Ah, the comforting warmth of a creamy tomato gravy! It’s a staple in many Southern households, and for good reason. This rich and savory sauce has the power to elevate even the humblest of dishes into a culinary masterpiece. From classic comfort food to innovative twists, we’ve gathered 18 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility and deliciousness of creamy tomato gravy.
In this article, you’ll discover how to create a range of scrumptious gravies, from traditional pairings like buttermilk biscuits and fried chicken to more adventurous combinations featuring sausage, grits, roasted red peppers, and even vegan options. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic or looking to spice things up, these creamy tomato gravy recipes are sure to become new favorites.
Classic Southern Tomato Gravy with Buttermilk Biscuits
Classic Southern Tomato Gravy with Buttermilk Biscuits Recipe
Rich, tangy tomato gravy paired with flaky buttermilk biscuits – a quintessential Southern comfort food combination.
Tomato Gravy
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped tomatoes, flour, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Gradually add heavy cream or half-and-half, whisking continuously.
5. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until desired consistency.
Buttermilk Biscuits
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into the dry ingredients until crumbly.
4. Pour in buttermilk and stir until dough forms.
5. Roll out dough to 1-inch thickness and cut into desired shapes.
Cooking Time
Tomato Gravy: 15-20 minutes
Buttermilk Biscuits: 12-15 minutes
Spicy Cajun Tomato Gravy over Fried Chicken
Elevate your fried chicken game with this bold and tangy gravy that adds a depth of flavor to your favorite comfort food. This Spicy Cajun Tomato Gravy is the perfect accompaniment to crispy fried chicken, biscuits, or even as a dip for your favorite snacks.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, heavy cream, hot sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, Cajun seasoning, and cayenne pepper.
2. Whisk until smooth, then season with salt and black pepper to taste.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, whisking occasionally, until thickened slightly (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Serve hot over fried chicken, biscuits, or as a dip.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smoky Bacon Tomato Gravy with Cornbread
This rich and savory gravy is the perfect accompaniment to a warm slice of cornbread. The smoky flavor from the bacon pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the tomatoes, making for a truly comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of fresh or canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup of cornbread mix (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon from the skillet, leaving the grease behind.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until softened.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, tomato paste, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer the gravy for 15-20 minutes or until thickened to your liking.
6. Serve the gravy over cornbread and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Herb Tomato Gravy for Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potatoes with this flavorful and aromatic gravy, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, tomato paste, thyme, and parsley.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Tomato Gravy with Sausage and Grits
A hearty, comforting dish that combines the flavors of sausage, grits, and creamy tomato gravy.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet or hot sausage (such as andouille or kielbasa), sliced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup stone-ground grits
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, until browned and cooked through.
2. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the butter and stir until melted.
4. Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Bring to a simmer.
5. Stir in the grits and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
6. Add the cooked sausage back into the gravy and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Tomato Gravy with Polenta
Elevate your meal with this vibrant and flavorful sauce, perfect for accompanying roasted meats or as a dip for crusty bread. Roasting red peppers brings out their natural sweetness, which pairs beautifully with the tanginess of tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup polenta
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roast the red peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
2. Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool. Peel off the skin, discarding it, and chop the flesh into a rough puree.
3. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, roasted red pepper puree, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it reduce slightly, about 10-15 minutes.
7. Cook the polenta according to package instructions. Serve the gravy over the warm polenta.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vegan Tomato Gravy with Coconut Milk
Elevate your vegan meals with this creamy and flavorful tomato gravy, made with the richness of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed tomatoes (canned or fresh)
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the canned or fresh tomatoes, coconut milk, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Gravy with Fresh Basil and Parmesan
Elevate your pasta dishes or grilled meats with this vibrant and flavorful tomato gravy infused with the brightness of fresh basil and the nutty taste of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in the chopped basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve immediately over pasta, grilled meats, or as a dip.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Tomato Gravy with Andouille Sausage
Elevate your weeknight meals with this bold and flavorful gravy, perfectly paired with spicy Andouille sausage.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup tomato paste
– 2 tbsp hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the Andouille sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the sausage from the skillet; set aside.
3. Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, hot sauce, and smoked paprika to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the gravy thickens slightly.
5. Stir in the cooked Andouille sausage.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato Gravy with Mushrooms and Thyme
A rich and savory tomato gravy infused with the earthy flavors of mushrooms and thyme, perfect for serving over pasta, meat, or vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes, thyme, and flour. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato Gravy with Ground Beef and Peppers
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This tomato gravy is perfect for serving over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and bell peppers to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add the beef broth and chopped tomatoes to the skillet, stirring constantly.
6. Bring the gravy to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Tomato Gravy over Garlic Bread
Savor the rich flavors of this comforting dish, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup canned crushed tomatoes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 slices of Italian bread (such as Ciabatta or Focaccia)
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, cheddar cheese, crushed tomatoes, garlic, and basil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let the gravy simmer for 10-12 minutes or until thickened slightly.
4. Meanwhile, butter the slices of Italian bread.
5. Place the bread on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes or until lightly toasted.
6. Spoon the warm cheese tomato gravy over the garlic bread.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato Gravy with Shrimp and Cream
Elevate your seafood dishes with this creamy and flavorful tomato gravy, perfect for pasta, rice, or as a dipping sauce. This recipe combines succulent shrimp with a rich tomato sauce and a hint of cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh tomatoes, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until smooth; cook for 1 minute.
2. Gradually add diced tomatoes, heavy cream, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Add shrimp to the saucepan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until pink and fully cooked.
5. Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or as a dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tomato Gravy with Italian Herbs and Meatballs
Elevate your pasta dishes or serve as a dipping sauce, this rich and flavorful tomato gravy is infused with the warmth of Italian herbs and savory meatballs.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, pureed
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pound homemade or store-bought meatballs
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in pureed tomatoes, parsley, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken for 10-15 minutes.
5. Add meatballs and continue to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
6. Serve hot over pasta, as a dipping sauce, or with your favorite dishes.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato Gravy with Spinach and Feta
A flavorful twist on traditional tomato gravy, this recipe adds the nutritional boost of spinach and the tanginess of feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, cored and chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped tomatoes, garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes are soft and slightly caramelized.
2. Add the fresh spinach leaves to the skillet and stir until wilted.
3. Stir in the crumbled feta cheese until melted and well combined with the tomato mixture.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot over pasta, rice, or as a dipping sauce for bread.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Tomato Gravy with Fried Green Tomatoes
A classic Southern combination that’s easy to make and utterly delicious. This recipe is a staple of Southern cuisine, perfect for serving alongside fried chicken, eggs, or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 green tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Tomato Gravy (see below)
Tomato Gravy:
– 2 tablespoons butter or oil
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate dish.
3. Dip each green tomato slice into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture.
4. Fry the coated tomatoes in hot oil until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Serve with Tomato Gravy (simply sauté diced tomatoes and garlic in butter or oil, then whisk in flour and heavy cream).
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Tomato Gravy with Caramelized Onions and Bacon
This rich and savory tomato gravy is elevated by the sweet and caramelized onions, smoky bacon, and hint of acidity. Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or eggs for a satisfying breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cups of fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the fresh tomatoes (or crushed canned tomatoes), salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Simmer the tomato mixture for 15-20 minutes or until thickened slightly.
7. Stir in the cooked bacon and chopped parsley (if using).
8. Serve hot over your choice of base.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Tomato Gravy with Crispy Fried Okra
This Southern-inspired recipe combines the comforting flavors of tomato gravy with the crispy, nutty goodness of fried okra. A perfect accompaniment to your favorite comfort foods!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh or frozen okra
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup tomato paste
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip okra pods into the dry mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Fry okra pods in batches until crispy, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
5. Drain fried okra on paper towels.
6. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
7. Add tomato paste and whisk to combine with milk.
8. Gradually add beef broth, whisking constantly.
9. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until thickened.
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes (includes frying time)
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of the South with these 18 creamy tomato gravy recipes! From classic comfort food to spicy twists and international inspirations, there’s something for everyone. Try pairing your favorite Southern staples like biscuits, grits, or cornbread with a tangy tomato gravy. Or, spice things up with Cajun sausage or Andouille. Whether you’re in the mood for hearty comfort food or a light and fresh twist, these recipes will transport you to the heart of Dixie.
Leave a Reply