Tomato paste is that little pantry powerhouse I reach for when I want dinner to sing. I’ve pulled together 22 of my favorite recipes that put this humble ingredient to work, from slurpable soups to saucy pastas and everything in between. Trust me, your weeknight cooking just got a whole lot cozier and way more flavorful.
1. American Goulash
Goulash night was my favorite as a kid. I’d walk in after school and that garlicky aroma would hit me, the beef sizz
2. Aloo Matar
This curry is bold and spicy, with tender chunks of potato, green peas, and onion. Thin it out and it’s almost soupy, but I adore it thick, spooned over a bed of rice.
It’s just as happy on its own or with warm, pillowy naan. If you’re craving extra heat, swap in regular chili powder for the milder Kashmiri kind.
3. Homemade Pizza Sauce
I’m telling you, when a pizza craving hits and there’s no jar in sight, this sauce is your hero. I whisk together tomato paste, tomato sauce, and a generous handful of herbs and spices.
No simmering required, just five minutes of stirring and it’s ready to go. It’s so simple and ridiculously good, you’ll never miss the store-bought stuff.
4. Slow Cooker Chicken Ropa Vieja
If chicken fajitas are your jam, say hello to your new favorite dish. This slow cooker chicken ropa vieja is basically a deconstructed fajita, just missing the tortilla and cheese.
I love piling it over rice, but you can absolutely tuck it into a tortilla too. Either way, it’s a filling, flavorful win.
5. Slow-Cooker Beef Stroganoff
I have nothing against a box of Hamburger Helper, but homemade beef stroganoff is on a whole other level. This slow cooker version is one of the best I’ve ever tried.
I just toss everything in the pot before I head out, and by dinnertime, it’s ready to devour. Pure, creamy comfort.
6. Taco Lettuce Wraps
When lunch needs to be quick and yummy, these taco lettuce wraps are my go-to. They come together in around 20 minutes and taste just like the real deal, minus the carb-y tortilla.
All the taco flavor, none of the guilt. So fresh and satisfying.
7. Chicken Breasts in Tomato Sauce
Chicken breasts are on heavy rotation at my house, and my family happily eats them any way I make them. But this version always gets extra rave reviews.
The sauce is so rich and creamy, and the chicken stays tender and juicy. It’s bright, buttery, and totally decadent.
8. Shepherd’s Pie
Shepherd’s pie has been warming hearts since the early 1800s and it’s every bit as wonderful now. Originally it was a clever way to use up leftovers from the week, and honestly, that’s still a brilliant money saving trick. These days I often make it with fresh ingredients, but either way, it’s pure comfort in a dish.
9. Hemp Tofu Burger
I know, a hemp tofu burger might sound like a throwback, especially with that optional herbed white bean spread. But stay with me, because it’s honestly incredible.
The patty is firm and never mushy, and it’s not dry at all. It’s surprisingly flavorful even before you pile on your favorite burger fixings.
10. Slow-Cooker Shredded Beef Ragu
I am all about slow cooker meals. Sure, they take their sweet time, but my hands are basically free.
This shredded beef ragu is hands down one of the best things I’ve ever made in my slow cooker. The meat just falls apart into rich, tomatoey goodness. It’s effortless and unbelievably delicious.
11. Classic Pot Roast
Here’s a little secret: tomato paste is the non-negotiable star of a perfect pot roast. It brings an incredibly rich, deep flavor and makes the meat so much moister and brothy.
Once you taste it, you’ll understand why it’s absolutely irresistible. This classic just wouldn’t be the same without it.
12. Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta with Crème Fraîche
This pasta is ridiculously addictive, I’m warning you. It’s loaded with bold bites of oregano, onion, and sun-dried tomatoes, all wrapped in a buttery, creamy sauce that melts in your mouth.
The best part? It’s on the table in under 20 minutes. Hello, perfect weeknight dinner.
13. Classic Tomato Soup
Is there anything more nostalgic than a bowl of light, bright tomato soup? That orangey red hue and herby tomato flavor just get me every time.
This version sneaks in cannellini beans and onions, with a little touch of brown sugar for extra depth. It’s cozy, simple, and tastes like a warm hug.
14. Enchilada Sauce from Scratch
I know, I know, tomato paste is so much more than sauces, but let’s just get this one out of the way because it’s spectacular. This enchilada sauce has that dreamy, velvety consistency, a gentle kick of heat, and flavor that just won’t quit. It’s the kind of sauce that makes you want to lick the spoon.
15. Chicken Menudo
Ready to shake up your dinner routine? This classic Filipino stew is low calorie, high protein, and perfect for chilly nights when you’re in a rut.
It’s a delightful dance of sweet and savory, studded with garden fresh veggies. I just know you’ll fall for it.
16. Easy 20-Minute Butter Chicken
If you love Indian flavors but shy away from the spice, this butter chicken is your answer. It’s got all those traditional, aromatic flavors but stays mild enough that kids go back for seconds.
Even better, it’s ready in just 20 minutes using one skillet. Serve it over steamy rice or with fresh naan.
17. Braised Steak & Onions
When that steak and potatoes craving hits, you need this recipe. The braised steak with onions comes out so tender and saucy, with flavor that just sings.
It pairs beautifully with any potato you throw at it. Sure, it cooks low and slow for a few hours, but the actual prep is barely ten minutes, then the Dutch oven does all the work.
18. Quick and Easy Spaghetti Bolognese
Spaghetti bolognese is that classic Italian meal that both kids and adults go crazy for. It’s just right for a hectic weeknight and still feels fancy enough to serve at a dinner party.
I can have it on the table in 30 minutes flat, and trust me, everyone will clean their plate. Don’t even think about skipping the garlic bread!
19. Beef Barley Soup
Let’s wander away from sauces and cozy up to a bowl of soup, okay? This beef barley number is hearty, deeply flavorful, and packed with goodness.
Each bowl brings immune-boosting garlic and loads of veggies, plus a whopping 22 grams of protein. When the weather gets chilly, this is hardcore comfort food that warms you from the inside out.
20. Lamb Shanks
If lamb intimidates you, this foolproof recipe is about to change everything. You can go stovetop, oven, slow cooker, or Instant Pot, with barely any hands on work.
The meat turns out so tender it practically shreds itself; you won’t even need a fork. It’s heavenly, I promise.
21. 15-Minute Tomato Paste Pasta Sauce
Say goodbye to jarred sauces, because this one is a real winner. It’s naturally gluten free, soy free, and totally vegan, so everyone at the table can dig in.
I love that I can play with the herbs until it’s exactly how I like it. And the best part? You’ll save money and can whip up big batches to stash in the freezer for crazy busy nights.
22. Saucy Moroccan-Spiced Lentils
Get ready to see lentils in a whole new light. These Moroccan-spiced beauties are spicy, deeply flavorful, and so satisfying.
I love them as a hearty side or a standalone meal. Either way, they’ll impress everyone at the table.