Cheddar Parmesan Tomato Pie Recipe - A Savory and Cheesy Appetizer

If you’re looking for a savory pie that’s bursting with flavor and features fresh ingredients, the Cheddar Parmesan Tomato Pie is the perfect dish to add to your recipe collection. This delightful pie combines the richness of cheddar and Parmesan cheeses with the sweetness of ripe tomatoes, creating a mouthwatering, melt-in-your-mouth experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a hearty yet comforting meal, this recipe is sure to impress.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to create the perfect Cheddar Parmesan Tomato Pie, along with helpful tips and tricks to make it even more delicious. Let’s get started!

Ingredients for Cheddar Parmesan Tomato Pie

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather the ingredients you’ll need for this cheesy, savory delight:

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3-4 medium ripe tomatoes (sliced thin)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh basil (chopped)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 pre-made pie crust (or homemade, if you prefer)

How to Make Cheddar Parmesan Tomato Pie

Step 1: Prepare Your Pie Crust Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re using a pre-made pie crust, simply place it in a 9-inch pie dish and gently press it down to fit. If you’re making your own, roll it out to a 9-inch diameter and place it in the dish. Set it aside.

Step 2: Layer the Tomatoes Next, slice your tomatoes thinly, removing any excess seeds or juice. This helps keep the pie from becoming too soggy. Arrange the tomato slices in a single layer at the bottom of your prepared pie crust.

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Herbs Drizzle olive oil over the tomatoes and sprinkle the chopped basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper on top. The fresh basil adds a burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheesy layers.

Step 4: Layer the Cheeses Now, for the magic part—add the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top of the seasoned tomatoes. Make sure you spread the cheeses evenly to cover all the tomato slices. The combination of these two cheeses creates a rich and savory topping that will melt beautifully.

Step 5: Bake the Pie Place the pie in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned on top. If the crust edges are browning too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy! Once baked to perfection, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5-10 minutes. This helps the filling set and makes slicing easier. Slice, serve, and enjoy your Cheddar Parmesan Tomato Pie!

Recipe Notes

Tomato Selection: Choose ripe, firm tomatoes for the best texture. Roma or beefsteak tomatoes work wonderfully, as they’re less juicy and hold up better in the pie.
Add a Crust Topping: If you want to add a little extra crunch, you can sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top of the cheese before baking for a crispy finish.
Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Gruyère or mozzarella could be great additions for a creamier texture.
Vegan Option: To make this pie vegan, swap out the cheese for plant-based cheese alternatives and use a dairy-free crust.

Time and Serving

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Serving Size: Serves 6-8

How to Serve Cheddar Parmesan Tomato Pie

This savory pie can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:

As an appetizer: Serve in smaller slices at a gathering or dinner party.
With a side salad: Pair with a simple green salad for a light and fresh meal.
For brunch: It’s perfect for a weekend brunch or as part of a brunch spread.
As a light dinner: Enjoy with a side of roasted vegetables or a bowl of soup.

Kitchen Tools Needed

9-inch pie dish
Sharp knife for slicing tomatoes
Cheese grater (if using block cheese)
Spoon for layering ingredients
Oven-safe baking dish
Aluminum foil (optional)

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers (though unlikely, it’s that good!), store them properly to maintain freshness:

In the Refrigerator: Store your Cheddar Parmesan Tomato Pie in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the pie before baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, allow it to thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
Reheating: To reheat, place individual slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	210 kcal
Total Fat	14g
Saturated Fat	8g
Cholesterol	35mg
Sodium	480mg
Total Carbohydrates	15g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Sugars	6g
Protein	8g

Health Benefits of Cheddar Parmesan Tomato Pie

Tomatoes are not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Rich in vitamins A and C, they support skin health and immune function. The addition of cheddar and Parmesan cheese provides a good source of calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle function. Plus, this recipe uses fresh ingredients, which means you’re getting more nutrients and fewer preservatives compared to store-bought alternatives.

Extra Tips to Make the Recipe Perfect

Use Fresh Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes add the best flavor, but if you’re making this outside tomato season, canned tomatoes can work in a pinch.
Don’t Overcrowd the Tomatoes: Overlapping tomato slices can make the pie soggy, so be sure to layer them neatly.
Let the Pie Rest: Allow the pie to cool for a few minutes before serving. This makes it easier to slice and ensures the filling sets properly.

FAQs

Yes, you can prepare this pie in advance! Simply assemble the pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 12 hours before baking.

Fresh thyme, oregano, or rosemary would pair wonderfully with this dish. Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs!

Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free crust or even a puff pastry for a different texture. If you’re going low-carb, try a cauliflower crust.

If you want to add a meaty twist, try adding cooked bacon or sausage to the filling for extra flavor and texture.

To avoid a soggy bottom, try pre-baking the crust (also called blind baking) for about 10 minutes before adding the filling. This helps the crust stay crisp.

Final Thoughts

Cheddar Parmesan Tomato Pie is a delightful and comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a light dinner, it’s sure to be a hit with anyone who loves fresh, cheesy, savory recipes. The combination of fresh tomatoes, two types of cheese, and a buttery crust makes this pie irresistible. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be customized with your favorite herbs and toppings. Enjoy!