This yummy tomato pie is super easy to make and packed with cheesy goodness! Fresh tomatoes, creamy cheese, and a flaky crust make it irresistible. Perfect for any meal, really!
Let’s be honest, who can say no to cheese and tomatoes? I love to serve it warm with a side salad. It’s a crowd-pleaser that always makes my friends smile! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pie Crust: A pre-made crust saves time, but you can make your own if you prefer. If avoiding gluten, consider using a gluten-free pastry or a cauliflower crust instead.
Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes are a must for flavor. You can use heirloom or beefsteak tomatoes. In a pinch, canned tomatoes can work, but drain them well first. For less acidity, cherry tomatoes can be great, too!
Basil: Fresh basil gives a wonderful flavor. If you don’t have fresh, dried basil works as an alternative, but use a bit less since dried herbs are more concentrated. You could also try oregano or thyme for a different twist.
Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its strong flavor, but feel free to mix in some gouda or fontina. For a lighter option, use low-fat cheese or a dairy-free version if needed.
How Do I Ensure My Tomatoes Don’t Make the Pie Soggy?
To keep your tomato pie nice and crispy, the key is to remove excess moisture from the tomatoes. Here’s how:
- After slicing the tomatoes, sprinkle them with salt and let them sit on paper towels. This process draws out water.
- After 15 minutes, gently pat your tomatoes dry with a towel. This step is vital to avoid a soggy crust.
By following this tip, you’ll get a perfect balance of flavors and textures in your pie!
The Best Easy and Cheesy Tomato Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
- 3 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1 teaspoon salt, divided
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful tomato pie takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 35-40 minutes of baking time, plus 10 minutes of cooling before you can slice it. So, in total, set aside about an hour for this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Crust:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab your unbaked pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie pan. Use a fork to prick the bottom of the crust all over. This helps it bake evenly and prevents bubbling.
2. Slice and Salt the Tomatoes:
Take those fresh tomato slices and lay them in a single layer on some paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Sprinkle them with 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Let them sit for about 15 minutes. This step draws out extra moisture so the pie doesn’t get soggy!
3. Dry the Tomatoes:
After 15 minutes, gently pat the tomatoes dry with another towel to remove any excess moisture. This is crucial for the perfect pie texture.
4. Mix the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped basil, sugar, the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and the black pepper until everything is well combined. This will be your creamy layer!
5. Layer the Ingredients:
Sprinkle half of your cheese blend evenly over the bottom of the pie crust. Next, layer the dried tomato slices over the cheese. If you decided to use the chopped onion, sprinkle that over the tomatoes now.
6. Add the Creamy Layer:
Spread the mayonnaise mixture evenly over the tomatoes, ensuring it covers everything nicely.
7. Finish with More Cheese:
Now, sprinkle the remaining cheese blend on top. This will create that delicious cheesy layer we all love!
8. Bake the Pie:
Pop the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown, and the crust is fully cooked.
9. Cool and Serve:
Take the pie out of the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. This makes it easier to cut. Slice it up and enjoy your warm, cheesy tomato pie!
This dish is perfect for a light lunch, dinner, or served alongside a fresh salad. Enjoy every cheesy, tomato-filled bite!
FAQ for Easy and Cheesy Tomato Pie
Can I Use a Store-Bought Pie Crust?
Absolutely! A pre-made pie crust is a great time-saver and works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure to follow the instructions on the package for pre-baking if recommended.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. It will still give the pie a creamy texture and tangy flavor!
How Do I Store Leftover Tomato Pie?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop slices in the microwave for a quick warm-up, or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Make This Pie Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the pie up to a day in advance. Just assemble it, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake it when you’re ready to enjoy; you might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
