This Easy Tomato Pie is all about fresh flavors! With juicy tomatoes, creamy cheese, and zesty pesto, it’s a delightful treat for any meal. Plus, it smells amazing while baking!
I love serving it warm right out of the oven. It’s perfect for gatherings and you can bet there won’t be any leftovers. If there are, I might just take them for breakfast! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes are the star of this pie. If they aren’t in season, you could use canned diced tomatoes, but make sure to drain them well. Heirloom tomatoes add a great flavor too!
Cheese: I love using mozzarella for its meltiness and Parmesan for the salty bite. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try vegan mozzarella or a mix of nutritional yeast and cashews blended for creaminess.
Pesto: Store-bought basil pesto is convenient and delicious. For a twist, consider sun-dried tomato pesto or even a homemade version with your favorite nuts. If you’re nut-free, use seeds in your pesto instead!
Mayonnaise: This is optional, but it adds creaminess to the pie. You can skip it for a lighter dish. If you want to keep it creamy, try Greek yogurt or sour cream instead; they work well too!
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Layering in Your Pie?
Layering is key for the best results in this tomato pie. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by ensuring your pie crust is well-prepped against sogginess. Prick it with a fork before filling!
- Spread the mayonnaise or pesto evenly for a good flavor base, helping the cheese and tomatoes adhere well.
- Layer the tomato slices neatly and sprinkle salt and pepper on each layer. This helps evenly season each bite.
- Top with cheese last—mozzarella first for meltiness, then Parmesan for flavor. This layering prevents the tomatoes from making the crust soggy.
Take your time with these steps for a deliciously layered pie that holds up beautifully when sliced! Enjoy every bite!
Easy Tomato Pie with Cheese and Pesto
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pie:
- 1 pre-made refrigerated pie crust (or homemade pie crust)
- 3 to 4 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced about 1/4 inch thick
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional, for creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Easy Tomato Pie will take about 15-20 minutes to prepare, with an additional 30-35 minutes of baking time. In total, you’ll need about 50-55 minutes to enjoy your tasty creation!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating, roll out your pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish. Use a fork to prick the bottom lightly; this helps prevent it from getting soggy later. Set aside.
2. Layer the Flavors:
If you’re using mayonnaise, spread it evenly over the base of your pie crust to add creaminess. Then, spread the basil pesto evenly over the mayonnaise or directly onto the crust if you’re skipping the mayo. This adds fantastic flavor!
3. Add the Tomatoes:
Layer your sliced tomatoes neatly over the pesto. As you do this, sprinkle salt and black pepper over each layer of tomatoes to season them well. This will enhance the overall taste of the pie!
4. Cheese it Up:
Now for the cheesy goodness! Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the layered tomatoes, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese. Finally, add a sprinkle of dried oregano or Italian seasoning on top for extra flavor.
5. Bake to Perfection:
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the crust has turned a beautiful golden brown. Your kitchen will smell incredible!
6. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, take the pie out of the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This will make it easier to slice. If you like, garnish with fresh basil leaves to give it a lovely finishing touch.
7. Slice and Enjoy:
Slice the pie and serve it warm or at room temperature. Whether it’s for a family dinner, a picnic, or a cozy lunch, this Easy Tomato Pie with Cheese and Pesto is sure to impress!
FAQ for Easy Tomato Pie with Cheese and Pesto
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match cheeses for your preference. Cheddar or feta can be great substitutes for mozzarella. Just keep in mind that the melting texture may vary.
What Can I Substitute for Basil Pesto?
If you don’t have pesto on hand, you can use a homemade olive oil and garlic mixture with some fresh herbs, or even a sun-dried tomato spread for a different flavor. Just make sure it adds a good layer of moisture and flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed throughout, as this will help keep the crust crispy.
Can I Make This Pie Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie a day in advance. Layer everything in the pie crust, cover it, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re baking it straight from the fridge!
