Description
A rustic Southern comfort dish made with juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, creamy cheese, and a golden flaky crust. This tomato pie is a celebration of summer, perfect for brunches, potlucks, or a cozy backyard dinner. It balances the richness of cheese and mayo with the bright acidity of ripe tomatoes, delivering a satisfying slice that’s both simple and special. With just a few fresh ingredients and easy steps, you can create this irresistible pie that tastes like sunshine on a plate.
Ingredients
- 3–4 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1 tsp salt (for draining)
- 1 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 8–10 fresh basil leaves, torn
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder or 1 minced garlic clove
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Press pie crust into a 9-inch pie plate, prick bottom with a fork, and pre-bake for 10–12 minutes. Let cool.
- Slice tomatoes and lay them on paper towels. Sprinkle with salt. Let drain for 20–30 minutes. Pat dry.
- Layer tomatoes and torn basil leaves in the pie crust. Season lightly with pepper and garlic powder.
- In a bowl, combine mayo, cheddar, and mozzarella. Spread mixture evenly over tomatoes.
- Bake 30–35 minutes, until top is golden and bubbly.
- Let rest 10–15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Salting and draining the tomatoes is crucial to avoid sogginess.
- Try adding caramelized onions, bacon, or jalapeños for a twist.
- Use freshly grated cheese for best texture and melt.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American