Southern Tomato Pie: A Classic Comfort Recipe for Summer

When summer rolls around and ripe tomatoes are in abundance, there’s nothing more soul-satisfying than a homemade Southern Tomato Pie. This cherished Southern dish celebrates the sweet acidity of fresh tomatoes, layered into a flaky pie crust with a creamy, cheesy filling that’s rich with flavor and southern charm. Whether served as a side dish at a cookout, as a light lunch, or the star of a family supper, tomato pie is a standout that never fails to please.

This easy recipe takes the beloved garden tomato and elevates it with sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, Parmesan, and a kiss of Dijon mustard for brightness. Finished with fresh basil, it’s an inviting and nostalgic dish that captures everything you love about Southern home cooking. Perfectly golden and bubbling when it comes out of the oven, this Southern Tomato Pie is a warm-weather staple that you’ll come back to again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Southern Tomato Pie

There’s a reason why Southern Tomato Pie has become a beloved tradition in so many households. It’s a unique balance of creamy, cheesy richness and the juicy freshness of peak-season tomatoes. The pimentos and Vidalia onion add subtle sweetness and depth, while the flaky crust gives every bite that satisfying crunch.

This recipe also wins points for its simplicity. It uses basic, easy-to-find ingredients and comes together quickly, making it ideal for weeknight dinners, brunches, and holiday potlucks. If you love tomato recipes and easy recipes that deliver big flavor with minimal fuss, this is the dish for you.

Ingredients for Southern Tomato Pie

This recipe makes two pies—perfect for a gathering or for leftovers you’ll look forward to.

• 2 pre-baked pie crusts – Store-bought or homemade; make sure they are fully baked to support the juicy filling.
• 3–4 medium tomatoes, sliced – Choose ripe, firm tomatoes. Let them drain on paper towels to prevent sogginess.
• 1 cup mayonnaise – Start with 1 cup and adjust to get your preferred consistency.
• 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded – Adds a bold, tangy bite to the filling.
• 8 oz Monterey Jack cheese, shredded – Smooth and creamy, it balances the sharpness of cheddar.
• 8 oz Parmesan cheese, grated – Brings a salty, nutty layer of flavor.
• 1 jar (4 oz) diced pimentos, drained – A Southern favorite that adds a pop of sweetness and color.
• 1/4 Vidalia onion, grated – Sweet and mild, it complements the tomatoes without overpowering them.
• Grey Poupon Dijon mustard, to taste – Adds brightness and depth.
• Minced onion, to taste – Enhances the flavor of the cheese mixture.
• Black pepper, to taste – For seasoning and a touch of heat.
• Kosher salt, to taste – To enhance all the ingredients.
• Sugar, to taste – Optional, but it can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Fresh basil, for garnish – Bright and aromatic, perfect for finishing the dish.

How to Make Southern Tomato Pie

1. Prepare the Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the tomatoes and place them on paper towels or a clean dish towel. Let them drain for about 15 minutes to remove excess water. This step helps prevent a soggy crust once the pie is baked.

2. Make the Cheese Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, shredded cheddar, shredded Monterey Jack, grated Parmesan, drained pimentos, and grated Vidalia onion. Add a few dashes of Grey Poupon Dijon mustard, along with minced onion, black pepper, kosher salt, and a small pinch of sugar if desired. Mix until all ingredients are thoroughly combined into a spreadable filling.

3. Assemble the Pies

Place the pre-baked pie crusts into your pie dishes. Lay a layer of tomato slices in the bottom of each crust. Spread half the cheese mixture evenly over the tomatoes in the first crust, then repeat with the second crust. You can do another light layer of tomatoes on top if desired.

4. Bake the Pies

Place the assembled pies in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and bubbling. The filling should be set and lightly crisped around the edges.

5. Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and allow the pies to cool slightly before slicing. Garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves for a burst of freshness. Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy every creamy, tomato-packed bite!

Serving Suggestions

Southern Tomato Pie shines as both a main dish and a side. Serve it for brunch with a fresh fruit salad and iced tea, or alongside grilled meats, corn on the cob, and green beans for a full summer supper. It pairs wonderfully with light wines like Pinot Grigio or a Southern sweet tea.

For an elevated presentation, slice the pie and serve it on individual plates with a sprig of basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Add a mixed greens salad with vinaigrette to complete a light, elegant meal.

Tips for Success

• Drain the tomatoes well to avoid a soggy bottom crust. You can also lightly salt the slices to help draw out moisture.
• Use full-fat mayo for the creamiest texture. You can substitute part of it with sour cream or Greek yogurt if preferred.
• Grate your own cheese rather than buying pre-shredded for the best melt and flavor.
• Let the pie rest before slicing so the filling can set properly and you get clean slices.
• Store leftovers in the fridge. Reheat in the oven to maintain a crisp crust.

Variations

Tomato pie is easy to customize. Here are a few ways to change it up:

• Add bacon or pancetta for a smoky, savory note.
• Use heirloom tomatoes for a colorful twist and rich flavor.
• Spice it up with a dash of hot sauce or cayenne in the cheese mixture.
• Make it herby with fresh thyme or oregano mixed into the filling.
• Use goat cheese or cream cheese for a tangier flavor profile.
• Try a biscuit crust instead of traditional pie dough for a Southern comfort food spin.

These variations keep the essence of the dish while giving you room to be creative with seasonal ingredients and personal taste.

Storage and Reheating

Allow the pie to cool completely, then store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm slices in a 300°F oven until heated through—this helps maintain the texture of the crust better than microwaving.

Southern Tomato Pie is also delicious cold or at room temperature, making it a great option for packed lunches or picnics.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: ~350 kcal
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Sugar: 3g
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fiber: 1g

This is an indulgent, satisfying dish. For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cheese and mayo, or swap out half the mayo for Greek yogurt.

FAQs

Can I freeze tomato pie?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the fully baked pie. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat from frozen in a 350°F oven until hot.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes! Bake the pie, then let it cool and store in the fridge. Reheat in the oven before serving.

What if my tomatoes are too juicy?
Pat them dry with more paper towels or give them a quick sauté in a skillet to cook off moisture.

Can I use different cheeses?
Absolutely! You can substitute or combine other cheeses like Gruyère, Swiss, or mozzarella depending on your flavor preference.

Conclusion

Southern Tomato Pie is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of summer’s finest produce wrapped in the warm, comforting embrace of cheese and pastry. From its rich, creamy interior to the herby, golden top, this pie is a Southern gem worth savoring.

Whether you’re a lifelong Southerner or new to tomato recipes, this dish is sure to become a seasonal staple in your kitchen. Try it once, and it might just become a beloved tradition at your table, too.

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