3 Simple Ways to Thicken Your Tomato Sauce

Tomato sauce is a must-have in any kitchen, and I can’t imagine cooking without it. I always prefer making my own because nothing beats the fresh, rich flavor of homemade sauce. Since tomato sauce is so versatile, it's essential to know how to fix it if it turns out too watery.

The amount of water in the vegetables and any added liquids could be the culprits behind a thin tomato sauce. If your sauce is too watery, here’s how to fix it.

How to Thicken Your Tomato Sauce

There are a few easy methods to thicken tomato sauce, and they’re all straightforward:

1. Let the sauce simmer longer: This is one of the best ways to thicken the sauce without altering the flavor. Stir occasionally to prevent burning, and let the sauce reduce as the excess liquid evaporates. Keep the heat on low, and be patient—sometimes it may take longer than expected. Since each batch of tomato sauce can vary, whether due to different ingredients or added extras like red wine, a longer simmer is often the easiest solution.
2. Stir in tomato paste: While most tomato sauces already contain some tomato paste, adding more can really help thicken the sauce. Not only will it add texture, but it will also intensify the flavor. You can enhance the paste’s richness by browning it with a bit of butter and flour in a separate pan before adding it to the sauce.
3. Make a cornstarch slurry: For a quick fix, use a cornstarch slurry. Simply mix one part cornstarch with two parts cold water (for example, 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water), then whisk it into your sauce until it thickens.

Looking to make your own homemade tomato sauce? Check out these 13 tomato sauce recipes using fresh tomatoes.