tomato-free pasta dishes | Add garlic and vinegar |
| Pumpkin/squash puree | 1:1 | Pasta sauces, grain bowls | Adds creaminess |
| Beet puree | 1:1 | Vegan and tomato-free dishes | Adds color and earthy flavor |
Tips for Swapping Tomato Sauce
- Taste as you go. Some substitutes are sweeter or saltier than plain tomato sauce
- Adjust consistency. Simmer or add water/oil to reach the right thickness
- Season thoughtfully. Add garlic, herbs, or a pinch of sugar to bring the flavor closer to the original
- Don’t overdo it. Some swaps (like pesto or salsa) are stronger in flavor—use in moderation
FAQs About Tomato Sauce Substitutes
Can I use ketchup instead of tomato sauce?
In a pinch, yes—but it’s sweet. Use in small amounts and dilute with water. Not ideal for recipes that need rich tomato flavor.
Is tomato paste healthier than tomato sauce?
Tomato paste is more concentrated but usually has no added salt or sugar, making it a clean and versatile option.
What if I’m allergic to tomatoes?
Try red pepper, pumpkin, or beet-based sauces. They mimic the texture and color without the acidity.
Can I freeze a homemade substitute?
Yes! Most alternatives (like tomato paste mixtures or red pepper puree) freeze well for up to 3 months.
Which substitute is best for spaghetti sauce?
Tomato paste + water or canned tomatoes are the best for that classic pasta flavor. Add Italian seasoning and simmer to blend the flavors.
Running out of tomato sauce doesn’t have to derail your dinner plans. From classic swaps like tomato paste to creative options like red pepper puree, you’ve got plenty of choices to keep your meals delicious and on track.
Just choose the substitute that fits your dish, tweak the seasonings, and you’ll be good to go—no emergency grocery run needed.
