Southern Tomato Recipes bring back memories of warm kitchens, family gatherings, and the comforting flavors of home-cooked meals. From fried green tomatoes to rich tomato gravy, these dishes are a true taste of the South.
In this collection, we’re sharing 10 classic recipes that celebrate the versatility of tomatoes. Whether you’re using ripe summer tomatoes or tangy green ones, each dish captures the heart of Southern cooking—simple, flavorful, and made with love.
Expect favorites like creamy tomato pie, slow-simmered stewed tomatoes, and crispy fried delights. These recipes are easy to follow and perfect for recreating Grandma’s homemade goodness.
Get ready to bring Southern tradition to your table with these Southern tomato recipes that stand the test of time. Let’s dive in and rediscover these comforting classics!
Scalloped Tomatoes
Scalloped Tomatoes is a cherished Southern dish that transforms ripe tomatoes into a comforting casserole. This recipe combines juicy tomatoes with toasted bread cubes, fresh herbs, and a hint of sweetness, all baked to perfection.
To prepare, start by sautéing onions and garlic until translucent. Add diced tomatoes, a touch of sugar, salt, and pepper, allowing the mixture to simmer and develop its flavors. Incorporate toasted bread cubes, fresh basil, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, then transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
Bake until the top is golden and bubbly, resulting in a dish that’s both savory and slightly sweet. Scalloped Tomatoes pair wonderfully with roasted meats or can be enjoyed as a standalone vegetarian entrée, capturing the essence of Southern comfort food.
Original Hot Brown
The Original Hot Brown is a legendary open-faced sandwich that hails from Louisville, Kentucky. Created in the 1920s at the Brown Hotel, this indulgent dish features layers of roasted turkey, crispy bacon, and ripe tomatoes, all smothered in a rich Mornay sauce.
To assemble, place slices of roasted turkey on thick toast, top with tomato slices, and cover generously with Mornay sauce—a creamy blend of butter, flour, milk, and Parmesan cheese. Broil until the sauce is bubbly and golden, then garnish with crispy bacon strips.
The Original Hot Brown is a decadent treat perfect for brunch or a hearty lunch, offering a taste of Southern hospitality with every bite.
Okra and Tomatoes
Okra and Tomatoes is a classic Southern side dish that brings together tender okra pods and juicy tomatoes in a flavorful medley. This simple yet satisfying recipe highlights the natural flavors of fresh produce, often enhanced with onions, garlic, and aromatic spices.
Begin by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add sliced okra and cook until it softens. Incorporate diced tomatoes, a pinch of sugar, salt, and pepper, allowing the mixture to simmer until the okra is tender and the flavors meld together.
Some variations include adding corn, ground beef, or smoked sausage to make it a heartier main course. Okra and Tomatoes pair well with cornbread or rice, embodying the essence of Southern comfort cuisine.
Green Tomato Relish
Green Tomato Relish, also known as chow-chow, is a tangy condiment that utilizes unripe tomatoes, offering a zesty accompaniment to various dishes. This relish combines chopped green tomatoes with onions, peppers, vinegar, and spices, resulting in a flavorful preserve that’s both sweet and sour.
To make, finely chop green tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers, then mix with salt and let them sit to draw out excess moisture. Drain and combine the vegetables with vinegar, sugar, mustard seeds, and other spices, then simmer until the mixture thickens and the flavors meld.
Once cooled, Green Tomato Relish can be jarred and stored, ready to enhance sandwiches, burgers, or grilled meats with its vibrant taste. It’s a delightful way to preserve the flavors of the garden and add a Southern twist to your meals.
Southern Tomato Pie
Southern Tomato Pie is a savory pastry that showcases the best of ripe, juicy tomatoes layered in a flaky crust. This beloved dish combines tomatoes with a mixture of cheeses, mayonnaise, and fresh herbs, all baked until golden and bubbly.
To prepare, start with a pre-baked pie crust to prevent sogginess. Layer thick slices of tomatoes, ensuring to drain any excess moisture to maintain the pie’s integrity. Top with a mixture of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, mayonnaise, and chopped fresh basil or chives. Repeat the layers, finishing with the cheese mixture.
Bake until the pie is set and the top is lightly browned. Southern Tomato Pie can be served warm or at room temperature, making it a versatile addition to brunches, lunches, or light dinners, embodying the flavors of Southern summers.
Tomato and Bacon Jam
Tomato and Bacon Jam is a sweet and savory spread that elevates the humble tomato into a gourmet condiment. This jam combines ripe tomatoes with crispy bacon, onions, brown sugar, and a touch of vinegar, resulting in a rich, umami-packed preserve.
Begin by cooking diced bacon until crispy, then remove and set aside. In the rendered fat, sauté onions and garlic until translucent. Add chopped tomatoes, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat. Simmer the mixture until it thickens to a jam-like consistency, then stir in the reserved bacon pieces.
Once cooled, Tomato and Bacon Jam can be stored in jars and used to enhance burgers, sandwiches, or cheese boards, offering a delightful balance of sweet, smoky, and tangy flavors that capture the essence of Southern cuisine.
Cucumber Tomato Salad
Cucumber Tomato Salad is a refreshing Southern staple that pairs crisp cucumbers with juicy tomatoes in a light, tangy dressing. This simple yet flavorful salad is a celebration of fresh produce, often enhanced with onions, herbs, and a splash of vinegar.
To assemble, combine sliced cucumbers and tomatoes with thinly sliced red onions. In a separate bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, pepper, and chopped fresh herbs like basil or dill. Drizzle the dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to combine.
Allow the salad to marinate briefly to melt the flavors before serving. Cucumber Tomato Salad is a versatile side dish that complements grilled meats, and fried chicken, or can be enjoyed on its own for a light, refreshing meal, embodying the simplicity and freshness of Southern cooking.
Southern Tomato Sandwich
The Southern Tomato Sandwich is a simple yet iconic dish that celebrates the freshness of summer tomatoes. With just a few ingredients—white bread, juicy tomatoes, mayo, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper—this sandwich is a true Southern classic.
To make the perfect Southern Tomato Sandwich, start with ripe, in-season tomatoes. Slice them thick and let them rest for a minute to drain excess juices. Spread a generous amount of mayonnaise on both slices of soft white bread, ensuring every bite is rich and creamy.
Layer the tomato slices, season with salt and black pepper, and gently press the sandwich together. Some Southerners prefer a touch of hot sauce or a sprinkle of fresh basil for added flavor. This sandwich is best enjoyed immediately, offering a nostalgic taste of home with every bite.
Best Fried Green Tomatoes
Fried Green Tomatoes are a beloved Southern dish known for their crispy, golden coating, and tangy, tender centers. This recipe transforms unripe tomatoes into an irresistible snack, appetizer, or side dish.
To make fried green tomatoes, start with firm, unripe tomatoes. Slice them about ¼-inch thick and lightly season them with salt. Prepare a dredging station with three bowls: one with flour, another with a beaten egg and buttermilk mixture, and the last with a mix of cornmeal and breadcrumbs.
Dip each tomato slice into the flour, then the egg mixture, and finally coat it in the cornmeal-breadcrumb blend. Fry in hot oil until golden brown and crispy. Serve with a side of remoulade or ranch dressing for a satisfying crunch with every bite. These fried green tomatoes are a perfect balance of tangy and crispy flavors, making them a Southern must-try!
Southern-Style Tomato Gravy
Southern-style tomato Gravy is a rich and savory sauce that pairs perfectly with biscuits, grits, or even fried chicken. Made from simple pantry ingredients, this classic dish is a comforting staple in many Southern kitchens.
To prepare, start by cooking bacon or sausage in a skillet to render flavorful drippings. Remove the meat and whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking until golden brown. Add canned or fresh chopped tomatoes, along with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar to balance acidity.
Simmer the gravy until thickened, stirring occasionally. Some variations include a splash of heavy cream or chicken broth for extra richness. Serve Southern-style tomato gravy over warm biscuits or creamy grits for a hearty and flavorful Southern breakfast or brunch dish.
