Southern Tomato Pie Recipe

If you love sun-ripened tomatoes and comfort food with a twist, you’re in for a treat with this southern tomato pie. This beloved classic layers juicy tomatoes, bubbling cheese, and fresh basil in a golden, flaky crust—bringing together all the goodness of summer produce in every slice. Whether you’re hosting Sunday brunch or just craving something homey and satisfying, southern tomato pie is one of those dishes that sparks instant comfort and becomes an instant favorite after the very first bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of southern tomato pie comes from a handful of simple, quality ingredients that truly let the flavors shine. Every component plays an important role, from the tangy tomatoes to the rich cheeses and that herbaceous hint of basil.

• Ripe Tomatoes: Choose large, bright red tomatoes at the peak of their flavor—these are the star of the show and deliver vibrant taste and juicy texture.
• Pre-made Pie Crust: A tender, flaky 9-inch crust serves as the crave-worthy base and saves valuable prep time.
• Mayonnaise: Adds richness and body, binding the cheese and herbs together for ultra-creamy layers.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Brings sharp, tangy depth—reserve a little for topping to create that signature bubbly, golden finish.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully and creates an irresistibly gooey bite in every slice.
• Fresh Basil: Just a quarter cup of finely chopped basil lifts the whole pie with garden-fresh flavor and gorgeous flecks of green.
• Salt and Pepper: The simplest seasonings really help every ingredient shine, so don’t be shy—taste as you go!

How to Make southern tomato pie

Step 1: Prep the Tomatoes

Begin by slicing your tomatoes into thick, juicy rounds about half an inch thick. Place them in a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let them drain for 15 minutes. This little trick helps draw out excess moisture, making sure your southern tomato pie doesn’t turn soggy and the flavors stay concentrated and bright.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, shredded cheddar (set aside a small handful for the top), mozzarella, chopped basil, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Give it all a thorough stir—you want the mixture to be well-combined and flecked with basil. This is what makes each bite so rich and indulgent.

Step 3: Layer the Pie

Start assembling your southern tomato pie by placing half the drained tomato slices in the pre-made crust. Spoon on half of the creamy cheese mixture and spread it gently to the edges. Layer on the rest of the tomatoes, then finish with the remaining filling. It’s like building a beautiful, savory lasagna—just in a pie!

Step 4: Add Cheese & Bake

Sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese right over the top for the ultimate cheesy, browned finish. Slide the pie into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C), and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until it’s deeply golden, bubbling, and incredibly fragrant. Resist the urge to slice in right away—let it cool slightly so those lovely layers hold together!

How to Serve southern tomato pie

Garnishes

Bring your southern tomato pie to life with a fresh pop of color—think a few more torn basil leaves sprinkled just before serving or even a drizzle of good olive oil. A grind of black pepper or a pinch of flaky sea salt also adds a polished finish that looks as inviting as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This pie shines alongside all sorts of summery sides: a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, buttered sweet corn or even a simple bowl of chilled gazpacho. It also pairs beautifully with thickly sliced melon or Southern-style green beans if you’re making a full spread for friends and family.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun, shareable twist, cut your southern tomato pie into small squares and serve them as an appetizer at your next gathering. If you’re feeling fancy, bake mini pies in individual tart shells for a personalized touch. No matter how you slice it, this dish looks just as wonderful on a picnic blanket as it does on a dinner table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, tuck any remaining southern tomato pie slices into an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to three days. The pie stays delicious and becomes a quick, ready-to-go lunch or snack the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze southern tomato pie for up to two months—but for best texture, freeze the pie after baking but before slicing. Wrap tightly with foil and then place it in a freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, pop your pie (or individual slices) into a 350°F oven until warmed through and the top is bubbly again—about 10 to 15 minutes does the trick. Microwaving will do in a pinch, though the crust will be less crisp than if reheated in the oven.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese in southern tomato pie?

Absolutely! While cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices for their melt and flavor, feel free to try fontina, gouda, or even a bit of parmesan to personalize your pie.

Do I need to peel the tomatoes?

No peeling required! Leaving the skins on adds color and helps the tomato slices hold their shape nicely. Just make sure to use ripe, fresh tomatoes for best results.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble southern tomato pie a few hours ahead and keep it refrigerated until ready to bake. Let it sit at room temperature while the oven preheats before baking—this helps it cook evenly.

How do I prevent a soggy crust?

Salting and draining the tomatoes is key. If you want extra insurance, you can pre-bake your pie crust (par-bake) for 5 to 8 minutes before filling it, just until it’s lightly golden.

Is southern tomato pie vegetarian?

Yes! With no meat in the ingredients, this southern tomato pie is a fantastic vegetarian dish that everyone at the table can enjoy.

Final Thoughts

Bursting with summery flavor and irresistible comfort, southern tomato pie deserves a spot in every kitchen. There really is nothing like the combination of juicy tomatoes, melty cheese, and fragrant basil baked in a flaky crust. Try it for your next meal—you might just end up making it again and again!

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