These Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes are a delicious, vegetarian dish that features ripe tomatoes filled with herbed rice and topped with golden melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Baked to perfection, this dish makes for a quick and satisfying dinner or a healthy side dish that’s sure to impress.

Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes offer a perfect balance of savory flavors and textures. The juicy, tender tomatoes are stuffed with a flavorful herbed rice mixture, then topped with melty cheese for a satisfying bite. It’s the ideal dish when you want something light, healthy, and full of flavor. Plus, it’s versatile—you can serve it as a main course or as a side alongside your favorite protein.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

6 large ripe tomatoes
1 cup cooked rice
1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Directions

Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
Prepare the Tomatoes:
Cut the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the pulp and seeds. Set the hollowed tomatoes aside and finely chop the pulp.
Cook the Filling:
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the chopped tomato pulp and cook for 5 minutes to reduce the liquid.
Combine Rice and Seasoning:
Stir in the cooked rice, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper into the skillet. Mix well and remove from heat.
Add Cheese:
Fold in half of the mozzarella and all of the Parmesan cheese into the rice mixture.
Stuff the Tomatoes:
Stuff each hollowed tomato with the rice mixture, pressing down slightly to compact it. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
Bake:
Place the stuffed tomatoes in the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the tomatoes are tender.
Serve:
Garnish with chopped parsley or basil before serving.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Variations

Grain Alternatives: Substitute rice with quinoa or couscous for a different texture.
Crispier Topping: Add breadcrumbs on top before baking for an extra crunchy texture.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the stuffed tomatoes in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like cheddar or provolone for a different flavor.

2. Can I use cooked quinoa instead of rice?

Yes, quinoa works great as a substitute for rice in this recipe.

3. How do I prevent the tomatoes from becoming too soggy?

Make sure to scoop out the pulp and seeds thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the tomatoes. Also, bake them long enough for the liquid to evaporate.

4. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the stuffed tomatoes before baking. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, bake directly from frozen, adding a little extra time.

5. What type of tomatoes are best for stuffing?

Firm tomatoes like beefsteak or vine-ripened tomatoes work best as they hold their shape during baking.

6. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip them entirely for a gluten-free version.

7. Can I add meat to this dish?

Yes, ground meat like turkey or beef can be added to the rice mixture for extra protein.

8. What herbs can I use instead of oregano and basil?

You can substitute oregano and basil with thyme, rosemary, or parsley depending on your taste preference.

9. Can I use store-bought rice for the stuffing?

Yes, pre-cooked rice or leftover rice works perfectly for this dish.

10. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño pepper to the rice mixture for a spicy kick.

Conclusion

Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes are a perfect vegetarian dish that brings together the rich flavors of cheese, rice, and herbs in a simple yet satisfying way. Whether you serve them as a main or a side dish, they are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. With easy preparation, minimal ingredients, and customizable options, this dish is a great choice for any occasion. Enjoy the delicious blend of flavors and textures in every bite!