Smoked Tomato Pasta Sauce

This smoked tomato pasta sauce recipe is rich, comforting and full of deep, smoky flavour. Using smoked tomato flakes adds an extra layer of intensity, creating a sauce that’s perfect for pasta, lasagne or simple weeknight meals.

Made with smoked tomato flakes — learn more about cooking with smoked spices in our smoked spices guide, or explore our range of smoked spice products.

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion (finely chopped)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
2 tbsp smoked tomato flakes
400g canned crushed tomatoes
1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Fresh basil or parsley

Directions

Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat and cook onion until soft (3–4 minutes).
Add garlic and cook until fragrant (1–2 minutes).
Stir in smoked tomato flakes and paprika, allowing flavours to release.
Add crushed tomatoes and bring to a gentle simmer.
Season with salt, pepper and sugar if needed, then simmer for 15–20 minutes.
Finish with fresh herbs and serve over pasta or use in your favourite dishes.

Why Smoked Tomato Works in This Recipe

Smoked tomato flakes bring a deeper, richer flavour than standard tomato products, adding a subtle smokiness that enhances sauces and slow-cooked dishes. They create a more complex and balanced sauce without extra effort. Learn more about cooking with smoked spices in our smoked spices guide.