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7 Tomato Passata Substitutes to Save Your Italian Recipes

Running out of tomato passata doesn’t have to mean disaster for your pasta sauces, soups, or stews. You’re in the middle of preparing a rich marinara, a hearty minestrone, or a comforting lasagna, and as you reach for the jar of tomato passata, you realize it’s empty.

That smooth, concentrated tomato base you were counting on is missing. But don’t worry—tomato passata’s rich flavor and velvety texture can be recreated with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry or fridge.

Tomato passata, a staple in Italian cooking, is made from strained, uncooked tomatoes, giving it a smooth, thick consistency perfect for sauces and soups. But whether you’re out of passata, avoiding store-bought options, or just experimenting, these substitutes will deliver the same depth and richness.

From canned tomatoes to creative twists, here’s how to keep your Italian-inspired dishes on track—no last-minute store runs required.


7 Easy Substitutes for Tomato Passata

Tomato passata’s charm lies in its smooth texture and concentrated tomato flavor. These substitutes mimic its consistency and taste while adding their own unique flair. Perfect for pasta sauces, pizzas, or casseroles, here’s how to adapt without compromise:


1. Canned Tomatoes: The Pantry Staple

Canned tomatoes are the closest match to tomato passata in terms of flavor and texture. Simply blend a can of whole or diced tomatoes until smooth, and you’ve got a quick passata substitute. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but note that canned tomatoes may have a slightly chunkier texture.

This substitute works beautifully in pasta sauces, soups, or stews. I once used blended canned tomatoes for a last-minute marinara, and the result was just as rich and flavorful. For extra smoothness, strain the blended tomatoes to remove any seeds or skins.

Pro tip: Use fire-roasted canned tomatoes for a smoky twist.
If you’re exploring canned tomato alternatives, try these canned tomato substitutes.


2. Tomato Paste + Water: The Concentrated Fix

Tomato paste is a concentrated tomato base that can be thinned into a passata-like consistency. Mix 2 tablespoons tomato paste with 1 cup water and stir until smooth. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but note that tomato paste has a more intense flavor.

This swap is perfect for quick sauces or soups. My friend used this blend for a last-minute pizza sauce, and the rich tomato flavor was a hit. For extra depth, add a pinch of sugar and a splash of olive oil.

Fun twist: Add a clove of minced garlic for a savory kick.
For more tomato paste hacks, check out these tomato paste substitutes.


3. Fresh Tomatoes: The Homemade Option

Fresh tomatoes can be used to make a homemade passata substitute. Simply blanch and peel ripe tomatoes, then blend them until smooth. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but note that fresh tomatoes may have a lighter flavor.

This substitute works well in summer recipes or when you want a fresh, vibrant sauce. I used fresh tomatoes for a batch of homemade marinara, and the bright, tangy flavor was a hit. For extra richness, simmer the blended tomatoes with olive oil and garlic.

Watch out: Fresh tomatoes have more water, so reduce the sauce to thicken it.
Need more fresh tomato ideas? Try these fresh tomato substitutes.


4. Tomato Sauce: The Ready-Made Swap

Tomato sauce is a great substitute for passata, as it has a similar smooth texture and tomato flavor. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but note that tomato sauce may contain added seasonings, so adjust the flavor of your dish accordingly.

This swap is perfect for quick pasta sauces or casseroles. My cousin used tomato sauce for a last-minute lasagna, and the result was delicious. For extra flavor, stir in fresh herbs like basil or oregano.

Pro tip: Use unsalted tomato sauce to control the seasoning in your dish.
Love tomato sauce alternatives? Explore these tomato sauce substitutes.


5. Crushed Tomatoes: The Chunky Alternative

Crushed tomatoes have a slightly chunkier texture than passata but can be blended until smooth for a similar consistency. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but note that crushed tomatoes may have a slightly thicker texture.

This substitute works well in hearty dishes like chili or stews. My neighbor used crushed tomatoes for a batch of meatballs in tomato sauce, and the texture was perfect. For extra smoothness, blend the crushed tomatoes before using.

Fun twist: Add a splash of red wine for a deeper flavor.
For more crushed tomato ideas, check out these crushed tomato substitutes.


6. Ketchup + Water: The Quick Fix

Ketchup can be used as a quick passata substitute in a pinch. Mix ½ cup ketchup with ½ cup water and stir until smooth. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but note that ketchup has added sugar and vinegar, so adjust the flavor of your dish accordingly.

This swap is perfect for quick sauces or glazes. My brother used this blend for a last-minute BBQ sauce, and the tangy sweetness was a hit. For extra depth, add a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika.

Watch out: Ketchup is sweeter than passata, so reduce the sugar in your recipe.
Need more ketchup hacks? Try these ketchup substitutes.


7. Roasted Red Peppers: The Creative Twist

Roasted red peppers can be blended into a smooth puree for a unique passata substitute. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, but note that this swap will add a slightly sweet, smoky flavor to your dish.

This substitute works well in Mediterranean-inspired recipes or as a pizza sauce. I used roasted red pepper puree for a last-minute pasta sauce, and the smoky sweetness was a hit. For extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of olive oil.

Pro tip: Use jarred roasted red peppers for convenience.
If you’re diving into creative alternatives, explore these roasted red pepper substitutes.