The Easiest Tomato Pie Recipe You'll Ever Make

Tomato pie is a Southern classic that is perfect for any occasion. It is made with a flaky crust, creamy filling, and fresh tomatoes. The result is a delicious and satisfying dish that will please everyone at the table.

Ingredients:

1 (9-inch) pie crust
1 (10-ounce) can cream of tomato soup
1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
In a large bowl, combine the cream of tomato soup, diced tomatoes and green chilies, onion, green bell pepper, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Pour the mixture into the pie crust.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Tip 1: Use a pre-made pie crust to save time. If you are using a homemade pie crust, be sure to pre-bake it before filling it.

Tip 2: For a creamier filling, use cream cheese instead of cheddar cheese.

Tip 3: Add some cooked bacon to the filling for extra flavor.

Tip 4: Top the tomato pie with a sprinkle of Italian seasoning before baking.

Tip 5: Serve the tomato pie with a side salad or soup.

Benefits:

Tomato pie is a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber. It is also a relatively low-calorie dish, making it a good choice for those who are watching their weight.

Summary:

Tomato pie is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion. It is a good source of vitamins and fiber, and it is also a relatively low-calorie dish. With a few simple tips, you can make a tomato pie that will impress your family and friends.

Tomato Pie Recipe

Crust: The crust is the foundation of the tomato pie. It should be flaky and buttery, and it should be able to hold up to the weight of the filling.
Filling: The filling is the heart of the tomato pie. It is made with a combination of tomatoes, cream, cheese, and spices. The filling should be creamy and flavorful, and it should have a nice balance of acidity and sweetness.
Tomatoes: The tomatoes are the star of the tomato pie. They should be ripe and flavorful, and they should be cut into small pieces so that they cook evenly.
Cheese: The cheese adds richness and flavor to the tomato pie. Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but you can also use other types of cheese, such as mozzarella, Parmesan, or Gruyere.
Spices: The spices add depth and complexity to the flavor of the tomato pie. Oregano, basil, and thyme are all classic choices, but you can also use other spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika.
Baking: The tomato pie is baked in a preheated oven until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. The baking time will vary depending on the size and thickness of the pie.

These are just a few of the key aspects of a tomato pie recipe. By understanding these aspects, you can create a delicious and satisfying tomato pie that will be enjoyed by everyone at the table.

1. Crust

The crust is an essential part of any tomato pie recipe. It provides the structure and support for the filling, and it also contributes to the overall flavor and texture of the dish. A good crust should be flaky and buttery, with a slightly crispy exterior and a tender interior. It should also be able to hold up to the weight of the filling without becoming soggy.

Components of a good crust:
A good crust is made with a combination of flour, butter, water, and salt. The flour provides the structure of the crust, while the butter adds flavor and richness. The water helps to bind the ingredients together, and the salt enhances the flavor.
Techniques for making a good crust:
There are a few key techniques for making a good crust. First, it is important to use cold butter. This will help to create a flaky crust. Second, it is important to work the dough as little as possible. Overworking the dough will make it tough. Third, it is important to chill the dough before rolling it out. This will help to prevent the crust from shrinking in the oven.
Different types of crusts:
There are many different types of crusts that can be used for tomato pie. Some of the most popular types include:
- Shortcrust pastry: This is a classic type of crust that is made with flour, butter, and water. It is a versatile crust that can be used for both sweet and savory pies.
- Flaky pastry: This is a type of crust that is made with flour, butter, and water, but it also includes a small amount of sugar. This sugar helps to create a more flaky crust.
- Phyllo pastry: This is a type of crust that is made with thin sheets of dough. It is a very light and flaky crust that is often used for baklava and other Middle Eastern pastries.
Tips for making a good tomato pie crust:
Here are a few tips for making a good tomato pie crust:
- Use a combination of all-purpose flour and bread flour. This will help to create a crust that is both flaky and sturdy.
- Cut the butter into small pieces before adding it to the flour. This will help to create a more evenly distributed crust.
- Work the dough as little as possible. Overworking the dough will make it tough.
- Chill the dough before rolling it out. This will help to prevent the crust from shrinking in the oven.
- Bake the crust at a high temperature. This will help to create a crispy crust.

By following these tips, you can make a delicious and flaky tomato pie crust that will impress your family and friends.

2. Filling

The filling is the most important part of a tomato pie recipe. It is what gives the pie its flavor and texture. A good filling should be creamy and flavorful, with a nice balance of acidity and sweetness. It should also be thick enough to hold its shape, but not so thick that it is difficult to eat.

There are many different ways to make a tomato pie filling. Some recipes call for a simple combination of tomatoes, cream, and cheese. Others add additional ingredients, such as spices, herbs, or vegetables. The type of cheese used can also vary, depending on the desired flavor. Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but mozzarella, Parmesan, or Gruyere can also be used.

The key to a good tomato pie filling is to use ripe, flavorful tomatoes. The tomatoes should be peeled and diced before they are added to the filling. This will help to ensure that the filling is smooth and flavorful.

The filling should be cooked until it is thickened and bubbly. This will help to prevent the filling from separating when the pie is baked.

Once the filling is cooked, it can be poured into a pie crust and baked. The pie should be baked until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set.

Tomato pie is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It is a great way to use up leftover tomatoes, and it is also a good way to get your daily dose of fruits and vegetables.

Here are some tips for making a great tomato pie filling:

Use ripe, flavorful tomatoes.
Peel and dice the tomatoes before adding them to the filling.
Cook the filling until it is thickened and bubbly.
Add additional ingredients, such as spices, herbs, or vegetables, to taste.

With these tips, you can make a delicious and flavorful tomato pie filling that will impress your family and friends.

3. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are the most important ingredient in a tomato pie recipe. They provide the pie with its flavor, texture, and color. Ripe, flavorful tomatoes will produce the best tasting pie. Tomatoes that are too green will be tart and acidic, while tomatoes that are overripe will be mushy and watery. The size of the tomato pieces is also important. Small pieces will cook evenly and will distribute their flavor throughout the pie. Large pieces may not cook evenly and may make the pie difficult to eat.

There are many different varieties of tomatoes that can be used in a tomato pie recipe. Some of the most popular varieties include:

Roma tomatoes: Roma tomatoes are a plum-shaped tomato that is known for its meaty texture and low water content. They are a good choice for tomato pie because they will not release too much water during cooking.
Beefsteak tomatoes: Beefsteak tomatoes are large, round tomatoes that have a juicy, flavorful flesh. They are a good choice for tomato pie if you want a pie with a lot of tomato flavor.
Cherry tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are small, round tomatoes that have a sweet, tart flavor. They are a good choice for tomato pie if you want to add a pop of color and sweetness to your pie.

No matter what type of tomatoes you use, be sure to cut them into small pieces so that they cook evenly. You can also remove the seeds from the tomatoes if you want a less watery pie.

Tomatoes are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. They are a good source of vitamins A and C, and they are also a good source of fiber. Tomato pie is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion.

4. Cheese

Cheese is an important ingredient in tomato pie, as it adds richness, flavor, and texture to the dish. Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for tomato pie, as it has a sharp, tangy flavor that pairs well with the tomatoes. However, you can also use other types of cheese, such as mozzarella, Parmesan, or Gruyere. Each type of cheese will give the tomato pie a slightly different flavor and texture.

Mozzarella cheese is a good choice for tomato pie if you want a pie with a gooey, stretchy texture. Mozzarella is a mild-flavored cheese, so it will not overpower the flavor of the tomatoes. Parmesan cheese is a good choice for tomato pie if you want to add a nutty, salty flavor to the dish. Parmesan is a hard cheese, so it will not melt as much as mozzarella. Gruyere cheese is a good choice for tomato pie if you want a pie with a rich, buttery flavor. Gruyere is a semi-hard cheese, so it will melt slightly, but it will still retain its shape.

No matter what type of cheese you choose, be sure to use high-quality cheese. The better the quality of the cheese, the better the flavor of the tomato pie will be. You should also use freshly grated cheese, as pre-shredded cheese does not melt as well.

Cheese is an essential ingredient in tomato pie, and it can make a big difference in the flavor and texture of the dish. By choosing the right type of cheese and using high-quality ingredients, you can make a tomato pie that is both delicious and satisfying.

5. Spices

Spices are an essential ingredient in tomato pie, as they add depth and complexity to the flavor of the dish. Classic choices for tomato pie spices include oregano, basil, and thyme. However, you can also use other spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika, to create a unique flavor profile.

The role of spices in tomato pie: Spices play an important role in tomato pie, as they enhance the flavor of the tomatoes and other ingredients. They can also add a touch of heat or sweetness to the dish, depending on the spices used.
Examples of spices used in tomato pie: Some of the most common spices used in tomato pie include oregano, basil, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Oregano and basil are classic Italian herbs that add a savory flavor to the pie. Thyme adds a slightly earthy flavor, while garlic powder and onion powder add a touch of sweetness. Paprika adds a bit of heat and smokiness to the dish.
How to use spices in tomato pie: Spices can be added to tomato pie in a variety of ways. You can add them to the tomato sauce, sprinkle them on top of the pie crust, or even mix them into the cheese filling. The amount of spices you use will depend on your personal preference. However, it is important to start with a small amount and add more to taste, as spices can easily overpower the other flavors in the pie.
Tips for using spices in tomato pie: Here are a few tips for using spices in tomato pie:
- Use fresh spices whenever possible. Fresh spices have a more intense flavor than dried spices.
- If you are using dried spices, be sure to toast them before adding them to the pie. This will help to release their flavor.
- Start with a small amount of spices and add more to taste. Spices can easily overpower the other flavors in the pie, so it is important to use them sparingly.

By following these tips, you can use spices to create a delicious and flavorful tomato pie that your family and friends will love.

6. Baking

Baking is an essential step in the tomato pie recipe, as it transforms the raw ingredients into a delicious and flavorful dish. The heat of the oven causes the crust to become golden brown and crispy, while the filling thickens and bubbles. The baking time will vary depending on the size and thickness of the pie, but it is important to bake the pie until the crust is cooked through and the filling is set.

There are a few things to keep in mind when baking a tomato pie:

Preheat the oven: It is important to preheat the oven to the correct temperature before baking the pie. This will help to ensure that the pie cooks evenly.
Use a baking stone or pizza stone: A baking stone or pizza stone will help to distribute the heat evenly and prevent the bottom of the pie from burning.
Bake the pie on the bottom rack of the oven: This will help to prevent the top of the pie from burning.
Check the pie regularly: It is important to check the pie regularly to make sure that it is not overcooking. The crust should be golden brown and the filling should be bubbly.

By following these tips, you can bake a delicious and flavorful tomato pie that your family and friends will love.

The baking process is an important part of the tomato pie recipe, as it transforms the raw ingredients into a cohesive and flavorful dish. By understanding the importance of baking and following the tips above, you can create a delicious and satisfying tomato pie that will impress your guests.

A tomato pie recipe is a culinary instruction that guides individuals in creating a delectable dish featuring tomatoes as the primary ingredient. It typically involves combining a flaky crust with a savory filling made from tomatoes, cheese, and herbs. This dish is often associated with Southern cuisine in the United States and is relished for its delightful blend of flavors and textures.

Tomato pie offers numerous benefits. Firstly, it is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Secondly, it is a rich source of essential nutrients, including vitamins A and C, and antioxidants. Moreover, the combination of tomatoes, cheese, and herbs provides a delightful taste experience that appeals to a wide range of palates.

The main components of a tomato pie recipe include the crust, filling, and baking process. The crust is typically made from flour, butter, and water, and can be prepared using various techniques to achieve different textures. The filling, on the other hand, is primarily composed of tomatoes, cheese, and herbs. Common cheese choices include cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan, while herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme add depth of flavor. Finally, the pie is baked in an oven until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly and set, resulting in a cohesive and flavorful dish.

Frequently Asked Questions about Tomato Pie

Tomato pie is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. However, there are some common questions that people have about tomato pie. Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions:

Question 1: What is the best type of tomato to use in a tomato pie?

Answer: The best type of tomato to use in a tomato pie is a ripe, flavorful tomato. Roma tomatoes are a good choice because they are meaty and have a low water content. However, you can use any type of tomato that you like.

Question 2: Can I use a pre-made pie crust for a tomato pie?

Answer: Yes, you can use a pre-made pie crust for a tomato pie. However, if you have the time, making your own pie crust is relatively easy and will give your tomato pie a more homemade flavor.

Question 3: What type of cheese is best for a tomato pie?

Answer: The best type of cheese for a tomato pie is a cheese that melts well. Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but you can also use mozzarella, Parmesan, or Gruyere cheese.

Question 4: How long do I bake a tomato pie?

Answer: The baking time for a tomato pie will vary depending on the size and thickness of the pie. However, most tomato pies will need to be baked for 30-45 minutes at 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

Question 5: Can I freeze a tomato pie?

Answer: Yes, you can freeze a tomato pie. To freeze a tomato pie, bake the pie according to the recipe instructions. Allow the pie to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

Question 6: How do I reheat a tomato pie?

Answer: To reheat a tomato pie, thaw the pie overnight in the refrigerator. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pie is heated through.

These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about tomato pie. If you have any other questions, please feel free to leave a comment below.

Tomato pie is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals, and it is also a relatively low-calorie dish. With so many different variations, there is sure to be a tomato pie recipe that everyone will enjoy.

Transition to the next article section:

Now that you know the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about tomato pie, you can start experimenting with different recipes. There are many different ways to make a tomato pie, so feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors. With a little creativity, you can create a delicious tomato pie that your family and friends will love.

Conclusion

The exploration of the tomato pie recipe in this article has provided a comprehensive understanding of its various aspects, including its historical origins, diverse regional variations, and culinary significance. Through a thorough examination of its ingredients, techniques, and cultural impact, we have gained valuable insights into the unique characteristics and appeal of this beloved dish.

The tomato pie recipe stands as a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of culinary traditions, showcasing the transformative power of simple ingredients when combined with culinary expertise. Its versatility and adaptability allow for endless variations, encouraging home cooks and chefs alike to experiment with flavors and styles. Whether enjoyed as a comforting breakfast, a hearty lunch, or a satisfying dinner, the tomato pie recipe continues to delight taste buds and bring people together.

As we conclude our exploration, we are left with a newfound appreciation for the rich culinary heritage surrounding the tomato pie recipe. Its enduring popularity and global appeal serve as a reminder of the universal appeal of delicious food and the joy it brings to our lives. By embracing the diversity of tomato pie recipes and experimenting with our own creations, we can continue to celebrate the culinary traditions of the past while shaping the future of this beloved dish.