Table of Contents: The Best Southern Tomato Pie Recipe
The Best Southern Tomato Pie Recipe
Southern Tomato Pie is one of those unforgettable dishes that wraps summer flavor into a flaky crust. Packed with ripe, juicy tomatoes, savory herbs, and a creamy cheese topping, this pie isn’t just nostalgic—it’s iconic. Whether you’re a Southern native or just craving a bite of down-home goodness, this guide covers everything you need to master the best Southern Tomato Pie recipe. We’ll walk you through essential tips, ingredient breakdowns, baking steps, storage, and even serving suggestions. Don’t miss our expert FAQs and internal links to inspiring recipes like peach fritters and grilled summer fruit pies.
Looking for inspiration? Try Peach Fritter Recipe – The Best Summer Dessert
Introduction to the Best Southern Tomato Pie
What is Southern Tomato Pie?
Southern Tomato Pie is a savory pie made with ripe tomatoes, layered into a buttery crust with basil, onion, and a mayonnaise-cheese mixture that melts into a creamy topping. It’s not your typical pie—it’s a flavor bomb rooted in Southern tradition.
Why This Classic Dish Deserves a Comeback
The best Southern Tomato Pie recipe is rustic, easy, and perfect for summer. With its refreshing tomato flavor and cheesy topping, it’s a perfect vegetarian dish that brings charm to any summer gathering.
Ingredients That Make Southern Tomato Pie the Best
Fresh, Juicy Tomatoes: The Heart of the Dish
Use firm, ripe, and preferably heirloom tomatoes. They’re less watery, hold up during baking, and bring out a sweet-tangy balance.
| Tomato Type | Flavor Profile | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| Heirloom | Sweet & juicy | Main pie layers |
| Roma | Low moisture | Base or layering |
| Beefsteak | Classic tartness | Mixed slices |
The Secret Blend of Cheeses and Herbs
Sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and fresh basil are the go-to ingredients. Some Southern cooks add Parmesan for extra tang or Gruyère for depth.
Don’t miss our Peach Ice Cream – The Best 9-Step Guide for a summer dessert pairing!
How to Prepare Southern Tomato Pie from Scratch
Step-by-Step Prep Guide
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice tomatoes, sprinkle with salt, and place on paper towels to drain for 20–30 minutes.
- Blind bake crust for 10 minutes.
- Layer tomatoes, fresh basil, and onions.
- Spread cheese-mayo mixture on top.
Tomato Prep Tips to Avoid Soggy Pie
- Salt and drain the tomatoes thoroughly.
- Pat dry before layering.
- Bake on the lower oven rack to crisp the crust.
Check out Grilled Peaches – The Ultimate Summer Dessert for a light pairing idea.
Baking Your Tomato Pie to Perfection
Best Temperature and Time for Southern Tomato Pie
Bake at 350°F for 30–35 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. The cheese topping should be firm but gooey, and the edges of the crust should be golden brown.
What Rack Should You Use in the Oven?
Always bake on the middle or lower rack. The lower rack crisps the bottom, avoiding a soggy crust.
Cooling, Slicing, and Serving Tomato Pie
Why Cooling Is Crucial Before Serving
Cooling allows the filling to set. Cutting too early leads to runny slices and a messy presentation.
How Long Should the Pie Sit After Baking?
Let the pie cool for 15 to 20 minutes before slicing. This gives the cheese mixture time to firm up for picture-perfect servings.
Southern Tomato Pie Variations
Spicy, Cheesy, or Gluten-Free Options
- Add jalapeños or red chili flakes for heat.
- Try a three-cheese blend (cheddar, gouda, mozzarella).
- For gluten-free, use almond flour crust or pre-made GF pie shells.
How to Add Bacon, Onions, or Peppers
Fry bacon bits and layer between tomatoes. Sauté onions and bell peppers before adding to prevent sogginess.
Best Pairings and Side Dishes
Southern Staples That Complement Tomato Pie
- Collard greens
- Fried okra
- Pickled cucumbers
- Cornbread muffins
Perfect Drinks for Summer Tomato Pie
- Sweet iced tea
- Peach lemonade
- Light chardonnay or rosé
Don’t miss our Perfect Sautéed Zucchini Recipe to pair with your pie.
Mistakes to Avoid While Making The Best Southern Tomato Pie Recipe
Soggy Crust Solutions
- Blind bake the crust
- Drain tomatoes thoroughly
- Bake on the lower rack
Overbaking or Undercooking Warnings
Overbaking makes the top rubbery; underbaking leaves the crust limp. Aim for a golden top and bubbling edges.
How To Store The Best Southern Tomato Pie Recipe
How to Refrigerate or Freeze It Right
- Store in airtight container for up to 3 days
- Freeze slices separately using parchment paper layers
- Reheat directly from frozen at 350°F for 15 minutes
Reheating Tips That Preserve Flavor & Texture
Reheat in oven—not microwave—for a crisp crust. Add foil on top if browning too fast.
People Also Ask: The Best Southern Tomato Pie Recipe
Why is it best to let a pie cool before serving?
Cooling allows the cheese and tomato juices to set, creating cleaner slices and preventing runny fillings.
How long to bake a pie at 350 degrees?
For this tomato pie, 30–35 minutes is ideal at 350°F until bubbly and golden on top.
What rack should pies be baked on?
Use the lower-middle rack for even browning and crust crisping.
How long should pie sit after baking?
Allow the pie to rest for 15–20 minutes to maintain structure and enhance flavor.
Conclusion: The Best Southern Tomato Pie Recipe
The best Southern Tomato Pie recipe brings together ripe tomatoes, cheese, and flaky crust in a way that captures the heart of Southern cooking. It’s simple, soulful, and full of flavor. Whether you serve it warm or cold, it’s a show-stopping summer dish you’ll make again and again.
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The Best Southern Tomato Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
A savory, cheesy Southern classic packed with fresh tomatoes, rich cheeses, and aromatic seasonings baked into a perfect pie crust.
Ingredients
- 2 pre-baked pie crusts
- 3–4 medium tomatoes, sliced
- 1 cup mayonnaise (add slowly until desired consistency; can use more or less)
- 8 oz. sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 8 oz. Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 8 oz. Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 jar (4 oz.) diced pimentos, drained
- 1/4 Vidalia onion, grated
- Grey Poupon Dijon mustard, to taste
- Minced onion, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Sugar, to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Layer the tomato slices on paper towels, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture.
- In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, Parmesan, diced pimentos, grated Vidalia onion, Dijon mustard, minced onion, black pepper, kosher salt, and sugar. Mix until well blended.
- Spread a thin layer of the cheese mixture onto the bottom of each pre-baked pie crust.
- Add a layer of tomato slices, followed by more cheese mixture. Repeat layers until filled.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before garnishing with fresh basil and serving.
Notes
For best results, use fresh, ripe tomatoes and drain well to avoid soggy crust.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: southern tomato pie, cheesy tomato pie, summer pie recipe, tomato casserole