Southern Tomato Pie

The scent of warm tomatoes and melting cheese wafts through the air as you slice into a Southern Tomato Pie, revealing its golden, bubbly top. This beloved Southern dish takes only about an hour from start to finish and is a celebration of summer flavors, combining fresh tomatoes with rich cheese and creamy mayonnaise in a flaky pie crust.

This recipe is perfect for gatherings with friends and family or as a delightful addition to a potluck. It’s best enjoyed freshly baked, but you can prepare the tomato layers in advance and assemble the pie just before baking for maximum flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The combination of juicy tomatoes and creamy cheese creates an unforgettable flavor experience.
• A perfectly baked pie crust provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the soft filling.
• Quick to prepare, this dish comes together in under an hour.
• Serve it warm or at room temperature, making it versatile for any occasion.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to create your Southern Tomato Pie:

For the Pie

• 1 pie crust, homemade or store-bought
• 4 large ripe tomatoes, sliced

For the Filling

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried basil or fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 cup green onions, chopped

Use low-fat mayonnaise as a lighter option.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Cheddar cheese can be swapped for mozzarella.
• Use whole wheat crust for a healthier base.
• Fresh basil can replace dried basil for more flavor.
• Green onions can be substituted with shallots.

How to Make It

Get ready to bring this delicious pie to life!

Preheat

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
   Ensure your oven is fully heated before baking for best results.

Pre-bake

2. Place the pie crust in a pie dish and pre-bake for 10 minutes.
   This ensures a crisp crust.

Layer

3. Layer the sliced tomatoes in the crust, sprinkling each layer with salt, pepper, and basil.
   This helps enhance the natural flavors of the tomatoes.

Mix

4. In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, cheese, and green onions.
   Stir well until everything is fully combined for an even texture.

Spread

5. Spread the mixture over the layered tomatoes.
   Make sure to cover the tomatoes entirely for a creamy bite.

Bake

6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
   Keep an eye on the pie to avoid over-browning.

Cool

7. Let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.
   This allows the filling to set for easier slicing.

How to Store It

Fridge: store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: yes, but best enjoyed fresh.
Reheat: in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Opt for the ripest tomatoes for maximum flavor.
• Allow the pie to rest before cutting to maintain structure.
• Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.
• Garnish with fresh basil for an appealing presentation.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside a fresh garden salad for a light meal.
• Pair with grilled meats for a hearty BBQ spread.
• Enjoy as a brunch dish with mimosas on a sunny morning.