This Tomato Bacon Casserole is a tasty blend of juicy tomatoes and crispy bacon, all baked together in a cozy dish. It’s a lovely way to enjoy simple ingredients in a warm meal!
I love making this when I need a quick comfort food fix. Just toss everything in, let it bake, and you’ll have a delicious meal to share with family or devour alone—no judgment here! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes are essential for flavor. If they’re out of season, canned diced tomatoes can work in a pinch. Just drain them well to avoid too much liquid.
Bacon: Regular bacon provides a smoky flavor, but turkey bacon is a great lower-fat substitute. Or, for a vegetarian option, try using smoked tofu or mushrooms for that umami kick!
Cheddar Cheese: I like sharp cheddar for its bold taste. If you’re looking for something lighter, mozzarella or a non-dairy cheese can be used. Just keep in mind that the texture will change a bit.
Onion: Yellow onion is my go-to, but red onions can add a nice sweetness. If you’re avoiding onions altogether, try using shallots or skipping it entirely.
How Do You Get the Eggs to Set Just Right?
Getting the egg mixture to set well is key for this casserole. Here’s how to do it:
- Ensure your oven is fully preheated before you put the dish in, as this helps everything cook evenly.
- Don’t rush baking! It usually takes 30-40 minutes. Keep an eye on the casserole and look for a golden top and firm egg mixture.
- If you like an extra crispy top, broil it for the last couple of minutes, watching it closely to prevent burning.
Allowing the casserole to cool for a few minutes after it bakes helps it hold together better when serving!
Tomato Bacon Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil or Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Tomato Bacon Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30-40 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at about 55-60 minutes from start to delicious finish! Perfect for those cozy dinner nights when you want something hearty and satisfying.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Bacon:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s heating up, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Once done, remove the bacon from the skillet, placing it on paper towels to drain and cool. Once cooled, crumble or cut it into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
2. Sauté Onions:
In the same skillet with the leftover bacon fat, add your chopped onions. Sauté them until they are soft and translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. Then, remove the skillet from heat.
3. Mix the Egg Base:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, flour, salt, pepper, and dried basil (if you’re using it) until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Next, grease a medium-sized casserole dish. Begin layering your casserole by placing half of the sliced tomatoes at the bottom. Then, add half of the sautéed onions and half of the crumbled bacon evenly over the tomatoes. Top this layer with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat the layering with the remaining tomatoes, onions, bacon, and cheddar cheese.
5. Add the Egg Mixture:
Pour the prepared egg mixture evenly over all the layered ingredients in the casserole dish. If you’re using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it generously on top for an extra flavor boost!
6. Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-40 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is a lovely golden brown. If you prefer, you can broil it for the last couple of minutes to achieve a crispy topping.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps it hold together better when you cut into it.
Enjoy this savory combination of juicy tomatoes and crispy bacon in a hearty casserole that’s sure to satisfy!
Can I Use Different Types of Tomatoes?
Absolutely! While ripe tomatoes are recommended for the best flavor, you can use canned diced tomatoes if fresh ones aren’t available. Just be sure to drain them well to prevent excess moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon works well. For a vegetarian alternative, mushrooms or smoked tofu can provide a similar umami flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Add Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add extra veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just sauté them with the onions to ensure they’re cooked through before adding to the casserole.