If you’re craving a dish that brings the perfect harmony of creamy cheesiness and fresh, vibrant tomatoes, then this Cheesy Tomato Pie Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine biting into a flaky, golden crust layered with juicy, perfectly salted tomato slices, melted mozzarella and cheddar mingling with aromatic basil and green onions. This pie is a joyous celebration of simple ingredients coming together to make something truly memorable. Whether it’s for a Sunday brunch, a summer gathering, or a cozy dinner, this dish delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the foundation of this Cheesy Tomato Pie Recipe. Each component is straightforward but plays a crucial role: the pie crust gives structure and crunch, the tomatoes provide juiciness and brightness, and the cheese mixture brings creamy, savory richness. Fresh herbs and garlic elevate the flavor, making every mouthful delightful.
- 9-inch pie crust: Whether store-bought or homemade, it sets the perfect buttery base for your pie.
- 4 medium ripe tomatoes: Choose firm and juicy tomatoes to ensure the best flavor and texture.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Sprinkled on tomatoes, it draws out excess moisture, preventing a soggy crust.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Offers mild, creamy meltiness that blends beautifully with cheddar.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds sharpness and depth to balance the milder mozzarella.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Acts as a luscious binder that keeps the cheese and herbs perfectly melded.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil: Brings fresh, aromatic notes that complement the tomatoes brilliantly.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions: Adds a mild, peppery bite that brightens the overall flavor.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Infuses subtle warmth and savory depth throughout the pie.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides just enough spice to enhance all the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional): Brushed on the crust for an extra golden, crispy finish.
How to Make Cheesy Tomato Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Tomatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so everything is ready when your pie is assembled. While the oven warms up, slice your ripe tomatoes and lay them on paper towels. Sprinkle the slices evenly with salt and let them rest for 20 to 30 minutes. This step is key because it draws out moisture, ensuring the pie doesn’t turn soggy later. Be sure to pat the tomato slices dry gently before layering.
Step 2: Blind Bake the Pie Crust
Place your pie crust into a pie dish and blind bake it for 10 minutes. Blind baking means baking the crust without any filling to help it set and prevent it from getting soggy once the filling goes in. When it’s done, let it cool slightly—this creates a sturdy base that will hold up beautifully against the juicy and cheesy filling.
Step 3: Mix the Cheesy Filling
In a small bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella and cheddar with mayonnaise, minced garlic, fresh basil, chopped green onions, and black pepper. This mixture is where the magic happens! The mayo acts like glue, holding all those flavors and textures together in a creamy, luscious blend that complements the acidity of the tomatoes perfectly.
Step 4: Build the Pie Layers
Now, start by layering half of your dried tomato slices in the pre-baked pie crust. Spread half of the cheese mixture evenly over the tomatoes, making sure every bite will be rich and flavorful. Repeat this process with the remaining tomatoes and cheese topping. Layering like this guarantees the perfect balance of tomato juiciness and cheesy creaminess throughout the pie.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
For that irresistible golden crust and bubbly, melty topping, pop the pie into your preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes. If you want an extra crispy crust, take a moment beforehand to brush the edges with olive oil. Once baked to perfection, let your pie cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This little wait helps the filling set just right and makes serving easier.
How to Serve Cheesy Tomato Pie Recipe
Garnishes
To add a fresh and colorful finishing touch, sprinkle a few extra chopped basil leaves or a pinch of freshly cracked black pepper on top after baking. A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil can also enhance the flavor while adding a silky sheen that looks stunning. These simple garnishes make each slice feel special and inviting.
Side Dishes
This Cheesy Tomato Pie Recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the pie. Roasted vegetables or a light soup also make excellent side options, creating a balanced, satisfying meal that feels wholesome and comforting.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual mini tomato pies using small tart pans or muffin tins—perfect for parties or brunch gatherings. You could also experiment with adding thin slices of fresh heirloom tomatoes in various colors for a vibrant, stunning presentation that will wow your guests before they even take a bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your leftover pie tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days, making for quick and delicious next-day meals or snacks without losing any of its charm.
Freezing
You can freeze the pie before baking by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to one month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed. This is a fantastic way to have a homemade dish ready when time is short.
Reheating
To reheat, pop slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through and the crust has re-crisped. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the flaky crust and fresh texture.
FAQs
Can I use a homemade pie crust instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! A homemade pie crust adds an extra touch of love and flavor. Just make sure it’s well chilled and prebaked properly to withstand the juicy tomato filling.
What kind of tomatoes work best for this pie?
Firm, ripe tomatoes like Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes work wonderfully because they have fewer seeds and less juice, which helps prevent a soggy pie.
Is there a substitute for mayonnaise in the cheese mixture?
If mayonnaise isn’t your favorite, you can try Greek yogurt or sour cream for a slightly tangier flavor, though the texture may vary a bit.
Can I add other herbs to the Cheesy Tomato Pie Recipe?
Definitely! Thyme or oregano taste great alongside basil and can add a lovely aromatic layer to your pie.
How do I ensure my pie crust stays crispy?
Blind baking the crust and salting the tomatoes to draw out excess moisture are essential steps. Brushing the crust edges with olive oil before baking also helps achieve that golden, crispy finish.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Tomato Pie Recipe is truly a gem that combines freshness, comfort, and a bit of elegance in every slice. It’s simple enough for a weekday treat yet special enough to impress friends and family. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try making it soon; trust me, your taste buds will thank you! Enjoy every cheesy, tomato-filled bite.
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Cheesy Tomato Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (excluding tomato draining)
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Pie
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheesy Tomato Pie combines juicy ripe tomatoes with a rich blend of mozzarella, cheddar cheese, and fresh herbs, all baked inside a flaky pie crust. The result is a savory, comforting dish perfect for a light lunch, dinner, or a delicious appetizer.
Ingredients
Pie and Tomatoes
- 1 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 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 prepare for baking the pie.
- Prepare Tomatoes: Arrange the sliced tomatoes on paper towels, sprinkle evenly with 1 teaspoon salt, and let them sit for 20–30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Afterward, pat the tomatoes dry to prevent a soggy pie.
- Blind Bake Pie Crust: Place the pie crust in a pie dish and blind bake for 10 minutes to partially cook the crust and keep it from becoming soggy later. Allow it to cool slightly before adding filling.
- Make Cheese Mixture: In a small bowl, combine shredded mozzarella, shredded cheddar, mayonnaise, minced garlic, chopped fresh basil, chopped green onions, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a creamy, flavorful filling.
- Layer Filling: Lay half of the tomato slices evenly over the pre-baked pie crust. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the tomato layer to create alternating layers of flavor and texture.
- Repeat Layers: Add the remaining tomato slices over the first cheese layer, followed by the rest of the cheese mixture, ensuring the pie is well layered.
- Optional Crust Brush: For extra crispiness, lightly brush the crust edges with olive oil before baking.
- Bake the Pie: Place the pie in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly, indicating the cheese is perfectly melted.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes for easier slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature to enjoy the best flavors and texture.
Notes
- Using ripe, juicy tomatoes is key for the best flavor but be sure to salt and drain them well to avoid a watery pie.
- Blind baking the crust prevents sogginess by partially cooking it before adding the moist filling.
- You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option if preferred.
- Fresh basil and green onions add a bright herbal note; dried herbs can be used but reduce quantity as they are more concentrated.
- Letting the pie rest before slicing helps it set and makes serving neater.
- This pie can be served warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for different occasions.
