If you’ve never had the pleasure of tasting a Tomato Pie Recipe, you’re in for a true treat. This classic Southern-inspired dish takes the juiciest ripe tomatoes and layers them with fragrant basil, sweet onions, and a melty duo of cheeses, all cozied up in a flaky golden crust. It’s rich yet refreshing, exploding with flavors that capture the very essence of summer—while the creamy, tangy topping ties everything together. Whether you serve it warm as a main course or chilled at a picnic, this Tomato Pie Recipe is guaranteed to win over anyone who gets a slice.
Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s something magical about how a few simple ingredients can come together to create a Tomato Pie Recipe that tastes like pure sunshine. Each element has a role: plump tomatoes for juiciness, basil and onions for bright pops of flavor, and a blend of cheeses for that irresistible savory finish.
- Pre-baked deep-dish pie crust (9-inch): The sturdy foundation, perfectly crisp to cradle all those luscious fillings.
- Ripe tomatoes (3 to 4, sliced and drained): Use meaty varieties like Roma or heirlooms for the best flavor and minimal sogginess.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Draws out excess moisture from tomatoes and highlights every ingredient’s freshness.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle kick and rounds out the overall flavor.
- Yellow onion (1/2 cup, chopped): Sweet and savory, onions melt into the pie for amazing depth.
- Fresh basil (1/4 cup, chopped): Gives the pie a burst of herbal brightness and summery vibes.
- Mozzarella cheese (1 cup, shredded): Melts beautifully and brings that satisfying gooey texture.
- Sharp cheddar cheese (1 cup, shredded): Layers in rich, tangy flavor that stands up to the tomatoes.
- Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): Binds the cheeses and creates an irresistibly creamy top layer.
- Parmesan cheese (1 tablespoon, optional): For a salty, nutty finishing touch if you want extra punch.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon, for drizzling): Adds golden color and all those lovely Mediterranean notes.
How to Make Tomato Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Tomatoes
Start things off by preheating your oven to 350°F. While it warms up, lay your sliced tomatoes in a single layer on some paper towels and sprinkle with salt. This step releases excess water—absolutely key to getting a pie that’s lush, not soggy. After letting them sit for 10 to 15 minutes, gently pat them dry. Your patience here will pay off with every bite.
Step 2: Layer the Base
Grab that golden, pre-baked pie crust. Arrange half of your tomato slices lovingly across the bottom, then sprinkle with half of the chopped onion and a nice shower of fresh basil. Not only do you get that incredible aroma, but every layer gets a bit of everything you love.
Step 3: Repeat the Layers
Stack on a second round! Layer the remaining tomatoes, onion, and basil right on top. This double-layer method ensures every slice is packed with juicy tomatoes and savory aromatics, making each serving feel like the best part.
Step 4: Mix the Cheeses and Mayo
In a bowl, stir together the shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and mayonnaise until they form a rich, creamy mixture. This is your secret weapon—it binds everything together and bakes up into the dreamiest, golden-bubbly topping.
Step 5: Top and Bake
Spread the cheese mixture evenly across the layered pie. If you’d like an extra burst of flavor and color, sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top. Finish with a gentle drizzle of olive oil for that lovely shine and pop the pie into the oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the top is golden and enticingly bubbly. When it’s done, let the pie rest for at least 10 minutes—this helps it set so every wedge comes out perfectly.
How to Serve Tomato Pie Recipe
Garnishes
For a finishing flourish, scatter a few fresh basil leaves over your Tomato Pie Recipe or add a quick twist of cracked black pepper. A thin sprinkle of flaky sea salt can also wake up the flavors for each slice. If you’d like to lean into Southern comfort, a dusting of extra Parmesan never hurts!
Side Dishes
This pie pairs with all sorts of delicious sides. Think simple leafy green salads tossed with vinaigrette, a platter of fresh summer fruit, or even grilled corn on the cob. If you want something heartier, serve with roasted potatoes or a bowl of chilled gazpacho for a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Switch up your serving style by cutting the pie into rustic squares for a picnic spread, or bake in mini tart pans for adorable, individual portions. Tomato Pie Recipe also shines at brunch alongside eggs and crispy bacon, or as a star at your next potluck. Don’t be shy about embellishing with a little hot honey or red pepper flakes, either!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (lucky you!), allow the pie to cool to room temperature, then wrap tightly in foil or transfer slices to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator, where it will stay delicious for up to three days.
Freezing
Tomato Pie Recipe can be frozen, though the texture may soften just a touch. Cool the baked pie completely, wrap in two layers of plastic wrap plus foil, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To recapture that golden, bubbly top, reheat slices or a whole pie in a 350°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes, until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if possible—it can make the crust a bit chewy instead of crisp.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pie crust for this Tomato Pie Recipe?
Absolutely! A good-quality store-bought deep-dish pie crust saves time and still delivers fantastic results. Just be sure to pre-bake it so the bottom stays crisp.
How do I prevent the pie from getting soggy?
Salting and draining the tomatoes is crucial. Also, stick with meaty tomato varieties and don’t skip patting them dry. Pre-baking the crust helps, too!
Can I make this Tomato Pie Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use a gluten-free pie crust and double-check your mayonnaise and cheeses for any hidden gluten ingredients. The filling itself is naturally gluten-free.
What other herbs can I add besides basil?
Fresh thyme, oregano, or chives all complement the tomato and cheese combo beautifully. Just use a light hand so the flavors remain bright and balanced.
Is this Tomato Pie Recipe good served cold?
You bet! Some people even prefer it cooled down or at room temperature, especially during hot weather. The flavors meld together and the pie is easy to slice and serve.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re enjoying the peak of tomato season or just craving a cozy, flavor-packed meal, this Tomato Pie Recipe is one I come back to again and again. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself looking for excuses to make it for every gathering—so go ahead, treat yourself and share the goodness!
Print
Tomato Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Tomato Pie recipe is a savory delight, featuring layers of ripe tomatoes, onions, fresh basil, and a cheesy, creamy filling, all nestled in a flaky pie crust. Perfect for showcasing summer tomatoes in a Southern-inspired dish.
Ingredients
Pie:
- 1 (9-inch) deep-dish pie crust (pre-baked)
Filling:
- 3 to 4 ripe tomatoes (sliced and drained)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Prepare tomatoes: Place the sliced tomatoes on paper towels, sprinkle with salt, let sit for 10-15 minutes, then pat dry.
- Layer pie: In the pre-baked pie crust, layer half of the tomato slices, onion, and basil. Repeat with remaining tomatoes, onion, and basil.
- Prepare cheese mixture: Mix mozzarella, cheddar, and mayonnaise in a bowl. Spread over the pie.
- Bake: Sprinkle with Parmesan, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 30-35 minutes until golden.
- Rest and serve: Let the pie rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Best with meaty tomatoes like Roma or heirloom varieties
- Add red pepper flakes for a kick
- Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat in the oven
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 460 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 19 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
