The BEST Homemade Hamburger Helper
March 20, 2026
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Tomato paste is commonly used in pasta sauces, soups, stews, chili, and casseroles. Its concentrated tomato flavor adds depth and color to many savory dishes. It’s also used in marinades, meat sauces, and homemade condiments like ketchup or barbecue sauce.
Tomato paste is usually sautéed briefly with oil, garlic, or onions before adding liquids. Cooking it for a minute or two helps develop a richer flavor. After that, you can mix it into sauces, soups, or stews to thicken and intensify the tomato taste.
Tomato paste can be made by cooking fresh tomatoes slowly until most of the liquid evaporates. First, blend or crush the tomatoes, then simmer them until thick. Strain the mixture if needed and continue cooking until it reaches a dense, paste-like consistency.
Tomato paste adds concentrated tomato flavor, deeper color, and thicker texture to dishes. Because it is reduced and intense, only a small amount is needed. It also helps balance acidity and enhances the overall richness of sauces and stews.
Looking for more cooking ingredient ideas? Explore our garlic recipes and onion recipes for more savory flavor-building ingredients.