Description
This Southern Tomato Pie is a savory and hearty dish featuring ripe tomatoes, a rich mayonnaise and cheese mixture, all baked in a flaky deep-dish pie shell. Perfectly seasoned with fresh basil, salt, and pepper, this pie offers a flavorful twist on traditional tomato dishes and can be served warm or at room temperature.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Pie Shell
- 1 9-inch frozen deep dish pie shell
Filling
- 3 large ripe tomatoes, cut into chunks (about 3 to 4 cups)
- 3/4 cup good quality mayonnaise (preferably Duke's)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Large handful of fresh basil, chopped or chiffonade (about 1/4 cup)
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pie Shell: Preheat your oven to 400ºF. Slightly thaw the frozen deep dish pie shell and prick the bottom all over to prevent bubbling during baking. Follow package directions to bake the pie shell for 10 to 20 minutes until it turns golden brown.
- Drain the Tomatoes: While the shell bakes, place the chopped tomatoes in a colander and sprinkle generously with salt. Let them drain, tossing occasionally to release excess moisture. Afterward, blot the tomatoes with paper towels to remove as much liquid as possible to avoid a soggy pie.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a small bowl, thoroughly combine the mayonnaise, shredded cheddar, and shredded mozzarella until well mixed. This creamy cheese-mayo blend will form the delicious topping for the pie.
- Assemble the Pie: Reduce the oven temperature to 375ºF. Spread the drained tomatoes evenly into the baked pie shell. Add the chopped or chiffonade basil and gently mix. Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Then, evenly spread the mayonnaise and cheese mixture over the tomato layer.
- Bake the Pie: Place the assembled pie in the center of the oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 20 to 30 minutes to set properly. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the tomatoes are well-drained to prevent the pie from becoming soggy.
- For best melting and flavor, grate your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded varieties; however, pre-shredded cheese is a suitable alternative if short on time.
- Allow the pie to cool sufficiently before slicing to maintain its structure.
- This pie can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature based on preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/6 of pie)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
