Classic Southern Style Tomato Casserole Recipe - Faye Thompson | @southerncooking

Classic Southern Style Tomato Casserole
by Faye Thompson

Ingredients
3 C canned tomatoes, drained and chopped
1 C granulated sugar
1 C butter
1 tsp dried basil
6 slices white bread, toasted and crumbled
1/2 C cheddar cheese, shredded

Directions
In a saucepan heat, the tomatoes, sugar, and butter until the butter is melted. Add the basil and bread. Simmer until most of the liquid is absorbed by the bread. Pour into a greased 9" baking disk. Bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes. Then sprinkle with cheese and continue baking until cheese melts. Makes about 6 servings.

History
Tomato casserole is a dish that has been around for centuries, and its origins can be traced back to the early days of cooking. The dish was initially created as a way to preserve the abundance of fresh tomatoes that were harvested during the summer months. The tomatoes were sliced and layered in a large casserole dish, along with other ingredients such as breadcrumbs, cheese, and herbs.

Over time, the dish evolved and became more popular in the United States during the 20th century. As the country became more urbanized and people moved away from their rural roots, they began to seek out comfort food that reminded them of home. Tomato casserole became a staple of American cuisine and was commonly served at family gatherings and potluck dinners.

Today, tomato casserole is still a popular dish, and there are many variations of the recipe. Some people prefer to add ingredients such as onions, garlic, and spices to enhance the flavor, while others stick to the classic ingredients of tomatoes, cheese, and breadcrumbs. Despite its evolution, tomato casserole remains a comfort food that is loved by generations of Americans.

Chapters
0:00 Intro
0:12 Welcome Message
1:09 Ingredients and Directions
4:11 Presentation
4:30 Photos
4:39 Outro