Out of Marinara Sauce? Try These 3 Easy Swaps
Run out of marinara sauce mid-recipe? No worries. We've got 3 tried-and-tested substitutes that actually work. Whether you're making a quick weeknight dinner or baking something special, these alternatives will save your dish. The most popular swap is tomato sauce + italian seasoning + garlic, which works great in cooking and savory dishes. Each substitute below includes exact measurements and tips so you know exactly what to do.
⚡ Quick Answer (30 sec read)
Use Tomato sauce + Italian seasoning + garlic instead. Add herbs and garlic to plain tomato sauce. Simmer 15 min.
✅ 3 Tested Marinara Sauce Substitutes (With Exact Ratios)
1. Tomato sauce + Italian seasoning + garlic
CookingAdd herbs and garlic to plain tomato sauce. Simmer 15 min.
2. Crushed tomatoes + basil + garlic
CookingSimmer crushed tomatoes with fresh basil and garlic.
3. Pizza sauce
CookingUse 1:1 ratio. Thicker, similar herbs.
Tips for Substituting Marinara Sauce
When cooking without marinara sauce, taste as you go and adjust seasoning. Most substitutes work best when added at the same point in the recipe as the original ingredient. Don't be afraid to combine two substitutes for a closer match to the original flavor.
What NOT to Do When Substituting Marinara Sauce
- xDon't use the same amount without checking the ratio - some substitutes are stronger or weaker than marinara sauce.
- xDon't substitute in recipes where marinara sauce is the star ingredient - the difference will be too noticeable.
- xDon't combine multiple substitutes at once - pick one and adjust from there.
Quick Substitution Ratios
| Substitute | Amount for 1 cup Marinara Sauce | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Tomato sauce + Italian seasoning + garlic | Add herbs and garlic to plain tomato sauce | cooking |
| Crushed tomatoes + basil + garlic | Simmer crushed tomatoes with fresh basil and garlic | cooking |
| Pizza sauce | Use 1:1 ratio | cooking |
Safety Tips
- 1.Always check for allergies - if someone is allergic to marinara sauce, they may also react to certain substitutes like nut-based alternatives.
- 2.When baking, substitutes can affect rising and texture. Test with a small batch first if making for an important occasion.
- 3.Check expiration dates on substitutes - using fresh ingredients ensures the best flavor and food safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for marinara sauce?
The best substitute for marinara sauce is Tomato sauce + Italian seasoning + garlic. Add herbs and garlic to plain tomato sauce. Simmer 15 min. This works well in most recipes that call for marinara sauce.
Can I use tomato instead of marinara sauce?
Yes, tomato sauce + italian seasoning + garlic is an excellent substitute for marinara sauce. Add herbs and garlic to plain tomato sauce. Simmer 15 min.
What can I use instead of marinara sauce in cooking?
For cooking, try: Tomato sauce + Italian seasoning + garlic, Crushed tomatoes + basil + garlic, Pizza sauce. These substitutes work well in savory dishes, sauces, and everyday cooking.
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