Tomato Basil Bread (Bread Machine Dough + Oven Bake)
Sneak Preview: Mix up a savory, herb-infused Tomato Basil Bread using your bread machine for kneading, then shape and bake it in the oven for the best texture and crust. Perfect for sandwiches and toast!

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Bring bold flavors to your bread with tomato paste, sun-dried tomatoes, and aromatic herbs.
If you love flavorful, homemade bread, this Tomato Basil Bread is a must-try. Sun-dried tomatoes and tomato paste bring a deep, rich tomato flavor, while garlic, basil, and onion add savory depth. A touch of whole wheat flour gives the loaf a hearty texture, making it sturdy enough for sandwiches.
Using a bread machine’s DOUGH cycle ensures a well-kneaded dough without the fuss. Then, shape it by hand and bake it in the oven for an artisan-style crust. Cheese lovers can add Parmesan or Mozzarella for extra indulgence, but it’s delicious as is!
No bread machine? No problem. You can easily mix and knead with a stand mixer or by hand; full details are in the recipe notes.
Happy Bakers Speak Up
“WOW – what a fabulous recipe! I have read and tried so many recipes for tomato bread and this one is OUTSTANDING!! I made it yesterday and it was gone in no time! My family devoured it. “–ADEL
Ingredients and Substitutions

- WATER:
- Tap water is fine unless yours is very hard.
- Unnecessary to use warm water with a bread machine
- TOMATO PASTE:
- Three tablespoons (from a 6-ounce can).
- Freeze the rest in portions for later.
- Don’t substitute tomato sauce (waters down the flavor)
- SUN-DRIED TOMATOES (IN OIL):
- Adds moisture and flavor.
- If using dry-packed, rehydrate and add olive oil.
- SALT:
- Use fine sea salt or table salt.
- For kosher salt, increase by 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon.
- SUGAR:
- Granulated sugar works best.
- Substitute brown sugar if desired.
- SPICES:
- Keep it simple with dried garlic powder, onion flakes, and basil.
- WHOLE WHEAT FLOUR:
- Adds fiber.
- Swap with white flour for a lighter loaf. (needs less liquid)
- BREAD FLOUR:
- Ensures a chewy texture.
- All-purpose flour makes a softer loaf.
- YEAST:
- Instant or bread machine yeast preferred.
- If using active dry, add 1/4 teaspoon more.

How To Make Tomato Basil Bread
1️⃣ Load the Bread Machine: Add ingredients in the order listed. Select the DOUGH cycle and press START.
2️⃣ Monitor the Dough:
- a. First Peek (1 Minute In): Lift the lid to ensure the paddle(s) are moving and the dough is starting to clump.
- b. Second Peek (15–18 Minutes In): The dough should stick to the sides, then pull away cleanly.
- If it sticks without releasing, add 1 spoonful of flour at a time until it sticks briefly before pulling away.
- If it’s too dry (bouncing around or riding the paddle), add 1 spoonful of water at a time until it sticks briefly to one side before releasing.
- Wait 1–2 minutes between additions to let the dough adjust.
3️⃣ First Rise: Leave dough in the bread machine until it doubles in size. Use the two-finger test to check.




4️⃣ Shape the Dough: Transfer to a floured surface. Gently press out large bubbles. Shape into a rectangle (about 12 inches long, slightly wider than your loaf pan).
5️⃣ Form the Loaf: Roll up from the short side, pinch the seam closed, and tuck the ends under. Place seam-side down in a greased 8½ x 4½-inch loaf pan.
6️⃣ Second Rise: Cover with a shower cap or tea towel. Let rise until just shy of doubled.






7️⃣ Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). When dough peaks over the top edge, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (180°C) and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 200°F (93°C).
8️⃣ Cool & Serve: Remove from the oven. Let rest in the pan for 15 minutes, then cool on a wire rack for at least 45 minutes before slicing.


FAQs
Can I bake this bread entirely in the bread machine? Not recommended. It will have a dense texture and thick crust. Using the DOUGH cycle and baking in the oven yields better results.


- How do I store this bread?
- Let it cool completely. Store in a plastic bag at room temperature for up to 4 days. Avoid refrigeration.
- Is this a whole grain bread?
- It contains whole wheat flour but is not 100% whole grain.
Final Thoughts:
This Tomato Basil Bread makes outstanding sandwiches, especially grilled cheese. Try it with pimento cheese and crispy bacon for a treat. If you prefer a rustic round loaf, shape it into a boule and bake on a cookie sheet instead. Check this post to find a suitable glaze.
Need help troubleshooting? Email me: Paula at saladinajar.com—photos welcome!
Paula Rhodes, owner
As a retired home economist, I created Saladinajar.com to share my belief that you don’t have to be a chef to find joy in creating homemade food worth sharing. Bread machines (used in an unconventional way), homemade yogurt, and quick microwave recipes are my specialty.