This pie is a rustic celebration of summer flavors and Southern comfort. Think of it as a savory cousin to quiche, with layers of caramelized onions, crispy bacon, and ripe tomatoes baked into a golden crust. The creamy topping—made with cheese, mayonnaise, and herbs—melts into the filling, creating a luscious texture and bold flavor. It’s reminiscent of a BLT in pie form, but with a gourmet twist that makes it worthy of any gathering.
INGREDIENTS:
For the Pie Base:
- 1 deep-dish pie crust (store-bought or homemade), pre-baked
- 6–8 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2–3 medium ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Topping:
- 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp dried basil or oregano
- Optional: ¼ tsp red pepper flakes for heat
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped
- Crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs (for crunch)
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Preheat & Prep:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If using a store-bought crust, bake it according to package instructions. For homemade crust, blind bake it for 10–12 minutes until lightly golden. - Caramelize the Onions:
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the sliced onions in a bit of bacon drippings or olive oil until soft and golden—about 10 minutes. Set aside to cool. - Layer the Filling:
In the pre-baked crust, layer half of the caramelized onions, followed by half the tomato slices and half the crumbled bacon. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Repeat the layers. - Mix the Topping:
In a bowl, combine cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, flour, garlic powder, herbs, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir until smooth and creamy. - Top & Bake:
Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the layered filling. Sprinkle crushed crackers or breadcrumbs on top for added texture. Bake for 35–40 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. - Cool & Garnish:
Let the pie rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and freshness.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS:
- Serve warm with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.
- For a brunch spread, pair with iced herbal tea or a citrus spritzer.
- Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream on each slice for extra creaminess.
TIPS & VARIATIONS:
- Prevent sogginess: Salt the tomato slices and let them drain on paper towels before layering.
- Make it vegetarian: Swap bacon for smoked tempeh or sautéed mushrooms.
- Add a wellness twist: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and a whole wheat or almond flour crust.
- Flavor boost: Try adding a layer of pesto or sun-dried tomatoes for depth.
Would you like a saffron-infused version next? I can imagine a fusion twist that blends your love for wellness and South Asian flavors beautifully.