This Easy Paula Deen Tomato Pie is a summer favorite! It features juicy tomatoes layered with cheese and spices, all baked in a flaky crust. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
Trust me, you’ll want to eat this straight out of the oven. I often make two so I can enjoy leftovers the next day. Who doesn’t love a good tomato pie? 🍅🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tomatoes: Use ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor. If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, you can substitute with canned diced tomatoes, but make sure to drain them well.
Cheese: I love using a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for that melty goodness. If you’d like a sharper flavor, consider using Gruyère or a vegan cheese for a dairy-free version.
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess to the pie. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could replace it with Greek yogurt, which gives a similar texture and tang.
Herbs: Fresh basil and parsley are wonderful, but if you don’t have those, dried herbs can work too. About one teaspoon of dried basil and parsley per tablespoon of fresh usually works well.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from Your Tomatoes?
A key step in this recipe is drawing out excess moisture from the tomatoes. This prevents a soggy pie. Here’s how you do it:
- Slice the tomatoes and sprinkle salt over them.
- Let them sit for about 10 minutes. This draws out moisture, concentrating the flavor.
- Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess liquid before layering in the pie crust.
Doing this will not only improve the texture but also enhance the pie’s overall taste!
Easy Paula Deen Tomato Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pie:
- 1 (9-inch) deep-dish pie crust, unbaked
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
For the Cheese Mixture:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Tomato Pie takes about 15 minutes to prep and approximately 30 to 40 minutes to bake. Overall, set aside about 1 hour for preparation and cooking. It’s simple and makes a fantastic dish to impress your family and friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take your unbaked pie crust and place it into a 9-inch pie plate. You can flute the edges if you want it to look fancy; it’s totally up to you!
2. Layer the Tomatoes:
Next, take your sliced tomatoes and arrange them in overlapping layers inside the crust. Make it pretty—this pie is as much about the eyes as it is about the taste!
3. Salt the Tomatoes:
Sprinkle the salt evenly over the layered tomatoes. Let them sit for about 10 minutes. This step helps draw out excess moisture, which will keep your pie from getting soggy.
4. Pat the Tomatoes Dry:
After 10 minutes, take a few paper towels and gently pat the tomatoes dry to remove any excess moisture. This makes sure your pie has the best texture.
5. Mix the Herbs:
In a small bowl, mix together the chopped basil, parsley, green onions, and black pepper. This mixture will add fresh flavor to your pie!
6. Layer the Herbs:
Now, sprinkle your herb mixture over the tomatoes. Spread it out evenly to ensure every slice has those delicious flavors.
7. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
In another bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella, white cheddar, mayonnaise, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix it well until everything is blended together nicely.
8. Spread the Cheese:
Spread the cheesy mixture evenly over the tomatoes and herbs, covering them completely. This is what makes the pie rich and irresistible!
9. Bake the Pie:
Place your pie in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 30 to 40 minutes. You want the cheese to be melted and bubbly and the crust to turn a lovely golden brown.
10. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, take it out of the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Then, slice it up and serve! Enjoy your delicious tomato pie as a perfect side dish or light meal!
Bon Appétit! 🍅🧀
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and cheddar are delicious, you can use almost any cheese you prefer. For a stronger flavor, consider using Gruyère, or for a dairy-free option, try vegan cheese shreds.
What Can I Serve With Tomato Pie?
This pie is great on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a crisp salad, steamed vegetables, or even some garlic bread for a bit more heartiness!
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes! You can prep the pie up to the point of baking and then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave or warm them in a preheated oven until heated through.
