If you have been searching for a delightful dish that perfectly balances fresh tomatoes and gooey cheese, you’re going to adore this Cheesy Tomato Pie Recipe. This savory pie bursts with layers of ripe tomato slices and a rich, creamy blend of mozzarella, cheddar, and aromatic herbs, all nestled inside a crisp pie crust. It’s a vibrant, comforting meal that tastes like a slice of summer in every bite and transforms simple ingredients into something truly unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cheesy Tomato Pie Recipe relies on straightforward ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating its perfect flavor and texture. From the luscious tomatoes to the melty cheese combination, every element is essential to achieving that irresistible, savory balance.
- 1 9-inch pie crust: Choose store-bought for convenience or homemade for a buttery, flaky base that holds the filling beautifully.
- 4 medium ripe tomatoes: Opt for juicy, flavorful tomatoes to bring freshness and vibrant color to the pie.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Used to draw moisture out of the tomatoes, preventing a soggy crust and intensifying their natural sweetness.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds melty creaminess and mild flavor that pairs perfectly with cheddar.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Brings a sharp, tangy contrast that lifts the overall cheesiness of the pie.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Provides a luscious richness that binds the cheese and herbs into a smooth mixture.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil: Infuses herbaceous notes that brighten every bite.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions: Adds a subtle crunch and mild onion flavor for extra depth.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Delivers a punch of savory aroma that complements the cheese and tomatoes.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Sprinkled to season and enhance all the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional): Brushed on the crust for an extra crisp and golden finish during baking.
How to Make Cheesy Tomato Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes
Start by slicing your medium ripe tomatoes evenly and arranging them on paper towels. Sprinkle with salt to draw out excess moisture, which is key to avoiding a soggy crust later on. Let the slices sit for 20 to 30 minutes, then gently pat them dry so they are perfect for layering.
Step 2: Blind Bake the Pie Crust
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and blind bake your pie crust for about 10 minutes. This step is essential to creating a sturdy and flaky base that won’t get overwhelmed by the juicy filling. Let it cool slightly before adding your layers.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Mixture
In a small bowl, combine shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses with mayonnaise, minced garlic, chopped fresh basil, green onions, and black pepper. This creamy, flavorful mixture is the heart of the Cheesy Tomato Pie Recipe, bringing all the ingredients together in a luscious harmony.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Start by layering half of your dried tomato slices evenly over the cooled pie crust. Spread half of the cheese mixture on top, then repeat the layering with the remaining tomatoes and cheese spread. This layering technique ensures every bite has a balanced mix of tomatoes and cheesy goodness.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Brace yourself for the tempting aroma as you bake the pie for 30 to 35 minutes. To add an extra crispy, golden edge, brush the pie crust with olive oil before placing it in the oven. Once the top is bubbly and invitingly golden, remove the pie and let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.
How to Serve Cheesy Tomato Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your serving by adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or a light drizzle of balsamic glaze over each slice. These additions introduce fresh herbal brightness or a subtle tang that complements the Cheesy Tomato Pie Recipe perfectly.
Side Dishes
Pair this pie with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables to balance the richness with refreshing textures and flavors. Light sides, like a cucumber salad with lemon dressing, are wonderful companions to the cheesy, tomato-filled main event.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, cut the pie into smaller squares for a party appetizer or serve alongside a bowl of tomato soup for a comforting meal. You can also top each slice with a dollop of herb-infused sour cream or a sprinkle of crunchy breadcrumbs for added texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Cheesy Tomato Pie Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy this delicious dish again without losing its flavors or texture.
Freezing
This pie freezes surprisingly well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn, then freeze for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw it completely before reheating to preserve the pie’s tender texture.
Reheating
Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 to 15 minutes or until warm and bubbling. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crust crispy and the cheese perfectly melted.
FAQs
Can I use a gluten-free pie crust for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using a gluten-free pie crust works well for this Cheesy Tomato Pie Recipe and allows those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy this tasty dish without compromise.
What type of tomatoes work best?
Ripe, medium-sized tomatoes like Roma or vine-ripened are perfect because they have a balance of meatiness and juiciness that enhances the pie without making it soggy.
Can I make the pie vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegetarian since it uses no meat products. The flavors of cheese, tomatoes, and herbs shine beautifully on their own.
Is mayonnaise necessary in the cheese mixture?
Mayonnaise helps bind the cheeses and keeps the mixture creamy, but if you prefer, you can substitute with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a slightly different flavor and texture.
Can I add other herbs or spices?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with thyme, oregano, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes to tailor the pie to your taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Tomato Pie Recipe is a wonderful combination of simple, fresh ingredients crafted into a comforting and flavorful dish you’ll want to make time and again. Whether for a casual family dinner or a special gathering, it’s sure to become one of your favorite way to celebrate summer’s bounty of tomatoes. Give it a try—you might just find your new go-to pie!
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Cheesy Tomato Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Pie
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and flavorful Cheesy Tomato Pie featuring layers of ripe tomatoes, a blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, fresh herbs, and a creamy mayonnaise mixture baked to golden perfection in a flaky pie crust. Perfect as a savory appetizer, lunch, or light dinner.
Ingredients
Pie Base
- 1 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
Tomato Layer
- 4 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1 teaspoon salt (for drawing moisture from tomatoes)
Cheese Mixture
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Optional
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for brushing crust)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the pie.
- Prepare Tomatoes: Place the sliced tomatoes on paper towels and sprinkle them with salt. Let them sit for 20–30 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then gently pat dry to prevent a soggy crust.
- Blind Bake Crust: Blind bake the pie crust for 10 minutes to partially cook the crust and avoid it becoming soggy when baking with the filling. Once baked, let it cool slightly.
- Mix Cheese Filling: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, minced garlic, chopped basil, green onions, and black pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Layer Tomatoes and Cheese: Arrange half of the tomato slices evenly over the partially baked crust. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the tomato layer, ensuring even coverage.
- Repeat Layers: Add the remaining tomato slices on top of the cheese layer, then spread the rest of the cheese mixture over the tomatoes.
- Optional Crust Brush: If desired, brush the edge of the pie crust with olive oil to help it develop a golden, crispy finish during baking.
- Bake Pie: Bake the assembled pie for 30–35 minutes until the cheese topping turns golden and bubbly, and the filling is heated through.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavors.
Notes
- Salting the tomatoes ahead of time reduces moisture and prevents a soggy crust.
- Blind baking the crust ensures a crisp base for the wet filling.
- Feel free to use fresh herbs like oregano or thyme as alternatives to basil for varied flavors.
- This pie can be served as a light main dish, appetizer, or side.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated in the oven for best texture.
