This easy tomato pie is a delicious blend of fresh tomatoes, gooey cheese, and tasty pesto all baked together in a flaky crust. It’s perfect for any meal!
If you’re like me, you’ll love how easy this dish is to put together. Just layer the ingredients and let the oven work its magic. Perfect for summer gatherings! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tomatoes: Use ripe and juicy tomatoes for the best flavor. I prefer using heirloom tomatoes for their delicious taste and colorful appearance. If they’re out of season, you can try canned tomatoes, but fresh will give the best results.
Pie Crust: A pre-made crust saves time, but you can easily make your own with flour, butter, and a bit of water if you feel adventurous! If you’re gluten-free, many stores offer gluten-free pie crust options.
Cheeses: Mozzarella and cheddar provide a nice blend of flavors. For a twist, try using goat cheese or feta instead. They add a tangy taste that complements the tomatoes beautifully.
Mayonnaise: This is used for creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, greek yogurt works well too! It keeps the texture but adds a bit of tang.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture for My Tomato Pie?
The key to a great texture lies in the balance of moisture. Using fresh tomatoes is essential, but be sure to remove excess liquid by patting them dry. This prevents a soggy bottom crust!
- After slicing the tomatoes, lay them on paper towels for about 10-15 minutes to absorb extra moisture.
- Also, don’t skip partially baking the pie crust—it helps it stay crisp when the filling is added.
Following these tips will ensure your pie has a delightful texture every time! Enjoy making this easy tomato pie; it’s sure to become a favorite!
Easy Tomato Pie With Cheese and Pesto
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pie:
- 1 pre-made pie crust (9-inch)
- 3 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
For The Cheese Mixture:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
For The Filling:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp basil pesto
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil for brushing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy tomato pie will take about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 35-40 minutes to bake, plus a few minutes to cool before serving. In total, you’re looking at around an hour! Perfect for a tasty brunch or light dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your pie bakes evenly and you get that lovely golden top.
2. Prepare the Pie Crust:
Place the pie crust in a 9-inch tart or pie pan. Gently press it to fit and crimp the edges nicely. Don’t forget to prick the bottom lightly with a fork to prevent it from bubbling up while baking.
3. Partially Bake the Crust:
Pop the crust in the oven and bake it for about 8 minutes until just set but not browned. Take it out and let it cool for a moment.
4. Make the Filling:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, mayonnaise, basil pesto, and a pinch of salt and pepper until smooth. This mixture will create a creamy base for your pie.
5. Layer the Cheeses:
Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses evenly on the pie crust. This forms a tasty cheesy base for the rest of the pie.
6. Add the Egg Mixture:
Pour the creamy egg and pesto mixture evenly over the cheeses in the crust. This will hold all those delicious ingredients together.
7. Add the Tomatoes:
Arrange the sliced tomatoes evenly on top of the mixture. Feel free to overlap them for a beautiful presentation!
8. Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses over the tomato slices. This will create a golden, melty top!
9. Season and Drizzle:
Season the tomatoes with a little salt and pepper, then drizzle lightly with olive oil for extra flavor.
10. Bake the Pie:
Place your pie in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden and bubbling. Your kitchen will smell wonderful!
11. Cool and Garnish:
Once done, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This helps set the filling a bit more.
12. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan shavings before serving. This pie looks vibrant and is perfect warm or at room temperature—enjoy your delicious creation!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Pie?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other veggies like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to sauté any extra veggies first to reduce moisture before adding them to the pie.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Enjoy it warm for a quick meal!
Can I Make This Pie Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the pie a day in advance! Assemble it completely, then cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to eat, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
What Should I Serve with Tomato Pie?
This pie is delicious on its own, but for a heartier meal, pair it with a fresh salad or a side of roasted vegetables. It also goes well with a light vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors!
