Tomato Pie Recipe

Dive into the heart of Italian cuisine with this classic tomato pie recipe. This savory dish is a perfect blend of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and a combination of mozzarella and cheddar cheese, all baked together in a flaky pie crust. It's a simple yet satisfying meal that'll transport your taste buds to the sunny landscapes of Italy.

Photos of Tomato Pie Recipe

While most of the ingredients are pantry staples, fresh basil leaves might not always be readily available in your kitchen. If you're heading to the supermarket, make sure to add it to your list. Fresh basil has a unique aromatic flavor that dried basil can't replicate, making it an essential ingredient for this recipe.

Classic Tomato Pie Recipe Ingredients

Pie crust: This is the base of your tomato pie. You can use a store-bought crust or make it from scratch if you prefer.

Mozzarella cheese: A soft cheese that melts beautifully and adds a creamy texture to the pie.

Cheddar cheese: This cheese adds a sharp and tangy flavor that contrasts nicely with the tomatoes and mozzarella.

Tomatoes: Choose ripe and juicy tomatoes for the best flavor.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Garlic powder: Adds a subtle hint of garlic, which complements the tomatoes and cheese.

Oregano: A common Italian herb that adds a touch of warmth to the dish.

Fresh basil leaves: Gives the pie a burst of fresh, aromatic flavor.

Mayonnaise: Helps bind the ingredients together and adds a tangy flavor.

Grape tomatoes: Smaller and sweeter than regular tomatoes, these are used for topping the pie.

One reader, Domingo Navarro says:

This classic tomato pie recipe is a game-changer! The combination of fresh tomatoes, gooey cheese, and fragrant basil is simply divine. The flavors meld together beautifully, and the pie crust adds the perfect crunch. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a delicious, comforting dish.

Domingo Navarro

Key Techniques for Crafting the Perfect Tomato Pie

How to prepare the tomatoes: Peel the tomatoes and slice them into thin slices. Lightly salt the tomato slices and spread them over a double layer of paper towels to dry.

How to layer the pie: Sprinkle tomato slices with garlic powder, oregano, and black pepper to taste. Layer half of the tomato slices, half of the cheese mixture, and half of the basil. Repeat the layers and top with halved grape tomatoes.

How to make the cheese topping: In a small bowl, combine the remaining ¼ cup cheddar cheese, ½ cup mozzarella cheese, and ¼ cup mayonnaise. Pour this mixture over the grape tomato layer.

How to bake the pie: Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F. Poke the pie crust with a fork, sprinkle ¼ cup of mozzarella cheese on the bottom, and bake for 10 minutes until lightly browned. Cool completely. Reduce the heat to 350 degrees F and bake the assembled pie uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes. Cool before serving.

How To Make Tomato Pie

For a wonderfully filling and savory meal, try this tomato pie. Layers of herbs and fresh tomatoes create this amazing dish with a superb set of flavors.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 40 minutes

Total: 1 hour

Serves:

Ingredients

1pie crust,single
¾cupmozzarella cheese,divided
½cupcheddar cheese,divided
3largetomatoes
1tspsalt
½tspgarlic powder
½tsporegano
⅓cupfresh basil leaves
¼cupmayonnaise
1cupgrape tomatoes,halved

Instructions

Preheat oven to 450 degrees F.
Peel tomatoes and slice into thin slices.
Lightly salt tomato slices and spread over a double layer of paper towels to dry.
Poke pie crust with a fork. Sprinkle ¼ cup of mozzarella cheese on the bottom and bake for 10 minutes until lightly browned. Cool completely.
Combine ¼ cup of cheddar cheese and ¼ cup mozzarella cheese in a small bowl.
Sprinkle tomato slices with garlic powder, oregano, and black pepper to taste. Layer ½ of the tomato slices, ½ of the cheese mixture, and ½ of the basil. Repeat layers. Top with halved grape tomatoes.
In a small bowl combine the remaining ¼ cup cheddar cheese, ½ cup of mozzarella cheese, and ¼ cup of mayonnaise.
Pour over grape tomato mixture.
Reduce heat to 350 degrees F and bake uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes. Cool before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 303.66kcal
Fat: 21.81g
Saturated Fat: 8.99g
Trans Fat: 0.10g
Monounsaturated Fat: 6.75g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.66g
Carbohydrates: 18.65g
Fiber: 1.53g
Sugar: 2.37g
Protein: 8.86g
Cholesterol: 32.91mg
Sodium: 388.99mg
Calcium: 209.51mg
Potassium: 239.98mg
Iron: 0.63mg
Vitamin A: 105.79µg
Vitamin C: 11.08mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Mastering Classic Tomato Pie

To ensure your tomato pie has a robust flavor, consider roasting the tomatoes before adding them to the pie. This will help to intensify their flavor and remove excess moisture, which can make the pie soggy. Simply slice the tomatoes, place them on a baking sheet, drizzle with a little olive oil and roast in a preheated oven at 400 degrees F for about 15-20 minutes. Allow them to cool before adding to the pie. This extra step can truly elevate the taste of your tomato pie.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Classic Tomato Pie

Prep ahead: Prepare the pie crust and slice the tomatoes the night before to save time on the day of baking.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese to skip the time-consuming shredding process.

Multi-task: While the pie crust is baking, use that time to slice the tomatoes and prepare the cheese mixture to streamline the process.

Bake multiple pies: Consider making multiple pies at once and freezing the extras for future quick and easy meals.

Invest in a good knife: A sharp, quality knife will make slicing the tomatoes a breeze and save time in the kitchen.

Streamline cleanup: Clean as you go to avoid a big mess at the end, making the overall cooking process more efficient.

Organize ingredients: Before starting, gather all the ingredients and tools needed to avoid last-minute searches, saving time and reducing stress.

Prep station: Set up a dedicated prep station with all the necessary ingredients and tools to work efficiently and minimize back-and-forth movement in the kitchen.

Substitute Ingredients For Tomato Pie Recipe

mozzarella cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone cheese has a similar mild and creamy flavor to mozzarella, making it a great substitute for tomato pie.
cheddar cheese - Substitute with Gruyère cheese: Gruyère cheese has a nutty and slightly sweet flavor, which can add a delicious depth to the tomato pie.
tomatoes - Substitute with heirloom tomatoes: Heirloom tomatoes have a rich, complex flavor and vibrant colors, adding a unique twist to the classic tomato pie.
garlic powder - Substitute with minced garlic: Using fresh minced garlic will provide a more intense and aromatic garlic flavor compared to garlic powder.
mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can add a tangy creaminess to the pie while reducing the overall fat content.
grape tomatoes - Substitute with cherry tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are similar in size and flavor, making them a suitable replacement for grape tomatoes in the recipe.

Perfect Presentation for Your Tomato Pie

Elevate the pie crust: Instead of using a traditional pie dish, consider using a tart pan for a more refined and elegant presentation. This will give the tomato pie a sophisticated and modern look.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves: Carefully place whole basil leaves on top of the pie, creating a visually appealing and aromatic presentation. This will add a pop of vibrant green color and a burst of fresh flavor to the dish.
Create a tomato mosaic: Arrange the tomato slices in a circular pattern on top of the pie, overlapping them slightly to create a beautiful tomato mosaic. This meticulous arrangement will showcase the natural beauty of the tomatoes and demonstrate precision in plating.
Incorporate microgreens: Sprinkle a handful of delicate microgreens over the finished pie to add a touch of elegance and a subtle peppery flavor. The vibrant colors and delicate textures of the microgreens will enhance the overall visual appeal of the dish.
Accent with balsamic reduction: Drizzle a small amount of balsamic reduction in an artistic pattern on the serving plate before placing the pie slice. The rich, dark syrup will not only add a touch of sweetness but also create a stunning visual contrast against the bright colors of the tomato pie.

Essential Tools for Making a Delicious Tomato Pie

Pie crust: A pre-made or homemade pastry crust used as the base for the tomato pie.
Mozzarella cheese: A semi-soft Italian cheese that melts beautifully and adds a creamy texture to the tomato pie.
Cheddar cheese: A sharp and tangy cheese that adds depth of flavor and richness to the tomato pie.
Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes are the star ingredient of the tomato pie, providing a burst of juicy sweetness and vibrant color.
Salt: Used to season the tomato slices and enhance their natural flavors.
Garlic powder: Adds a savory, aromatic flavor to the tomato pie.
Oregano: A fragrant herb that complements the flavors of the tomatoes and cheese in the pie.
Basil leaves: Fresh basil leaves add a pop of herbaceous flavor and a touch of brightness to the tomato pie.
Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and richness to the tomato pie filling.
Grape tomatoes: Small, sweet tomatoes that add a burst of flavor and color to the top of the tomato pie.

Storing and Freezing Your Homemade Tomato Pie

Let the tomato pie cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent the crust from becoming soggy and the filling from becoming watery.
To store the pie in the refrigerator, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to freeze the tomato pie, follow these steps:
1. Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap, making sure to remove as much air as possible.
2. Place the wrapped pie in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag.
3. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
4. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat the frozen tomato pie:
1. Remove the pie from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
2. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. Remove the plastic wrap and place the pie on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and the crust is crispy.
Alternatively, you can reheat individual slices of the tomato pie in the microwave. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30-60 seconds, or until heated through.

How To Reheat Leftover Tomato Pie

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover tomato pie on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. This will help prevent the crust from burning and the filling from drying out. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pie is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
If you prefer a crispier crust, you can also reheat the tomato pie in a skillet on the stovetop. Place the pie in a large skillet over medium heat and cover with a lid. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the bottom of the crust is crispy and the filling is heated through.
For a quick and easy option, you can reheat individual slices of tomato pie in the microwave. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30-60 seconds, or until the cheese is melted and the filling is warm.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your leftover tomato pie, try sprinkling some fresh basil leaves or grated Parmesan cheese on top before reheating. You can also drizzle a little olive oil or balsamic vinegar over the top for added richness and tang.
For a fun twist on leftover tomato pie, try turning it into a tomato pie grilled cheese sandwich. Simply place a slice of the pie between two slices of bread and grill until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.

Interesting Trivia About Classic Tomato Pie

Tomato pie is a classic Southern dish that originated in the United States. It is believed to have been created in the 1830s when tomatoes were first introduced to the region. The dish is often enjoyed during the peak of tomato season, typically in the summer months, when tomatoes are at their ripest and most flavorful. It is a delicious way to showcase the fresh and vibrant flavors of tomatoes, making it a popular choice for picnics and gatherings.

Is Making Tomato Pie at Home Cost-Effective?

This classic tomato pie recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as tomatoes, cheese, and pie crust, are generally affordable and widely available. The use of fresh basil and grape tomatoes may slightly increase the cost, but they add a delightful flavor. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $12-$15, making it a budget-friendly option. The overall verdict for this recipe would be an 8/10, considering its taste, simplicity, and affordability.

Is Classic Tomato Pie Healthy or Unhealthy?

The classic tomato pie recipe, while delicious, may not be the healthiest option due to its high cheese and mayonnaise content. The recipe calls for a significant amount of mozzarella and cheddar cheese, which are high in saturated fat and calories. Additionally, the mayonnaise used in the topping adds extra fat and calories to the dish. The pie crust, if made with refined flour and butter or shortening, also contributes to the overall unhealthy nature of the recipe.

However, the recipe does include some healthy ingredients, such as fresh tomatoes and basil leaves. Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, while basil is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. The use of these fresh ingredients adds some nutritional value to the dish.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use a whole wheat or gluten-free pie crust to increase the fiber content and reduce refined carbohydrates
Reduce the amount of cheese used in the recipe, or opt for low-fat cheese varieties to decrease the saturated fat and calorie content
Replace the mayonnaise with a healthier alternative, such as Greek yogurt or avocado, to maintain creaminess while reducing fat and adding protein or healthy fats
Increase the amount of fresh tomatoes and basil used in the recipe to boost the nutritional value and flavor of the dish
Add other vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, to increase the fiber and nutrient content of the pie

Editor's Opinion on This Classic Tomato Pie Recipe

The classic tomato pie recipe you've provided is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of fresh tomatoes, basil, and a blend of cheeses creates a harmonious balance, while the addition of mayonnaise adds a creamy richness. The step-by-step instructions are clear and easy to follow, making this recipe accessible for both novice and experienced cooks. The final dish promises a beautiful presentation and a burst of summery flavors. It's a wonderful way to showcase the bounty of ripe, juicy tomatoes.

Enhance Your Tomato Pie Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection with a crispy garlic parmesan topping.

Balsamic Glazed Grilled Peaches: Juicy grilled peaches drizzled with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze, the perfect combination of savory and sweet flavors.

Creamy Pesto Pasta Salad: Al dente pasta tossed in a creamy pesto sauce with cherry tomatoes and fresh basil, a refreshing and satisfying side dish.

Honey Sriracha Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts coated in a sticky honey sriracha glaze, a spicy and sweet twist on a classic vegetable dish.

Delicious Alternatives to Classic Tomato Pie

Creamy Chicken Alfredo: This creamy and indulgent pasta dish is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of tender chicken and rich alfredo sauce will leave you wanting more.

Grilled Peach Salad: This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of grilled peaches with the tanginess of balsamic vinaigrette. It's the perfect balance of flavors for a light and satisfying meal.

Spicy Lentil Soup: Warm up with this hearty and flavorful soup that packs a spicy kick. The combination of lentils, vegetables, and spices will keep you coming back for more on a chilly day.

Berry Cobbler: Indulge in the sweetness of fresh berries topped with a buttery and crumbly cobbler topping. This classic dessert is the perfect way to end any meal with a touch of sweetness.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Your Tomato Pie

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Crispy Zucchini Fritters: These crispy zucchini fritters are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that will have everyone coming back for more. The combination of shredded zucchini, Parmesan cheese, and a hint of garlic creates a deliciously addictive snack.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This elegant and decadent dessert is perfect for special occasions or a luxurious treat at the end of a meal.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the creamy and luscious texture of a classic strawberry cheesecake, topped with a vibrant and glossy layer of fresh strawberries. The combination of tangy cream cheese and sweet strawberries creates a delightful balance of flavors that will leave your taste buds craving for more.

Why trust this Tomato Pie Recipe:

This classic tomato pie recipe is a timeless favorite, featuring fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil for a burst of flavor. The combination of mozzarella and cheddar cheese creates a rich and creamy texture, while the addition of mayonnaise adds a delightful tanginess. The careful layering of ingredients ensures a perfect balance of flavors in every bite. Trust in the simplicity and tradition of this recipe, as it has been enjoyed by countless families for generations. Embrace the essence of summer with this delightful tomato pie, a true celebration of seasonal produce.

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FAQ:

Can I use a different type of cheese in this tomato pie recipe?

Yes, you can definitely experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste. Try using provolone, Gruyère, or even feta for a unique twist.

Can I use store-bought pie crust instead of making my own?

Absolutely! Using a store-bought pie crust is a convenient and time-saving option. Just make sure to follow the baking instructions on the package.

Can I make this tomato pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tomato pie ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. This is a great option for meal prepping or when you want to save time on the day of serving.

Can I add other vegetables to the tomato pie?

Certainly! Feel free to add other vegetables like sautéed onions, bell peppers, or spinach to enhance the flavor and texture of the pie.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh basil?

While fresh basil adds a wonderful flavor, you can use dried basil if that's what you have on hand. Just remember to adjust the quantity, as dried herbs are more concentrated than fresh ones.