Keto Southern Summer Tomato Pie – The Best Low-Carb Southern Recipe

Table of Contents: Keto Southern Summer Tomato Pie

Keto Southern Summer Tomato Pie

Introduction: Keto Southern Summer Tomato Pie

When summer rolls around in the South, few dishes are as iconic as the classic tomato pie. Juicy tomatoes, creamy cheese, and a buttery crust—it’s the taste of sunny afternoons and porchside dining. But if you’re living the low-carb life, you might be wondering: Can I really enjoy this comfort food without the carbs? Absolutely! Enter the Keto Southern Summer Tomato Pie—a grain-free, low-carb spin on this seasonal favorite that delivers all the traditional flavor with none of the guilt.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about making a keto tomato pie from scratch. From understanding whether tomatoes are even keto-friendly to building the perfect low-carb crust, we’ve got it all covered. Along the way, you’ll get tips on carb counts, approved sauces, and even other pies you can enjoy while staying in ketosis.

What Is a Keto Southern Summer Tomato Pie?

A modern keto twist on a Southern classic

Southern tomato pie is typically made with a pastry crust, layers of juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, mayonnaise, and a gooey cheese topping. While delicious, this traditional version is heavy on carbs thanks to the wheat-based crust and sometimes sugary sauces.

The keto version? It ditches the grains and adds high-fat, low-carb ingredients like almond flour crusts, full-fat cheeses, and even bacon to amp up the flavor while keeping the carbs in check. You still get all the creamy, savory goodness—but now it’s perfectly aligned with a ketogenic lifestyle.

Why tomato pie is so beloved in Southern cuisine

Tomato pie is more than just a dish—it’s a Southern tradition. Usually served chilled or at room temperature, it’s a popular side dish for barbecues, potlucks, and summer picnics. The dish showcases fresh summer tomatoes at their peak and balances them with creamy, tangy cheese flavors and buttery crusts. It’s hearty, comforting, and surprisingly versatile.

But more importantly, it’s ripe for keto adaptation. With just a few swaps, this nostalgic treat becomes a low-carb summer staple.

Check out our Southern comfort food section for more keto-friendly reinterpretations of beloved classics.

Are Tomatoes Allowed on Keto?

Nutritional profile of tomatoes

Tomatoes often spark debate among keto dieters. Technically a fruit, they do contain natural sugars—but they’re also relatively low in net carbs. One medium tomato has approximately:

Nutrient	Amount per Medium Tomato (123g)
Calories	22
Net Carbs	3.3g
Fiber	1.5g
Sugar	3.2g
Protein	1.1g
Fat	0.2g

At just over 3g net carbs per tomato, they can be part of a keto meal when portioned properly.

Tomato varieties and their carb count

Some tomato types are more keto-friendly than others. Here’s a quick comparison:

Tomato Variety	Net Carbs (per 100g)
Roma	2.9g
Cherry	3.9g
Beefsteak	3.0g
Grape	5.0g

For a tomato pie, Roma or beefsteak tomatoes are ideal. They have a firm texture, lower moisture content, and fewer carbs.

Learn more about keto-friendly vegetables and their carb counts here.

Making Tomato Pie Keto-Friendly

Swapping out the crust: almond flour, coconut flour, or cheese-based

Traditional crusts are loaded with refined flour and carbs. In keto tomato pie recipes, the crust is often made with:

• Almond flour: buttery, nutty flavor and only 2g net carbs per 1/4 cup
• Coconut flour: lighter and drier, usually mixed with eggs and cheese
• Cheese-based crusts (like fathead dough): made with mozzarella, almond flour, and egg for a stretchy, crispy finish

Each crust type has its own flavor and texture. Cheese-based crusts offer a crispy, chewy bite, while almond flour provides a buttery crumble.

Choosing the right cheese and cream base

Mayonnaise is a staple in Southern tomato pies. For keto, use sugar-free, high-fat versions like avocado oil mayo. Add in:

• Mozzarella for stretch
• Sharp cheddar for flavor punch
• Parmesan for salt and crispiness

Mix the mayo with sour cream or heavy whipping cream for added richness. These fats help keep you full and maintain your macro balance.

Discover great ideas like our keto cauliflower mac and cheese that also uses cheesy keto bases.

How Many Carbs Are in a Tomato Pie?

Carbs in traditional tomato pie

A standard Southern tomato pie can pack:

• 25g to 40g net carbs per slice
• High sugar content in commercial mayo or sauces
• Carbs from pie crust and all-purpose flour

This makes it a no-go for keto—unless you modify the ingredients.

Macros comparison: classic vs keto tomato pie

Let’s compare macros per serving (approx. 1 slice):

Type	Net Carbs	Protein	Fat
Traditional Pie	32g	8g	12g
Keto Tomato Pie	5g	12g	22g

A keto version can have under 6g net carbs per slice, depending on ingredients. Swapping just the crust and cheese base makes a massive difference.

Keto Southern Summer Tomato Pie Ingredients Breakdown

Best cheeses for flavor and fat

Cheese is key in any good keto dish—and tomato pie is no different. Here’s what to use and why:

• Sharp Cheddar: Adds bold flavor and melts beautifully.
• Mozzarella: For that gooey, stretchy texture.
• Parmesan: Adds a crispy, salty edge when sprinkled on top.
• Cream Cheese or Sour Cream: Adds richness to your mayo mix.

Make sure your cheese is full-fat and shredded at home (pre-shredded cheeses often contain starches that add carbs).

Low-carb herbs and seasonings

Fresh herbs give tomato pie that garden-fresh zing. Here are keto-safe picks:

• Basil (fresh is best): bright and sweet
• Oregano: earthy and peppery
• Chives: oniony but mild
• Crushed red pepper: optional heat without the carbs

Add black pepper, sea salt, and garlic powder to boost flavor without carbs.

Optional keto-approved add-ins

Want to bulk up your pie with flavor and fat? Toss in:

• Crumbled bacon: smoky and salty, perfect with tomatoes
• Sautéed spinach: adds nutrients and balances the richness
• Olives or mushrooms: for earthy flavor and texture
• Sun-dried tomatoes (in moderation): more flavor punch per slice

Step-by-Step Recipe for the Best Keto Southern Summer Tomato Pie

Prep steps: slicing, draining, seasoning

1. Slice the tomatoes and lay them out on paper towels.
2. Sprinkle salt to draw out moisture. Let sit 20-30 minutes, then blot dry.
3. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Assembling the pie: layering for texture and flavor

1. Prepare your keto crust (almond flour, cheese-based, or coconut flour). Bake for 10 mins and cool.
2. Mix mayo, sour cream, shredded cheese, herbs, and spices.
3. Layer:
   • Crust
   • Tomatoes (in overlapping rows)
   • Cheese-mayo mix
   • Optional ingredients (bacon, spinach, etc.)
4. Top with extra shredded cheese and herbs.

Baking and serving tips

• Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes until golden and bubbly.
• Let cool for 15 minutes to firm up.
• Serve warm or at room temperature for the best texture.

Check out this crustless keto quiche if you want more breakfast-style pie ideas.

Can You Really Have Pie on Keto?

Understanding keto baking rules

Yes, you can have pie on keto—but only if the ingredients follow keto macros. Traditional crusts, sugar-filled sauces, and starch thickeners must be avoided.

Instead, focus on:

• Low-carb crusts
• High-fat fillings
• Natural sweeteners (if dessert-based)
• Whole ingredients with known macros

Other keto-friendly pies you can enjoy

Keto pie isn’t limited to tomatoes. Try:

• Keto Chicken Pot Pie (with almond flour crust)
• Keto Cheesecake Pie (using erythritol and cream cheese)
• Zucchini Pie (savory and fiber-rich)

Each gives you the comfort of pie without the carb overload. Tomato Sauce Keto-Approved?

Sugar and carbs in store-bought sauces

Many store-bought tomato sauces include added sugar, raising the carb count to 8–12g per 1/2 cup.

Look for:

• “No Sugar Added” labels
• Brands with <5g net carbs per serving
• Organic or homemade options

Making your own keto tomato sauce at home

It’s easier than you think. Combine:

• 1 can crushed tomatoes (no sugar)
• 2 cloves garlic
• Olive oil
• Salt, pepper, basil
• Simmer for 20 mins

Per 1/4 cup: ~3g net carbs

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips: Keto Southern Summer Tomato Pie

How long will it keep in the fridge?

Store leftover keto tomato pie in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days. The flavors intensify over time!

Best way to freeze and reheat without losing texture

To freeze:

• Let the pie cool completely
• Slice and wrap individual servings in parchment paper, then foil
• Store in a ziplock bag or airtight container

To reheat:

• Thaw overnight in the fridge
• Reheat in oven at 350°F for 10–12 minutes

Avoid the microwave—it’ll turn the crust soggy.

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Conclusion: Keto Southern Summer Tomato Pie

Keto Southern Summer Tomato Pie is the ultimate proof that comfort food and keto can happily coexist. This low-carb take on a Southern classic packs all the juicy tomato flavor, creamy cheese richness, and satisfying crunch—without sabotaging your macros.

Whether you’re serving it at a backyard BBQ, prepping meals for the week, or just craving something nostalgic, this keto-friendly tomato pie checks all the boxes. So roll up your sleeves, slice those tomatoes, and enjoy a keto summer dish that’s as comforting as it is carb-conscious.

Discover more comforting, keto classics like this in our Southern Keto Recipe Collection.

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