Tomato pie has always been a cherished comfort food in my home, but when you take it to a deep dish version, everything changes. This version is even heartier, with layers of ripe, juicy tomatoes, creamy cheese, and a rich, buttery crust that holds everything together. Growing up, my family would make this dish for special gatherings, and it was always a crowd favorite. The deep dish makes it even more satisfying, and the flavors truly shine. If you’re looking for a dish that combines freshness, comfort, and Southern tradition, look no further than this Deep Dish Tomato Pie.
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What Makes Deep Dish Tomato Pie So Special
A Southern Twist on a Classic
Traditional tomato pie recipes are delicious, but when you make it a deep dish, the flavors are amplified. The extra depth allows the tomatoes to meld with the cheese and seasonings more profoundly, creating a richer taste. This version takes everything that’s great about a classic tomato pie and makes it even better. The thick, golden crust holds all the savory goodness inside, making each bite a satisfying treat.
The Allure of a Buttery, Flaky Crust
One of the standout features of this deep dish tomato pie is the crust. It’s buttery and flaky, offering a crisp contrast to the soft, juicy tomatoes and creamy filling. While some people may prefer a thinner crust, the deep dish style adds more substance to the dish, making it a perfect main course for lunch or dinner. The combination of the crust with the layers of tomato and cheese is truly irresistible.
How to Prepare Deep Dish Tomato Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gather the following ingredients to make this rich and flavorful deep dish tomato pie:
- 6 medium ripe tomatoes (sliced)
- 1 prepared pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for drizzling)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a tangy kick)
Instructions for Assembling and Baking the Pie
- Prepare the tomatoes: Slice the tomatoes and place them in a colander. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and allow them to sit for about 10 minutes to release excess moisture.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Layer the tomatoes: After draining the tomatoes, arrange them in a prepared pie crust. Sprinkle with garlic powder and fresh basil for added flavor.
- Make the cheese mixture: In a bowl, mix together the shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and mustard (if using). Spread this mixture evenly over the tomatoes.
- Bake: Place the pie in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbling. Let the pie cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing to allow the filling to set.
Deep Dish Tomato Pie
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Deep Dish Tomato Pie is a hearty Southern dish packed with juicy tomatoes, creamy cheese, and a buttery, flaky crust. This recipe will satisfy your cravings with every bite.
Ingredients
- 6 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1 prepared pie crust
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for drizzling)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for tanginess)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Layer the sliced tomatoes in the prepared pie crust and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Let them sit for 10 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix the cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard. Spread this mixture over the tomatoes.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
- Cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
For extra flavor, add crumbled bacon or sautéed onions. You can also use mozzarella instead of cheddar cheese for a different flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: deep dish tomato pie, Southern comfort food, tomato pie, baked pie
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Deep Dish Tomato Pie
Preventing a Soggy Crust
To avoid a soggy crust, make sure to drain the tomatoes well before layering them in the pie crust. You can even pre-bake the crust for 5-10 minutes to ensure that it remains crispy when the tomatoes release their juices.
Customize Your Pie
Feel free to get creative with the toppings and seasonings. Adding crumbled bacon or sautéed onions will enhance the flavor of the pie. For an extra savory touch, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the top before baking. You can also substitute the cheddar cheese with mozzarella or a blend of your favorite cheeses for a different flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the deep dish tomato pie a day in advance. Simply assemble the pie, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in the oven.
How Can I Make the Pie Healthier?
For a lighter version of this deep dish tomato pie, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream. You can also use a whole wheat crust for added fiber.
What Can I Serve with Deep Dish Tomato Pie?
Deep dish tomato pie pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables. If you’re looking for a heartier meal, serve it alongside roasted potatoes or a comforting bowl of soup.
Conclusion
Deep Dish Tomato Pie is the ultimate comfort food with its rich flavors, buttery crust, and fresh ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or preparing a meal for yourself, this hearty pie will satisfy your hunger and warm your heart. With the right combination of fresh tomatoes, cheese, and spices, every bite is a celebration of Southern flavors at their finest.