Tomato pie is a comforting dish that brings together the rich, tangy flavors of ripe tomatoes with a flaky, buttery crust. This classic savory pie is a perfect way to celebrate tomato season and is often considered a staple in soul food traditions.
With layers of cheese, fresh herbs, and a golden crust, this dish makes a hearty meal for any occasion.
The Appeal of Tomato Pie
Tomato pie is an excellent alternative to traditional quiches or tarts. It has a satisfying combination of textures—crispy crust, soft roasted tomatoes, and a creamy, cheesy topping.
The balance of flavors, with a touch of balsamic vinegar and aromatic herbs, makes every bite irresistible.
This dish is perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner. It pairs well with fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or simple side dishes like cornbread. Whether served warm or at room temperature, it remains a crowd-pleaser.
Choosing the Right Tomatoes
Fresh, ripe tomatoes are the key to an outstanding tomato pie. While any variety works, firm, meaty tomatoes like Roma, beefsteak, or heirloom varieties hold their shape best during baking.
Too much moisture can make the crust soggy, so proper preparation is essential.
To reduce excess moisture, slice the tomatoes and place them on paper towels. A light sprinkle of salt helps draw out extra liquid. Allow them to sit for a few minutes before patting them dry.
This small step ensures the pie retains its structure without becoming watery.
A Buttery, Flaky Crust
The crust is just as important as the filling. A homemade dough with cold butter and Parmesan cheese adds depth and enhances the overall flavor.
For those short on time, a high-quality store-bought pie crust can be a convenient option.
Rolling out the dough to fit a deep pie dish provides enough space for the layers of tomatoes, cheese, and creamy filling. Chilling the crust before baking helps maintain its flakiness.
Layering for Maximum Flavor
Each layer of the pie contributes to its richness. Roasting the tomatoes intensifies their sweetness and adds a slight caramelization that enhances the dish.
A blend of cheeses, including sharp Cheddar, smoked Gouda, and Parmigiano-Reggiano, gives the pie a bold and complex taste. The mixture of mayonnaise and cheese creates a creamy consistency that holds everything together.
Fresh basil, garlic, and thyme bring in additional aromatic notes. These ingredients highlight the natural sweetness of the tomatoes and balance the richness of the cheese.
Baking to Perfection
Baking the pie at the right temperature ensures that the crust becomes golden and crisp while the filling sets properly. A foil shield around the edges of the crust prevents excessive browning.
Letting the pie rest after baking allows the flavors to meld and makes slicing easier. Serving the pie warm brings out its best textures and flavors.
Ideal Pairings & Serving Suggestions
Tomato pie is versatile and pairs well with various sides. A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish. Other great accompaniments include sautéed greens, roasted sweet potatoes, or a simple cucumber and onion salad.
For a heartier meal, serve tomato pie with grilled chicken, shrimp, or a bowl of creamy grits. The combination makes for a satisfying soul food experience that is both comforting and flavorful.
Storing & Reheating
Leftover tomato pie stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating in an oven rather than a microwave helps maintain its crispness. A quick warm-up at 350°F for about 10 minutes revives the flavors and texture.
Freezing is possible, but the texture may change slightly upon reheating. If planning to freeze, wrap the pie tightly in foil and store it in an airtight container.
Customizing the Recipe
There are plenty of ways to customize tomato pie based on personal preferences.
- Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free pie crust or a cornmeal-based crust for a Southern-style twist.
- Dairy-free alternative: Swap out cheese and mayonnaise for dairy-free versions, or use cashew cream for a creamy texture.
- Spicy variation: Add a touch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a hint of heat.
- Extra protein: Incorporate cooked bacon or sausage into the filling for a heartier dish.
Tomato pie is an easy-to-adapt recipe that allows for creative twists while keeping its comforting essence intact.
Whether served at a family gathering, a summer picnic, or a cozy dinner at home, tomato pie stands out as a flavorful and satisfying dish. It showcases the best of fresh ingredients while delivering the warmth and heartiness that make soul food so beloved.
Soul Food Tomato Pie Recipe
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup very cold unsalted butter cut into ½-inch cubes
- 4 to 8 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling
- 3 ½ pounds tomatoes about 12, sliced ½-inch thick, plus 1 extra sliced for garnish
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
- ¼ teaspoon salt plus extra for seasoning
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- 1 large yellow onion thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ⅓ cup smoked gouda cheese shredded
- ⅓ cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- ⅓ cup chopped fresh basil leaves
Instructions
Make the Dough
- In a food processor, pulse the flour, Parmesan, and salt until combined. Add the cold butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually drizzle in ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough begins to form.
- Transfer to a floured surface and lightly knead into a ball. Flatten into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.
Prepare the Pie Crust
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Roll out the chilled dough into a 15-inch circle and carefully place it into a deep 9-inch pie dish. Trim the edges, leaving about 1 inch of overhang.
- Fold the overhanging dough over the edges and press to seal. Crimp the edges using your fingers. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
- Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with dried beans or pie weights. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and bake for another 5 minutes. Set aside to cool but leave the oven on.
Prepare the Filling
- Arrange the tomato slices on a greased wire rack over a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Roast for 30 minutes. Let cool for 20 minutes.
- Transfer the tomatoes to a bowl and toss with salt, pepper, sugar, onion, garlic, thyme, melted butter, and olive oil.
- In a separate bowl, mix the mayonnaise with Parmesan and smoked gouda.
- Sprinkle salt over the extra tomato slices for garnish, cover with paper towels, and set aside.
Assemble & Bake
- Spread the shredded cheddar over the baked pie crust. Layer the tomato mixture on top, followed by fresh basil.
- Evenly spread the mayo-cheese mixture over the basil and top with the reserved tomato slices.
- Cover the edges of the crust with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
- Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a crispier crust, brush the edges with an egg wash before baking.
- Let the pie sit for 15 minutes before slicing to allow flavors to set.
- Serve warm or at room temperature for the best taste.
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.