Southern Tomato Pie is one of those dishes that brings people together, offering comfort and delight in every bite. Growing up in the South, I always looked forward to summer when juicy, ripe tomatoes were in abundance. My grandmother’s version of this pie always stood out—her homemade crust and the perfectly seasoned tomatoes with just the right balance of herbs and cheese made it unforgettable. I’ve spent years perfecting this dish, adding a few personal touches, and I can’t wait to share it with you.
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The History and Appeal of Southern Tomato Pie
A Staple in Southern Cooking
Southern Tomato Pie is more than just a meal; it’s a tradition that has stood the test of time in many households across the South. The rich, savory flavors of the tomatoes combined with cheese and herbs create a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to beat. Originating as a simple way to use up an abundance of garden tomatoes, this dish has become a favorite at family gatherings, summer picnics, and church socials.
Why This Tomato Pie Is a Must-Try
The beauty of Southern Tomato Pie lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients—tomatoes, cheese, mayonnaise, and a flaky crust—it’s a celebration of fresh, in-season ingredients. When tomatoes are at their peak, this dish showcases their flavor in the best possible way. Plus, the creamy filling combined with melted cheese offers a comforting texture that pairs perfectly with a crisp, golden crust.
How to Make Southern Tomato Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you dive into making this pie, let’s gather the necessary ingredients:
- Tomatoes: 4-6 medium-sized, preferably ripe and juicy
- Mayonnaise: ½ cup, full-fat for the best texture
- Cheese: 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Fresh herbs: Basil and parsley work wonders
- Spices: Salt, pepper, and a dash of garlic powder
- Pie crust: Pre-made or homemade (your choice!)
Steps to Perfect Southern Tomato Pie
- Prepare the Tomatoes: Start by slicing the tomatoes and removing excess moisture. This step is crucial to avoid a soggy pie.
- Layer the Ingredients: In a pie crust, layer the tomato slices, followed by a generous sprinkle of herbs, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Make the Filling: In a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise with shredded cheese, then spread this mixture evenly on top of the tomatoes.
- Bake: Bake the pie at 375°F for about 30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Easy Southern Tomato Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Southern Tomato Pie is a beloved comfort food packed with fresh tomatoes, creamy cheese, and a flaky crust. It’s the perfect Southern dish to serve for any occasion, offering a burst of flavor and a crispy texture.
Ingredients
- 6 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1 pre-made pie crust
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon mustard (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Layer the sliced tomatoes in the bottom of the pie crust. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, then let sit for 5 minutes to release excess moisture.
- In a bowl, combine the shredded cheese, mayonnaise, basil, garlic powder, and mustard (if using).
- Spread the cheese mixture over the tomatoes, covering them evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pie is bubbling.
- Allow the pie to cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Feel free to add crumbled bacon for an extra savory touch. For a healthier version, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: tomato pie, Southern pie, baked tomato dish, comfort food
Tips for the Best Southern Tomato Pie
Getting the Right Texture
The key to a perfect Southern Tomato Pie is balance. Too much moisture in the tomatoes can lead to a soggy pie. To prevent this, make sure you drain the tomatoes properly before assembling the pie. This ensures the filling stays creamy without becoming watery. You can also sprinkle a thin layer of breadcrumbs on the bottom of the crust to absorb any excess moisture.
Variations on the Classic Recipe
While the traditional Southern Tomato Pie is a crowd-pleaser, feel free to add your own twist. Some people enjoy adding bacon bits or sautéed onions to the filling for extra flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter version, swap out the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt to reduce the calories without sacrificing taste.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Store-Bought Pie Crust?
Absolutely! While homemade pie crusts add a personal touch, store-bought pie crusts can save time without compromising on taste. Make sure to pre-bake the crust for 10 minutes to ensure it stays crisp.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Southern Tomato Pie can be made a day in advance. Simply assemble the pie, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, bake it as instructed, adding an extra 5 minutes if needed to heat it through.
What Can I Serve with Southern Tomato Pie?
Southern Tomato Pie pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or even a hearty bowl of soup for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Southern Tomato Pie is a delightful dish that embodies the flavors of summer and Southern comfort. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just craving a delicious homemade pie, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to try the variations and make it your own! Enjoy each bite of this classic comfort food, and remember, there’s no wrong way to make a Southern Tomato Pie.