Savory Deep Dish Tomato Pie Recipe
Welcome to my kitchen, where savory Southern Tomato Pie is the ultimate tomato recipe. This Southern-style deep-dish tomato pie is perfect for any occasion, from a casual potluck to an elegant dinner party. Made with easy-to-find ingredients, this dish boasts the freshest tomatoes, tart sour cream, and creamy mayonnaise, all nestled in a flaky pie crust. When baked to golden-brown perfection, the aroma of Heirloom tomatoes and herbs fill your home like a fallen southern breeze.
Get ready to be transported to simpler times on your very first bite. With each dish, you’ll swear you’re eating the best of all worlds- pie and pizza combined. The cheese melts perfectly with every layer of fresh tomatoes and basil, which only adds more complexity and depth to this dish. You’ll love this recipe because of its unbeatable flavor paired with the ease of preparation that will make it a staple in your family meals.
So grab a few of those ripe tomatoes from your garden or local farmer’s market and let’s get started creating your new favorite savory Southern Tomato Pie!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you in search of a mouthwatering southern-style tomato pie recipe? Well, look no further! I’ve got the ultimate tomato pie recipe that will melt in your mouth and leave you wanting more.
What sets this tomato pie recipe apart from others is the perfect combination of savory southern flavors. The dish features a flaky pie crust loaded with juicy and ripe heirloom tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, crispy bacon bits, and two types of cheeses- cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese. But that’s not all, the addition of sour cream, mayonnaise, onions, and fresh herbs take the taste to the next level.
The magic happens in the oven as all the ingredients come together to create a truly satisfying eating experience. This pie is perfect for any occasion whether it’s a family dinner, holiday party or even a potluck. It’s easy to make, but it’s a showstopper that will impress everyone.
So why will you love this southern deep-dish tomato pie recipe? Because it’s an ultimate crowd-pleaser that has successfully passed the test of time since its debut in southern living magazine originally published in 2004. Its unique dazzling taste will please your tastebuds and keep you coming back for more. Plus, it is versatile- you can serve it hot or cold and pair it with almost anything- salad, roasted vegetables or grilled meats.
Get ready to indulge in a slice of heaven with every bite of this savory tomato pie recipe.
Ingredient List
Here are the ingredients you will need to make a savory Southern tomato pie that will knock your socks off:
Pie Crust
- 1 (9-inch) flaky pie crust, frozen deep dish or homemade
Tomato Pie Ingredients
- 3 large tomatoes, cut into ¼ inch thick slices, peeled and sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
- 4 slices of thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1/2 cup of sour cream
- 1/2 cup of mayonnaise (make sure it’s the best kind!)
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil leaves
- Fresh herbs to taste (thyme, rosemary or oregano)
Note: For an ultimate tomato pie recipe, try to use heirloom tomatoes. They are delicious and give a stunning pop of color.
With these savory Southern tomato pie ingredients assembled, let’s get cooking!
The Recipe How-To
Now that you have your southern deep dish tomato pie ingredients in order, it’s time to get busy creating a masterpiece with these simple steps!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, you need to preheat your oven to 375°F or 190°C.
Step 2: Prepare Your Pie Crust
This recipe calls for a deep dish pie shell of at least 9 inches. Whether you are using a frozen, pre-made crust or whipping up one from scratch, make sure it’s flaky and evenly rolled out.
Step 3: Arrange Tomatoes Slices in the Pie Crust
The star of this savory tomato pie is, of course, our beloved tomatoes! Start by arranging the tomato slices in the pie crust, making sure to them evenly throughout. Sprinkle some kosher salt over the top.
Step 4: Add Chopped Bacon and Onion
Next up, get ready to sizzle things up with some thick-cut bacon and diced onion. Fry up these two ingredients until they are cooked through and slightly softened. Pour it over the tomatoes.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Sauce Mixture
In a bowl mix together 3 tablespoons of mayonnaise, 3 tablespoons of sour cream, with shredded cheddar cheese (about 1 cup) and mozzarella cheese (again about 1 cup) ; stir well. Pour it over tomato layer along with cooked bacon down.
Step 6: Add Fresh Basil Leaves
Sprinkle fresh basil leaves across the top of your creation to give it that fresh twist.
Step 7: Bake Your Tomato Pie in the Oven
Slide your deep-dish tomato pie into the preheated oven uncovered. Let it bake for around 50-60 minutes until golden brown on top without any sign of slump or wetness.
Step 8: Let it Cool Before Cutting
When the baking is done, let the pie cool down a bit before cutting it into beautiful, savory Southern-style triangles ready to serve up to your family or guests!
Enjoy!
Substitutions and Variations
Are you feeling adventurous and want to experiment with different flavors? Here are some substitutions and variations that you can try with the Southern Deep Dish Tomato Pie recipe.
Instead of ham, you can use prosciutto or cooked bacon to add a smoky flavor to your pie. For a vegetarian option, skip the ham altogether and add some roasted red peppers or zucchini for extra texture.
Want to switch up the cheese? Swap out the cheddar for fontina or gouda, or use a combination of mozzarella and parmesan for added richness.
If you’re not a fan of sour cream, substitute it with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. And if you’re looking to make the recipe a bit healthier, swap out the mayonnaise with more sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Not a fan of basil? Use fresh thyme or oregano instead for a herbaceous kick. You could even mix in different fresh herbs like rosemary, parsley, or cilantro to create your own unique blend.
Want to make this pie even heartier? Add in some chopped cooked chicken or turkey. And if you’re feeling bold, throw in some sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.
Whatever substitutions and variations you choose to make, feel free to experiment and make this recipe your own! With its versatile ingredients and savory flavors, this Southern Deep Dish Tomato Pie is sure to please any palate.
Serving and Pairing
Mmm, there’s no doubt about it: there’s something quintessentially southern about a delicious deep dish tomato pie, and this recipe is the ultimate example of savory southern comfort food. But you might be wondering, “What should I serve with my delectable tomato pie?” Well, have no fear! I’ve got some tried-and-true recommendations for you.
First, let’s talk about the tomato pie itself. When it comes out ready and steaming, both the aroma and the sight of it are mouth-watering. You’ll want to let it cool just a touch so that it’s still warm to the touch, but not piping hot. After all, you don’t want to scorch your tongue on this perfect pie.
As for toppings, there are plenty of delicious options depending on your family’s preference or dietary restrictions. The classic has got to be crispy thick-cut bacon; smoky-salty flavor pairs beautifully with the rich tomato sauce and cheese, and of course you can never go wrong with bacon in anything. However, if you’re looking for vegetarian or lighter options, look no further than chopped heirloom tomatoes or fresh herbs like basil – these add an extra level of freshness and earthiness that balance out the heavier flavors.
Now for the sides that make a deep dish tomato pie complete! On its own it makes a delightful dinner entree or lunchtime snack but in order to bring all the flavors together nicely here are some suggestions: a nice fresh green salad is always a winner when paired with a savory tomato pie. Add some baby greens or spinach leaves and diced shallots that give extra crunch with each bite. Additionally, you want to think about something that will complement the texture of your warm and flaky pie crust without being too overpowering — rustic garlic bread is a wonderful choice.
Finally, let’s talk drinks – because we all need something cold and refreshing when indulging in such a rich and savory treat. The ultimate tomato pie partner is iced tea, either sweetened or unsweetened depending on your preference, to complement the dish’s rich flavors. For something with a little more kick, try a nice cold beer – we recommend a light pilsner or lager.
So there you have it – with this combination of flavors and textures, your guests will be impressed by your savvy southern hospitality and culinary instincts! Who said deep dish tomato pies were only for grandmas?
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
If you’re planning to serve this savory Southern tomato pie for a crowd or just want to get ahead, you can make it ahead of time and simply reheat it before the big meal. The best way to do this is to bake the pie as directed and let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and placing it in the fridge.
When you’re ready to serve it, preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C), unwrap the pie, and let it sit for about 20 minutes at room temperature. This will help the filling come back to life and soften any crust that might have gone a bit stale.
Then, pop the pie back into the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can cover the pie with foil if you need to prevent over-browning. And if your pie crust feels a bit soggy after reheating, simply pop it back into the oven uncovered for a few minutes to crisp up.
This tomato pie recipe can also be frozen for up to three months. After baking and cooling as directed, wrap the entire pie in layers of plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze until needed. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating as directed above.
Overall, this easy Southern tomato pie can keep for up to four days in the fridge when stored properly. Just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent air from getting in and making its spoil faster.
Tips for Perfect Results
Now that you have all the ingredients prepared and ready to go, it’s time to make sure your recipe turns out perfect. Here are some tips to help you achieve the ultimate tomato pie.
First of all, make sure that your tomatoes are perfectly ripe. Unripe tomatoes tend to be too acidic and can ruin the flavor of your pie. Look for vibrant colors and give them a gentle squeeze to ensure they’re nice and soft.
When it comes to the cheese, I recommend using a combination of cheddar and mozzarella cheese for a rich and savory flavor. It’s important to grate the cheese right before adding it to the pie so that it doesn’t dry out.
For a little extra kick, add some chopped bacon on top of your tomato slices before laying them in the pie crust. The smoky flavor from the bacon pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the tomatoes.
One thing that can really make or break your dish is the crust. For a flaky and buttery crust, use a frozen deep dish pie shell and brush an egg wash over it before adding your tomato mixture.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings. Fresh basil leaves or even heirloom tomatoes can add an extra burst of flavor to this classic dish.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to create the ultimate Southern deep dish tomato pie that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.
FAQ
As you’re making your scrumptious Southern Deep Dish Tomato Pie, you might come across some questions or issues that might throw a wrench into your culinary master plan. But fret not! I’ve compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions to assist you in achieving a perfect result that will have everyone coming back for seconds. So, let’s dive into these FAQs together and resolve any doubts that may arise along the way.
Is tomato pie southern or italian?
Originating from Southern Italy where dairy cows are scarce compared to plentiful tomatoes and olives, this Sicilian pizza recipe evolved into a cheese-free dish that has become popularly known as “tomato pie” in the United States.
What is an old fashioned tomato pie pizza?
When preparing tomato pie pizza, it is common to use a rectangular pizza dough as the base. This will be adorned with chopped fresh tomatoes or a thick pizza sauce, followed by a light dusting of Parmesan cheese.
What is a Philadelphia tomato pie?
If you’re a fan of all things tomato, Philly tomato pie will be right up your alley. Although it’s called a “pie,” it’s actually more of a tomato sauce-topped pizza with a hearty, chewy crust reminiscent of focaccia. Without cheese, the toppings steal the show and leave you wanting more.
Where did Southern tomato pie originate?
Back in June 1978, the inaugural tomato pie recipe was featured in Southern Living. It was created by Mrs. Rose Welsh of Seabrook, Maryland and featured a combination of Cheddar and provolone cheeses. The recipe also included the tomatoes being coated in flour and sautéed in hot oil prior to being added to the pie.
Bottom Line
:
After trying this savory Southern Deep Dish Tomato Pie Recipe, I assure you that you won’t be disappointed. This pie has a delicious combination of flavors and textures, with fresh tomatoes, crispy bacon, and a flaky pie crust. The burst of flavor from the sweet and juicy tomatoes combined with the salty bacon makes for an unbeatable flavor explosion.
This ultimate tomato pie recipe is simple to make, but it will impress even the most discerning foodie. By using fresh ingredients, like ripe tomatoes and aromatic basil leaves, and following the easy steps in this recipe guide, you can make your very own savory Southern Tomato Pie that’ll taste just like it was made by your grandmother.
So go ahead and gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to sink your teeth into a slice of Southern living. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, potluck or dinner party, this deep dish tomato pie will be the talk of the town.
Don’t hesitate – try this Southern Deep Dish Tomato Pie Recipe today!
Southern Deep Dish Tomato Pie Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 -6 tomatoes, peeled and sliced
- 10 fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1/2 cup of finely chopped onion
- 1 frozen deep dish pie shell
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (or any kind of cheese you have)
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup cubed ham (or more)
- salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- Place peeled tomato slices on a doubled paper towel, sprinkle with salt and pepper and then put another paper towel on top of them to soak up some of their juice.
- Add a thin layer of bread crumbs over the bottom of the pie crust.
- Layer tomato slices, basil, onions and the ham cubes in the pie shell. Combine the cheeses and the mayo and sour cream in a small bowl and spread the mixture over the top of the pie filling (tomatoes, basil, onion and ham).
- Bake for about 30-40 Minutes. Cut into slices and serve warm.
- I hope you enjoy this recipe!