5 Best Substitutes For Crushed Tomatoes (With IMAGES!)

How often do you get bored with the same old tomato recipes?

If you want to spice things up, try these five delicious tomato substitutes.


Tomato is one of the most versatile ingredients in the kitchen.

From soups to salads, sauces to pasta dishes, it goes well with almost anything.

And since tomatoes are relatively inexpensive, they’re also perfect for creating quick meals at home.


“Crushed tomatoes” are a great way to add flavor to a wide variety of dishes.

They come in cans or jars and are usually packed with herbs and spices.


However, crushed tomatoes aren’t always easy to find.

That’s why I created this guide to explain you some of my favorite alternatives

What Are Crushed Tomatoes?

Crushed tomatoes are tomato puree that has been crushed into a paste form. It is used as a base ingredient in many recipes. It is usually added to sauces, soups, stews, pasta dishes, casseroles, meatloaf, chili, and other dishes. It is available in cans, jars, and bottles.
Why Use Crushed Tomatoes?
1. They are easy to use.

Best Substitutes for Crushed Tomatoes

You can substitute crushed tomatoes with canned whole tomatoes. However, if you are looking for a quick and easy way to get rid of the skin from your tomatoes, you can crush the tomatoes yourself.
2. They are inexpensive.
3. They are versatile.

1. Tomato Paste

Tomato paste is a thick tomato sauce that comes in cans. It is very convenient because you can buy it in bulk and store it in the refrigerator for months. It is great for pasta sauces, soups, stews, and chili.
2. Canned Whole Tomatoes
Answer: These are the perfect alternative to tomato paste. They are available in different sizes and colors. They are usually found in the produce section of grocery stores.

2. Diced Tomatoes

Diced tomatoes are used in many dishes such as pizza, lasagna, spaghetti, meatballs, salads, and sandwiches.
3. Pureed Tomatoes
Answer: This is another way to get rid of extra liquid from canned whole tomatoes. Simply puree the tomatoes in a blender or food processor until smooth.

3. Sun-dried Tomatoes

These are dried tomatoes that have been sun-dried. They are usually found in jars and cans. They are great for adding flavor to soups, sauces, and stews.
4. Tomato Paste
Answer: Tomato paste is tomato purée that has been cooked down into a thick sauce. It is used in Italian cuisine and other cuisines where tomatoes are used.

4. Whole Peeled Tomatoes

Whole peeled tomatoes are tomatoes that have not been cut or chopped. These are perfect for salads, pasta dishes, and sandwiches.
5. Diced Tomatoes
Answer: Diced tomatoes are diced tomatoes that have been cooked down into a sauce. They are used in many different types of recipes such as pizza, lasagna, spaghetti, and meatballs.

5. Homemade Crushed Tomatoes

Homemade crushed tomatoes are tomatoes that have been pureed. This is a great way to get rid of extra liquid from canned tomatoes. It is used in sauces, soups, stews, and casseroles.
6. Chopped Tomatoes
Answer: Chopped tomatoes are tomatoes that have had their skins removed and have been finely chopped. They are used in tomato based sauces, soups, and stews.

How To Make Homemade Crushed Tomatoes

To make homemade crushed tomatoes, you will need:
1. A blender
2. 2 cups of diced tomatoes canned

Crushed Tomatoes And Its Substitutes Are Ideal For:

Homemade crushed tomatoes are ideal for making sauces, soups, stews, pasta dishes, pizza toppings, and other Italian dishes. It is also used as a base for tomato sauce. Making your own crushed tomatoes is easy and requires only three ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions

Crush tomatoes are very versatile and can be used in many different recipes. They are great for adding flavor to sauces, soups, casseroles, pasta dishes, pizza topping, and other Italian dishes such as lasagna.

What is The Difference Between Crushed Tomatoes And Diced Tomatoes?

Diced tomatoes are diced tomato pieces that are usually sold in cans or jars. They are perfect for making salsa, spaghetti sauce, and other tomato based dishes.
Crushed tomatoes are crushed tomatoes that are usually found canned. They are great for making sauces, stews, and other tomato based meals.
How To Make Tomato Sauce Without A Crock Pot

Can Diced Tomatoes Be Used Instead Of Crushed Tomatoes?

Canned diced tomatoes are great for making tomato based recipes such as pasta sauces, soups, and casseroles. However, if you prefer to make homemade tomato sauce, you can easily substitute crushed tomatoes for canned diced tomatoes.
To make homemade tomato sauce, simply combine 1 cup of crushed tomatoes with 2 cups of chopped onions, 3 cloves garlic, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil and simmer for 30 minutes. Add additional spices and herbs to taste.

Can I Substitute Tomato Paste For Crushed Tomatoes?

Yes, but not always. While tomato paste is a good ingredient to use in many dishes, it does have a strong flavor that isn’t necessarily desirable in every recipe. In addition, tomato paste tends to thicken liquids quickly, which can result in a thicker sauce than desired. To avoid these issues, try using crushed tomatoes instead of tomato paste.

Can I Substitute Tomato Sauce For Crushed Tomatoes?

Yes, but only if you’re looking for a thickened sauce. Many recipes call for tomato sauce because it’s already cooked and ready to go. However, if you’d rather have a thicker consistency, you can substitute tomato paste for crushed tomatoes. Just be sure to adjust the other ingredients accordingly.

Can I Substitute Tomato Puree For Crushed Tomatoes?

No. While tomato puree is great for adding flavor to dishes, it doesn’t thicken sauces. It’s not recommended to replace crushed tomatoes with tomato puree unless you’re making a soup or stew.

Can I use tomato sauce instead of crushed?

Crushed tomatoes are used in many dishes such as pasta sauces, chili, soups, stews, and casseroles. However, if you are looking for a healthier alternative, you can try using tomato paste. Tomato paste is a thick paste made from pureed tomatoes. It is similar to crushed tomatoes but contains no added salt, sugar, or preservatives. It is available in cans and jars. To use tomato paste, simply mix it into your recipe.

Can I use tomato sauce instead of crushed tomatoes?

Canned tomatoes are great for making sauces and soups but if you are looking for something that is better than canned tomatoes, try using tomato paste instead. Tomato paste is thicker and richer tasting than regular tomatoes. It is also easier to measure and store. To make tomato sauce, simply combine equal parts tomato paste and water and simmer until thickened. For soup, mix 1/2 cup tomato paste with 2 cups water and simmer until thick.

What is a good substitute for canned tomatoes?

Yes, you can use tomato sauce instead of crushing tomatoes. It is not recommended to use canned tomatoes because they tend to be very acidic. Crushed tomatoes are easier to use and you can adjust the flavor by adding spices such as basil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, pepper, etc.

What can you use instead of crushed tomatoes?

Yes, but it won’t taste good. Tomato paste contains natural sugars that caramelize during the cooking process. This creates a sweet flavor that’s not present in crushed tomatoes.