Are you looking for a way to add a burst of flavor to your meals? Crushed tomatoes are a pantry staple that can elevate a wide range of dishes, from pasta sauces and soups to casseroles and more. In this article, we’ll share 18 hearty recipes that feature crushed tomatoes as the star ingredient. From classic spaghetti with crushed tomato sauce to Mediterranean fish stew with crushed tomatoes, these recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen.
Whether you’re a busy parent looking for quick weeknight meals or a foodie seeking new flavors and ideas, we’ve got you covered. Our recipe collection includes a mix of comfort foods, international inspirations, and healthy options that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. So go ahead, get crushing (on those tomatoes, that is!), and discover the versatility and deliciousness that crushed tomatoes bring to every meal.
Classic Spaghetti with Crushed Tomato Sauce
A timeless Italian classic that never goes out of style. This simple yet flavorful recipe is a staple for any pasta lover.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 cups crushed canned tomatoes (28 oz can)
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet, stirring to combine with the garlic and oil.
4. Simmer the tomato sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti and tomato sauce in a large serving dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow-Cooked Beef Ragu with Crushed Tomatoes
Elevate your pasta game with this hearty slow-cooked beef ragu, packed with rich flavors and tender chunks of beef. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef chuck or brisket, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup crushed tomatoes (canned or fresh)
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large slow cooker, combine beef, onion, garlic, crushed tomatoes, red wine (if using), tomato paste, and oregano.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve over cooked pasta, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Homemade Pizza with Crushed Tomato Base
Create a delicious homemade pizza with a flavorful crushed tomato base, perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends and family. This recipe is easy to follow and yields a crispy crust topped with melted mozzarella cheese and your favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 1/2 cup crushed tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Toppings of your choice (e.g., pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast in a bowl.
3. Gradually add warm water and mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes.
5. Roll out the dough into a circle or rectangle shape.
6. Spread crushed tomatoes over the dough, leaving a small border around edges.
7. Drizzle olive oil and top with mozzarella cheese.
8. Add your desired toppings.
9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Tomato Soup with Crushed Tomatoes
A classic comfort food, this creamy tomato soup is a perfect blend of rich flavors and textures. With the addition of crushed tomatoes, it’s a hearty and satisfying meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup crushed tomatoes
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Pour in broth, diced tomatoes, and crushed tomatoes. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 15-20 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Chicken Parmesan with Crushed Tomato Sauce
Elevate your Italian-inspired dinner game with this easy-to-make Baked Chicken Parmesan recipe, featuring a rich and tangy crushed tomato sauce. Perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup crushed tomatoes (fresh or canned)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the beaten egg, then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While chicken is baking, heat crushed tomatoes in a saucepan over medium-low heat.
7. Assemble by placing baked chicken breasts on a serving platter, spooning tomato sauce over the top, and garnishing with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Savory Shakshuka with Crushed Tomatoes and Eggs
A flavorful North African-inspired dish that combines the richness of eggs, tomatoes, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large cast-iron skillet or omelette pan, heat 2 tbsp of oil over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Create 2-3 wells in the tomato mixture and crack an egg into each well.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the eggs are set.
8. Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Spicy Arrabiata Pasta with Crushed Tomatoes
This recipe is a classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the flavors of crushed tomatoes, garlic, and red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Perfect as a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing main course.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 2 cups crushed tomatoes
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp 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 pasta 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-low heat. Add minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer sauce over low heat for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing flavors to meld.
5. Combine cooked pasta with tomato sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetable Lasagna with Crushed Tomato Layers
Vegetable Lasagna with Crushed Tomato Layers Recipe
Summary: This recipe combines the flavors of sautéed vegetables, crushed tomatoes, and melted cheese within layers of lasagna noodles. Perfect for a satisfying vegetarian meal!
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups cooked spinach, chopped
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms
– 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
– 1 cup diced zucchini
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup grated ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, onion, and garlic until tender.
4. Combine cooked vegetables with chopped spinach and season with salt and pepper.
5. In a separate bowl, mix crushed tomatoes with ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg.
6. Assemble lasagna by layering cooked noodles, vegetable mixture, and tomato mixture. Repeat two more times, ending with the tomato mixture on top.
7. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil leaves (if using).
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Greek-Style Stuffed Peppers with Crushed Tomatoes
Elevate your stuffed pepper game with this flavorful Greek-inspired twist! Succulent bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of rice, ground beef, and crushed tomatoes, then baked to perfection.
Ingredients:
• 4 large bell peppers, any color
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup cooked white rice
• 1/2 cup crushed tomatoes (fresh or canned)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Feta cheese crumbles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut tops off peppers, remove seeds and membranes, and place in a baking dish.
3. Cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until browned; drain excess fat.
4. Add cooked rice, crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper; mix well.
5. Stuff each pepper with the meat mixture, topping with feta cheese crumbles if desired.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Rich Bolognese Sauce with Crushed Tomatoes
A classic Italian sauce that’s rich, savory, and perfect for pasta lovers. This recipe is a hearty blend of ground beef, pork, and aromatics, simmered in crushed tomatoes and spices to create a comforting and flavorful sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 lb ground pork
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup crushed tomatoes
– 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Olive oil, for cooking
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef and pork in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer the sauce over low heat for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Tomato and Basil Bruschetta with Crushed Tomatoes
Savor the flavors of summer with this simple yet elegant bruschetta recipe, featuring fresh tomatoes, basil, and a hint of garlic. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe tomatoes, crushed
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine crushed tomatoes, chopped basil, and minced garlic.
3. Brush baguette slices with olive oil and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
4. Spoon the tomato-basil mixture over toasted bread rounds.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pot Lentil Stew with Crushed Tomatoes
A hearty and comforting one-pot meal that combines the earthy flavor of lentils with the tanginess of crushed tomatoes. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Quick and Easy Marinara with Crushed Tomatoes
This classic marinara sauce recipe is a staple for any Italian-inspired meal. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, you’ll be enjoying the rich flavor of crushed tomatoes in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crushed tomatoes (fresh or canned)
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Tomato and Meatball Casserole with Crushed Tomatoes
This satisfying casserole combines the flavors of tender meatballs, rich crushed tomatoes, and creamy melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs (about 20-25) and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a large skillet, combine crushed tomatoes, baked meatballs, and salt to taste. Simmer for 10-15 minutes over medium heat.
6. Transfer the tomato-meatball mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Homemade Ketchup from Crushed Tomatoes
Transform store-bought ketchup into a flavorful and healthy alternative with this easy recipe. Use crushed tomatoes as the base for a tangy, sweet, and smoky condiment perfect for topping burgers, sandwiches, or using as a dip.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine crushed tomatoes, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and cumin.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the ketchup has thickened to your liking.
4. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Tomato Pasta with Crushed Tomatoes
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and spicy recipe that combines juicy sausage, fresh tomatoes, and savory crushed tomatoes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat!
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large onions, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add onions and garlic to the skillet; cook until onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring sauce to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until thickened slightly.
5. Serve cooked spaghetti with sausage and tomato sauce, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Fish Stew with Crushed Tomatoes
This hearty fish stew is a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional Mediterranean cuisine, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of tender fish, aromatic spices, and rich crushed tomatoes creates a satisfying and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound firm white fish (such as cod or tilapia), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup fish broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add fish, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the fish is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes and fish broth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlicky Tomato and White Bean Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of creamy white beans, rich tomatoes, and pungent garlic, all simmered together to create a deliciously comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and cannellini beans. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meal game with these 18 hearty recipes that feature crushed tomatoes as a key ingredient! From classic spaghetti to slow-cooked beef ragu, and from homemade pizza to creamy tomato soup, there’s something for every meal and occasion. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy or savory, you’ll find inspiration in this collection of recipes that showcase the versatility of crushed tomatoes. So go ahead, get cooking, and discover the endless possibilities of this kitchen staple!