We’ve all been there—starting a recipe, reaching for San Marzano tomatoes, and realizing they’re gone. It’s a moment that can throw anyone off, especially if you’re aiming for that sweet, tangy sauce. We’ve had to scramble more than once and quickly learned there are solid replacements out there.
Some substitutes bring flavor close to the original, while others shake things up a bit. We’ve tried options that worked well for marinara, soups, and even homemade pizza sauces. The key is knowing which swaps can keep the balance right.
Experimenting has taught us a lot. Sometimes just tweaking salt or sugar levels makes the alternative blend perfectly. No need for fancy tricks—just a little creativity and experimenting with what’s handy. By now, we’ve figured out a handful of reliable stand-ins, and we’re excited to share them.
6 Quick Substitutes for San Marzano Tomatoes
Here’s the rundown of our six favorite San Marzano tomato substitutes—plus some extra tips for getting the flavor right.
1 – Roma Tomatoes
Roma tomatoes are a solid option when swapping for San Marzano. Use a 1:1 ratio for similar results, though Roma tomatoes are slightly less sweet and tangy. They’re firm and meaty, which works well for sauces and soups.
We’ve noticed they hold up great in recipes needing thick consistency. If you’re aiming for a richer flavor, adding a pinch of sugar can help mimic the sweetness of San Marzano.
Their mild taste pairs easily with most ingredients. Plus, Roma tomatoes are easier to find and often more affordable. They bring that hearty texture while staying versatile in different recipes.
2 – Canned Plum Tomatoes
Canned plum tomatoes are an easy substitute for San Marzanos. They work at a 1:1 ratio, giving similar texture, though their flavor is less sweet and slightly more acidic. We’ve used them in sauces and soups, and they hold up beautifully.
Their soft texture blends nicely when cooked down. If you want to mimic San Marzano sweetness, adding a small pinch of sugar can help balance things out.
We like how they’re widely available and usually more budget-friendly. They’re hearty enough for most recipes and bring just the right balance of tang and body to dishes.
3 – Cherry Tomatoes
Cherry tomatoes can step in when San Marzano tomatoes are out of reach. Use a 2:1 ratio since they’re smaller and less meaty. Their sweetness is more pronounced, which can work well for sauces or roasting.
We’ve noticed they break down quickly when cooked, giving a light, fresh finish to dishes. If you need a deeper flavor, a little tomato paste helps balance things out.
They’re super convenient and often come in handy during peak seasons. While their tang is lighter, they still bring a bright, vibrant taste. They’re great when you want a sweeter kick in your recipes.
4 – Crushed Tomatoes
Crushed tomatoes are a handy swap for San Marzano. Use a 1:1 ratio to keep things simple. Their soft texture works great for sauces, though they might lack the same rich depth.
We’ve noticed they blend quickly, making them ideal for smooth dishes. If you’re after more flavor, adding a pinch of sugar and a splash of olive oil can close the gap.
They’re already processed, so it saves some prep time. Plus, they’re easy to find in most stores and usually affordable. While the flavor is milder, they still bring a solid base for hearty meals.
5 – Fresh Heirloom Tomatoes
Fresh heirloom tomatoes can work well in place of San Marzano. Use them at a 1.5:1 ratio since they have higher water content. They’re bursting with flavor, often sweeter and more complex compared to other fresh tomatoes.
We’ve tried them in sauces and soups, and they bring a vibrant, fresh taste. Their thinner skin makes them easy to cook down, but you might need to simmer longer to reduce the extra liquid.
They’re a seasonal treat, so they add brightness compared to canned options. If you’re after a richer end result, blending them with tomato paste helps create that balanced depth.
6 – Tomato Paste (with Water)
Tomato paste is a solid option when swapping San Marzano tomatoes. Use it in a 3 tablespoons paste to 1 cup water ratio to mimic their consistency. It’s highly concentrated, so the flavor is deeper and more intense.
We like how it dissolves quickly, making it great for smooth sauces. Adding it to soups or stews creates a bold base, though you may need to tweak spices to balance its richness.
It’s easy to keep on hand and works in a pinch. For other creative swaps, check this guide on the best alternatives for tomato paste to explore more ideas.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.