We’ve always loved the velvety allure of creamed tomatoes, a timeless comfort dish that warms the soul with its rich, tangy flavors. Drawing from classic American roots, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a creamy delight that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.
It’s our go-to for an easy yet elegant meal, blending fresh tomatoes with a luscious cream base that we’ll show you how to master. Trust us—once you try it, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen too.
Ingredients
In our Creamed Tomato Recipe, we gather fresh, high-quality ingredients that blend to create a rich, tangy delight perfect for elevating simple family meals. Below, we list them in the order they are used, with prep specifics noted for accuracy and ease.
- Fresh tomatoes (4 medium-sized, ripe ones, diced into 1-inch pieces) – We start with these as the star of the dish, providing a juicy, vibrant base that infuses the cream with natural sweetness and acidity.
- Yellow onion (1 large, finely chopped) – Next, we prepare this for sautéing to add a subtle, caramelized depth that complements the tomatoes’ tang.
- Garlic cloves (3, minced) – We follow with these for their aromatic punch, ensuring they are freshly minced to release maximum flavor.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons) – Used early for melting in the pan, we opt for unsalted to control seasoning and achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
- All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons) – Added right after the butter to form a roux, we specify this amount for the ideal thickening without overpowering the other flavors.
- Heavy cream (1 cup, at room temperature) – We incorporate this midway to create the signature creaminess, choosing full-fat for a luxurious, velvety finish.
- Whole milk (1 cup) – Blended in alongside the cream, we use this to balance richness and ensure a pourable consistency.
- Salt (1 teaspoon, or to taste) – Seasoned towards the end, we adjust based on the tomatoes’ natural salt content for enhanced flavor harmony.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon, freshly ground) – We add this last for a gentle spice that elevates the dish’s warmth.
- Fresh basil leaves (¼ cup, torn) – Finally, we include these for a fresh, herbaceous garnish that adds a burst of color and aroma to our finished Creamed Tomato Recipe.
Equipment and Tools
Having selected our fresh ingredients, we now turn to the essential equipment and tools that make preparing our creamed tomato recipe seamless and efficient. The right tools not only speed up the process but also help achieve that perfect creamy texture and vibrant flavor we crave in this comforting dish.
To get started, here’s a list of key equipment we’ll need, organized by the stages of preparation:
- Cutting board and chef’s knife: We rely on a sturdy cutting board paired with a sharp chef’s knife to chop the ripe tomatoes, yellow onion, and garlic precisely. This ensures even cooking and releases the full aroma of these base ingredients.
- Medium saucepan or skillet: A heavy-bottomed medium saucepan (at least 10 inches in diameter) is crucial for sautéing and creating the roux with unsalted butter and all-purpose flour. It provides even heat distribution to prevent scorching and achieve that silky creaminess from heavy cream and whole milk.
- Whisk: We use a reliable whisk to blend the roux smoothly, avoiding lumps as we incorporate the liquids. This tool is key for that velvety consistency that makes our creamed tomatoes so irresistible.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are vital for our recipe’s balance, so we always have a set of measuring cups and spoons on hand to portion out ingredients like salt, black pepper, and fresh basil exactly.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring and scraping the pan, a heat-resistant wooden spoon or silicone spatula helps prevent sticking and ensures every bit of flavor is captured, especially when adding the final seasonings.
With these tools ready, we’re set to move forward confidently and create a dish that highlights the rich, tangy essence of our creamed tomatoes.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, let’s walk through the steps to prepare our creamy tomato delight, ensuring a smooth process and vibrant flavors in every bite.
Prepare the Tomatoes
First, we start by prepping the ripe tomatoes, which form the heart of our dish. Begin by washing 4 large ripe tomatoes under cold water to remove any impurities, then pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Next, core and dice the tomatoes into 1/2-inch pieces, yielding about 4 cups, to release their juicy, tangy essence that will infuse the recipe with bright color and fresh aroma.
While the tomatoes rest, move on to the yellow onion and garlic. Peel and finely chop 1 medium yellow onion into small pieces for even cooking, and mince 2 garlic cloves to add a pungent depth that enhances the overall savory profile. This preparation ensures all components are ready for seamless integration, setting the stage for a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
Make the Cream Sauce
With our vegetables prepped, we shift to creating the luxurious cream sauce that gives our creamed tomatoes their velvety smoothness. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, swirling it until it foams and releases a nutty fragrance that fills the kitchen.
Once melted, whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to form a roux, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color and thickens slightly—this step is crucial for a silky base without lumps. Gradually pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of whole milk, whisking vigorously to avoid clumps and achieve a creamy consistency that coats the back of a spoon. Season with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, tasting as you go to balance the rich, comforting flavors that make this sauce irresistible.
Cook the Mixture
We combine everything to cook the mixture, transforming simple ingredients into a cohesive, hearty dish. Add the prepared diced tomatoes, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the cream sauce in the saucepan, stirring gently with a wooden spoon to incorporate them evenly.
Reduce the heat to low and simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and release their juices, creating a thick, glossy sauce with a vibrant red hue and an enticing aroma of garlic and herbs. In the final minute, stir in 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil for a burst of peppery freshness that elevates the tangy tomato flavors and adds a pop of green color, ensuring our creamed tomatoes are ready to serve with perfect creaminess and depth.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the beauties of our creamed tomato recipe is its flexibility for busy schedules. We can prepare key components in advance to save time while preserving the dish’s rich, tangy flavors and creamy texture. Follow these steps to make ahead without compromising quality.
Preparing the Base in Advance
To streamline your cooking process, start by prepping the vegetables and roux ahead of time:
- Wash and chop the tomatoes, onion, and garlic: Dice the ripe tomatoes into even pieces, finely chop the yellow onion, and mince the garlic. This ensures they’re ready to go and helps maintain their fresh, vibrant flavors.
- Make the roux early: Melt the unsalted butter in a saucepan, whisk in the all-purpose flour, and cook until it forms a smooth base. Let it cool completely before storing.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage is crucial to keep the creamed tomato mixture fresh and prevent separation. We recommend the following options based on your needs:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 3 days | Store the prepared base or fully assembled dish in an airtight container. Cool it quickly to room temperature before refrigerating to lock in the creamy consistency and aromatic basil notes. |
| Freezing | Up to 2 months | Freeze in portion-sized containers to avoid texture loss. Thaw overnight in the fridge to preserve the dish’s velvety smoothness and depth of flavor from the heavy cream and seasonings. |
Reheating for Optimal Results
When you’re ready to enjoy our creamed tomato recipe, reheat it gently to maintain its luxurious creaminess:
- Thaw if frozen: Transfer from the freezer to the refrigerator for at least 12 hours.
- Warm on the stove: Heat the mixture in a saucepan over low heat, stirring with a wooden spoon to prevent sticking and ensure even warming.
- Adjust seasonings: Taste and add a pinch of salt, black pepper, or fresh basil as needed to refresh the bold, tangy profile.
By following these make-ahead steps, we ensure your creamed tomato recipe remains a quick, flavorful staple for family dinners or cozy evenings.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this creamed tomato recipe with you, as it’s one of our go-to favorites for its simple elegance and comforting vibes. It’s a dish that brings families together and elevates everyday meals into something special.
Give it a try and you’ll see why it’s become a staple in our kitchens—tweak it to suit your tastes and enjoy the rewards of homemade goodness. We’re confident it’ll add a touch of warmth to your table time and again.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is creamed tomatoes?
Creamed tomatoes is a classic American comfort dish featuring ripe tomatoes simmered in a creamy sauce, offering rich, tangy flavors that bring warmth to family dinners or cozy evenings. It’s an easy recipe that transforms simple ingredients into an elegant, creamy delight, perfect for everyday meals.
What ingredients are needed for creamed tomatoes?
You’ll need fresh ripe tomatoes as the base, along with yellow onion and garlic for flavor. Key additions include unsalted butter and all-purpose flour for a roux, heavy cream and whole milk for creaminess, salt, black pepper for seasoning, and fresh basil for a finishing touch. Using high-quality ingredients ensures the best taste.
What equipment is required for the creamed tomatoes recipe?
Essential tools include a cutting board and chef’s knife for chopping, a medium saucepan or skillet for cooking, a whisk for blending the roux, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, and a wooden spoon or spatula for stirring. These help achieve a smooth texture and vibrant flavors effortlessly.
How do I prepare creamed tomatoes?
Start by washing, coring, and dicing tomatoes, then chop onion and mince garlic. Melt butter in a pan, make a roux with flour, add cream and milk while whisking, season to taste, and simmer with vegetables until thickened. Stir in fresh basil at the end for added aroma and color.
Can I make creamed tomatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare components like chopping vegetables or making the roux in advance to save time. This keeps the dish fresh for busy schedules. Assemble and cook fully just before serving for the best texture, or store prepared parts in the fridge for up to a day.
How should I store creamed tomatoes?
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days, or freeze for up to two months to preserve flavors. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess, avoiding microwaves to prevent separation and keep the dish tasting fresh.
