If you’re looking to capture the essence of summer in a classic dish, Tomato Pie is the recipe you need. This beloved Southern staple brings together sweet, juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and two kinds of gooey cheese in a golden, flaky pie crust. Whether you’re serving it for brunch, a light dinner, or as the star of a picnic, Tomato Pie is the ultimate comfort food—fresh, savory, and utterly irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Tomato Pie thrives on the simplicity of fresh, vibrant ingredients. Each component pulls its weight, making a difference in taste, texture, or that eye-catching color. Here’s what you need and why it matters.
- Pie crust: The foundation of the pie; a buttery, flaky crust sets the stage and holds everything together—homemade or store-bought both work.
- Ripe tomatoes: Opt for the juiciest, most flavorful tomatoes you can find; heirlooms or Romas help keep the pie from getting too watery and lend beautiful color.
- Salt: Essential for drawing out tomato moisture and seasoning every layer.
- Black pepper: Adds just the right amount of mild heat and depth of flavor.
- Fresh basil: Brings brightness and peppery zest that pairs wonderfully with tomatoes and cheese.
- Green onions: These add a gentle crunch and mild onion flavor, making every bite more interesting.
- Mozzarella cheese: Provides that wondrous melt and subtle creaminess in the cheesy topping.
- Cheddar cheese: Offers sharp, tangy flavor and that classic golden hue as it bakes up bubbly.
- Mayonnaise: The secret ingredient for a lusciously creamy top layer that holds everything together.
How to Make Tomato Pie
Step 1: Prepare and Par-Bake the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your chosen 9-inch pie dish with the crust, gently pressing it into the edges. Bake it for about 10 minutes, just until it turns a light golden color. This gives your Tomato Pie a sturdy base that won’t turn soggy later.
Step 2: Slice and Salt the Tomatoes
While your crust is getting its tan, slice the tomatoes into generous rounds. Lay them on a few layers of paper towels, sprinkle with salt, and set aside for at least 10 minutes. This step is critical—it draws out excess moisture so your pie doesn’t end up watery. When time’s up, gently pat the tomatoes dry.
Step 3: Layer the Flavors
Now the fun part! Lay half of the tomato slices into your pre-baked crust. Scatter over half the basil and green onions, then season with a little salt and pepper. Repeat the layering with the remaining tomatoes, basil, green onions, and another sprinkle of salt and pepper. You’ll have a gorgeous, jewel-toned base ready for topping.
Step 4: Mix and Spread the Cheese Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and mayonnaise until everything is thoroughly mixed. This rich, spreadable mixture goes right on top of the tomatoes—use a spatula to cover every inch, creating a thick, luscious layer.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Pop your pie back into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. It’s pure magic how the topping melts and melds together! Once done, let your Tomato Pie rest for at least 10 minutes. This gives everything a chance to settle, so each slice holds together perfectly.
How to Serve Tomato Pie
Garnishes
Top your Tomato Pie with a scattering of fresh basil leaves or finely sliced green onions for added color and a herbal pop. If you love a little tang, a drizzle of good olive oil or even a pinch of flaky sea salt on the slices right before serving adds extra flavor and sparkle.
Side Dishes
This savory pie is right at home alongside simple side salads brimming with greens or a chilled cucumber salad for something refreshing. A dish of buttery corn on the cob or roasted asparagus transforms your Tomato Pie into a full meal, perfect for summer lunches or casual dinners with friends.
Creative Ways to Present
Try making individual Tomato Pies in mini tart pans for a fun personal-sized treat—these are always a hit at parties or picnics. For a rustic touch, bake in a cast iron skillet or top with crumbled feta or goat cheese before serving for an unexpected twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Tomato Pie, let it cool to room temperature before covering with foil or plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator, where it’ll stay delicious for up to three days. The flavors deepen overnight, making the leftovers arguably even tastier!
Freezing
While Tomato Pie is best fresh, you can freeze individual slices if needed. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, then place in a freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results—but be aware the texture of the tomatoes may be a bit softer after freezing.
Reheating
Reheat slices of Tomato Pie in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through and the crust is crisp again. The microwave is quick in a pinch, but the oven preserves the texture and helps revive that beautiful cheesy topping.
FAQs
Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Absolutely! While fresh basil delivers a burst of color and aroma, you can substitute dried basil—use about 2 teaspoons since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
How do I keep the pie crust from getting soggy?
The key is to par-bake the crust and salt the tomatoes beforehand. For an extra insurance policy, brush the crust with lightly beaten egg white before baking to create a moisture barrier.
Can I add other vegetables or proteins?
Of course! Sliced zucchini, sautéed spinach, or a handful of cooked bacon make wonderful additions, but remember to keep moisture in check by pre-cooking and draining any extra veggies.
What’s the best tomato variety for Tomato Pie?
Heirloom or Roma tomatoes both work beautifully. Heirlooms add color and depth of flavor, while Romas are less watery and hold their shape, helping the pie slice cleanly.
Can Tomato Pie be served at room temperature?
Definitely! Tomato Pie is delicious warm, at room temperature, or even chilled. It’s a picnic and potluck dream because you can prepare it in advance and it travels well.
Final Thoughts
If you haven’t experienced the joy of Tomato Pie yet, trust me—your summer table needs this dish. It’s savory, creamy, and bursting with tomato goodness in every bite. Gather your freshest ingredients and give it a try; one slice and you’ll see why this is a staple for so many families!
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Tomato Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Tomato Pie is a savory delight that captures the essence of summer with ripe tomatoes, fresh herbs, and gooey cheese baked into a flaky crust. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Pie Crust:
- 1 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Filling:
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the crust: Place the pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish and bake for 10 minutes until lightly golden.
- Prepare tomatoes: Slice tomatoes, sprinkle with salt, and drain excess moisture.
- Layer tomatoes: Layer half of the tomatoes, basil, green onions, salt, and pepper in the pre-baked crust.
- Add cheese mixture: Combine mozzarella, cheddar, and mayonnaise. Spread over tomatoes.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Rest and serve: Let the pie rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use heirloom or Roma tomatoes for better flavor.
- For a crispier crust, brush with egg white before pre-baking.
- Substitute dried basil with 2 teaspoons if fresh is unavailable.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
