Description
This Irresistibly Best Tomato Pie combines ripe, juicy tomatoes with a luscious blend of cheeses and fresh herbs, all nestled in a flaky pre-baked deep-dish pie crust. It’s a Southern-inspired savory pie that’s perfect as a main course or side dish, delivering a delightful balance of creamy, cheesy, and fresh flavors baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Pie Base
- 1 9-inch deep-dish pie crust (pre-baked)
Tomato Layer
- 4–5 ripe tomatoes, sliced about 1/4 inch thick
- 1 teaspoon salt (for draining tomatoes)
Filling
- 1/2 cup chopped sweet onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Tomatoes: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lay the sliced tomatoes out in a single layer on paper towels and sprinkle them evenly with salt. Allow them to sit for 20 to 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then gently pat them dry with more paper towels to avoid sogginess.
- Mix the Cheese Filling: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, shredded sharp cheddar, shredded mozzarella, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated to form a creamy, cheesy mixture.
- Assemble the Pie: Spread the chopped sweet onion and fresh basil evenly across the bottom of the pre-baked pie crust. Next, arrange the tomato slices over the onions and basil in an overlapping pattern, creating an attractive layered look. Spread the cheese mixture evenly on top of the tomatoes, then sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if you are using it.
- Bake the Pie: Place the assembled pie into the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top becomes bubbly and golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This rest time allows the filling to set, ensuring clean slices and enhancing the flavors. Serve warm or at room temperature as desired.
Notes
- Use heirloom or Roma tomatoes for the best texture and flavor in your pie.
- For a sturdier crust that resists sogginess, brush the bottom with a beaten egg before layering the filling.
- This tomato pie is delicious served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for any meal.
