This Southern Tomato Basil Pie is a delightful balance of savory, cheesy richness and the freshness of garden tomatoes, with a burst of flavor from aromatic basil. The golden, crispy crust forms the perfect base for the vibrant layers of tomato and melted cheese, making each bite a heavenly combination of textures and flavors.
It’s a comforting dish that feels like home and is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Serve it warm from the oven, and you’ll enjoy the wonderful aroma of tomatoes and fresh basil filling the room. Whether for a family dinner or a weekend potluck, this Southern Tomato Basil Pie is an easy yet impressive way to enjoy summer’s best produce.
Full Recipe:
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1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
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5-6 ripe tomatoes, sliced
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1/2 cup mayonnaise
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1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
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1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Place the pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish and bake for 8-10 minutes or until lightly golden.
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While the crust is cooling, slice the tomatoes and sprinkle with a little salt to remove excess moisture.
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In a small bowl, combine the mozzarella, cheddar, mayonnaise, basil, and garlic powder. Stir until well mixed.
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Layer the sliced tomatoes in the pie crust, and then spread the cheese mixture on top of the tomatoes.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pie is golden and bubbly.
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Let it cool slightly before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Southern Tomato Basil Pie: A Perfect Slice of Comfort
Southern Tomato Basil Pie is a delightful savory dish that brings together two of the most iconic ingredients in Southern cuisine: tomatoes and basil. This pie is a comforting, cheesy creation that will transport you to the warmth of Southern kitchens, where fresh, homegrown produce and rich flavors reign supreme. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its incredible flavor but also in its versatility, making it perfect for a family meal, a gathering of friends, or a special occasion.
This pie takes full advantage of the bounty of summer tomatoes, which are known for their vibrant flavor and natural sweetness. Paired with fragrant basil, creamy cheese, and a flaky, buttery crust, this dish is a true celebration of the season. It’s a dish that’s rich in flavor yet light enough to be enjoyed as a refreshing appetizer or a satisfying main course.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
The Southern Tomato Basil Pie is a wonderful combination of flavors and textures that highlight the simplicity of Southern cuisine. What makes this recipe particularly special is its ability to balance richness and lightness. The tomatoes lend their juicy sweetness, which is perfectly complemented by the savory, slightly tangy cheeses and the herbaceous kick from fresh basil. The flaky crust provides the ideal base, ensuring that each bite is a harmonious mixture of crispy, creamy, and fresh.
The appeal of this pie extends beyond its taste; it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. The combination of minimal ingredients, all of which are easily accessible, makes this a recipe that anyone can try. The tomatoes take center stage, so the recipe allows them to shine, bringing their natural sweetness to the forefront of the dish. The dish itself can be made in advance, so it’s perfect for those busy days when you want to serve something that will impress without spending too much time in the kitchen.
A Southern Tradition: Tomatoes and Basil
Tomatoes and basil have a long history together, particularly in Southern cooking. In the South, tomatoes are a staple ingredient, and they’re typically at their best during the summer months, when they are bursting with flavor. Whether grown in a backyard garden or purchased at a local farmers’ market, Southern tomatoes are a beloved part of the culinary landscape. The combination of juicy, ripe tomatoes with fresh basil is a classic flavor pairing that is featured in countless Southern dishes, from sauces to salads to pies.
Basil, on the other hand, adds a refreshing herbal note that perfectly complements the richness of tomatoes. Known for its aromatic, slightly peppery flavor, basil is an essential herb in Southern kitchens. It’s often used in everything from savory dishes to drinks, and its versatility makes it an indispensable ingredient.
In this Southern Tomato Basil Pie, basil serves as the perfect contrast to the sweet acidity of the tomatoes, creating a dynamic flavor profile that elevates the entire dish. When combined with cheeses like mozzarella and cheddar, basil adds a depth of flavor that can transform an ordinary meal into something extraordinary.
Why You Should Try This Tomato Basil Pie
There are plenty of reasons to try this Southern Tomato Basil Pie, but one of the most compelling is its sheer adaptability. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, bringing a dish to a potluck, or simply looking for a cozy weeknight dinner, this pie fits the bill. It’s an incredibly flexible dish that can be tailored to your preferences.
If you love a more pronounced cheese flavor, you can easily increase the amount of cheese used or swap in different varieties such as Parmesan or goat cheese. For those who prefer a lighter version, you can reduce the cheese or opt for a low-fat option. This dish can even be made vegan by substituting the dairy ingredients for plant-based alternatives, ensuring that everyone at the table can enjoy it.
Additionally, this recipe is a great way to use up any excess tomatoes you may have, especially during peak tomato season. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the bounty of summer tomatoes, whether you have an abundance from your garden or simply want to make something special with those perfectly ripe tomatoes at the store. The result is a dish that is both satisfying and celebratory of the season’s best produce.
The Perfect Dish for Any Occasion
Southern Tomato Basil Pie is more than just a recipe—it’s a dish that brings people together. It’s ideal for family gatherings, summer barbecues, or even as a side dish to complement a larger meal. The flavors are light and bright, making it perfect for warm weather, but it’s hearty enough to be enjoyed year-round.
Serve it as an appetizer to whet the appetite, or enjoy it as a main dish for a light dinner. Either way, this pie is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It pairs wonderfully with a refreshing green salad or a simple side of roasted vegetables. And, of course, a glass of chilled white wine or a crisp iced tea would be the perfect drink to complement the flavors of the pie.
The pie’s stunning presentation, with the golden-brown crust and vibrant, colorful tomatoes peeking through the cheese, makes it a showstopper at any event. Whether you’re serving it for a casual get-together or a more formal affair, this pie will surely garner compliments and leave guests asking for the recipe.
Making It Your Own
One of the best parts about this Southern Tomato Basil Pie is how customizable it is. While the basic recipe is a fantastic starting point, there’s plenty of room to make this dish your own. For instance, if you prefer a more robust flavor, try adding a touch of balsamic vinegar or a drizzle of olive oil on top before baking. Some people enjoy adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to give the pie a little heat. You could also experiment with different herbs, such as thyme or oregano, to enhance the flavor profile.
For a bit of extra texture, consider adding a handful of toasted breadcrumbs or crumbled crackers to the top of the pie before baking. This will give the dish an additional layer of crunch and flavor that pairs wonderfully with the soft, creamy cheese. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some roasted garlic or caramelized onions to the filling for an extra layer of sweetness.
If you’re serving this dish as a brunch option, it pairs wonderfully with a light fruit salad or a side of crispy bacon. The sweetness of the fruit or the smoky, salty bacon will beautifully balance the richness of the pie.
Conclusion: A Dish That Celebrates Summer Flavors
Southern Tomato Basil Pie is a recipe that captures the essence of Southern cooking: fresh, simple ingredients that are transformed into a flavorful and comforting dish. The combination of juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy cheese, all nestled inside a flaky crust, creates a dish that is as satisfying as it is delicious. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a potluck, or simply as a treat for yourself, this pie is sure to bring smiles to your table.
What makes this recipe so special is its simplicity, versatility, and the fact that it celebrates the very best of what summer has to offer. It’s a dish that’s easy to make but always impresses with its bold flavors and beautiful presentation. If you’re looking for a dish that highlights fresh ingredients and embodies the spirit of Southern cooking, this Southern Tomato Basil Pie is the perfect choice. It’s the kind of recipe that you’ll return to again and again, savoring the flavors of summer with each bite.