Are you looking for a way to add depth, richness, and a pop of flavor to your meals? Look no further than crushed tomatoes! This versatile ingredient is a staple in many cuisines around the world, from Italian pasta sauces to Spanish stews. In this article, we’ll explore 18 flavorful recipes that showcase the humble crushed tomato in all its glory.
From classic spaghetti dishes to bold and spicy sauces, and even sweet and tangy soups, there’s something for everyone in our collection of recipes featuring crushed tomatoes. Whether you’re a busy home cook looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a foodie seeking inspiration for your next big meal, these recipes are sure to please.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into the world of crushed tomato recipes and explore the many ways you can use this ingredient to add excitement to your meals. So grab a jar of crushed tomatoes and let’s get cooking!
Classic Spaghetti with Crushed Tomato Sauce
A timeless Italian favorite, this simple yet flavorful recipe showcases the beauty of crushed tomato sauce and al dente spaghetti.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 28 oz can whole tomatoes, crushed by hand or with a fork
– Salt, to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
4. Simmer sauce for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing flavors to meld.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti with tomato sauce, adding reserved pasta water if necessary to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Homemade Margherita Pizza with Crushed Tomatoes
This simple yet flavorful pizza recipe is a twist on the classic Margherita, featuring crushed tomatoes instead of fresh. The result is a rich and tangy sauce that complements the creamy mozzarella and fragrant basil perfectly.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
6. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
7. Spread crushed tomatoes over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
8. Top with mozzarella cheese and chopped basil.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Slow-Cooked Beef Ragu with Crushed Tomatoes
Transform ordinary pasta into a hearty, comforting dish with this slow-cooked beef ragu recipe. Simmering tender beef and rich tomato sauce all day creates a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 28 oz crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the slow cooker to low.
2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high. Brown beef cubes in batches, then transfer to the slow cooker.
3. Add onion, garlic, crushed tomatoes, red wine (if using), and oregano to the slow cooker. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve ragu over cooked pasta, garnished with fresh basil.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Easy Shakshuka with Crushed Tomatoes and Eggs
This classic North African dish is a staple of easy brunching. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup crushed tomatoes
– 2 eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large cast-iron skillet or oven-safe pan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Create 2 wells in the tomato mixture and crack an egg into each well.
6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the whites are set and the yolks are still slightly runny.
7. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Vegetable Lasagna with Crushed Tomato Layers
A twist on the classic lasagna recipe, this dish combines layers of sautéed vegetables and crushed tomatoes for a rich and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 medium bell pepper, sliced
– 1 small eggplant, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the zucchini, bell pepper, eggplant, onion, and garlic until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a separate bowl, combine crushed tomatoes and ricotta cheese. Mix well.
5. Assemble the lasagna by spreading tomato-ricotta mixture on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange noodles on top, followed by sautéed vegetables and shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat for 3 layers.
6. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil leaves (if using).
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Arrabbiata Pasta with Crushed Tomatoes
Experience the bold flavors of Italy with this quick and spicy pasta dish, featuring crushed tomatoes and a kick of heat.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. spaghetti
– 2 cups crushed San Marzano tomatoes
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing flavors to meld and thicken slightly.
5. Add reserved pasta water to the sauce if it becomes too thick.
6. Toss cooked spaghetti with spicy tomato sauce, combining well.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Greek-Style Stuffed Peppers with Crushed Tomatoes
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the bold flavors of Greece with the sweetness of crushed tomatoes. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground beef or turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Feta cheese crumbles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef or turkey until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked rice, crushed tomatoes, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each pepper with the meat mixture and top with feta cheese crumbles (if using).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick and Easy Tomato Basil Soup
A classic comfort soup that’s ready in no time! This recipe combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the brightness of basil for a deliciously easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes), chopped
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes, broth, heavy cream (if using), tomato paste, and basil. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired. Enjoy!
Crushed Tomato and Chickpea Curry
A flavorful and nutritious curry that combines the simplicity of crushed tomatoes with the comforting warmth of chickpeas. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish to accompany your favorite rice or naan.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup water or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened (5 minutes).
3. Add garlic, cumin, and curry powder; cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, chickpeas, salt, and water or broth.
5. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Meatballs in Crushed Tomato Sauce
Elevate your meatball game with this easy and flavorful recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party appetizer. Baking the meatballs instead of frying them keeps them moist and reduces the fat content.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatballs and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, heat the crushed tomatoes with chopped onion and garlic in a large skillet over medium heat.
6. Remove the meatballs from the oven and carefully place them into the tomato sauce. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to coat the meatballs evenly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Rustic Tomato and Bread Soup (Pappa al Pomodoro)
This classic Tuscan soup is a staple of Italian cuisine, made with fresh tomatoes, crusty bread, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs ripe tomatoes, cored and chopped
– 1/2 loaf stale bread (preferably Ciabatta), cut into 1-inch cubes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes, vegetable broth, and bread cubes. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the bread is soft and the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in the chopped basil leaves. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crushed Tomato and Lentil Stew
This comforting stew is a perfect blend of flavors, with the richness of crushed tomatoes and lentils. It’s an excellent option for a quick and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
2. Add crushed tomatoes, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Simmer the stew for an additional 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Garlicky Shrimp in Crushed Tomato Sauce
Add a flavorful twist to your seafood dishes with this simple and savory recipe. Succulent shrimp are cooked in a rich crushed tomato sauce infused with garlic, perfect for serving over pasta or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Eggplant Parmesan with Crushed Tomato Sauce
A classic Italian-American dish that combines the rich flavors of eggplant, tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– 1 cup crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, salt, and pepper. Dip each eggplant slice in the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
3. Heat the breadcrumbs in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook until lightly toasted, stirring frequently. Remove from heat.
4. Add olive oil to the breadcrumb skillet and cook for 1 minute.
5. Fry eggplant slices in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. In a separate saucepan, combine crushed tomatoes and a pinch of salt. Simmer over medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Assemble the Parmesan: place fried eggplant slices on a baking sheet, spoon tomato sauce over each slice, and top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: approximately 45 minutes
Crushed Tomato and Sausage Pasta Bake
A hearty and flavorful pasta bake that combines the richness of sausage with the brightness of crushed tomatoes, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne or fusilli)
– 1 lb. sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups crushed tomatoes
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp. dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and dried oregano.
6. Combine cooked pasta, tomato mixture, and salt and pepper to taste in a large bowl.
7. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican-Style Huevos Rancheros with Crushed Tomatoes
This classic Mexican dish combines the richness of eggs and tortillas with the tanginess of crushed tomatoes, creating a flavorful and satisfying breakfast or brunch. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make it in just a few easy steps.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, crushed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Chopped cilantro or scallions (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Crack in the eggs and cook until the whites are set, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and crushed tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the Huevos Rancheros by placing a tortilla on a plate, topping with an egg and tomato mixture, and sprinkling with cheese and cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Crushed Tomato and White Bean Cassoulet
This hearty cassoulet combines the flavors of crushed tomatoes and creamy white beans, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked white beans (such as cannellini or navy)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the cooked white beans and tomato mixture. Mix well.
6. Transfer the bean-tomato mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with crumbled goat cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Simple Tomato and Onion Chutney
This sweet and tangy chutney is a perfect accompaniment to naan, rice, or as a dip for snacks. Made with just a few ingredients, it’s quick to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook until they’re translucent and starting to caramelize (about 8 minutes).
3. Add the diced tomatoes, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Stir well to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the chutney has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Summary
Discover 18 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility of crushed tomatoes! From classic spaghetti dishes to hearty stews and soups, these flavorful recipes are perfect for any occasion. Try making homemade margherita pizza with crushed tomatoes, slow-cooked beef ragu, or spicy arrabbiata pasta. Or, indulge in Greek-style stuffed peppers, baked meatballs, or rustic tomato bread soup. Whatever your taste buds desire, there’s a recipe here to satisfy your cravings. Get cooking and explore the delicious world of crushed tomatoes!