Tomato Pie: A Cozy Comfort Food to Savor

Last updated on July 4, 2025

You know that feeling when the sun hits just right, and a gentle breeze carries the scent of ripe tomatoes? For me, it takes me back to my grandmother’s kitchen in the summer. She’d be bustling about, her hands flour-covered and her apron dusted with bits of cheese, as she prepared her famous Tomato Pie. The family would gather around the table, eagerly waiting, while laughter and stories filled the air. Today, I’m excited to share a dish that brings those memories right to your kitchen—a delightful Tomato Pie that’s perfect whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself.

If you’re new to cooking, you might be feeling a bit anxious. Perhaps you’re worried about whether your pie will turn out soggy or if you’ll manage to get the flavors just right. Trust me; I’ve been there too! It can be daunting to tackle a new recipe, but I promise you this: making Tomato Pie is simple, stress-free, and absolutely doable—even if it’s your first time. With my step-by-step guidance, you’ll feel like a kitchen pro in no time, ready to impress your loved ones with a slice of homemade goodness.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Tomato Pie

Creating a delicious Tomato Pie is all about using fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Tomato Pie

---

• Author: Sarah Mendez
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

This savory Southern Tomato Pie is bursting with fresh summer flavor—ripe tomatoes, basil, green onions, and gooey melted cheese baked into a flaky pie crust. A comforting, crowd-pleasing classic.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Essentials:

• 5 Roma tomatoes, peeled and sliced
• 10 fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1/2 cup green onion or red onion, chopped
• 1 9-inch pre-baked pie crust
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup freshly shredded cheddar cheese
• 3/4 cup mayonnaise (or half mayo, half Greek yogurt)
• 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Add-Ons:

• Sliced zucchini or bell peppers
• Crumbled bacon

Substitutions and Shortcuts:

• Use other juicy tomato varieties
• Substitute dried basil (1 tsp) if fresh isn’t available
• Try Monterey Jack or Mexican cheese blend instead

---

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prep Tomatoes: Slice tomatoes and place in a colander. Sprinkle with salt and let rest for 10 minutes to draw out moisture.
3. Pat Dry: Gently pat the tomatoes dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
4. Layer Ingredients: In the pre-baked pie crust, layer tomatoes, chopped basil, and green onions. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Mix Cheesy Filling: In a bowl, combine shredded mozzarella, cheddar cheese, and mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt). Stir until smooth and creamy.
6. Top Pie: Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the layered vegetables in the pie shell. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
8. Cool: Let the pie rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the pie set and makes serving easier.

Notes

• Peeling tomatoes is optional but improves texture—quickly blanch in hot water and slip off the skins.
• Use a pie shield or foil to cover crust edges if they brown too quickly.
• Serve warm or at room temperature with a green salad for a light meal.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 340
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: undefined
• Trans Fat: undefined
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: undefined
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: undefined

Keywords: tomato pie, southern tomato pie, savory pie, cheesy tomato pie, fresh tomato tart, summer pie recipe

Essentials:

1. 5 Roma tomatoes: The heart of your pie! Make sure they’re ripe and flavorful. You’ll want to peel and slice them for the perfect texture.
2. 10 fresh basil leaves: Chopped to infuse a fragrant, herbaceous note. It’s the taste of summer in every bite.
3. 1/2 cup green onion (or red onion), chopped: For a mild, sweet onion flavor that complements the tomatoes beautifully.
4. 1 9-inch pre-baked pie crust: You can make your own or buy a pre-made one from the store to save time.
5. 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, providing a creamy texture.
6. 1 cup freshly shredded cheddar cheese: For a bit of sharpness and depth of flavor.
7. 3/4 cup mayonnaise: This adds richness to the filling—and you can mix it with half Greek yogurt if you’re looking for a lighter option.
8. 2 Tablespoons freshly grated parmesan cheese: A sprinkle on top for an additional layer of flavor.
9. Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste, enhancing all the other ingredients.

Optional Add-Ons:

• Seasonal veggies: Sliced zucchini or bell peppers can easily be added for an extra nutrient boost.
• Crumbled bacon: For those who love a savory touch, a bit of crispy bacon can take your Tomato Pie to the next level.

Substitutions and Shortcuts:

• If you can’t find Roma tomatoes, feel free to use any juicy variety you love.
• Instead of fresh basil, dried basil can work in a pinch—just reduce the amount since it’s more concentrated.
• For the cheese, you can swap in Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend if you prefer different flavors.

How to Make Tomato Pie Step-by-Step

Now let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of creating this comforting dish! Follow these simple steps to bring your Tomato Pie to life:

1. Preheat Your Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures your pie cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden-brown crust we all crave.

2. Prepare the Tomatoes

Next, slice the Roma tomatoes and place them in a colander set in the sink. This step might feel a little odd, but sprinkle them lightly with salt and let them rest for about 10 minutes. This helps draw out excess moisture, ensuring your pie doesn’t get soggy.

3. Pat Dry

After letting the tomatoes sit, grab a paper towel and gently pat them dry. You want to make sure most of the excess juice is gone. This may feel like a small step, but trust me, it’s crucial for the texture of your Tomato Pie.

4. Layer the Goodness

Now, let’s get building! Take your pre-baked pie crust and layer the tomato slices, chopped basil, and green onions in the pie shell. It’s okay to be a little generous—this is where all the deliciousness comes from. Season with a sprinkle of salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.

5. Mix the Cheesy Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella, cheddar cheese, and your choice of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt. Stir until everything is nicely blended. This mixture is creamy and packed with flavor!

6. Spread the Filling

Carefully spread the cheesy mixture over the layered tomatoes, basil, and onion in the pie crust. Don’t worry if it looks a bit messy; it’ll all come together once it’s baked. For that finishing touch, sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese on top.

7. Bake It!

Place your pie in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until lightly browned on top. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

8. Rest and Serve

After baking, resist the urge to cut right away. Allow your pie to rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes slicing easier.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best of us make mistakes, but that doesn’t mean your Tomato Pie has to suffer. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

1. Skipping the Salting Step

Salt not only helps draw out moisture from the tomatoes but also enhances their flavor. Skipping this step can lead to a soggy pie and muted taste.

2. Overloading on Ingredients

It’s tempting to add more vegetables or cheese, but keep in mind that balance is key. Too many ingredients can make your pie heavy and affect cooking time, leading to uneven baking.

3. Not Waiting to Serve

Cutting into your pie right after it comes out of the oven may seem like a good idea, but allowing it to rest will enhance the texture and flavor. Patience here pays off!

Quick Wins for Beginner Cooks

Feeling a bit unsure? Here are some quick wins to boost your confidence in the kitchen:

1. Use Pre-Made Ingredients

There’s no shame in using a store-bought pie crust or shredded cheese. It saves time and effort, making your cooking experience more enjoyable.

2. Have Fun with Presentation

Even if you’re new to baking, arranging your ingredients can be fun. Use this time to experiment with different layouts in your pie—this enhances the beauty of your dish and makes it feel more personalized.

3. Embrace Mistakes

Every cook makes mistakes. If your pie doesn’t turn out perfect, don’t stress—every attempt is a learning experience. I’ve had my share of kitchen flops, and it’s what makes cooking a beautiful journey!

Pro-Level Tips for When You’re Ready

Once you’ve mastered the basic Tomato Pie, here are some pro-level tips to elevate your dish even further:

1. Try Different Cheeses

Experiment with different cheese combinations to find a blend you love. Gouda or feta can add a unique twist to the flavor profile.

2. Experiment with Herbs

Fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or even a pinch of dill can really enhance the complexity of your pie. Don’t be afraid to get creative!

3. Make it Your Own

This recipe is a fantastic base; feel free to add your favorite ingredients, like sautéed mushrooms or roasted garlic, to make it uniquely yours.

Conclusion & Next Steps

Congratulations! You’ve just tackled a cozy, classic Tomato Pie that’s not only delicious but also a testament to your growing culinary skills. Remember, it’s easier than it looks, and you can always customize it to suit your taste. Whether enjoyed with family or friends, this dish embodies warmth and comfort.

If you felt inspired by creating this Tomato Pie, why not share your experience with friends or try another recipe? The joy of cooking is all about exploration and savoring the results. I can’t wait to hear how your Tomato Pie turned out!

FAQs About Tomato Pie

Enjoy your Tomato Pie adventure, and happy cooking!

Looking for more delicious recipes? Follow us on Pinterest and Facebook!