Mouthwatering Southern Tomato Pie Recipe
Welcome to my Southern Tomato Pie recipe! If you’re looking for a classic southern dish that’s savory, easy to make, and bursting with flavors, then you’re in the right place. This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves tomatoes and cheese as much as I do.
Originating from the southern United States, this dish brings together fresh basil leaves and ripe tomatoes in a deep dish pie shell that’s both satisfying and comforting. The original tomato pie has evolved over the years, and now there are many versions of this delightful southern classic.
My recipe is a savory take on the traditional southern tomato pie, made with cheddar cheese and mayonnaise for an added richness that will melt in your mouth. You’ll love how easy it is to put together this delicious meal, even if you’re not an experienced chef.
Whether you’re preparing a meal for your family or hosting a dinner party, this pie is sure to be a hit. So let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Folks, let me tell ya: if you’re looking for a taste of the South, this Southern Tomato Pie recipe is about to become your new go-to. This savory pie combines juicy, fresh tomatoes with creamy mayonnaise and sharp cheddar cheese – all nestled in a buttery and flaky pie crust. Trust me when I say, this is one of the best tomato pies I have ever tasted!
Now some folks might think that tomato pie is nothing special or that it’s just like any other savory pie out there. But let me tell you what sets this recipe apart from the rest. For starters, this is made with real, fresh tomatoes – none of that canned stuff here! And when you pair them with deliciously melty cheddar cheese, you get a symphony of flavors in your mouth.
And let’s not forget the other key ingredients here: Duke’s Mayonnaise (a staple in southern kitchens) adds an unbeatable creaminess to the filling while the fresh basil leaves add just the right amount of brightness to balance out the richness.
But don’t take my word for it – why not give this recipe a try? I guarantee that with each and every bite, you’ll fall more in love with the flavors of authentic southern cuisine.
Ingredient List
Here are the main ingredients you need for a Savory Southern Tomato Pie recipe:
Crust
- 1 deep dish pie shell (I recommend using a store-bought crust, but if you like to make homemade crusts, go ahead! It’s up to you)
Filling
- 3-4 ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1/2 onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise, preferably Duke Mayonnaise
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For this recipe, I suggest using fresh tomatoes, as it is what makes this pie so special. However, if fresh tomatoes are not in season or not available, canned tomatoes will also work.
The Recipe How-To
Before we start on the filling, let’s prepare the crust to ensure a delicious savory Southern tomato pie. You can either use a homemade pie crust or store-bought refrigerated pie crust. If making your own pie crust, make sure it’s well chilled for at least an hour before starting on this recipe.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the pie dough and fit it into a 9-inch deep dish pie shell.
- Press it down lightly so that it fits snugly against the sides and bottom of the pan, then trim off any excess dough hanging over the edge with a knife or kitchen scissors.
- Pierce holes in the bottom of the crust with a fork to prevent air bubbles.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden brown, then remove from the oven and let cool.
Making the Filling
Now that your crust is ready, let’s move on to preparing your southern tomato pie filling.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 medium-sized ripe tomatoes, peeled and sliced
- 1 small sweet onion, diced
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) sour cream
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) Duke mayonnaise
- 2 cups (200 g) grated cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Layer the tomato slices evenly over the cooled crust. Sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt over them and set aside while preparing the remaining ingredients.
- In a mixing bowl, stir together your diced onion with your sour cream and mayonnaise until combined.
- Add in cheddar cheese, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and a pinch of black pepper to the bowl and mix until fully incorporated.
- Spread the mixture evenly over the tomato slices in the pie crust.
- Top the pie with another layer of fresh tomato slices and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
- Remove from oven, let it cool for a few minutes before decorating the top with fresh basil leaves.
Serving
As soon as your Southern tomato pie has cooled, it’s ready to serve. This dish can be served either hot or cold. It pairs well with savory Southern dishes such as fried chicken, pulled pork, or collard greens. Enjoy this delicious comfort food recipe with your friends and family!
Variations
If you’re looking to change things up or use ingredients you have on hand, here are a few variations:
- Add 1/3 cup of bacon bits for extra flavor
- Use Provolone cheese instead of cheddar cheese
- Substitute sour cream for plain Greek yogurt
Substitutions and Variations
As a Chef, I understand the importance of adapting a recipe to suit individual preferences or dietary restrictions. For this Southern Tomato Pie Recipe, there are a few substitutions and variations that you can try to make it even more personalized and delightful.
For the pie crust, any store-bought or homemade crust will do. If you’re looking for an extra layer of flavor, you can use a cheddar cheese crust instead of a typical pie crust. It adds a sharpness and intensity to the dish.
As for the cheese, feel free to switch up the cheddar cheese for other types of cheese such as mozzarella, parmesan or even goat cheese. They will provide different flavors that complement the savory southern tomato pie nicely.
The classic combination of tomatoes and basil is iconic in Italian cooking, but there’s no harm in incorporating other herbs that you enjoy. Sage, thyme or oregano can be used interchangeably to add more depth to the dish.
If you want to incorporate protein into your Southern Tomato Pie, bacon or sausage are excellent options that bring an exciting dimension to the flavors. You can layer pre-cooked bacon or sausage on top of the tomato mixture before baking.
Additionally, if you want to make the pie healthier or more vegetarian-friendly, you can substitute Greek yogurt or sour cream for mayonnaise. These alternatives will give you similar tanginess but have less fat content.
Finally, heirloom tomatoes are rich in taste and beautiful in color- they would make an excellent substitution for traditional ripe tomatoes in this dish. The range of colors they come in adds an aesthetically pleasing quality to the visual appeal of the dish.
Don’t be afraid to explore different substitutions and variations through experimentation; it may lead you down a path towards discovering fun modifications tailored to your taste buds.
Serving and Pairing
Southern Tomato Pie is a classic southern dish that can be served both as an appetizer or a main course. It pairs well with various dishes, from a fresh salad to grilled meats. This savory pie is the perfect addition to any summer gathering, family dinner, or barbecue party.
To serve this pie, simply slice it into wedges and place them on a serving dish. The rich aroma of the cheddar cheese and the fresh basil leaves will surely make your guests’ mouths water. Consider adding some extra basil leaves and cherry tomatoes on top of each wedge for extra color and flavor.
Pairing options for Southern Tomato Pie are endless. If you prefer a light meal, try pairing it with a refreshing green salad with cucumbers and avocado. Grilled chicken or steak also complements the pie’s tangy tomato flavor. Alternatively, pair this traditional Southern Tomato Pie with a crisp white wine or an ice-cold beer to balance its bold flavors.
In conclusion, Southern Tomato Pie is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways and paired with many delicious options. Whether you’re hosting a small get-together or preparing a family dinner, this easy southern tomato pie recipe will surely impress your guests and leave them asking for more!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
I know that sometimes it can be tricky to prepare delicious recipes like my southern tomato pie when you’re in a rush. That’s why I’m happy to share some tips on how you can make this pie ahead of time, store it properly, and reheat it in such a way that all its fresh flavors are preserved.
First of all, if you’re planning to make this pie ahead of time, you can prepare the crust and filling the day before or even two days before you plan on serving it. Just make sure that the crust has cooled completely before you fill it with the tomato mixture, and cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent any air from entering.
When it comes to storing a partially eaten or leftover southern tomato pie, the best thing you can do is refrigerate it. Just wrap the remaining slices in foil or plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container. You can store your southern tomato pie for up to three days in the fridge.
And now for the moment we’ve all been waiting for: reheating your southern tomato pie. I recommend that you reheat your slices one at a time in the oven instead of reheating the entire pie. This way, you’ll achieve an evenly heated slice with a crispy crust that will melt in your mouth.
To reheat your southern tomato pie, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and then place your desired number of slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with tin foil if you don’t want them to get too dark or crispy on top. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
Remember, once food has been reheated once, then it cannot be rewarmed again as there is an increased risk of bacteria growth which could cause loads of fuss; ensure food is thoroughly hot throughout so as to be confident that its safe for consumption.
Tips for Perfect Results
Now that you have all the ingredients and instructions to make a delicious Southern Tomato Pie, here are some tips for achieving perfect results every time.
1. Use ripe tomatoes
For the best flavor and texture, use fresh ripe tomatoes. Choose the ones that are bright red, plump, and free of blemishes. If you can, pick them straight from your garden or a farmer’s market.
2. Drain the tomatoes
Removing excess moisture from the tomatoes is essential to prevent a soggy pie. After slicing them, place them on paper towels or a colander to drain for at least 15 minutes before layering them into the pie crust.
3. Season properly
To bring out the flavors of the tomatoes, don’t skimp on seasoning with salt and pepper. Sprinkle a little bit of each over every layer of tomatoes before adding any other ingredients.
4. Experiment with cheese
While cheddar cheese is the traditional choice for Southern Tomato Pie, feel free to experiment with other varieties like Swiss or mozzarella. You can also mix different kinds of cheese to create your own unique blend.
5. Use good quality mayonnaise
Mayonnaise gives this dish its creamy texture, and using a high-quality brand like Duke’s will result in better taste and texture.
6. Add fresh herbs
Fresh basil leaves add an aromatic touch to this savory pie. Garnish it with some chopped basil or whole leaves for an extra burst of flavor.
7. Preheat the oven
Make sure to preheat your oven to 375°F, so it is ready when you’re ready to bake your pie, for an even distribution of heat throughout the cooking process.
8. Bake until golden brown
Bake your pie until it is golden brown on top and bubbly around the edges (usually between 40-50 minutes). If your pie starts getting too dark before it’s done, cover it loosely with aluminum foil so the crust doesn’t burn.
By using these tips, you’ll be able to create the perfect savory Southern Tomato Pie that will have everyone asking for seconds.
FAQ
Before we conclude this article, I want to address some commonly asked questions about this savory Southern Tomato Pie recipe. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, these FAQs will help clarify any doubts or concerns you may have. So, let’s dive right in and get those concerns addressed.
Where did Southern tomato pie originate?
In the summer of ’78, Southern Living magazine published a recipe for tomato pie that quickly became a fan favorite. The recipe, created by Mrs. Rose Welsh from Seabrook, Maryland, featured a unique twist on the classic dish, calling for sautéed tomatoes coated in flour and a blend of Cheddar and provolone cheeses.
Is tomato pie southern or italian?
Originating from Southern Italy, this recipe is a tomato-based dish that doesn’t include cheese. Known as Sicilian pizza, this dish traditionally features olives and tomatoes but lacks onions and anchovies. In America, it has been renamed as “tomato pie” over time.
What is an original tomato pie?
In the cities of the Northeast, the original tomato pies were uncomplicated, consisting of flatbreads that were covered with crushed tomatoes, spices, and at times, either anchovies or a sprinkle of hard cheese.
Is tomato pie a Pennsylvania thing?
Although tomato pie can be traced back to Italy, its modern version in the United States has its origins in Philadelphia. In 1910, Iannelli’s Famous Brick Oven Bakery in Philly introduced the first tomato pie in the country.
Bottom Line
your Southern Tomato Pie experience with a slice of savory goodness that will leave you wanting more. My recipe not only captures the essence of traditional Southern cuisine but it also offers a fresh take on tomato pie that is both easy and delicious.
Once you try it, you’ll know why tomato pie has become a staple in Southern kitchens for generations. The blend of ripe tomatoes, onion, cheddar cheese, and mayonnaise on a flaky pie crust makes for a mouth-watering combination that will leave your taste buds satisfied.
This pie is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner, a potluck or just a lazy weekend lunch. With its easy preparation and make-ahead storing options, this pie recipe is perfect for the busy home cook who wants to enjoy savory Southern flavors without spending hours in the kitchen.
So go ahead, try my recipe and savor the classic flavors of the South. You won’t be disappointed!
Southern Tomato Pie Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 unbaked pie shell
Instructions
- Bake pie shell for 5 minutes at 425°F.
- Place tomato slices in pie shell.
- Combine seasonings with onion and sprinkle on tomatoes.
- Mix mayonnaise and cheese and spread over top like meringue. Seal edges as much as possible.
- Bake at 350°F for 35 minutes. Cool 15 minutes before serving. (It is very important to allow pie to cool before trying to serve).