Southern Tomato Pie Recipe: A Classic Comfort Dish

There’s something about a Southern Tomato Pie that feels like home. Maybe it’s the juicy summer tomatoes baked with creamy cheese, or the flaky crust that holds it all together. This recipe has been passed around Southern kitchens for decades, and each family adds its little twist. What you’ll find here is a version that’s simple, comforting, and just the right mix of tangy, cheesy, and buttery.

So, whether you grew up with tomato pie on your grandma’s table or you’re hearing about it for the first time, let’s walk through how you can make this cozy dish in your own kitchen.

What Is Southern Tomato Pie?

Southern Tomato Pie is a savory pie made with layers of fresh ripe tomatoes, herbs, cheese, and mayonnaise baked inside a flaky pie crust. Unlike sweet pies, this one leans into comfort-food territory. Think of it as part quiche, part casserole, but with its own Southern charm.

It’s usually served warm (though some love it cold the next day), and it’s perfect for potlucks, brunches, or a simple weeknight dinner paired with a salad.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe:

• 1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
• 4 medium ripe tomatoes (sliced and drained on paper towels)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup mayonnaise (Duke’s or Hellmann’s works best)
• ½ cup sour cream

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prep the tomatoes
   Slice your tomatoes about ¼ inch thick. Lay them on paper towels, sprinkle lightly with salt, and let them sit for 15 minutes to drain extra moisture. This step helps prevent a soggy pie.
2. Prepare the crust
   Bake your pie crust according to package or recipe directions until lightly golden. Let it cool while you prepare the filling.
3. Layer the filling
   Start with a thin layer of tomatoes in the crust. Sprinkle with garlic powder, oregano, black pepper, and basil. Add another layer of tomatoes and repeat seasoning.
4. Mix the topping
   In a bowl, stir together mayonnaise, sour cream, mozzarella, and cheddar until creamy. Spread this mixture evenly over the tomatoes.
5. Bake
   Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
6. Cool and serve
   Allow the pie to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. It holds its shape better this way.

Kitchen Tools Needed

• 9-inch pie dish
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Mixing bowl and spoon
• Paper towels
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet (optional, to catch drips)

Recipe Notes

• Use the ripest tomatoes you can find—Roma or heirloom varieties work beautifully.
• If your tomatoes are extra juicy, blot them twice before layering.
• A sprinkle of parmesan on top before baking adds a lovely nutty flavor.
• You can swap mozzarella for Monterey Jack if you prefer a creamier bite.

Extra Tips to Make It Perfect

• Bake the crust with pie weights for a crispier base.
• Add caramelized onions or crispy bacon between tomato layers for a heartier pie.
• If you’re short on time, use pre-shredded cheese, though fresh-grated melts better.

Time & Serving

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Servings: 6 slices

Storage

Southern Tomato Pie tastes best fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge.

• Refrigerator: Keep covered for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F for 10–12 minutes.
• Freezer: Not recommended—the tomatoes can turn watery when thawed.

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)

How to Serve

Southern Tomato Pie is versatile. Serve it warm with:

• A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
• Fresh fruit on the side for brunch
• Grilled chicken or fish for dinner

Some even enjoy it cold the next day—kind of like leftover pizza.

Health Benefits

• Tomatoes bring lycopene, an antioxidant linked to heart health.
• Cheese and sour cream provide calcium and protein.
• Herbs like basil and oregano add anti-inflammatory compounds.

Of course, it’s comfort food, so balance it with lighter sides.

FAQs About Southern Tomato Pie

1. Can I make tomato pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it a few hours before baking. Keep it chilled, then bake fresh for best flavor.

2. How do I stop the pie from being soggy?
Drain tomatoes well, prebake the crust, and let the pie rest before slicing.

3. What’s the best cheese for tomato pie?
A blend of mozzarella and cheddar works well, but some use Gruyère or Parmesan for added depth.

4. Can I make it without mayonnaise?
Yes—use Greek yogurt or extra sour cream as a lighter alternative.

5. Is tomato pie vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian, but you can add bacon or ham if you’d like a meaty version.

Final Thoughts

Southern Tomato Pie is one of those recipes that feels like a hug on a plate. It’s simple, cozy, and a wonderful way to let summer tomatoes shine. The crust is flaky, the filling is creamy, and the herbs keep it fresh.

I think you’ll find it’s a dish that brings people together, whether for Sunday supper or a casual lunch with friends. Maybe it even becomes one of those recipes you keep tucked away, the kind you come back to every tomato season.

Give it a try—you might be surprised how much you’ll love it.