Name: Sausage and Cheese Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 1
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tomato; 2 tbsp sausage; 1 egg; cheese; olive oil; black pepper; fresh basil

Stuffed tomatoes are a delightful dish that offers a burst of fresh and savory flavors in every bite. This recipe combines the heartiness of sausage, the comfort of cheese, and the fresh tang of tomatoes to create a balanced, satisfying meal. It's a versatile dish that could serve as a unique appetizer, a light lunch, or a side dish to complement your main course.

Photos of Sausage and Cheese Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe

The ingredients in this recipe are generally easy to find in your regular grocery store. However, you may want to be selective with the type of sausage and cheese you use. Opt for a sausage with low fat content to prevent the dish from becoming too greasy. In terms of cheese, a mozzarella or cheddar would work well, but feel free to experiment with your favorite cheese.

Sausage and Cheese Stuffed Tomatoes Ingredients

Tomato: The base of this recipe, fresh tomatoes provide a refreshing counterbalance to the rich filling.

Sausage: Cooked sausage adds a savory depth to the dish. Choose a variety with low fat content.

Egg: An egg binds the ingredients together and adds extra flavor.

Cheese: Cheese makes the filling extra creamy and satisfying. Choose according to your preference.

Olive oil: Used to drizzle over the top before baking. It will give the dish a nice finishing gloss and add a subtle flavor.

Black pepper: Enhances the flavor of the stuffing. Adjust the amount according to your taste.

Fresh basil: Fresh basil leaves add a touch of color and a refreshing aroma to the finished dish.

One reader, Erin Lively says:

This sausage and cheese stuffed tomatoes recipe is a game-changer! The combination of savory sausage, gooey cheese, and juicy tomatoes is simply divine. It's a quick and easy dish that's bursting with flavor. I highly recommend trying it out for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Erin Lively

Techniques Required for Making Sausage and Cheese Stuffed Tomatoes

How to hollow out the tomato: Cut off the top of the tomato and carefully remove the insides, creating a hollow space for the filling.

How to cook sausage: Cook the sausage in a skillet over medium heat until it is browned and cooked through.

How to bake stuffed tomatoes: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Fill the hollowed-out tomatoes with the cooked sausage, crack an egg into each tomato, and add shredded cheese on top. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked to your desired doneness.

How to garnish with basil: After baking, garnish the stuffed tomatoes with fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor and color.

How to season with pepper: Sprinkle the baked stuffed tomatoes with freshly ground black pepper to add a touch of warmth and spice.

How To Make Sausage and Cheese Stuffed Tomatoes

The best way to spice up tomatoes? Fill it with sausage, cheese, and egg for tangy and meaty stuffed tomatoes that are baked for a mouthwatering bite.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1tomato
2tbspsausage,cooked
1egg
cheese,shredded, to taste
olive oil,to taste
black pepper,to taste
fresh basil,to garnish

Instructions

Cut off the top of the tomato and remove the insides. Fill with cooked sausage, crack in an egg, and added shredded cheese.
Drizzle some olive oil over the top. Bake in the oven at 425 degrees F for 15 to 20 minutes, depending on how well done the eggs are.
Season with some pepper and garnish with basil.
Serve and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 254.72kcal
Fat: 19.68g
Saturated Fat: 5.60g
Trans Fat: 0.07g
Monounsaturated Fat: 8.69g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.49g
Carbohydrates: 5.97g
Fiber: 1.64g
Sugar: 3.86g
Protein: 14.24g
Cholesterol: 194.96mg
Sodium: 437.40mg
Calcium: 43.28mg
Potassium: 512.99mg
Iron: 1.67mg
Vitamin A: 134.13µg
Vitamin C: 16.85mg

Expert Tip for Perfecting Sausage and Cheese Stuffed Tomatoes

When hollowing out the tomato, be careful not to pierce the skin at the bottom. This will ensure that the egg and sausage filling stays inside the tomato during the baking process. Also, using a serrated knife can make the process of removing the tomato's insides easier and more precise.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the sausage and cheese filling the night before and store it in the refrigerator. This will save time on the day of cooking.

Use a melon baller: Use a melon baller to easily remove the insides of the tomatoes, saving time and ensuring a uniform cavity for the filling.

Batch cooking: Consider making a larger batch of stuffed tomatoes and freeze the extras for a quick and convenient meal in the future.

Pre-shred cheese: Pre-shred the cheese in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for quick and easy use when making the recipe.

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven while preparing the ingredients to save time during the cooking process.

Multi-task: While the stuffed tomatoes are baking, use that time to prepare a simple side dish or salad to complete the meal.

Substitute Ingredients For Sausage and Cheese Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe

Tomato - Substitute with bell pepper: Bell peppers can provide a similar texture and sweetness to tomatoes, and they can hold the stuffing well when roasted.
Sausage - Substitute with vegetarian sausage: Vegetarian sausage can provide a similar savory flavor and texture, making it a suitable substitute for traditional sausage.
Egg - Substitute with flaxseed egg: A flaxseed egg can act as a binding agent and provide a similar texture to a regular egg in the recipe.
Cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor and a creamy texture, making it a suitable dairy-free substitute for cheese.
Olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and a high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
Black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can provide a milder and slightly different flavor compared to black pepper, adding a unique twist to the dish.
Fresh basil - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley can provide a similar freshness and herbaceous flavor to the dish, complementing the other ingredients well.

Presentation Ideas for Sausage and Cheese Stuffed Tomatoes

Elevate the tomato: Choose a ripe, vibrant tomato and carefully hollow it out, ensuring it stands tall and proud on the plate.
Perfect the sausage filling: Create a flavorful and juicy sausage filling using high-quality sausage meat and a blend of aromatic spices.
Craft the egg: Cook the egg to perfection, ensuring the yolk is runny and the white is set, creating a luxurious and indulgent experience when cut into.
Melt the cheese: Use a premium, rich cheese that melts beautifully, adding a creamy and savory element to the dish.
Drizzle with olive oil: Select a top-tier, extra virgin olive oil to drizzle over the top, adding a touch of richness and depth to the dish.
Season with black pepper: Grind fresh black pepper over the top, enhancing the flavors and adding a subtle heat to complement the other ingredients.
Garnish with fresh basil: Carefully place fresh basil leaves on top, adding a pop of color and a burst of aromatic freshness to the dish.
Present with precision: Plate the stuffed tomato with attention to detail, ensuring it is visually appealing and showcases the exquisite flavors within.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Stuffed Tomatoes

Oven: An essential appliance for baking, roasting, and broiling food items.
Knife: Used for slicing, dicing, and chopping ingredients with precision.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Baking dish: A container suitable for baking and roasting dishes in the oven.
Spatula: Ideal for flipping, turning, and serving the stuffed tomatoes without damaging them.
Measuring spoons: Essential for accurately measuring small amounts of ingredients such as spices and seasonings.
Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface for baking the stuffed tomatoes in the oven.
Cheese grater: Used to grate cheese for stuffing the tomatoes.
Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients and mixing the sausage and cheese filling.
Oven mitts: Protects hands from the heat when handling the baking dish and hot oven items.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Sausage and Cheese Stuffed Tomatoes

Let the stuffed tomatoes cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator, place the cooled tomatoes in an airtight container. They will keep for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
For longer storage, you can freeze the stuffed tomatoes:
- Wrap each tomato individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, making sure to remove as much air as possible.
- Place the wrapped tomatoes in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, label with the date, and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat frozen stuffed tomatoes:
- Remove the desired number of tomatoes from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Unwrap the thawed tomatoes and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Note: The texture of the tomatoes may change slightly after freezing and reheating, but the flavor will still be delicious.

How To Reheat Leftover Stuffed Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover stuffed tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Cover the tomatoes loosely with another piece of foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil cover for the last 5 minutes of reheating to allow the cheese to melt and become golden brown.
If you prefer a quicker method, you can reheat the stuffed tomatoes in the microwave. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful when removing the plate from the microwave, as it may be hot.
For a crispy exterior, you can reheat the stuffed tomatoes in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the tomatoes in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
If you have a toaster oven, you can also use it to reheat the stuffed tomatoes. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the tomatoes on the baking rack. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Regardless of the method you choose, be sure to check the internal temperature of the stuffed tomatoes before serving. They should reach a minimum temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure that they are safe to eat. If the tomatoes are not heated through, continue reheating them in increments of 1-2 minutes until they reach the desired temperature.

Interesting Trivia About Stuffed Tomatoes

Tomatoes are actually a fruit, not a vegetable. They are classified as a berry because they develop from a single ovary and contain seeds.

Is Making Sausage and Cheese Stuffed Tomatoes Cost-Effective?

This sausage and cheese stuffed tomatoes recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are simple and affordable, making it a budget-friendly option. The combination of tomatoes, sausage, and cheese creates a flavorful and satisfying dish. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$12, making it an economical choice. The overall verdict for this recipe would be 8/10, considering its simplicity, affordability, and delicious outcome.

Is This Stuffed Tomato Recipe Healthy?

The sausage and cheese stuffed tomatoes recipe, while tasty, may not be the healthiest option. Here's why:

High in saturated fat: Sausage and cheese are both high in saturated fat, which can raise LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease.
Calorie-dense: The combination of sausage, cheese, and egg makes this dish calorie-dense, which may not be ideal for those watching their weight.
Low in fiber: Although tomatoes provide some fiber, the overall dish is relatively low in this essential nutrient.

On the positive side, the recipe does include some healthy ingredients:

Tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, an antioxidant that may help reduce the risk of certain cancers.
Eggs provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients like choline and vitamin D.
Fresh basil adds flavor and contains beneficial plant compounds.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork sausage to reduce the saturated fat content.
Opt for low-fat cheese or reduce the amount of cheese used to lower the calorie and fat content.
Add more vegetables to the stuffing, such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers, to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
Use a smaller amount of olive oil or choose a cooking spray to reduce the overall calorie count.
Serve the stuffed tomatoes with a side salad or roasted vegetables to make it a more balanced meal.

Editor's Opinion on Sausage and Cheese Stuffed Tomatoes

This sausage and cheese stuffed tomatoes recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The juicy tomato serves as the perfect vessel for the savory sausage, creamy cheese, and rich egg. The dish is elevated with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of black pepper, and a garnish of fresh basil, adding depth and freshness to each bite. The baking process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a satisfying and comforting dish. It's a simple yet impressive recipe that is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Enjoy!

Enhance Your Sausage and Cheese Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and chives

Garlic Bread: Warm and crispy garlic bread with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese

Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection with a drizzle of balsamic glaze

Similar Recipes to Try If You Like Stuffed Tomatoes

Creamy Chicken Alfredo: This creamy chicken alfredo recipe is a classic Italian dish that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce. It's the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in.

Grilled Peach Salad: This grilled peach salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines sweet, smoky grilled peaches with crisp greens, tangy goat cheese, and a zesty vinaigrette. It's the perfect summer salad for a light and satisfying meal.

Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry: This beef and broccoli stir fry is a quick and easy dish that combines tender slices of beef, crisp broccoli, and a savory stir fry sauce. It's a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights.

Berry Crisp: This berry crisp is a delightful dessert that combines sweet, juicy berries with a buttery, crispy topping. It's the perfect way to showcase the fresh flavors of summer fruits in a simple and delicious dessert.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Sausage and Cheese Stuffed Tomatoes

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then baked to perfection.

Crispy Zucchini Fritters: Grated zucchini mixed with herbs and spices, formed into patties, and fried until golden brown and crispy.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, rich chocolate lava cake that oozes with warm, gooey goodness when you cut into it. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Create a luscious and creamy strawberry cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust. Top it off with a vibrant strawberry glaze and fresh sliced strawberries for a burst of fruity flavor in every bite.

Why trust this Sausage and Cheese Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of fresh tomato, savory sausage, and rich cheese, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The addition of a perfectly cooked egg adds a delightful richness, while the drizzle of olive oil enhances the overall taste. The seasoning with black pepper and the garnish of fresh basil further elevate the dish, adding a burst of freshness and aroma. Trust in the quality and balance of these ingredients to deliver a satisfying and delicious culinary experience.

Share your thoughts on the Sausage and Cheese Stuffed Tomatoes recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to suggest!

FAQ:

How can I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?

You can easily make this recipe vegetarian-friendly by substituting the sausage with plant-based sausage or crumbled tofu. You can also add some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for extra flavor.

Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use a different type of cheese. Cheddar, mozzarella, or feta would all work well in this recipe. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite combination.

Can I prepare these stuffed tomatoes in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed tomatoes in advance by assembling them and keeping them in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake them. Just make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly if the tomatoes are cold from the fridge.

What can I serve with these stuffed tomatoes?

These stuffed tomatoes can be served as a delicious and satisfying breakfast or brunch dish. You can also serve them with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

Can I freeze the stuffed tomatoes for later?

While it's best to enjoy the stuffed tomatoes fresh, you can freeze them for later. After baking, let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply reheat them in the oven until heated through.