Tomato Pie Recipe | Southern Tomato Pie

PUBLISHED July 8, 2025· MODIFIED July 8, 2025 · by the author listed in the recipe card 1141 words. · About 6 minutes to read this article.· This post may contain affiliate links · As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases· Leave a Comment

If you love the sweet tang of ripe tomatoes, gooey cheese, and a buttery crust, you’re in for a comforting classic. This Southern-style Tomato Pie is the ultimate way to celebrate fresh summer produce. Layered with juicy tomatoes, creamy cheese, and savory herbs, it’s a rich and satisfying dish that’s perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Southern Style Dish

Fresh and Flavorful. Made with ripe summer tomatoes, it bursts with juicy, garden-fresh flavor.
Comforting and Creamy. The mayo-cheese topping creates a rich, savory layer that’s both nostalgic and indulgent.
Versatile. It can be served warm, at room temperature, or chilled. It’s perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner.
Southern Classic. A beloved dish in Southern kitchens, it brings comfort food charm and home-style appeal.

Tomato pie is the perfect blend of rustic comfort, fresh ingredients, and rich, cheesy goodness that keeps people coming back, slice after slice.

What Does Tomato Pie Taste Like?

Tomato Pie is a beloved Southern staple, known for its rich, savory flavor and creamy, cheesy texture. The acidity of fresh tomatoes is balanced by creamy mayonnaise and sharp cheese, while a buttery crust holds it all together.

It’s a delightful mash-up between a quiche and a pizza, and absolutely addictive.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ripe Tomatoes– The star of the dish, tomatoes are sliced and salted to draw out excess moisture. This prevents a soggy pie and concentrates their sweet, tangy flavor. Heirloom or vine-ripened varieties are ideal for the best texture and taste.
Pie Crust– Acts as the base for the pie, providing a buttery, flaky structure to hold the juicy filling. A store-bought crust offers convenience, while a homemade one adds a rustic, personal touch.
Mayonnaise– Combined with cheese, mayonnaise creates the signature creamy, rich topping that binds the pie together and adds indulgent flavor.
Cheddar Cheese– Offers sharpness and depth, giving the pie its signature savory taste. It balances the sweetness of the tomatoes beautifully.
Mozzarella Cheese – Melts into a stretchy, gooey layer that softens the topping and adds a mild creaminess to contrast the cheddar.
Fresh Basil– Brings a bright, aromatic quality to the pie, enhancing the freshness of the tomatoes with its herbaceous flavor.
Green Onions– Add subtle savory notes and a bit of crunch, complementing the richness of the cheese and mayo.
Salt & Pepper– Crucial for seasoning, these help elevate all the flavors and balance the natural acidity and sweetness of the tomatoes.
Optional Add-ins– Ingredients like garlic powder, red pepper flakes, or crumbled bacon allow for customization and added flavor. These extras can introduce heat, smokiness, or depth to the dish depending on your preferences.

How To Make Tomato Pie

Preheat Oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
Prepare the Tomatoes. Slice tomatoes and place them on paper towels. Sprinkle with salt and let them sit for 20-30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat dry.
Par-Bake the Crust. Roll out your pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and prick the bottom with a fork. Bake for 10 minutes, then cool.
Layer the Ingredients. Start with a layer of tomatoes, then sprinkle with chopped green onions and basil. Repeat the layers.
Mix the Topping. Combine mayonnaise, cheddar, and mozzarella in a bowl. Spread over the top of the tomatoes.
Bake. Bake for 30–35 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let cool slightly before slicing.

Tips And Tricks

If you want to master the art of a delicious, non-soggy tomato pie, keep these helpful tips in mind:

Salt and drain the tomatoes. This prevents a soggy crust and watery filling.
Par-bake your crust. Ensures a crispy, sturdy base.
Cool before slicing. It sets up better as it rests, making it easier to serve.

Variations

Tomato pie is wonderfully versatile. Try these tasty twists to match your flavor preferences or use up what’s in your kitchen:

Spicy – Add jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
Italian Style– Use pesto in place of basil and swap in Parmesan for cheddar.
Bacon Lover’s Pie– Crumble crispy bacon between tomato layers.
Gluten-Free– Use a gluten-free pie crust and check that all ingredients are certified GF.

What To Eat With Tomato Pie

Tomato pie is hearty yet fresh, and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides to round out your meal:

Green Salad– A crisp arugula or mixed greens salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the pie.
Grilled or Roasted Vegetables– Zucchini, asparagus, or eggplant bring out the pie’s savory notes.
Chilled Soup– A bowl of gazpacho or cucumber soup makes for a refreshing, summery contrast.
Fruit Salad– Sweet melon, berries, or citrus can add a bright, juicy finish to your plate.
Garlic Bread or Crusty Baguette– For soaking up every last bite of tomato and cheese.

These sides keep the spotlight on the pie while offering contrast in flavor and texture. Whether you’re serving it warm or at room temperature, tomato pie is a satisfying centerpiece for any meal.

How Long Does It Last?

Tomato Pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it cool completely before covering tightly with foil or placing it in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven or enjoy cold. Many say it’s even better the next day!

Can You Freeze It?

Yes, tomato pie can be frozen and enjoyed later with good results, especially if you reheat it in the oven to revive its crispy crust and creamy layers.

More Terriffic Ways To Use Tomatoes

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