Gravy tomato sauce is a rich, flavorful condiment that adds depth and comfort to a variety of dishes, from biscuits to pasta. This Southern-inspired sauce combines ripe tomatoes, butter, flour, and seasonings to create a velvety texture and bold taste. Unlike traditional marinara, it has a thicker consistency and a more savory, gravy-like quality.
Whether you’re looking to master a classic Southern recipe or simply explore new ways to elevate your meals, learning how to make gravy tomato sauce from scratch is a game-changer. In this guide, we’ll break down everything from its origins to step-by-step preparation, helping you create a sauce that’s both authentic and irresistible.
Understanding Gravy Tomato Sauce
What is Gravy Tomato Sauce? (Origins and Definition)
Gravy tomato sauce is a rich, thickened tomato-based sauce commonly associated with Southern and Italian-American cuisines. Unlike traditional tomato sauces, which are often thinner and more fluid, this sauce has a velvety texture achieved by using a roux—a mixture of flour and fat—that gives it a signature consistency.
Historically, this sauce has deep roots in both Southern cooking and Italian-American traditions. In the South, it is commonly served over biscuits, grits, or fried foods, while Italian-American households use a version of it as a slow-cooked Sunday gravy, simmered with meats like sausage and meatballs. The blend of tomatoes, butter, flour, and spices creates a comforting, hearty sauce that adds richness to any dish.
While the exact origins of gravy tomato sauce are debated, it likely emerged as a resourceful way to enhance meals with basic pantry staples. Tomatoes were easy to grow and preserve, while flour and butter were commonly available in most kitchens. Over time, the sauce became a beloved staple, passed down through generations and customized with various regional twists.
Why is Tomato Sauce Called Gravy? (Cultural and Regional Differences)
The term “gravy” in reference to tomato-based sauces sparks debate, particularly between Italian-Americans and Southerners. In traditional Italian cooking, a “gravy” or “Sunday sauce” is a slow-simmered tomato sauce, often enriched with meats and served over pasta. The term “gravy” was popularized by Italian immigrants in the United States, particularly in the Northeast, where families referred to their homemade tomato-based sauce as “gravy” rather than “sauce.”
On the other hand, in Southern cuisine, tomato gravy evolved as a breakfast staple, made by thickening stewed tomatoes with butter, flour, and seasonings. It was typically served over buttermilk biscuits, mashed potatoes, or grits, reinforcing its classification as “gravy” rather than a traditional tomato sauce.
This cultural distinction continues today, with Northeastern Italian-Americans and Southern cooks both claiming ownership of the term “gravy” in different ways. However, the unifying factor is that both versions rely on a rich, slow-cooked tomato base that transforms simple ingredients into a deeply flavorful dish.
Tomato Gravy Sauce vs. Marinara Sauce
Key Differences Between Tomato Gravy and Marinara Sauce (Ingredients and Consistency)
While both tomato gravy and marinara sauce share a tomato base, they differ significantly in preparation, ingredients, and consistency.
| Feature | Tomato Gravy | Marinara Sauce |
|---|---|---|
| Base | Uses a roux (butter + flour) for thickness | Cooked-down tomatoes without a thickening agent |
| Texture | Thick, creamy, gravy-like consistency | Lighter, thinner, and more fluid |
| Fat Content | Higher, often includes butter or bacon drippings | Lower, usually made with olive oil |
| Cooking Time | Longer, sometimes simmered with meats | Quick-cooked, usually under 30 minutes |
| Common Uses | Served over biscuits, mashed potatoes, or grits | Used on pasta, pizza, or as a dip |
These differences highlight how tomato gravy is more of a comfort food condiment, while marinara sauce is a lighter, traditional pasta sauce.
Which One is Best for Different Dishes? (Pairing with Different Foods)
Since tomato gravy and marinara sauce differ in texture and preparation, they pair best with different foods.
- Tomato Gravy Works Best With:
- Buttermilk biscuits
- Fried chicken
- Grits and eggs
- Mashed potatoes
- Country ham
- Marinara Sauce Works Best With:
- Spaghetti and pasta dishes
- Meatballs
- Pizza base
- Mozzarella sticks (as a dipping sauce)
- Eggplant parmesan
Choosing between these two sauces depends on the dish and the regional influence you want to bring to your meal.
How to Make Gravy Tomato Sauce
Ingredients You Need
To make a classic Southern-style gravy tomato sauce, you’ll need the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ripe tomatoes (or canned) | 2 cups, diced |
| Butter | 3 tablespoons |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tablespoons |
| Chicken or vegetable broth | 1 cup |
| Heavy cream (optional) | ¼ cup |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 small |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Sugar (optional) | 1 teaspoon |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | ¼ teaspoon |
For a similar hearty dish, check out our Tomato Gravy Recipe, which dives deeper into a traditional Southern preparation
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions (Classic Southern Recipe)
- Prepare the Roux – In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook until it turns golden brown, about 2 minutes.
- Sauté Aromatics – Add chopped onions and garlic to the roux and cook until they become fragrant and soft.
- Add Tomatoes – Stir in the diced or canned tomatoes and let them simmer for 5 minutes.
- Incorporate Broth – Slowly pour in the broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
- Season the Sauce – Add salt, black pepper, sugar (if using), and red pepper flakes.
- Simmer Until Thickened – Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Blend for Smoothness (Optional) – If you prefer a smoother gravy, use an immersion blender to puree the sauce.
- Finish with Cream (Optional) – Stir in heavy cream for a richer, silkier texture.
Tips for Enhancing Flavor
- Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for a natural sweetness.
- Add bacon drippings instead of butter for a smoky depth.
- Simmer longer for a more intense flavor.
- Use homemade chicken broth for a richer taste.
To add more depth to your sauce, consider using homemade broth or incorporating flavors from our Meatloaf Recipe with Lipton Onion Soup, which pairs beautifully with tomato-based sauces.
Is Tomato Gravy a Southern Thing?
Origins of Tomato Gravy in Southern Cuisine
Tomato gravy has been a staple in Southern kitchens for generations. During the Great Depression, flour and butter were used to stretch ingredients, making a thick sauce that could add substance to simple meals. Southern cooks took advantage of fresh summer tomatoes, thickening them into a rich, gravy-like sauce perfect for biscuits and grits.
How It Became a Regional Staple
This dish grew in popularity because it was affordable, versatile, and easy to make. Over time, it became a comfort food tradition, particularly in rural Southern households. Today, tomato gravy is still a beloved dish found in diners and home kitchens throughout the Southern United States.
Different Variations of Tomato Gravy
Traditional Southern Style
- Made with bacon grease or butter
- Uses flour as a thickener
- Typically served over biscuits or grits
Italian-Inspired Tomato Gravy
- Simmered with meats (sausage, beef, or pork)
- Uses olive oil instead of butter
- Served over pasta instead of biscuits
Vegan & Gluten-Free Options
- Uses coconut oil or dairy-free butter
- Thickened with cornstarch or gluten-free flour
- Pairs well with gluten-free bread or roasted vegetables
For an Italian-American twist, you can try this sauce with our Italian Meatloaf Recipe, where rich tomato-based flavors shine through.
What Do They Call Gravy in the South?
Regional Naming Differences (Sauce vs. Gravy)
The term “gravy” in the Southern United States is widely used to describe a variety of sauces, many of which are thickened with flour and fat. However, in the case of tomato-based sauces, the naming conventions can vary depending on the region and tradition.
For many Southern home cooks, “gravy” refers to any thickened sauce, whether it’s white sausage gravy, red-eye gravy, or tomato gravy. However, in more urban or diverse areas, people might distinguish between “gravy” and “sauce”, especially when referring to Italian-inspired dishes.
On the other hand, in Italian-American communities, especially in the Northeastern U.S., “Sunday Gravy” is a term for a slow-simmered tomato sauce made with meats like pork, sausage, and meatballs. While Southerners associate gravy with breakfast foods like biscuits, Italian-Americans think of it as a pasta sauce served for Sunday family dinners.
Gravy variations exist throughout the South, such as this delicious Ham Gravy Recipe, which is another must-try comfort food.
Does Everyone in the South Call It Gravy?
Although “tomato gravy” is common in Southern cuisine, not all Southerners refer to it as “gravy.” Some regions simply call it “tomato sauce,” “red gravy,” or “Southern-style tomato sauce.”
The distinction often depends on family traditions and local food culture. In states like Louisiana, for example, Cajun and Creole cooking have their own variations of tomato-based gravies, often used in dishes like shrimp Creole or chicken Creole. In contrast, some Midwestern states that border the South may refer to it as tomato sauce rather than gravy.
Ultimately, the term “gravy” is more culturally significant than technical, and whether you call it “gravy” or “sauce,” it remains a beloved staple in Southern kitchens.
What Does Tomato Gravy Taste Like?
Flavor Profile and Texture
Tomato gravy has a rich, creamy, and slightly tangy taste that balances the acidity of tomatoes with the buttery smoothness of a roux. Unlike marinara or pizza sauce, which tend to be lighter and more herbaceous, tomato gravy has a deeper, more indulgent flavor due to the addition of butter, flour, and sometimes broth.
Depending on the recipe, tomato gravy can range from mild and slightly sweet to bold and spicy. The seasoning and fat content play a crucial role in determining its flavor.
| Flavor Element | How It Contributes |
|---|---|
| Tomatoes | Provide natural acidity and umami |
| Butter or Bacon Grease | Adds richness and depth |
| Flour | Creates a smooth, velvety texture |
| Garlic & Onion | Adds aromatics and depth |
| Salt & Black Pepper | Enhances all other flavors |
| Broth or Cream | Adjusts consistency and adds additional flavor |
Best Ways to Serve Tomato Gravy
Tomato gravy is incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of comfort foods.
- Classic Southern Biscuits – The most traditional pairing, where the thick, savory sauce complements the buttery flakiness of homemade biscuits.
- Fried Chicken or Pork Chops – A Southern-inspired twist, using tomato gravy as a dipping sauce or drizzled over crispy meats.
- Creamy Grits – The rich sauce adds a tangy contrast to the smooth, buttery grits.
- Mashed Potatoes – A heartier alternative to brown or white gravy.
- Eggs and Breakfast Dishes – Perfect when spooned over scrambled eggs or served alongside sausage and hashbrowns.
- Cornbread or Toasted Bread – Ideal for soaking up the thick, flavorful sauce.
For a complete Southern breakfast experience, serve it over biscuits alongside our Breakfast Turkey Burger, a hearty morning meal.
Storing and Reheating Tomato Gravy
Best Storage Methods (Fridge, Freezer, Shelf-Life)
Tomato gravy can be made in advance and stored for later use. Proper storage ensures it maintains its flavor and consistency.
| Storage Method | How to Store | Shelf Life |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Store in an airtight container | 4-5 days |
| Freezer | Freeze in a sealed, freezer-safe container | Up to 3 months |
| Canning (for long-term storage) | Use sterilized jars and a pressure canner | Up to 1 year |
How to Reheat for the Best Flavor
To restore the creamy consistency when reheating tomato gravy, follow these steps:
- Stovetop Method (Best for Maintaining Texture) – Heat over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the gravy is too thick, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up.
- Microwave (For Quick Reheating) – Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to prevent uneven heating.
- Reheating from Frozen – Allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stovetop, adding liquid if necessary.
Avoid boiling the sauce aggressively, as this can cause the gravy to break or become grainy.
If you’re making this ahead for meal prep, you might also enjoy batch-cooking and freezing comfort foods like our Smoked Meatloaf Recipe
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions about Gravy Tomato Sauce
Why is tomato sauce called gravy?
Tomato sauce is sometimes called gravy due to regional and cultural traditions. Italian-Americans, especially in the Northeast, refer to their slow-cooked tomato sauce with meat as “Sunday gravy”. Meanwhile, in Southern cuisine, “gravy” refers to thickened sauces, including tomato-based versions served with biscuits or meats.
What’s the difference between tomato gravy and marinara sauce?
Tomato gravy is thicker, richer, and made with a roux, while marinara sauce is lighter, herbaceous, and cooked quickly. Tomato gravy is commonly served with biscuits and breakfast foods, whereas marinara is mainly used for pasta and Italian dishes.
How to make tomato gravy?
To make tomato gravy, cook butter and flour to create a roux, then add tomatoes, broth, and seasonings. Simmer until thickened, stirring occasionally. Optionally, add cream or bacon drippings for extra richness.
Is tomato gravy a Southern thing?
Yes, tomato gravy is deeply rooted in Southern cuisine, where it is commonly served over biscuits, grits, and mashed potatoes. It originated as a way to stretch ingredients and add flavor to simple meals.
What do they call gravy down South?
In the South, gravy can refer to various sauces, including white sausage gravy, red-eye gravy, and tomato gravy. The name depends on the ingredients and preparation method.
What does tomato gravy taste like?
Tomato gravy has a rich, slightly tangy, and buttery flavor. It is thicker and creamier than marinara sauce, with a savory depth from ingredients like butter, broth, and spices.
Gravy Tomato Sauce
A rich and flavorful Southern-style gravy tomato sauce, perfect for biscuits, grits, and hearty comfort meals.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups diced ripe tomatoes (or canned)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook until golden brown (about 2 minutes).
- Add chopped onions and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in diced tomatoes and let simmer for 5 minutes.
- Slowly pour in broth while stirring to prevent lumps.
- Season with salt, black pepper, sugar, and red pepper flakes.
- Reduce heat and let simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- For a smoother sauce, blend with an immersion blender.
- Stir in heavy cream for a richer texture (optional).
Notes
For extra depth, use bacon drippings instead of butter. Fresh tomatoes will enhance natural sweetness. Simmer longer for a more intense flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: tomato gravy, Southern sauce, biscuits, comfort food
All nutritional values and baking times are approximate and may vary based on ingredients, equipment, and altitude. Please adjust as needed.
Conclusion
Gravy tomato sauce is a Southern classic with a rich history and bold flavor. Whether you call it gravy or sauce, this hearty, tomato-based dish adds depth to biscuits, grits, meats, and more. By understanding its origins, variations, and cooking techniques, you can recreate this comfort food staple in your own kitchen.
If you’re looking for the perfect addition to your next Southern-inspired meal, try making homemade tomato gravy today. Experiment with different seasonings, meats, or dairy alternatives to create a version that suits your taste.
For more recipes like this, explore our collection of Southern favorites and discover new ways to elevate classic comfort foods.
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Explore More Tomato Gravy Variations
Want to dive deeper into different styles of tomato gravy? Check out this detailed guide from The Kitchn for another take on this beloved Southern classic.