Name: Tomato Pie Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-488064H28M57S
Total time: PT-488064H28M57S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (9-inch) deep dish pie crust; 4 large tomatoes, peeled and sliced; ½ pound bacon – cooked, drained, and chopped; 3 green onions, thinly sliced; ½ cup chopped fresh basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper; 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese; ¼ cup mayonnaise

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Tomato Pie is the ultimate celebration of summer’s brightest flavors, and it’s honestly a dish that makes you feel like you’ve captured sunshine in a pie pan! Layers of juicy, ripe tomatoes, plenty of cheddar cheese, fresh basil, smoky bacon, and a golden pie crust all come together into one unforgettable savory bake. Whether you serve it warm for dinner or chilled for a picnic, every bite is a delicious burst of goodness that proves simple ingredients really can make magic.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed by how a handful of everyday ingredients can build layers of incredible flavor and color. Each one brings something special, whether it’s freshness, richness, or a little bit of crunch, so choose ripe tomatoes and quality cheese to really let this Tomato Pie shine!

Pie Crust (1, 9-inch deep dish): The buttery, flaky foundation that holds it all together and provides that satisfying golden crunch.
Tomatoes (4 large, peeled and sliced): The star of the show! Use ripe, juicy tomatoes for the sweetest, most flavorful layers.
Bacon (½ pound, cooked, drained, and chopped): Adds a smoky, savory depth and a touch of irresistible crispiness.
Green Onions (3, thinly sliced): Bring a gentle, fresh zing to brighten every bite.
Fresh Basil (½ cup, chopped): Provides an aromatic, peppery lift that pairs perfectly with tomatoes.
Dried Oregano (1 teaspoon): Lends a classic Italian herbal note, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Garlic Powder (½ teaspoon): Adds subtle savory depth without overpowering the other ingredients.
Crushed Red Pepper (½ teaspoon): For just a hint of gentle heat that wakes up all the flavors.
Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, shredded): Melts into gooey, tangy layers, making the pie delightfully cheesy.
Mayonnaise (¼ cup): Combines with the cheese for a creamy, rich topping that browns beautifully.

How to Make Tomato Pie

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients and setting your oven to preheat at 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Cook your bacon until crisp, then let it drain and chop it into bite-size pieces. Slice your green onions thinly, chop the fresh basil, and peel and slice the tomatoes. This bit of prep sets you up for pie-building success.

Step 2: Layer the Goodness

Place the pie crust into a 9-inch deep dish pie pan, patting it out evenly. Now comes the fun part! Begin making alternating layers of sliced tomatoes, crispy bacon, green onions, basil, a sprinkle of oregano, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper. This ensures each slice of Tomato Pie is packed with color and flavor in every bite.

Step 3: Top with Cheese Mixture

In a small bowl, stir together the shredded cheddar cheese and mayonnaise until it forms a creamy, spreadable mixture. Smooth this over the top of your layered pie—this is what creates that melty, golden, savory finish that everyone loves.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover the pie loosely with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for another 30 minutes, until the top is nicely golden and the filling is bubbling gently. The aroma is incredible!

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the Tomato Pie stand for a few minutes to set. It’s fabulous served warm when the cheese is gooey or cold for a straight-from-the-fridge treat—either way, it’s a winner.

How to Serve Tomato Pie

Garnishes

A handful of fresh basil leaves or extra green onions on top gives your Tomato Pie a burst of color and an herby lift. You can also grind a bit of fresh black pepper just before serving to finish things off with a little extra pop.

Side Dishes

Tomato Pie pairs beautifully with light salads—try a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or a platter of grilled summer vegetables. If you’re feeling indulgent, a scoop of homemade potato salad or a cold pasta salad makes for a hearty, comforting summer meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or brunches, slice your Tomato Pie into small wedges for easy, shareable finger food. Or, bake the filling in individual ramekins or muffin tins for adorable single-serve pies that are both cute and convenient!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover Tomato Pie tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, so don’t be surprised if it tastes even better the next day!

Freezing

Tomato Pie can be frozen, though the texture of fresh tomatoes may soften slightly. Wrap the cooled pie (or individual slices) in several layers of foil and plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat slices of Tomato Pie in a 350 degree F oven until completely warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. This keeps the crust crisp and the filling luscious—microwaving works, but you might lose a bit of that gorgeous texture.

FAQs

Can I use a store-bought pie crust for Tomato Pie?

Absolutely! While homemade crust is always a treat, a good-quality store-bought pie crust works beautifully and saves lots of time without sacrificing taste.

What are the best tomatoes for Tomato Pie?

Look for large, ripe, heirloom or beefsteak tomatoes for the juiciest, sweetest results. Avoid overly watery tomatoes; you can even gently squeeze out extra liquid to prevent a soggy pie.

Is there a substitute for bacon in Tomato Pie?

Definitely—try using cooked pancetta, prosciutto, or even smoked turkey for a lighter twist. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the bacon or use roasted mushrooms for a bit of savory depth.

Can I use other cheeses?

Yes, cheddar brings a classic flavor, but you can swap in mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a little extra kick. A sprinkle of Parmesan on top before baking adds great salty crunch!

Should Tomato Pie be served warm or cold?

It’s delicious both ways—warm for melty cheese and gooey filling, or cold for a firmer slice that’s perfect on a hot summer day. Try both and pick your favorite!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a comforting, vibrant dish that turns simple summer ingredients into pure happiness, this Tomato Pie is the answer. Give it a try—you might just find it becomes a new tradition at your table!