This Easy Cheesy Tomato Pie is a tasty and comforting dish. With layers of fresh tomatoes, gooey cheese, and a flaky crust, it’s hard to resist!
Honestly, who can say no to melted cheese? It’s like a warm hug on a plate! I love serving it with a fresh salad for a perfect meal. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes are key for flavor. Use large ripe ones for the best taste. If tomatoes are out of season, canned diced tomatoes can work too. Just drain them well!
Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for a kick and mozzarella for creaminess. If you need a dairy-free option, try vegan cheese blends or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. For lower fat, use reduced-fat cheese varieties!
Pie Crust: While a store-bought crust is quick, making your own with flour and butter gives more flavor. If you’re gluten-free, look for a gluten-free pie crust mix instead. You can even use mashed potatoes instead for a twist!
Mayonnaise: This is unusual, but it adds creaminess. Greek yogurt can be a healthy substitute or a nice zing with sour cream.
How Do I Ensure My Tomato Pie Doesn’t Get Soggy?
A soggy crust can ruin your pie! Here’s how to keep it crisp:
- Salting and draining tomatoes is essential. This step pulls out extra moisture.
- Pat the tomatoes dry with paper towels after draining to soak up any remaining liquid.
- Blind bake the crust for 10-15 minutes before adding the filling. This gives a head start to crisp it up.
Following these tips will help you achieve a deliciously tender crust that stays crispy throughout!
Easy Cheesy Tomato Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pie:
- 1 pre-made 9-inch pie crust (or homemade)
- 3 large fresh tomatoes, sliced
- 1 teaspoon salt (for draining tomatoes)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Time Estimate:
This delicious pie takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to bake, plus a little time for the pie to cool before serving. In total, you’ll need about 1 hour for a fabulous cheesy dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Tomatoes:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Next, take your sliced tomatoes and place them in a colander. Sprinkle the tomatoes with salt and let them drain for about 15 minutes. This step helps to remove excess moisture and prevents your pie from getting soggy. After they’ve drained, pat them dry gently with paper towels.
2. Assembling the Pie Crust:
While the tomatoes are draining, roll out the pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan. Don’t worry if it doesn’t look perfect—just crimp the edges as you like. Easy peasy!
3. Layering the Ingredients:
Once the tomatoes are ready, layer the drained tomato slices evenly into the bottom of the crust. If you like, sprinkle the thinly sliced onions over the tomatoes for an extra flavor boost.
4. Mixing the Cheese Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix together the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan cheeses, mayonnaise, black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir everything until well combined and creamy—this will be your delicious, cheesy topping!
5. Baking the Pie:
Spread the cheesy mixture evenly over the tomato layer in the pie crust. Now it’s time to bake! Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top.
6. Cooling and Serving:
Once it’s done baking, carefully remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes to set. This will help the layers hold together better. If you want, garnish with fresh basil or parsley to add a pop of color and flavor. Slice and serve it warm—enjoy your cheesy delight!
Dig into this delightful Easy Cheesy Tomato Pie, packed with fresh flavors and ooey-gooey cheese on a flaky crust. It’s sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Tomato Pie
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! You can substitute the cheeses based on your preference. For a sharper flavor, try using a smoked cheddar or gouda. If you prefer a lighter option, go for low-fat mozzarella or even a vegan cheese for a dairy-free version.
What Can I Do If My Pie Crust Is Soggy?
If you notice your crust is soggy, here are a few tips to avoid that in the future: make sure to drain your tomatoes well and consider blind baking the crust for 10-15 minutes before adding the filling to give it a head start in crisping up!
Can I Make This Pie Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the pie assembly in advance; just cover it and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking for even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftover Tomato Pie?
To store leftovers, cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or transfer individual slices to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through.
