Skip to main content

Tomato Gravy

This rich and velvety tomato gravy is a comforting vegetarian dish that brings a deep, savoury depth to your table. Unlike a standard pasta sauce, this gravy is thickened with a traditional roux and enriched with double cream, creating a luxurious texture that coats everything it touches. The addition of fresh thyme and a hint of cayenne pepper provides a sophisticated balance of earthy herbs and subtle heat.

Perfect for a hearty weekend brunch or a midweek supper, this homemade sauce is traditionally served over warm biscuits or fluffy mashed potatoes. It is an excellent store-cupboard recipe, relying on tinned tomatoes and onions to create something truly special. Whether you are looking for a meat-free alternative to traditional gravy or a versatile new side, this creamy tomato version is sure to become a family favourite.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Tomato Gravy

  • 110g (1 stick) unsalted butter

  • 2 medium onions, finely chopped

  • 2 sprigs thyme

  • 2 tablespoons plain flour

  • 1 800g can crushed tomatoes

  • 50g thinly sliced spring onions

  • 45ml double cream

  • 1/8 teaspoons (or more) cayenne pepper

  • Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onions and thyme; cook, stirring often, until onions are soft and translucent, about 10 minutes. Add flour; stir constantly for 3 minutes. Add tomatoes with juices; cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavours meld, about 30 minutes. Discard thyme. Stir in spring onions, cream, and 1/8 teaspoons cayenne. Season to taste with salt, pepper, and more cayenne, if desired.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.