Tomato Cheese Pie is a savory, comforting dish that perfectly balances the sweet, juicy flavor of ripe tomatoes with the rich, creamy taste of melted cheese, all baked in a buttery, flaky crust. This Southern classic combines layers of fresh tomatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and a flavorful herb mayonnaise mixture, creating a pie that’s both simple and delicious. It’s an ideal dish for summer, when tomatoes are at their peak, but can be enjoyed year-round as a side dish or a light vegetarian main course. Whether served warm or at room temperature, Tomato Cheese Pie is always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust
- 4-5 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions:
- Prepare the tomatoes: Place the sliced tomatoes on a paper towel-lined plate and sprinkle them with salt. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then gently pat them dry with additional paper towels.
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Assemble the pie: Arrange half of the tomato slices in the pre-baked pie crust. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan, garlic powder, black pepper, and fresh herbs. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the tomato layer. Repeat with another layer of tomatoes and the remaining cheese mixture.
- Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Let the pie cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Optionally, drizzle with olive oil and garnish with more fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Tomato Cheese Pie is a delightful blend of fresh, savory flavors with a crispy crust and cheesy topping, making it a perfect dish for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner!
