Name: Southern Tomato Pie: A Savory Southern Delight You Can’t Resist
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 deep-dish pie crust (homemade or store-bought); 4–6 ripe tomatoes (heirloom, beefsteak, Roma, or plum), sliced; Kosher or sea salt; 2 tbsp fresh basil leaves, chopped; ½ cup green or sweet onions, thinly sliced; ¾–1 cup mayonnaise (preferably full-fat); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 clove garlic, minced (or ¼ tsp garlic powder); Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1 tbsp breadcrumbs (optional); 1 egg, beaten (optional)

Have you ever wondered how a simple garden tomato can transform into a culinary masterpiece that captures the essence of Southern summer? The Southern Tomato Pie is exactly that—a savory, cheesy, and herbaceous pie that celebrates ripe, juicy tomatoes in a flaky crust.

This classic Southern recipe challenges the common notion that pies must be sweet, offering instead a rich, flavorful dish perfect for any meal. If you love tomatoes and crave comfort food with a twist, you’re about to discover why Southern Tomato Pie deserves a spot on your table this summer.

Ingredients List

To create the perfect Southern Tomato Pie, you’ll need fresh, high-quality ingredients that bring out the best flavors:

Pie crust: Use your favorite homemade or store-bought deep-dish pie crust. A buttery, flaky crust is ideal to balance the juicy filling.
Fresh tomatoes: Choose ripe summer tomatoes such as heirloom, beefsteak, Roma, or plum. Fresh garden tomatoes are best, but any flavorful variety will work. You’ll need about 4-6 medium tomatoes, sliced or chopped.
Salt: Kosher or sea salt to draw out excess tomato juices and season the filling.
Fresh basil leaves: About 2 tablespoons, chopped or chiffonade, for that signature herby aroma and flavor.
Green onions or sweet onions: Thinly sliced, about ½ cup, to add a mild onion sweetness and crunch.
Mayonnaise: ¾ to 1 cup, preferably full-fat for richness. Duke’s mayo is a Southern favorite, but any quality mayonnaise works.
Cheese: A combination of shredded mozzarella and sharp cheddar cheese (about 1 cup each) creates a creamy, melty topping. Variations can include fontina, gouda, or Monterey jack.
Garlic: Minced or garlic powder (about 1 clove or ¼ teaspoon) for subtle depth.
Black pepper: Freshly ground, to taste.
Breadcrumbs: Optional, about 1 tablespoon, sprinkled on top for a slight crunch and to help absorb moisture.
Egg: Optional, beaten and mixed into the cheese-mayo blend to help bind the filling.

Ingredient Substitutions and Enhancements

Swap mayonnaise for a mix of low-fat Greek yogurt and light mayo for a tangier, lighter pie.
Use part-skim mozzarella or reduced-fat cheddar to reduce saturated fat.
Add cooked bacon, pancetta, or crumbled sausage for a smoky twist.
Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or chives for extra flavor complexity.

Timing

Preparation time: Approximately 20-30 minutes, including slicing tomatoes and prepping the crust.
Par-baking crust: 10-15 minutes at 375-400°F to prevent sogginess.
Baking time: 30-45 minutes at 350-400°F until the cheese topping is bubbly and golden.
Total time: Around 60-90 minutes, which is about 20% less than some more complex savory pies, making it a relatively quick summer meal option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare and Par-Bake the Crust

Roll out your pie dough and place it in a deep-dish pie plate. Prick the bottom with a fork to prevent puffing. Par-bake the crust at 375-400°F for 10-15 minutes until lightly browned. This step is crucial to avoid a soggy bottom once the juicy tomatoes are added.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomatoes

Slice tomatoes about ½ inch thick. Sprinkle with salt and let them drain on paper towels for 10-30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Blot with additional paper towels to ensure the filling won’t be watery.

Step 3: Mix the Cheese and Mayonnaise Filling

In a bowl, combine shredded mozzarella, sharp cheddar, mayonnaise, minced garlic (or garlic powder), black pepper, and optionally a beaten egg. Stir until well blended. This creamy mixture binds the pie and adds rich flavor.

Step 4: Layer the Pie

Start with a layer of the cheese-mayo mixture spread evenly on the cooled crust. Add a layer of drained tomato slices, sprinkle with chopped basil and green onions. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with the cheese mixture on top. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top if using.

Step 5: Bake the Pie

Bake at 350-375°F for 30-45 minutes until the cheese topping is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. The crust edges should be crisp and golden. If the crust browns too quickly, cover edges with foil or a pie shield.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow the pie to cool for at least 20-30 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the filling set for cleaner slices and enhances the flavors.

Freshly baked Southern Tomato Pie with golden, cheesy topping and a flaky crust, garnished with green herbs, in a white pie dish.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 6 servings), Southern Tomato Pie provides approximately:

Calories: 444 kcal
Total Fat: 36.2 g (Saturated Fat: 8.7 g)
Cholesterol: 21.8 mg
Sodium: 420.9 mg
Carbohydrates: 21.6 g (Dietary Fiber: 0.6 g, Sugars: 0.2 g)
Protein: 10.4 g
Vitamin A: 9.3% DV
Vitamin C: 8.2% DV
Calcium: 3.1% DV
Iron: 1.6% DV

This pie is rich in fats and protein due to cheese and mayonnaise but also provides vitamin A and C from fresh tomatoes and basil.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Replace full-fat mayonnaise with low-fat Greek yogurt or a blend of light mayo and yogurt to reduce calories and saturated fat without sacrificing creaminess.
Use reduced-fat cheeses or smaller amounts of cheese to lower fat content.
Incorporate whole wheat or gluten-free pie crusts for added fiber or dietary needs.
Add extra vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to boost nutrient density and volume.
Use herbs liberally to enhance flavor without extra calories.
For a dairy-free version, substitute cheese with vegan cheese alternatives and use vegan mayo.

Serving Suggestions

Southern Tomato Pie is versatile and pairs well with many dishes:

Serve warm or at room temperature for brunch, lunch, or dinner.
Pair with a crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance richness.
Complement with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a light soup for a complete meal.
For picnics or potlucks, slice and serve with fresh fruit or a cold pasta salad.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves or chives for an inviting presentation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not draining tomatoes adequately: Excess moisture leads to a soggy crust. Salt and blot tomatoes well before layering.
Skipping par-baking the crust: This step prevents a soggy bottom and ensures a crisp shell.
Using underripe or watery tomatoes: Choose ripe, meaty tomatoes for best flavor and texture.
Overbaking: Watch the pie in the last 10 minutes to avoid burning the crust or drying out the filling.
Not letting the pie cool before slicing: Cutting too soon causes the filling to fall apart.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Best enjoyed the same day for optimal crust crispness and fresh flavor.
Can be prepared a few hours ahead and served at room temperature.
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in a 325°F oven for 15-20 minutes to warm through.
Avoid freezing as the crust and filling texture degrade upon thawing.

Conclusion

Southern Tomato Pie is a delicious, savory celebration of summer tomatoes layered with fresh herbs, creamy mayonnaise, and melty cheese in a flaky crust. Easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable, it’s a must-try recipe for tomato lovers. Try it today, share your experience in the comments, and subscribe for more Southern-inspired recipes and cooking tips!

FAQs

Q: Can I use a store-bought pie crust?
A: Absolutely! A good quality store-bought crust works well and saves time. Just be sure to par-bake it to avoid sogginess.

Q: Can I make this pie vegan or dairy-free?
A: Yes, substitute vegan cheese and vegan mayonnaise. Use a dairy-free pie crust to keep it fully vegan.

Q: How do I prevent the pie from being watery?
A: Salt and drain the tomatoes well, blotting excess moisture before layering. Par-baking the crust also helps.

Q: Can I add meat to the tomato pie?
A: Yes, cooked bacon, sausage, or pancetta can be mixed into the cheese mixture or layered in for extra flavor.

Q: Is Southern Tomato Pie served hot or cold?
A: It can be served warm, at room temperature, or even cold, depending on your preference.