Easy Crustless Tomato Pie

There’s something magical about the simplicity of fresh, ripe tomatoes. They’re juicy, vibrant, and bursting with flavor, especially during the summer months. As someone who loves cooking and experimenting in the kitchen, I’m always on the lookout for recipes that highlight seasonal produce without being overly complicated. That’s why I fell in love with this Crustless Tomato Pie. It’s a dish that lets the tomatoes shine, while still being hearty and satisfying.

This recipe is perfect for those who want a lighter alternative to traditional pies but still crave that comforting, savory flavor. Without a crust, it’s easier to prepare and allows the natural sweetness of the tomatoes to take center stage. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, a light lunch, or even a brunch option, this Crustless Tomato Pie is sure to impress. Plus, it’s a great way to use up those garden-fresh tomatoes if you’re lucky enough to have a bounty of them!

What You Need To Make This Recipe

Fresh tomatoes: The star of the dish! Use ripe, juicy tomatoes for the best flavor. I prefer heirloom or beefsteak tomatoes because of their rich taste and meaty texture. If your tomatoes are extra juicy, you can slice them and let them drain on paper towels to avoid a soggy pie.

Mayonnaise: This might seem like an unusual ingredient, but it adds a creamy richness to the pie. It helps bind the other ingredients together and creates a delicious, slightly tangy flavor that complements the tomatoes perfectly.

Cheese (cheddar and Parmesan): Cheese adds a savory depth to the pie. Sharp cheddar brings a bold, tangy flavor, while Parmesan adds a nutty, salty kick. Together, they create a cheesy, golden topping that’s irresistible.

Fresh basil: Basil and tomatoes are a match made in heaven. The herb adds a fresh, aromatic note that brightens up the dish. If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use dried, but fresh is always best for this recipe.

Green onions: These add a mild onion flavor without overpowering the dish. They also bring a pop of color and a slight crunch, making the texture of the pie more interesting.

Garlic: A little garlic goes a long way in enhancing the savory flavors of the pie. It adds a subtle warmth and depth that ties everything together.

Breadcrumbs: These are used to give the pie a bit of structure and a crispy topping. You can use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs, depending on your preference.

Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning! They bring out the natural flavors of the tomatoes and other ingredients.

Ingredients List

4 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
1 cup mayonnaise
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
1/4 cup chopped green onions
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Crustless Tomato Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes

Start by slicing the tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick slices. If your tomatoes are very juicy, place the slices on paper towels and sprinkle them lightly with salt. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. This step helps prevent the pie from becoming too watery.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake the pie.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, green onions, and minced garlic. Stir until everything is well mixed. This creamy mixture will act as the “filling” for your pie.

Step 4: Layer the Tomatoes

Arrange half of the tomato slices in a single layer at the bottom of a greased pie dish. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Spread half of the cheese mixture evenly over the tomatoes. Repeat with another layer of tomatoes and the remaining cheese mixture.

Step 5: Add the Breadcrumbs

Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the pie. This will create a delicious, crispy crust as it bakes.

Step 6: Bake the Pie

Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for Making this Recipe

Use ripe, in-season tomatoes: They have the best flavor and texture for this dish.
Drain the tomatoes: This step is crucial to avoid a watery pie.
Experiment with cheeses: Try adding mozzarella or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
Add a kick: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the filling for a spicy twist.
Make it ahead: You can assemble the pie a few hours before baking and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook it.
Serve warm: This pie is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven or reheated gently.

FAQs

Can I use canned tomatoes?
Fresh tomatoes are highly recommended for this recipe because of their flavor and texture. Canned tomatoes may make the pie too watery.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them altogether.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Zucchini, spinach, or roasted red peppers would be delicious additions.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?
While it’s low-carb due to the lack of crust, the mayonnaise and cheese make it higher in fat. You can reduce the carbs further by omitting the breadcrumbs.

This Crustless Tomato Pie is a celebration of summer flavors and a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Enjoy!