Tomato pie is a beloved Southern dish that combines the freshness of ripe tomatoes with the richness of cheese and a buttery, flaky crust. This savory pie is perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner and can be served warm or at room temperature. Whether you’re new to tomato pie or a long-time fan, this recipe will help you create a dish that’s both comforting and full of flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Tomato Pie Recipe
This best tomato pie recipe stands out because it strikes the perfect balance between fresh, tangy tomatoes and a creamy, cheesy topping. The buttery crust adds just the right amount of crunch, making every bite a delightful combination of textures and flavors. It’s an easy recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a dish that feels special, whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or a casual meal.
Ingredients for the Best Tomato Pie Recipe
The key to making the best tomato pie recipe lies in using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Tomatoes: Choose ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor. Heirloom tomatoes are a great choice for their taste and color variety.
- Pie Crust: A homemade pie crust works best, but a good quality store-bought crust will also do the trick.
- Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess to the filling.
- Cheese: A combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella gives the pie a rich, cheesy flavor.
- Fresh Basil: Adds a fragrant, herbal note that pairs perfectly with tomatoes.
- Green Onions: Adds a mild onion flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the tomatoes and balancing the flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Tomato Pie Recipe
Creating this best tomato pie recipe is straightforward, but each step is crucial for achieving the perfect pie.
Preparing the Tomatoes
The tomatoes are the star of this pie, so preparing them correctly is essential.
- Slicing the Tomatoes: Slice the tomatoes into medium-thick rounds. Place them on paper towels to drain excess moisture, which helps prevent a soggy pie.
- Seasoning: Lightly sprinkle the tomato slices with salt and let them sit for 10 minutes. This draws out even more moisture, ensuring your pie isn’t watery.
Making the Pie Crust
A good crust is the foundation of any great pie. Here’s how to prepare it:
- Blind Baking the Crust: If using a homemade or store-bought crust, blind bake it to prevent it from getting soggy. Line the crust with parchment paper, fill it with pie weights, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes. Remove the weights and bake for an additional 5 minutes until lightly golden.
- Cooling the Crust: Let the crust cool slightly before adding the filling.
Assembling the Tomato Pie
Now it’s time to bring everything together:
- Layering the Tomatoes: Arrange a layer of tomato slices on the bottom of the cooled crust. Sprinkle with fresh basil and green onions.
- Adding the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, mix the mayonnaise with the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Spread this mixture over the tomatoes evenly.
- Repeat Layers: Add another layer of tomatoes, basil, and green onions, and top with the remaining cheese mixture.
Baking the Tomato Pie
The final step is baking the pie to perfection:
- Baking: Bake the assembled pie in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Cooling: Let the pie cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to cut clean slices.
Tips for Perfecting Your Tomato Pie Recipe
Here are some tips to ensure your best tomato pie recipe turns out perfectly every time:
- Use Fresh, Ripe Tomatoes: The quality of the tomatoes will greatly affect the flavor of your pie. Look for tomatoes that are firm but ripe, with vibrant color.
- Drain Excess Moisture: Don’t skip the step of draining the tomatoes on paper towels. This is crucial for avoiding a soggy pie.
- Season Generously: Tomatoes can be quite juicy, so be sure to season each layer with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
- Cheese Choices: While cheddar and mozzarella are recommended, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Parmesan or Gouda for a different flavor profile.
Variations of Tomato Pie to Try
While this best tomato pie recipe is delicious as is, there are several variations you can try to suit your taste or make use of what you have on hand:
Tomato and Bacon Pie
For a smoky, savory twist, add cooked and crumbled bacon between the layers of tomatoes. The bacon adds a delightful crunch and a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the tomatoes.
Tomato and Pesto Pie
Swap out the fresh basil for a few tablespoons of pesto. The pesto adds a concentrated herb flavor and a hint of garlic that elevates the entire dish.
Caprese Tomato Pie
For a Caprese-inspired pie, use fresh mozzarella slices instead of shredded cheese and add a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving. This version is a fresh, tangy take on the classic.
How to Serve the Best Tomato Pie Recipe
Tomato pie is best served warm or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad for a light lunch or dinner. You can also serve it alongside grilled meats or fish for a more substantial meal.
For a bit of Southern flair, serve your tomato pie with a side of fried green tomatoes or a slice of cornbread. A glass of iced tea or a crisp white wine also complements the flavors beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tomatoes are best for tomato pie? Ripe, firm tomatoes like Roma or heirloom varieties work best. They hold up well during baking and offer great flavor.
Can tomato pie be made ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the pie in advance and refrigerate it before baking. It can also be baked ahead and served at room temperature.
Why is my tomato pie watery? If your pie is watery, the tomatoes likely weren’t drained enough. Make sure to let them sit on paper towels to remove excess moisture before layering them in the pie.
Can I use a store-bought crust? Yes, a good-quality store-bought crust works fine. Just be sure to blind bake it before adding the filling.
How long does tomato pie last? Tomato pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the oven for the best texture.
Can I freeze tomato pie? It’s not recommended to freeze tomato pie as the tomatoes can become watery when thawed, affecting the texture of the pie.
Conclusion
This best tomato pie recipe is a versatile, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its combination of fresh tomatoes, savory cheese, and a buttery crust, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of the suggested variations, you’ll love how easy it is to make and how delicious the results are.
Suggested Inbound and Outbound Links
- [How to Make a Perfect Pie Crust (Inbound)]
- [Top Savory Pie Recipes (Inbound)]
- [The History of Southern Cooking (Outbound)]
- [Tips for Choosing Fresh Tomatoes (Outbound)]