Hey there, friend! If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort, flavor, and that irresistible “just one more bite” factor, you’ve found it. Picture this: warm, juicy tomatoes nestled in a buttery, flaky crust with melted cheese and fresh herbs sprinkled all over. Trust me, this Tomato Pie is going to be a game-changer. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll make again and again because it’s not only delicious, but it’s also super versatile!
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Why You’ll Love Tomato Pie
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time. Or envision serving this at a party, where guests ask for the recipe before the night ends.
Budget-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items; this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s perfect for when you’re trying to stick to a budget but still want something hearty and satisfying.
Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. If you’re someone who usually avoids complex recipes, this one is for you. It’s designed to be foolproof, so you can enjoy cooking without stress.
Customizable: Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences. For example, if you love bold flavors, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. Prefer something milder? You can adjust the seasoning to make it kid-friendly.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients
Here’s the magic of Tomato Pie—it’s made with just a few simple ingredients, yet the result is absolutely mouthwatering. Let’s break it down:
Tomatoes: The star of the show! Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes for that fresh, garden-fresh taste. They’ll bring all the flavor and moisture to the dish.
Cheese: A blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella creates that perfect melt and balance of flavor. Trust me, you can’t go wrong with this combo.
Basil: Fresh basil leaves will add a pop of herbaceous brightness to the dish. It’s the secret ingredient that really elevates the flavor.
Mayonnaise: This might sound a little unusual, but it gives the filling a creamy, tangy richness that ties everything together. It’s a total flavor booster!
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking and gives your dish the perfect texture.
Prepare the Tomatoes: Slice the tomatoes thinly and place them on paper towels to drain excess moisture. This step helps prevent your pie from getting soggy!
Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, mayonnaise, fresh basil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it forms a creamy, cheesy mixture.
Prepare the Pie Crust: If you’re using a store-bought crust, simply pop it into your pie dish. If you’re feeling ambitious and making your own, go ahead and roll it out and place it in the dish.
Assemble the Pie: Layer the tomato slices evenly in the pie crust. Spoon the cheesy mixture over the tomatoes, spreading it out to cover them completely.
Bake to Perfection: Pop the pie into the oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.
Finishing Touches: Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This lets the flavors set and makes it easier to slice.
Serve and Enjoy: Slice it up and enjoy the magic of that flaky crust, creamy filling, and juicy tomatoes. This pie is best served warm, but it’s delicious at room temperature too!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 350
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
How to Serve Tomato Pie
This Tomato Pie pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
Fresh Salads: Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the pie’s rich flavors.
Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up any delicious juices. Garlic bread or a simple baguette works wonderfully.
Vegetable Sides: Roasted vegetables, like carrots or zucchini, are excellent pairings that add color and nutrients to the meal.
As a Standalone: Sometimes, this dish is hearty enough to enjoy on its own. Simply garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a finishing touch.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
Prep Ahead: Save time by slicing and draining the tomatoes ahead of time. You can even make the filling in advance and store it in the fridge.
Spice It Up: For a kick of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some cayenne pepper to the filling.
Dietary Adjustments: If you prefer a gluten-free crust, swap for a gluten-free pie shell. You can also use vegan cheese and mayo to make it dairy-free.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to keep the crust crispy.
Double the Batch: This recipe freezes beautifully, so consider making extra. You’ll thank yourself when you have an easy, homemade meal waiting for you!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt?
A1: Absolutely! Greek yogurt gives a similar creamy texture with a bit of tang. It’s a great alternative.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes! You can prepare everything up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate. Just bake it when you’re ready to enjoy!
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the texture.
Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Yes! Assemble the pie, but don’t bake it. Freeze it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to bake, thaw and bake as usual.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Yes! Just make sure you have a bigger pie dish and adjust the baking time accordingly.
Q7: What if I don’t have fresh basil?
A7: You can use dried basil, but fresh really makes a difference in flavor. If you need to use dried, use about 1 tablespoon.
Q8: Can I add other vegetables to this pie?
A8: Yes! Try adding roasted onions, bell peppers, or even spinach for extra flavor and texture.
Q9: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A9: Absolutely! Try using gouda, parmesan, or even feta for a unique twist on this dish.
Q10: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
A10: Totally! The creamy cheese and juicy tomatoes are usually a big hit with kids.
Conclusion
This Tomato Pie is everything you want in a comforting dish: it’s easy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing it with loved ones, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. I hope you give it a try—and when you do, don’t forget to savor every bite! You’ve earned it!
Tomato Pie
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Best Tomato Pie is a savory Southern classic featuring juicy ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, sweet onions, melty cheese, and a creamy, tangy topping, all nestled in a flaky pie crust. Whether served warm or chilled, it’s the perfect comfort dish for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner. Great for those looking for healthy recipes, recipes for dinner, or even recipes appetizers and snacks. Try this crowd-pleaser that’s simple, seasonal, and seriously delicious.
Ingredients
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1 (9-inch) pie shell (homemade or store-bought)
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3 to 4 large tomatoes
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1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
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1/2 cup chopped yellow or red onion (about 1/3 of an onion)
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1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh basil (use chiffonade technique)
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2 cups (8 oz / 225g) grated cheese (sharp cheddar & Monterey Jack, or Gruyère, or Mozzarella)
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1/2 cup mayonnaise
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1 teaspoon Frank’s Hot Sauce or Tabasco (to taste)
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Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
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Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the rack in the center. -
Pre-bake the Pie Crust:
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If using store-bought crust, follow package directions or pre-bake for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden.
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For homemade crust, press it into a pie plate and freeze for 30 minutes. Then, line with foil and pie weights. Bake for 15 minutes, remove foil, prick base with a fork, and bake 10 more minutes.
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Prepare Tomatoes:
Slice the tomatoes and lay them on paper towels. Sprinkle with salt and let sit for 10–15 minutes to release excess moisture. Pat dry with more paper towels. -
Assemble the Pie:
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Layer tomatoes, chopped onions, and basil evenly in the pre-baked crust.
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In a bowl, mix grated cheese, mayonnaise, and hot sauce. Spread this mixture evenly over the top. Season with freshly ground black pepper.
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Bake:
Bake the pie for 30–35 minutes, or until golden and bubbling on top.
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Cool & Serve:
Let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Want to elevate the flavor? Caramelize the onions before adding them—just double the quantity and cook low and slow until golden. This pie stores well in the fridge and can be reheated or enjoyed cold.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/6 of pie)
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 45mg