Southern Tomato Pie
User Reviews
5
Southern Tomato Pie
Description
Southern Tomato Pie starts with a pre-baked pie crust to keep the bottom crisp against the juicy tomato filling. After salting fresh sliced tomatoes and patting them dry, most are roasted to intensify their flavor and reduce moisture, while a few are reserved for topping. The pie filling includes cooked bacon and onions, which add texture and savory depth, combined with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, eggs, and sharp cheddar and fontina cheeses for creaminess and tang. Fresh basil and oregano provide herbal brightness and complement the tomatoes.
The pie is assembled by layering the roasted tomato mixture into the cooled crust and topped with fresh tomato slices before baking. The result is a rich yet fresh-tasting savory tart with a crisp crust and a creamy, cheesy interior punctuated by bursts of tomato and bacon. It pairs well with a simple green salad or can stand on its own as a hearty vegetarian accompaniment if bacon is omitted.
Care is needed when transferring the roasted tomatoes into the pie, as they are fragile after roasting. Using a small spatula and gentle hands helps preserve their shape and distribute them evenly for consistent texture throughout the pie.
Ingredients
PIE CRUST (MAKE AHEAD)
- 1 pie crust homemade or store brand (you'll need pie weights, or dried beans, or uncooked rice with parchment paper to blind bake the crust)
FOR THE TOMATO PIE
- 3 lbs tomato sliced, we love a variety of heirlooms, fresh
- kosher salt
- 4 lices Bacon roughly chopped
- 1 yellow onion finely diced, small
- ½ cup mayonnaise good quality
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 egg
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded, sharp
- 1 cup fontina cheese shredded
- ½ cup basil chopped, fresh
- ¼ cup oregano chopped, Can also use: thyme, rosemary, tarragon, marjoram, fresh
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
Instructions
- Pre-heat the oven to 425° F.
- Par-bake the pie crust: Place the pie dough in the pie dish. Now, line with parchment paper. Add weights, or 1 cup dried beans, or, 1 cup dried rice on top. Bake for 15 minutes.
- Meanwhile, layer one (or two, if needed) baking sheets with paper towels. Place the sliced tomaotes on the paper towels and sprinkle salt over the tops of the tomaotes.
- Remove the pie from the oven, and discard the parchment paper and weights. Let cool completely.
- Reduce the oven to 350° F.
- On a separate baking sheet with a rack, place all but 3 of the tomaotes and roast in the oven for 40 to 45 minutes. Hold the 3 tomatoes for topping the pie after assembling.
- Meanwhile, heat a medium-sized skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bacon and cook until just starting to crisp and grease is being rendered.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until transluscent, about 4 to 5 more minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer to a plate lined with paper towels. Set aside.
- Once the tomatoes are done roasting, remove from the oven and let cool for at least 20 minutes, still on the rack(s).
- Make the filling by mixing together in a medium bowl the mayonaisse, cooked bacon / onion mixture, Dijon mustard, egg, and both cheeses. Stir until completely combined.
- Add a thin layer of the filling to the par-baked pie crust. Use a knife to spread the filling.
- Next, using a spatula, carefully add a layer of the roasted tomatoes. Sprinkle freshly ground black pepper over the tomatoes.
- Now, sprinkle half the fresh basil and fresh oregano on top of the tomatoes.
- Repeat this layering of filling, tomatoes, pepper and herbs. Add one more layer of the filling on top. Sprinkle more shredded cheese to cover any gaps.
- Add the three remaining tomatoes on top and sprinkle on a little more of the herbs.
- Bake for 40 minutes, until bubbly and lightly browned on top.
- Let rest for 1 hour (if served sooner, the filling will still be somewhat fluid). Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- After roasting, tomatoes become fragile, so transfer them carefully with a small spatula and your hands to avoid breaking.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6people
Amount Per Serving
Calories 456 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 456kcal | 23% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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