This Easy Cheesy Tomato Pie is a delightful blend of fresh tomatoes and gooey cheese in a flaky crust. It’s the perfect summer dish, bringing together simple and tasty flavors!
Trust me, when you take that first bite and the cheese oozes out, you’ll forget all your worries! I love serving it warm, maybe with a big slice of laughter on the side. 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tomatoes: Ripe tomatoes are key for this dish. They should be juicy and flavorful. If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, you can use canned diced tomatoes. Just make sure to drain them well to avoid sogginess!
Cheese: I love combining sharp cheddar and mozzarella for that melty stretch! If you’re not a fan of these varieties, consider using provolone or gouda for a different taste. Dairy-free cheese options are great for vegan diets too!
Mayonnaise: It adds richness and creaminess. If you want a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt. It gives a similar texture with a bit more protein!
Pie Crust: A refrigerated crust is super convenient and works well here. You can make your own pie crust if you prefer, or use a whole wheat crust for added nutrition. Gluten-free crusts are also available if needed!
How Do I Prevent a Soggy Bottom Crust?
A soggy pie crust can ruin even the best tomato pie. Here are some tips to keep it crispy:
- Layer Wisely: Lay the tomatoes in a single layer. Overlapping them leads to extra moisture.
- Pre-Bake: Consider blind-baking the crust for 10 minutes before adding your fillings. This sets the crust and keeps it from getting soggy.
- Drain Excess Liquid: After slicing, sprinkle tomatoes with salt and let them sit for about 15 minutes. This draws out excess moisture.
- Cooling Time: Let your pie cool for 10 minutes after baking. This helps it firm up and keeps slices from falling apart.
Easy Cheesy Tomato Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 refrigerated pie crust (9-inch)
- 3 medium ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried basil or Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions or thinly sliced onion (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Cheesy Tomato Pie will take about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 35-40 minutes to bake, plus an additional 10 minutes to cool before serving. In total, you’ll need around 1 hour to enjoy this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the pie bakes evenly and gets that lovely golden color on top.
2. Prepare the Pie Crust:
Take the refrigerated pie crust and place it into a 9-inch pie plate. Gently press it into the bottom and sides of the plate, making sure it’s snug. Feel free to crimp the edges to make it fancy if you like!
3. Layer the Tomatoes:
Now, arrange the thinly sliced tomatoes in a single layer over the pie crust. Sprinkle the salt, pepper, and dried basil or Italian seasoning evenly over the tomatoes. This step will help enhance the flavor and draw out a little excess moisture from the tomatoes.
4. Add the Cheese:
In a medium bowl, mix together the shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese until everything is well combined. Then, spread this cheesy mixture evenly over the seasoned tomatoes.
5. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a separate small bowl, beat the three eggs and whisk in the mayonnaise until everything is smooth and creamy.
6. Combine It All:
Pour the egg and mayonnaise mixture evenly over the cheese layer on your pie. This will bind everything together beautifully while it bakes.
7. Add Optional Green Onions:
If you’re using them, sprinkle the chopped green onions or sliced onion on top for that extra touch of flavor!
8. Bake the Pie:
Place the pie in your preheated oven and bake it for about 35-40 minutes or until the filling is set and the top is a lovely golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
9. Cool Before Serving:
Once baking is complete, carefully remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. This brief cooling time will help the pie hold together when you slice it.
10. Enjoy!
Serve your Easy Cheesy Tomato Pie warm or at room temperature. It makes for a fantastic light lunch or a delicious side dish for dinner. Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar and mozzarella are a classic combination, feel free to get creative. You can use provolone, fontina, or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick! Just ensure they melt well for that gooey texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or warm it gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Enjoy your leftovers!
Can I Make This Pie Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep this pie ahead of time! Assemble it up to a day in advance, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
What Can I Serve With Tomato Pie?
This pie pairs beautifully with a simple side salad, grilled vegetables, or even some crusty bread. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside your favorite protein like grilled chicken or fish!
