We’ve always been fans of simple yet soulful dishes that elevate everyday ingredients, and our creamed tomatoes recipe is a perfect example. Hailing from Southern American kitchens, this creamy twist on fresh tomatoes offers a comforting blend of tangy flavors and rich texture that warms the heart on chilly evenings.
It’s an easy favorite we’ll guide you through, ideal for weeknight dinners or as a versatile side. With just a few pantry staples, you’ll create a dish that’s both nostalgic and delightfully modern.
Ingredients
In our creamed tomatoes recipe, we gather simple, fresh ingredients that blend tangy tomatoes with a creamy, comforting texture. Below, we list them in the order they’ll be used, with precise measurements and prep notes for effortless preparation.
- Tomatoes: 4 large fresh tomatoes (about 2 pounds), cored and diced for a juicy base that provides the dish’s signature tang.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted in a skillet to start building the rich, velvety sauce.
- Onion: 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped to add subtle sweetness and depth as it cooks down.
- Garlic: 2 cloves garlic, minced for an aromatic punch that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- All-purpose flour: 2 tablespoons, sifted to thicken the sauce without lumps, ensuring a smooth consistency.
- Milk: 1 cup whole milk, warmed to create that creamy essence we love in this Southern classic.
- Heavy cream: ½ cup, for extra richness that elevates the dish’s indulgent feel.
- Salt and pepper: 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper, to taste for balancing the acidity and adding a savory kick.
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon granulated sugar, optional to mellow any tartness from the tomatoes if needed.
- Fresh herbs: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley, roughly torn and added at the end for a burst of color and freshness.
This selection of pantry staples keeps our creamed tomatoes straightforward yet flavorful, perfect for quick weeknight meals.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients for this creamed tomatoes recipe, we’ll walk you through the straightforward steps to create a creamy, tangy dish bursting with Southern flavors.
Prep
Before we start cooking, let’s prepare our ingredients to ensure everything comes together smoothly. Begin by washing and dicing 4 large fresh tomatoes into even 1-inch pieces to release their juicy essence. Next, peel and finely chop 1 medium yellow onion into small cubes for a subtle sweetness that enhances the tang. Mince 2 cloves of garlic to add a pungent aroma that will infuse the base. Measure out 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of whole milk, and ½ cup of heavy cream, setting them aside for easy access. Finally, if using optional sugar, have 1 teaspoon ready, and rinse and chop fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a vibrant finish.
Cook
With our ingredients prepped, let’s move to the stovetop where the magic happens. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter until it sizzles and releases a nutty scent. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until they turn golden and fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Sprinkle in the all-purpose flour, whisking vigorously for 1 minute to form a smooth roux that thickens our base. Gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously until the mixture simmers and achieves a velvety texture—about 5 minutes. Gently fold in the diced tomatoes, along with ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of pepper, letting them cook for 10 minutes until they soften and blend into a rich, rosy sauce. If the mixture tastes too tart, stir in the optional sugar to balance the flavors, then simmer for another 2 minutes to meld everything together, filling your kitchen with a warm, comforting aroma.
Serve
Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat and let the creamed tomatoes cool slightly for 2-3 minutes to thicken further. Spoon the creamy mixture into bowls or onto plates as a side dish, garnishing with the chopped fresh herbs for a pop of color and earthy freshness. We recommend pairing it with grilled meats or crusty bread to soak up the luscious sauce, allowing the smooth texture and bold flavors to shine at your table.
Tools and Equipment
To bring our creamed tomatoes recipe to life smoothly, we rely on a few key tools and equipment that ensure precision and efficiency in the kitchen. Having the right items on hand streamlines the process from prepping fresh ingredients to achieving that velvety, rich texture we love in this Southern-inspired dish.
Essential Kitchen Tools
We recommend gathering these Tools and Equipment before starting, as they align directly with the steps of dicing, sautéing, and simmering:
- Cutting Board: A sturdy wooden or plastic cutting board is essential for safely chopping onions, mincing garlic, and dicing tomatoes. We prefer one that’s large enough to handle multiple ingredients without mess.
- Chef’s Knife: This sharp, versatile chef’s knife allows us to make quick, precise cuts, ensuring even pieces that cook uniformly and enhance the dish’s tangy flavors.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for our creamed tomatoes recipe, so we use a set of stainless steel measuring cups and spoons to portion out flour, milk, and cream exactly.
- Skillet or Saucepan: A medium-sized, non-stick skillet or heavy-bottomed saucepan (about 10-12 inches) is ideal for sautéing aromatics and building the roux, providing even heat distribution for a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: We opt for a heat-resistant wooden spoon or spatula to stir the mixture without scratching cookware, helping to prevent lumps and incorporate ingredients seamlessly.
- Whisk: A medium whisk comes in handy for blending the flour into the butter and gradually adding liquids, ensuring our sauce remains lump-free and achieves that irresistible silky consistency.
By preparing these tools in advance, we make the cooking process efficient and enjoyable, allowing us to focus on the comforting aromas and flavors of our creamed tomatoes recipe.
Make-Ahead Instructions
As we explore ways to simplify our creamed tomatoes recipe for busy schedules, preparing components in advance ensures that this comforting dish retains its rich, tangy flavors and velvety texture without last-minute rushes. Below, we outline step-by-step make-ahead strategies to streamline your cooking process.
Prepping Ingredients Ahead
To maintain the freshness of our key ingredients like fresh tomatoes and herbs, we recommend prepping them up to 24 hours in advance:
- Dice the tomatoes: Chop four large fresh tomatoes into even pieces and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve their juicy texture.
- Chop the onion and mince the garlic: Prepare one medium yellow onion (chopped) and the required garlic (minced) in separate containers to avoid flavor crossover.
- Measure dry ingredients: Combine all-purpose flour, salt, and pepper in a small bowl or sealed bag for quick access during cooking.
Assembling and Storing the Dish
For creamed tomatoes, you can partially assemble the dish ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld while keeping the final product creamy and warm:
- Follow the initial cooking steps—sauté the onion and garlic in unsalted butter, create the roux with flour, and add whole milk and heavy cream—up to the point of incorporating the tomatoes.
- Once the base sauce reaches a smooth consistency, let it cool completely, then stir in the diced tomatoes.
- Transfer the mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. This resting period enhances the tangy essence of the tomatoes, making the dish even more flavorful.
Reheating Tips
When you’re ready to serve, reheating is straightforward and helps restore the dish’s comforting warmth:
- In a skillet: Gently warm the stored mixture over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring with a wooden spoon until heated through and creamy.
- In the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C), place the mixture in an oven-safe dish, and heat for 10-15 minutes, covered, to prevent drying.
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated (in airtight container) | Up to 2 days | Maintains texture; stir before reheating to blend flavors. |
| Frozen (in freezer-safe bag) | Up to 1 month | Thaw overnight in the fridge; may slightly alter creaminess, so add a splash of milk when reheating. |
Conclusion
We’re confident this creamed tomatoes recipe will become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
It’s more than just a dish; it’s a simple way to bring comfort and flavor to your table.
Try tweaking it with your twists and enjoy the warmth it adds to everyday meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is creamed tomatoes?
Creamed tomatoes is a simple, comforting Southern American dish that turns fresh tomatoes into a creamy, tangy side or main course. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, using everyday pantry staples to create a rich texture that pairs well with meats or bread, offering warmth on chilly evenings.
What ingredients do I need for creamed tomatoes?
You’ll need four large fresh tomatoes, unsalted butter, a medium yellow onion, minced garlic, all-purpose flour, whole milk, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and optional sugar. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley add flavor at the end. This straightforward list focuses on fresh, simple items for quick preparation.
How do I make creamed tomatoes?
Start by dicing tomatoes, chopping onion, and mincing garlic. Sauté onion and garlic in butter, make a roux with flour, then add milk and cream for a smooth base. Fold in tomatoes, simmer until thickened, and garnish with herbs. The whole process takes about 20-30 minutes for a velvety result.
What tools do I need for this recipe?
Essential tools include a sturdy cutting board, sharp chef’s knife, measuring cups and spoons, a medium skillet or saucepan, heat-resistant spoon or spatula, and a whisk. These items ensure precise prep and even cooking, making the process efficient and enjoyable.
Can I prepare creamed tomatoes in advance?
Yes, prep ingredients like tomatoes, onions, and garlic up to 24 hours ahead to keep them fresh. You can partially assemble the dish and refrigerate it, allowing flavors to meld. For best results, reheat gently in a skillet or oven to maintain the creamy texture.
How should I store creamed tomatoes?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 350°F, stirring occasionally to preserve creaminess. Avoid boiling to prevent separation.