Easy Southern Tomato Pie – A Real Life Dinner Classic

Southern cuisine is known for comforting, flavorful dishes that feel like a warm hug, and Easy Southern Tomato Pie is no exception. With its flaky crust, juicy tomatoes, creamy cheese blend, and fragrant basil, this classic recipe brings summer freshness to the dinner table in the most satisfying way.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish is simple to prepare and yields rich rewards. It’s an ideal choice for family dinners, potlucks, or even brunch menus. Best of all, it turns a humble ingredient like the tomato into the star of the show.

If you’re wondering why this dish holds such a special place in Southern hearts, a quick dive into the history of Southern food helps explain its enduring charm. Rooted in tradition, Southern Tomato Pie brings together garden-fresh produce and everyday pantry staples in a way that’s deeply nostalgic yet surprisingly modern.

Preparing the perfect crust is a crucial first step in making this pie. If you’re not already familiar with prebaking or choosing the right type of crust, this guide to pie crusts from King Arthur Baking will give you the confidence and knowledge you need to prevent a soggy bottom and achieve a golden, crisp base.

What Is an Easy Southern Tomato Pie?

At its core, Southern Tomato Pie is a savory dish made from layers of sliced tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and a rich topping of mayonnaise mixed with shredded cheese—all baked into a buttery pie crust. It sounds simple, but the flavor is deeply satisfying and completely unique.

The “easy” part comes from using:

• A store-bought pie crust
• Readily available cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan
• A fast, straightforward preparation process

This dish walks the line between rustic and elegant, making it suitable for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Why This Recipe is a Game-Changer

One of the biggest surprises for new fans of tomato pie is how much even tomato skeptics love it. In fact, many people who claim they dislike tomatoes are quickly converted after trying this dish. The secret lies in how the tomatoes are prepared—salted and drained to reduce excess moisture, which intensifies their natural sweetness and umami flavor.

This pie also offers:

• Picky-eater approval – even kids who “hate tomatoes” are known to ask for seconds
• A flexible role on the dinner table – it works beautifully as a main or side dish
• Visual appeal – golden brown topping with vibrant red tomato layers makes for a stunning presentation

Essential Ingredients and Tools

To make this dish a success, having the right ingredients and tools is key. Here’s what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 store-bought frozen deep-dish pie crust
• 5–6 ripe tomatoes, sliced 1/5–1/4 inch thick
• 1 tsp salt
• 10–12 fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1 large clove garlic, finely crushed or zested
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese
• ¾ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ⅛ tsp ground black pepper

Useful Kitchen Tools:

• Deep-dish pie pan
• Paper towels (lots!)
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Garlic press
• Pie server

These staples make preparation smoother and help prevent common pitfalls, like excess moisture or an undercooked crust.

How to Make Easy Southern Tomato Pie – Step-by-Step

Here’s how to assemble and bake your pie like a pro:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Prebake the crust: Poke holes in the crust with a fork and bake for 12 minutes. Reduce oven temp to 350°F.
3. Prepare the tomatoes:
   • Place slices on paper towels
   • Sprinkle with salt
   • Let sit for 10–15 minutes
   • Use more paper towels to press out as much moisture as possible
4. Layer the pie:
   • Add a layer of tomatoes to fill half the crust
   • Sprinkle with basil and garlic
   • Add remaining tomatoes
5. Mix the topping:
   • In a bowl, combine all three cheeses, mayonnaise, onion powder, and pepper
   • Mix until smooth and well blended
6. Top and bake:
   • Spread cheese mixture evenly over the tomatoes
   • Bake for 30 minutes at 350°F
   • Let the pie rest for 15–20 minutes before slicing

The result is a beautifully browned, cheesy-topped pie with a juicy tomato base that tastes just like Southern summer in a dish.

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