Tomato Pie Recipe
Tomato Pie is the savory, cheesy, and delightfully Southern dish that captures the very best of summer in a flaky crust. With layers of juicy ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, a duo of melty cheeses, and a hint of garlic, this pie is as comforting as it is vibrant. Whether you serve it for a casual family lunch or bring it to a potluck, its irresistible flavors and beautiful presentation always steal the show. If you’ve never tried Tomato Pie, prepare to discover your new favorite way to celebrate tomato season!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Tomato Pie is how a handful of simple ingredients come together to create something truly special. Each element has a role to play, adding depth, color, and texture to every bite.
- Unbaked Pie Crust (1, 9-inch): The flaky, buttery base that holds all the savory goodness together—feel free to use store-bought or homemade.
- Ripe Tomatoes (4–5 medium, sliced and drained): The star of the pie; choose the juiciest, most flavorful tomatoes you can find for best results.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for drawing out excess moisture from the tomatoes and enhancing their natural sweetness.
- Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a gentle kick and balances the tomatoes’ sweetness.
- Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses the pie with aromatic, savory notes without overpowering the fresh flavors.
- Fresh Basil (1/2 cup, chopped): Lends a burst of herbal brightness that pairs perfectly with tomatoes.
- Green Onions (1/2 cup, chopped): Provide mild onion flavor and a pop of color throughout the filling.
- Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup, shredded): Melts beautifully for that gooey, stretchy texture everyone loves.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, shredded): Brings a robust, tangy flavor that complements the mozzarella.
- Mayonnaise (3/4 cup): Binds the cheese topping and creates an ultra-creamy, golden finish.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (1 tablespoon, optional): A sprinkle on top for extra savory depth and a bit of crusty texture.
How to Make Tomato Pie
Step 1: Prepare and Pre-Bake the Pie Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out your pie crust and fit it snugly into a 9-inch pie dish. Give it a quick blind bake for 8–10 minutes until it’s just turning golden—this trick keeps the crust crisp and prevents it from getting soggy once the juicy tomatoes go in. Let the crust cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Slice, Salt, and Drain the Tomatoes
While the crust is cooling, slice your tomatoes and lay them out in a single layer on paper towels. Sprinkle them with salt, then let them rest for 10–15 minutes. This process draws out excess water, ensuring your Tomato Pie stays firm and flavorful, not watery. Gently pat the tomatoes dry with extra paper towels before layering.
Step 3: Layer the Tomatoes and Seasonings
Arrange the prepared tomato slices in the bottom of your cooled pie crust. As you layer, sprinkle the tomatoes with black pepper, garlic powder, chopped basil, and green onions. These seasonings infuse every bite with fresh, zesty flavor and keep the pie from tasting one-note.
Step 4: Mix and Spread the Cheesy Topping
In a medium bowl, combine shredded mozzarella, sharp cheddar, and mayonnaise. Stir until the mixture is well blended—this creamy cheese layer is what gives Tomato Pie its signature rich, bubbly topping. Carefully spread this mixture over the tomatoes, covering them completely. If you’re using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the top for extra savoriness.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop the assembled pie into the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden and bubbling, and the edges of the crust are perfectly browned. Let the Tomato Pie cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing—this little rest helps the filling set, so each slice comes out picture-perfect.
How to Serve Tomato Pie
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped basil or a few extra green onions right before serving adds a burst of color and a lovely fresh aroma. For a truly Southern touch, add a crack of black pepper or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil just as you bring it to the table. These simple garnishes make each slice of Tomato Pie look as good as it tastes.
Side Dishes
Tomato Pie pairs beautifully with crisp green salads, grilled vegetables, or even a refreshing cucumber salad. If you’re looking for something heartier, serve it alongside grilled chicken or a bowl of chilled gazpacho for a full summer meal. The pie’s richness is balanced by light, fresh sides, making every bite feel like a treat.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try baking mini Tomato Pies in muffin tins for a picnic or party. You can also cut the pie into small squares for appetizer-style bites. If you’re serving brunch, pair slices with poached eggs or stack them with roasted veggies for a stunning plate. However you present it, Tomato Pie always impresses.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Tomato Pie keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Let the pie cool completely, then cover the dish tightly with foil or transfer slices to an airtight container. The flavors meld even more overnight, so don’t be surprised if it tastes even better the next day!
Freezing
While Tomato Pie is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze individual slices if needed. Wrap each cooled slice in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. To preserve texture, avoid freezing the whole pie; tomatoes can release extra moisture when thawed. For best results, enjoy within one month.
Reheating
To reheat, place slices on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for about 10–15 minutes, or until heated through. This keeps the crust crisp and the cheesy topping melty. Microwaving works in a pinch, but the crust may soften—if you have time, the oven is worth it!
FAQs
Can I make Tomato Pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the pie up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re starting from cold. It’s a fantastic make-ahead dish for gatherings.
What kind of tomatoes are best for Tomato Pie?
Use the ripest, most flavorful tomatoes you can find—heirlooms, beefsteak, or even a mix of varieties work beautifully. The key is to drain them well so your pie isn’t watery.
Can I add meat or other vegetables to the pie?
Definitely! Crumbled bacon, caramelized onions, or even sautéed spinach can be layered in for extra flavor. Just be sure to keep the moisture content in check so the crust stays crisp.
Is there a substitute for mayonnaise in the topping?
If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, you can use a mixture of Greek yogurt and a bit of sour cream for a tangy, creamy alternative. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.
How do I keep my Tomato Pie from getting soggy?
Draining the tomatoes well and pre-baking the crust are the best ways to prevent sogginess. Don’t skip letting the tomatoes sit with salt and patting them dry—it makes all the difference!
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dish that celebrates summer’s best flavors in a truly comforting way, Tomato Pie is it. It’s simple, soulful, and always a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try and let it become a new seasonal favorite at your table!
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Tomato Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Southern-style Tomato Pie is a savory baked dish perfect for summer, featuring ripe tomatoes layered in a flaky pie crust and topped with a creamy blend of mozzarella, cheddar, mayonnaise, and fresh herbs. It’s a delicious and comforting vegetarian main or side dish that’s easy to prepare and bursting with cheesy, fresh flavors.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust
Tomato Layer
- 4–5 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced and drained
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
Cheese Mixture
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and bake it for 8–10 minutes until it turns lightly golden. Remove the crust from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Prepare the tomatoes: Slice the tomatoes and place them on paper towels. Sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and let them sit for 10–15 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Afterward, pat them dry thoroughly with additional paper towels to prevent sogginess.
- Layer the tomatoes: Arrange the drained tomato slices evenly in the bottom of the cooled pie crust. Sprinkle the tomatoes with black pepper, garlic powder, chopped fresh basil, and green onions to distribute the flavors evenly.
- Mix the cheese topping: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella, sharp cheddar, and mayonnaise. Stir well until you achieve a smooth, fully mixed cheese blend.
- Assemble the pie: Spread the cheese and mayonnaise mixture evenly over the layered tomatoes in the pie crust. If desired, sprinkle the top with grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor and a slight crust.
- Bake the pie: Place the assembled pie back into the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Cool and serve: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for 10–15 minutes to set before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use the ripest tomatoes you can find for optimal flavor, but be sure to drain them well to avoid a soggy pie.
- You can add crumbled bacon or caramelized onions to the tomato layer for extra depth of flavor.
- The tomato pie is delicious served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for various occasions.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 19 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
