Southern Tomato Pie

[rank_math_breadcrumb]

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE SALES LINKS. PLEASE SEE MY FULL DISCLAIMER POLICY FOR DETAILS.

Are you tired of the same old recipes and looking for something new and delicious? Southern tomato pie is the perfect solution.

This savory pie, filled with ripe tomatoes, fresh herbs, and melty cheese, is a classic Southern dish that’s great for any meal.

Whether you’re having a family dinner, a potluck, or just want to try something different, old fashioned Southern tomato pie is a simple and tasty choice.

Let’s learn how to make this delightful dish with easy-to-find ingredients.

Table of Contents

What Is Tomato Pie?

Tomato Pie is a tasty dish with a flaky pie crust, filled with layers of ripe tomatoes, fresh herbs, cheese, and mayonnaise.

It’s baked until golden and bubbly, creating a deliciously rich and flavorful pie that’s perfect for any meal.

What Makes Tomato Pie Southern?

What makes tomato pie distinctly Southern is the combination of ingredients and the way it’s prepared.

Southern tomato pie typically uses fresh, homegrown tomatoes, which are abundant in the South during the summer.

The addition of mayonnaise and a generous amount of cheese gives it a creamy texture and rich flavor, making it a comforting and satisfying dish that’s popular in Southern cuisine.

Best Southern Tomato Pie Recipe

Ingredients

1 unbaked pie crust
4-5 tomatoes, sliced
1 teaspoon salt
10 fresh basil leaves, chopped
1/2 cup chopped green onion
1 clove garlic, minced
1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
3/4 cup mayonnaise
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place a few layers of paper towels on a baking sheet. Slice the tomatoes and lay them out in a single layer on the paper towels. Sprinkle the tomatoes with salt to remove extra moisture. Let them sit for 10-15 minutes, then use fresh paper towels to pat the tomatoes dry.
Roll out your pie crust and place it in a pie plate. Press the edges together and make holes in the bottom with a fork. Par-bake the crust for 10 minutes. Since it won’t bake fully before filling, there is no need for pie weights.
While the crust is baking, combine the chopped basil, green onion, and minced garlic in a bowl. In a separate bowl, mix together the grated mozzarella, sharp cheddar cheese, and mayonnaise. Add freshly ground black pepper to taste and stir until well combined.
After the crust has baked for 10 minutes, layer half of the sliced tomatoes on the bottom. Sprinkle with half of the basil-onion mixture. Add another layer of the remaining tomatoes and sprinkle with the rest of the basil-onion mixture. Uniformly spread the cheese mixture over the top.
Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F. Return the pie to the oven and bake, uncovered, for 30 minutes or until the cheese on top is lightly browned.
Let the pie rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

What To Serve With Southern Tomato Pie?

Southern tomato pie pairs well with side dishes. Here are some classic Southern options to serve with your pie:

Green Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the pie.
Coleslaw: Creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet, buttery corn on the cob is a great side for a Southern meal.
Fried Okra: Crispy fried okra adds a bit of texture and is a Southern favorite.
Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans are a hearty side that goes well with Tomato Pie.
Fresh Fruit: A bowl of fresh fruit, like watermelon or berries, adds a light and sweet touch to the meal.
Fried Chicken: Adds a crispy and savory element to the meal.
Barbecue Ribs or Pulled Turkey: The rich and tangy barbecue flavors complement the pie.
Grilled Shrimp or Catfish: A seafood option that pairs well with the cheesy pie.
Cornbread: A classic Southern side that rounds out the feast.

How To Store Southern Tomato Pie?

To store Southern tomato pie, first allow it to cool completely after baking.

After it cools, wrap your tomato pie tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to keep it from drying out.

You can also put it in an airtight box. Store it in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 to 4 days.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat slices in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

How Long Is Tomato Pie Good For?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, Southern tomato pie with bacon is good for about 3 to 4 days.

After this period, the pie may begin to lose its freshness and the flavors might not be as vibrant.

It’s best to consume the pie within this timeframe to enjoy its optimal taste and texture.

Can You Freeze Tomato Pie With Puff Pastry?

Yes, you can freeze tomato pie to extend its shelf life. To do this, allow the pie to cool completely after baking.

Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn.

You can also put the wrapped tomato pie in a freezer-safe bag or box. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw the pie in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheat it in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through, being aware that freezing and thawing may slightly affect the texture of the tomatoes and the crust.

This method allows you to enjoy tomato pie for up to 2 months after freezing.

Tips For Success

To ensure your easy Southern tomato pie turns out perfect, follow these tips:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh, ripe tomatoes and high-quality cheese are key to a flavorful pie. Avoid using overripe or mushy tomatoes.
Season Well: Generously season the tomatoes with salt, pepper, and herbs. This enhances the flavor and helps draw out excess moisture.
Bake at the Right Temperature: Preheat your oven and bake the pie at the recommended temperature to ensure even cooking and a golden crust.
Allow to Cool: Let the pie cool for at least 10-15 minutes before cutting. This assists the filling in setting and makes it easier to slice.

Preparation Tips

Prep the Tomatoes: Slice the tomatoes and lay them out on a layer of paper towels. Sprinkle salt on them and permit them to sit for 15-20 minutes. This draws out excess moisture, which helps prevent a runny pie.
Pre-bake the Crust: To keep the crust from getting soggy, pre-bake it for about 10 minutes before adding the filling. This creates a firm base.
Layer Properly: When assembling the pie, alternate layers of tomatoes, herbs, and cheese. This ensures every bite has the same flavor.
Cheese as a Barrier: Sprinkle grated cheese on the pre-baked crust before adding the tomatoes. The cheese acts as a barrier, inhibiting moisture from seeping into the crust.

What Tomatoes To Use In A Tomato Pie?

For the best tomato pie, choose firm and flavorful tomatoes. Here are some good options:

Roma Tomatoes: These are less watery and have a firm texture, making them ideal for pies.
Beefsteak Tomatoes: Known for their meaty texture and rich flavor, they work well in tomato pies.
Heirloom Tomatoes: These come in various colors and flavors, adding a unique taste to your pie. Ensure they are firm and not overly ripe.

Why Is My Tomato Pie Runny?

A tomato pie can become runny if the tomatoes have too much water content. This can happen if:

The tomatoes were not properly drained before use.
Overripe or very juicy tomatoes were used.
The pie was not allowed to cool properly before slicing, causing the filling to be too liquid.

How Do You Keep Tomato Pie From Getting Soggy?

To prevent a soggy tomato pie, follow these steps:

Drain Tomatoes: After slicing, place the tomatoes on paper towels and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for 15-20 minutes to release excess moisture. Pat them dry before using.
Pre-bake the Crust: Blind bake the pie crust for about 10 minutes at 375°F (190°C). This helps create a firm base and prevents sogginess.
Use a Cheese Barrier: Sprinkle a layer of grated cheese on the bottom of the pre-baked crust. The cheese melts and forms a barrier that prevents the tomato juices from soaking into the crust.
Add a Breadcrumb Layer: You can also sprinkle a thin layer of breadcrumbs on the bottom of the crust before adding the tomatoes. The breadcrumbs absorb any excess moisture.
Cool Before Slicing: Allow the pie to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This helps the filling set and reduces the risk of a runny pie.