🍅 Southern Tomato Pie – Fresh from the Garden & Bursting with Flavor
Got a garden overflowing with ripe, juicy tomatoes? 🌿 This Southern Tomato Pie is one of the best ways to show them off. With flaky pie crust, layers of perfectly seasoned tomatoes, basil, green onions, and a luscious cheese topping that bakes golden brown — it’s pure comfort food, straight from the South. ❤️
This isn’t your typical pie. It’s a savory, creamy, and tangy masterpiece that captures the essence of summer. Whether served as a brunch centerpiece, a side dish at cookouts, or a light dinner with salad and sweet tea, this Fabulous Tomato Pie is the taste of sunshine in every bite. ☀️🥧
🏡 A True Southern Staple
Tomato pie is a long-standing Southern favorite, especially in West Virginia, Georgia, and the Carolinas — where homegrown tomatoes are summer royalty. The key to perfection? Never refrigerate your tomatoes! Cold ruins their flavor and texture. Keep them at room temperature and let them shine in this buttery, cheesy pie.
Chef Ina Garten says it best: “When you start with fresh, ripe ingredients, the food practically cooks itself.” And this recipe proves it. 🍅✨
You’ll see why one baker makes 50 tomato pies a week every summer — because once you taste it, everyone will beg for one!
🥧 Ingredients for Fabulous Tomato Pie
🍅 For the Pie Base
- 5–6 medium homegrown tomatoes (avoid hot house tomatoes!)
- 1 deep-dish pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
- Salt & freshly ground black pepper
- Fresh basil (chiffonade cut)
- Sliced green onions
- Bacon (optional but highly recommended!)
- Smoked paprika (for color and flavor)
🧀 For the Cheese Topping
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
🍽️ Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes
Slice your tomatoes thick — about ¼-inch slices. Place them between layers of paper towels and let them sit for 20–30 minutes. This removes excess moisture and prevents a soggy pie. Do not refrigerate your tomatoes — ever! Cold tomatoes lose their vibrant flavor and texture.
Step 2: Pre-Bake the Pie Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prick the crust all over with a fork to prevent puffing. Bake for 12–13 minutes, just until lightly golden. This step keeps the crust crisp when the juicy tomatoes are added later.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Topping
In a medium bowl, combine mozzarella, sharp cheddar, mayonnaise, Parmesan, and garlic powder. Mix well until it forms a thick, creamy blend. This topping will melt beautifully and hold the tomatoes together.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Start by layering tomato slices across the bottom of the pie crust. Sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper. Add chopped basil, green onions, and crumbled bacon if using. Top with another layer of tomatoes and season again with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Add the Cheese Topping
Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the top of the tomatoes, pressing gently to fill the crust. Don’t worry — it’ll fit perfectly! Sprinkle with smoked paprika for color and an extra layer of flavor.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let cool slightly before slicing so the layers set beautifully.
Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor — this pie tastes even better after it rests for 15–20 minutes. 😋
👨🍳 Expert Tips for Perfect Tomato Pie
Chef Bobby Flay:
“To elevate flavor, roast your tomato slices for 10 minutes before assembling the pie. It intensifies sweetness and removes even more water.”
Ree Drummond:
“If you’re using store-bought crust, brush it with a little beaten egg before pre-baking to seal it and keep it crispy.”
Ina Garten:
“Use full-fat mayonnaise — it gives the topping its rich, creamy texture and helps it brown beautifully.”
🌿 Variations to Try
- Caprese Tomato Pie: Add slices of fresh mozzarella and drizzle with balsamic glaze after baking.
- Southern Bacon Pie: Add a full layer of crisp bacon under the top tomato layer.
- Garden Veggie Pie: Mix in zucchini, spinach, or roasted red peppers for extra garden goodness.
- Spicy Tomato Pie: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a bit of hot sauce to the cheese topping.
🥗 Nutrition & Health Benefits
Tomato Pie is indulgent yet surprisingly balanced when made with fresh ingredients. Tomatoes are loaded with vitamins, antioxidants, and lycopene — great for heart and skin health. 🧡
| Ingredient | Amount (per serving) | Health Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Tomatoes | 100g | High in Vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene (antioxidant) |
| Mozzarella & Cheddar | 50g | Calcium and protein for bone health |
| Mayonnaise | 30g | Healthy fats for creamy texture and satiety |
| Basil & Green Onion | 10g | Antioxidants and fresh herbal aroma |
Approximate Calories per slice: 310 kcal
💡 Healthier Options:
- Use light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a lower-fat topping.
- Opt for reduced-fat cheese blends.
- Use a whole-wheat pie crust for added fiber.
🧊 Storage & Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a 325°F oven for 10–12 minutes to keep the crust crisp.
- Freeze: Assemble the pie (without baking), wrap tightly, and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking fresh.
⚠️ Food Safety Note:
Always let the pie cool before storing. Avoid reheating in the microwave — it can make the crust soggy.
🔗 Related Recipes You’ll Love
Pair your Southern Tomato Pie with these delicious dishes from Fresh Tones Hunger:
❓ 10 Frequently Asked Questions About Tomato Pie
1. Can I use store-bought pie crust?
Yes, but pre-bake it to prevent sogginess. Homemade crust adds a buttery touch, but store-bought works great in a pinch.
2. Why shouldn’t I refrigerate tomatoes?
Refrigeration dulls their flavor and makes them mealy. Always store tomatoes at room temperature for the best taste and texture.
3. Can I use different cheeses?
Absolutely! Monterey Jack, Fontina, or even Gruyère make delicious substitutes for cheddar or mozzarella.
4. How can I prevent a watery pie?
Drain tomatoes well on paper towels and pre-bake your crust. You can also lightly sprinkle the bottom layer with breadcrumbs to absorb moisture.
5. Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the pie a few hours before baking and refrigerate until ready to bake fresh.
6. What can I serve with tomato pie?
It pairs beautifully with sweet tea, roasted chicken, or a crisp green salad.
7. Can I add more vegetables?
Sure! Zucchini, spinach, or caramelized onions blend beautifully into the layers.
8. Is bacon necessary?
Optional, but highly recommended — it adds smoky depth that complements the tomatoes and cheese perfectly. 🥓
9. Can I use Roma tomatoes?
Yes, Romas are a great choice because they’re meaty with less juice.
10. How do I store leftovers?
Keep in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven for the best texture.
💬 Final Thoughts: The Joy of a Summer Tomato Pie
This Fabulous Tomato Pie isn’t just a recipe — it’s a celebration of summer, family, and the beauty of homegrown ingredients. With every bite, you’ll taste sunshine, garden freshness, and pure Southern comfort. ☀️🍅🥧
As Chef Bobby Flay says, “Simple doesn’t mean plain — it means every flavor has a purpose.” And that’s what makes this tomato pie truly unforgettable.
❤️ Make one this weekend, share it with friends, and enjoy a slice of summer the Southern way!
