6 Easy Tomato Puree Substitutes to Save Your Dish

Out of tomato puree (a smooth, cooked and strained tomato concentrate)? Same here-it happens.

We've tested them in soups, sauces, and even casseroles, and they work like a charm. Most of these are pantry staples you probably already have, ready to rescue your meal.

Stick with us as we break down these seven easy swaps for tomato puree. Making a delicious dish just got way less stressful!

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6 Easy Substitutes for Tomato Puree

Here are our top seven picks for tomato puree substitutes. All of these can be used in a 1:1 ratio, so no complicated math needed.

1 - Tomato Sauce

This one substitute will save your recipe when tomato puree is missing. Tomato sauce works well and keeps flavors rich.

It's smoother than crushed tomatoes but still brings that bold tomato taste (with a slightly sweeter, cooked flavor). Use it in soups, pasta sauces, or casseroles without hesitation.

Replace tomato puree with an equal amount of tomato sauce. The 1:1 ratio makes it easy, no adjustments needed.

Need more options? Check out creative swaps for plum tomatoes.

2 - Crushed Tomatoes

If you've ever been stuck without tomato puree, crushed tomatoes are a solid option. They're chunkier than puree, but they still bring all that tomato flavor to your recipe.

Use a 1:1 ratio, so no extra math is needed. Crushed tomatoes add a bit of texture to sauces and soups, which works in more rustic dishes.

Blend them if you need something smoother.

They're usually a mix of diced tomatoes and a thick sauce, so the flavor is consistent and bold (with a bright, slightly acidic tang). Keep them handy, especially for dishes that don't need a silky finish.

3 - Canned Diced Tomatoes

If you've ever been stuck without tomato puree, canned diced tomatoes get the job done. They're already chopped and sitting in their juices, so they're ready to work.

Swap them in at a 1:1 ratio. The texture is chunkier, so they might need a quick blend if you want a smoother result.

No extra steps needed after that.

These bring a fresh and bright tomato flavor (with a slightly tangy acidity). They work best in soups, sauces, or anything where a bit of texture isn't a problem.

Keep them on hand for quick fixes; see fresh alternatives to canned tomatoes.

4 - Fresh Tomatoes (Blended)

It all started when we ran out of tomato puree, and fresh tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum) stepped in!

Use them at a 1:1 ratio. The flavor is bright and natural, but the texture depends on how well you blend.

Peel them if you want a smoother finish, or leave the skin for a more rustic vibe. Fresh tomatoes work best in sauces, soups, and curries where freshness matters.

Just keep in mind that the water content is high, so simmer longer for thicker results.

This substitute works well with a little extra seasoning, like salt or sugar, to balance the acidity. They're more work than cans, but the flavor reward is worth it if you already have them on hand.

5 - Tomato Paste (Thinned with Water)

If you've ever been stuck without tomato puree, thinned tomato paste has you covered. Mix 1 part paste with 2 parts water for a puree-like consistency.

It's thicker and richer than canned tomatoes, so it works great in sauces, stews, and recipes needing bold flavor (adding concentrated umami).

We like it because it's super convenient and shelf-stable. Adjust the water as you go to get the thickness you need.

The flavor is usually more concentrated, so it may require less seasoning.

This substitute is a quick fix for most recipes. Use it sparingly in soups since the thicker texture can dominate.

For even more options, check out tomato juice substitutes for freshening recipes.

6 - Marinara Sauce

You'll never believe how easy it is to swap marinara sauce for tomato puree. Use it straight from the jar, no mixing needed.

It's already perfectly seasoned, so go lighter on salt and herbs.

The texture is smoother than diced tomatoes but thicker than puree (offering a slightly chunky, saucy body). Start with a 1:1 ratio, and tweak as needed for consistency.

Marinara adds extra flavor with its garlic, onion, and spices, which works great in pasta or casseroles.

If marinara sauce isn't on your shelf, check out top substitutes for spicy sauces for more ideas.