Delightful Tomato Pie: A Savory, Comforting Classic

Tomato pie is a beloved dish that brings together the fresh, tangy flavors of ripe tomatoes with the rich and creamy goodness of cheese, all nestled in a buttery, flaky crust. This comforting Southern classic is perfect for summer when tomatoes are in their prime, though it’s great year-round. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, tomato pie is sure to satisfy anyone who loves the perfect combination of savory and cheesy. This recipe elevates the humble tomato to a star ingredient, giving you a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish to share with family and friends.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade for an extra touch)
  • 4 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 teaspoon fresh basil, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried basil)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (preferably full-fat)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs (optional for extra crunch)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. If using a store-bought crust, roll it out to fit a 9-inch pie dish. If using homemade dough, roll out the dough and place it in the pie dish, crimping the edges.
  3. Prick the bottom of the pie crust with a fork to prevent it from puffing up. Bake for 10 minutes to set it slightly. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
  4. While the crust is baking, prepare the tomatoes by slicing them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place them on paper towels to absorb excess moisture and set aside.
  5. In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
  6. Add the fresh thyme and basil to the skillet, and stir to combine. Season with salt and black pepper. Remove the mixture from the heat and set aside.
  7. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard. Stir until smooth and well-blended.
  8. Layer the sliced tomatoes in the prepared pie crust, slightly overlapping them to form an even layer.
  9. Spread the sautéed onion and herb mixture evenly over the tomatoes.
  10. Spread the creamy cheese mixture over the tomatoes and onions, covering them completely. Use a spatula to smooth the top evenly.
  11. If you prefer extra crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top of the pie before baking.
  12. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese mixture is bubbly and lightly browned.
  13. Let the pie cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
  14. Serve warm as a main dish or a savory side. This tomato pie is perfect for a summer barbecue or as a comforting dinner any time of year.

This tomato pie offers a perfect balance of creamy and savory flavors, with the freshness of tomatoes shining through. With its rich, cheesy topping and crispy, buttery crust, it’s an irresistible treat that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

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