Description
These Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes are a savory vegetarian dish featuring ripe tomatoes filled with herbed rice and topped with golden melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a light dinner or as a healthy side, this dish combines rich, savory flavors with a crispy cheese topping.
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Tomatoes:
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)
Instructions
-
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 for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and translucent. 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.
Notes
- 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.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
