Tomato Pie Recipe

This Southern-style tomato pie recipe is packed with juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, creamy cheese, and baked in a flaky crust. Perfect for summer meals or potluck gatherings, it’s a cheesy, savory, and absolutely unforgettable dish.

RecipeRate
Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
30 min
Total Time
45 min
Servings
1 pie (6–8 servings)
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This tomato pie recipe is a Southern comfort classic made with juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and a cheesy, golden topping. It’s the perfect way to celebrate tomato season in a flaky pie crust. Whether served warm or room temp, every bite delivers fresh, savory flavor. If you love easy, crowd-pleasing dishes, this one belongs on your table.

Tomato pie recipe with melted cheese and golden crust
Southern-style tomato pie fresh from the oven with golden topping
Table of Contents

What is a Tomato Pie Recipe

We first tasted tomato pie at a family reunion in South Carolina when we were just kids, wide-eyed and eager to try everything on the table. While most dishes came and went, one left a lasting memory a creamy, golden slice of tomato pie. It was layered with ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, gooey cheese, and a buttery crust. That moment stuck with us and eventually inspired us to recreate a version of our own.

So, what exactly is a tomato pie recipe? It’s a savory pie filled with thick-sliced, juicy tomatoes, chopped herbs (usually basil), and onions, all topped with a rich mixture of cheese and mayonnaise. It bakes up golden and bubbly, like comfort food wrapped in a flaky hug. Unlike sweet no-bake pies, this one brings bold Southern flavor and just the right amount of heartiness to the table.

Tomato pie is particularly popular in the South where tomato season is sacred. Some variations use ricotta or puff pastry, but this classic sticks with familiar, homey ingredients that bring out the best in garden tomatoes. If you’re already a fan of rustic, home-style pies like our no-bake orange creamsicle cheesecake or you love chilled, layer-rich desserts such as the high protein cheesecake jars, this recipe will speak to your soul only this time, it’s baked and savory.

It’s simple, satisfying, and every bite is layered with flavor.Summer cookout, picnic, or a casual backyard dinner — fits right in.

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Tomato pie recipe with melted cheese and golden crust

Tomato Pie Recipe


  • Author: Emma & Ella
  • Total Time: 45 min
  • Yield: 1 pie (6–8 servings) 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Southern-style tomato pie recipe is packed with juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, creamy cheese, and baked in a flaky crust. Perfect for summer meals or potluck gatherings, it’s a cheesy, savory, and absolutely unforgettable dish.


Ingredients

Scale

5 roma tomatoes, peeled and sliced

10 fresh basil leaves, chopped

1/2 cup green onion or red onion, chopped

1 9-inch pre-baked pie crust

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

3/4 cup mayonnaise (or half mayo, half Greek yogurt)

2 tablespoons freshly grated parmesan cheese

Salt and freshly ground black pepper


Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F: Preheat oven to 350°F.
  2. Place sliced tomatoes in: Place sliced tomatoes in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture.
  3. Pat the tomatoes dry: Pat the tomatoes dry with a paper towel.
  4. Layer tomatoes, chopped basil: Layer tomatoes, chopped basil, and onion in the pre-baked pie shell. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. In a bowl, mix: In a bowl, mix mozzarella, cheddar, and mayonnaise until smooth.
  6. Spread cheese mixture evenly: Spread cheese mixture evenly over tomato layer.
  7. Sprinkle with grated parmesan: Sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese.
  8. Bake for 30 minutes: Bake for 30 minutes or until top is golden and bubbly.
  9. Let rest 15 minutes: Let rest 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Use fresh, ripe tomatoes for best flavor.

Pat tomatoes thoroughly dry to prevent sogginess.

Can be served warm or at room temperature.

Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To reheat, bake slices at 325°F for 10–15 minutes.

  • Prep Time: 15 min
  • Cook Time: 30 min
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 472
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 604mg
  • Fat: 36g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 22g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 21g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 14g
  • Cholesterol: 36mg

Why You’ll Love This

There’s something magical about a tomato pie recipe when it’s baked just right. The sweet tomatoes turn rich and tender, the herbs shine, and the cheese-mayo topping bubbles into a golden, savory layer. This recipe is comforting, colorful, and surprisingly easy to pull off perfect for any occasion from brunch to backyard dinner.

It’s a celebration of simple ingredients. With just tomatoes, basil, onions, and cheese, this dish brings out bold Southern flavor in every forkful. No fuss, no fancy steps. And because it’s so adaptable, you can customize it with bacon, different cheeses, or even add a touch of heat with chili flakes.

It also fits beautifully into a lineup of chill-worthy, crowd-pleasing recipes. While this pie is baked, it pairs wonderfully with summer-fresh no-bake desserts like our no-bake orange creamsicle cheesecake a tangy treat layered with vanilla and orange that tastes like sunshine. Or for an after-dinner cool-down, try our mint chocolate pudding cookies a no-bake classic that’s quick and crave-worthy.

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Tomato pie makes a bold statement without trying too hard.Summer cookout, picnic, or a casual backyard dinner — fits right in. Every bite offers creamy, tangy, herb-kissed flavor inside a flaky crust and that’s something worth making again and again.

How to Make

Quick Overview

This tomato pie recipe is straightforward and deeply satisfying. You’ll prep juicy tomatoes, layer them with herbs and onions, mix up a quick cheesy mayo topping, and bake it all inside a flaky pie crust until golden and bubbly. With just one crust and simple ingredients, you’ll be amazed by how much flavor this pie delivers.

Here’s what to expect:

  • Prep: 15 minutes
  • Bake: 30 minutes
  • Rest: 15 minutes before slicing

It’s best served slightly warm or at room temp. And just like our brownie in a mug, it’s easy to make and even easier to love.

Ingredients

Tomato pie recipe ingredients flat-lay
Fresh ingredients for Southern tomato pie on kitchen counter
IngredientAmount
Roma Tomatoes (peeled, sliced)5
Fresh Basil (chopped)10 leaves
Green Onion or Red Onion (chopped)½ cup
Pre-Baked 9” Pie Crust1
Mozzarella Cheese (shredded)1 cup
Cheddar Cheese (shredded)1 cup
Mayonnaise (or half mayo, half Greek yogurt)¾ cup
Parmesan Cheese (grated)2 tablespoons
Salt & Black PepperTo taste

Step-by-Step

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
  2. Salt the tomatoes: Lay tomato slices in a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let them rest for 10 minutes to draw out moisture.
  3. Pat dry: Gently blot with a paper towel. This step helps prevent a soggy crust.
  4. Layer the pie: In the pre-baked crust, layer tomatoes, chopped basil, and onions. Season with pepper.
  5. Mix topping: Combine cheddar, mozzarella, and mayo (or yogurt) in a bowl. Spread evenly over the tomato layer.
  6. Add parmesan: Sprinkle grated parmesan on top for extra flavor and a crispy finish.
  7. Bake: Place the pie in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes until the top is golden and slightly bubbly.
  8. Cool before slicing: Let the pie rest at least 15 minutes before serving so it sets up perfectly.

What to Serve Tomato Pie With

Tomato pie is a star all on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of fresh and comforting sides. Its cheesy, savory base and flaky crust are perfectly balanced with light, crisp, or tangy dishes that round out the meal without overpowering it.

If you’re serving tomato pie for brunch or lunch, pair it with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette or balsamic glaze. The acidity complements the richness of the cheese and mayo topping. A chilled cucumber salad or a simple plate of sliced melon with mint also works beautifully on warmer days.

For dinner, go with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or cold pasta salad. And don’t skip bread soft rolls or garlic knots are perfect for soaking up every last bit of juicy tomato and cheesy goodness.

Looking for a sweet way to finish the meal? Try our chilled brownie in a mug for a quick dessert that takes just minutes to make, or cool off with a creamy bite of no-bake orange creamsicle cheesecake. Both desserts are fuss-free and perfect after a warm slice of tomato pie.

Hosting or feeding a crowd -- this one always earns its place.

Top Tips for Perfecting Tomato Pie

A great tomato pie recipe starts with the right prep. These tried-and-true tips will help you get the texture, flavor, and structure just right no soggy crusts or bland bites here.

1. Drain and dry your tomatoes well.
This is the golden rule. Salted tomato slices need time to sit and release their juices. Afterward, gently blot them dry with a paper towel. This one step can save your pie from a mushy mess.

2. Pre-bake your pie crust.Sweet craving or a special treat — this one delivers every time. This helps the bottom layer hold up to the juicy tomatoes.

3. Use full-flavored cheeses.
Cheddar and mozzarella are a classic combo, but don’t skip the parmesan topping. It adds a salty finish and browns beautifully. You could even swap in pepper jack or smoked gouda for a twist.

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4. Let it rest before slicing.
Just like lasagna, this pie needs a moment to set. Give it at least 15 minutes after baking before you cut into it. This helps the layers hold together and makes serving much cleaner.

5. Fresh basil makes all the difference.
Dried herbs don’t compare to the fresh pop of flavor that basil adds. Chop it just before layering to keep it fragrant and bright.

These tips make your tomato pie stand out in flavor and appearance. And if you’re into shortcuts with major payoff, you’ll love desserts like our no-bake high protein cheesecake jars or the layered graham cracker pudding dessert. Just like this pie, they’re easy to assemble and impossible to forget.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Tomato pie stores surprisingly well if you manage to have leftovers. With a few smart moves, you can keep it tasting fresh for days and enjoy it all over again.

To Store:
Once the pie has cooled completely, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, or transfer slices to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Since the pie contains mayo and cheese, it should always be chilled when not being served.

To Reheat:
For best results, reheat slices in the oven or toaster oven at 325°F for about 10–15 minutes. This brings back the crispness of the crust and helps the cheese melt evenly without drying out. Avoid the microwave if you can it softens the crust and may make the pie soggy.

To Freeze:
Tomato pie doesn’t freeze as well as other savory pies due to the high moisture content in the tomatoes. If you must freeze it, wrap individual slices tightly and store for up to one month. Reheat directly from frozen, uncovered, in the oven until warmed through.

If you’re planning meals ahead, tomato pie is best made the day before and served at room temp. It also works beautifully in meal preps next to crisp sides like roasted veggies or a chilled salad.

For more fridge-friendly recipes that reheat beautifully, check out our creamed potatoes and comforting beef stew slow cooker dishes both pair perfectly with leftovers like this tomato pie.

FAQs

How is a tomato pie made?

A tomato pie is made by layering peeled, salted tomato slices with fresh basil and onions inside a pre-baked pie crust. The topping is a creamy blend of shredded cheeses and mayonnaise, which bakes into a bubbly, golden layer. Once baked at 350°F for 30 minutes, it’s rested before slicing to help set the filling.

Should I peel tomatoes for tomato pie?

Yes, peeling the tomatoes is strongly recommended. The skins can become tough and separate from the flesh during baking. Blanch the tomatoes briefly in hot water, then cool and peel them easily. This small step makes a big difference in texture and helps the tomato pie recipe stay smooth and tender throughout.

How do you keep tomato pies from getting soggy?

The key is to salt the tomatoes first and let them sit in a colander for at least 10 minutes. This draws out excess moisture. Then, gently pat them dry before layering. Pre-baking the crust also helps create a barrier that keeps the bottom crisp while baking.

What is Southern Grandma’s tomato pie?

Southern Grandma’s version of tomato pie is the original inspiration for many modern takes. It usually includes peeled tomatoes, sweet onions, fresh basil, and a topping of mayo mixed with cheddar cheese all baked in a flaky crust. It’s rustic, rich, and absolutely packed with flavor. Think of it as the ultimate savory pie of the South, often made with love and backyard tomatoes.

For a similar cozy and comforting recipe, our readers also love the Stanley Tucci zucchini pasta another summer favorite bursting with simplicity and freshness.

Tomato pie is everything we love about Southern cooking: humble ingredients, full flavor, and a recipe that brings people together.A reliable recipe worth keeping in the rotation. Don’t wait gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and make this tomato pie recipe part of your go-to lineup. Your table will thank you.

For even more kitchen fun and no-bake inspiration, connect with us on Facebook and follow our sweet ideas on Pinterest.

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Ella Frost
Behind the recipe

Ella Frost

Ella Frost is co-founder and no-bake dessert specialist at The Cooking Twins. She develops and tests the site's no-bake recipes, bars, and cheesecakes, with a focus on the texture and precision details that decide whether a bar slices cleanly or a no-bake sets properly. Every recipe she publishes has been made independently and cross-checked with Emma before going live. Find her on LinkedIn or reach the team at hello@thecookingtwins.com.More recipes from Ella Frost

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