Description
Southern Tomato Pie is a deliciously savory tart featuring ripe tomatoes layered in a flaky deep-dish pie crust with a creamy, cheesy mayonnaise topping. This classic Southern dish balances juicy, well-drained tomatoes with sharp cheddar and mozzarella, fresh basil, and a golden baked finish. Perfect served warm or at room temperature as a comfort food or side dish for gatherings.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Pie Shell
- 1 9-inch frozen deep dish pie shell
Filling
- 3 large ripe tomatoes, cut into chunks (about 3 to 4 cups)
- 3/4 cup good quality mayonnaise (Duke's recommended)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Large handful fresh basil, chopped or chiffonade (about 1/4 cup)
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pie Shell: Preheat your oven to 400ºF (204ºC). Slightly thaw the frozen pie shell and prick the bottom all over with a fork to prevent bubbling. Bake it for 10 to 20 minutes until the crust turns golden brown.
- Drain the Tomatoes: While the crust is baking, place the chopped tomatoes in a colander and sprinkle them with kosher salt. Toss occasionally to distribute the salt and let them drain thoroughly. Use paper towels to press down and blot up excess liquid to avoid a soggy pie.
- Mix the Cheese and Mayonnaise: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise with the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Stir until well mixed and creamy.
- Lower Oven Temperature: Reduce the oven temperature to 375ºF (190ºC) for baking the assembled pie.
- Assemble the Pie: Place the drained tomatoes in the baked pie shell. Add the chopped or chiffonade basil and gently toss to combine. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Evenly spread the mayonnaise-cheese mixture over the tomato and basil layer.
- Bake the Pie: Bake in the center of the oven for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Let the pie cool for at least 20 to 30 minutes to set. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Ensure tomatoes are drained thoroughly to prevent excess moisture and soggy crust.
- Grate the cheese yourself if possible, as it melts better, but pre-shredded cheese can also be used.
- Allow the pie to cool sufficiently before slicing to maintain structure and enhance flavors.
- This pie is great served at room temperature or warmed slightly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/6 pie)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 27 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 19 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
