This tomato pie is a warm, cheesy delight that’s perfect for any meal! With fresh tomatoes and a crispy crust, it’s like summer on a plate, even in winter!
Making this pie is a breeze, and it always impresses friends and family. I love to serve it fresh out of the oven; it smells amazing and tastes even better!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pie Crust: A refrigerated crust makes this recipe quick and easy. If you want a homemade touch, you can use your favorite pie dough recipe. For a gluten-free option, choose a store-bought gluten-free pie crust.
Tomatoes: Ripe and juicy tomatoes are key to flavor. Heirloom or Roma tomatoes give great taste, but feel free to substitute with canned diced tomatoes if fresh ones aren’t available. Just drain them well!
Mayonnaise: This ingredient adds creaminess and richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can swap with Greek yogurt or sour cream. I often use a mix of both for extra flavor!
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella provide a delightful melt. You can substitute with your favorite cheese like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a dairy-free cheese for a vegan twist.
Basil: Fresh basil gives this pie its special touch. If you can’t find fresh, dried basil works in a pinch, but use less since it’s more concentrated. I also love adding a dash of Italian seasoning for extra flavor!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Tomatoes?
One important step is to reduce the moisture in the tomatoes. This keeps your pie from becoming soggy. To do this:
- After slicing the tomatoes, sprinkle them with salt and let them sit on paper towels for 10 minutes. This draws out excess moisture.
- Be sure to pat them dry with more paper towels before layering them in the pie.
This little tip will help you get a delicious, flavorful pie without that soggy bottom everyone dreads!
The Best Easy Tomato Pie Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 refrigerated pie crust (9-inch)
- 2 to 3 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil (or 1 tsp dried basil)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives
- 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time, plus 30-40 minutes to bake. In total, you should expect to spend around 1 hour to have your delicious tomato pie ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Pie Crust:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, take your refrigerated pie crust and gently place it into a 9-inch pie dish. Press it into the edges and poke holes in the bottom with a fork—this prevents the crust from bubbling up while baking!
2. Bake the Pie Crust:
Put the crust in the preheated oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden. Once it’s done, take it out and set it aside to cool slightly.
3. Prep the Tomatoes:
Next, slice your tomatoes and lay them out on paper towels. Sprinkle them with the salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This helps draw out excess moisture, so your pie doesn’t turn out soggy! After 10 minutes, pat the tomatoes dry with more paper towels to remove the moisture.
4. Mix the Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, chopped basil, and green onions. Mix them together until well combined and creamy.
5. Assemble the Pie:
Now, it’s time to put everything together! Layer the tomato slices evenly over the baked pie crust. Then, spread the creamy cheese mixture over the top of the tomato slices, making sure to cover them evenly.
6. Add Finishing Touches:
For that extra touch of flavor and color, drizzle olive oil or melted butter over the top of the pie. This will help achieve a beautiful golden crust!
7. Bake and Serve:
Place the pie in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese topping is bubbly and golden brown. When it’s done, take the pie out and let it cool for about 10 minutes before you slice it. Feel free to garnish with extra fresh basil if you’d like!
Enjoy your delicious, easy tomato pie—perfect as a side dish or a main meal!
FAQ for The Best Easy Tomato Pie Recipe
Can I Use Different Types of Tomatoes?
Absolutely! While ripe heirloom or Roma tomatoes are ideal, you can use any variety you like. Just make sure to slice and salt them to reduce moisture for the best results. Canned tomatoes can be used in a pinch, but drain them well!
Can I Make This Tomato Pie Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie a day in advance! Assemble it up to the baking point, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, 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’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual slices, but they may not be as crispy.
Can I Customize the Cheeses Used in This Recipe?
Definitely! While cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, feel free to swap in your favorite cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a vegan cheese for a dairy-free version. Just ensure that the total amount remains about 1.5 cups for best consistency!
