Introduction

Cheesy Southern Tomato Pie is a quintessential Southern summertime dish, celebrating the peak of tomato season. Imagine layers of juicy, ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, sharp cheddar cheese, and creamy mayonnaise, all baked in a flaky pie crust until golden and bubbly. The result is a savory pie that’s comforting yet fresh, perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner.

This recipe takes advantage of the natural sweetness of fresh tomatoes and balances it with the rich, cheesy filling. Whether you serve it warm or at room temperature, every bite bursts with summer flavor.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this Cheesy Southern Tomato Pie with Fresh Basil because it celebrates the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients while delivering the ultimate comfort food experience. Juicy summer tomatoes, layered with gooey melted cheese and fragrant basil, come together inside a flaky, golden crust for a dish that feels both rustic and elegant. It’s a recipe that transforms the humble tomato into the star of the table, reminding me of the flavors of Southern kitchens and long summer evenings.

What makes it extra special is its versatility—it works perfectly as a light lunch with a crisp salad, a hearty side for dinner, or even as a show-stopping brunch dish. Every bite is a blend of creamy, cheesy indulgence balanced with the brightness of fresh herbs and the tang of ripe tomatoes. It’s cozy yet refreshing, nostalgic yet timeless, and one of those dishes that always impresses without being complicated.

That perfect harmony of flavors and textures is why I keep coming back to this recipe—it feels like comfort and celebration all in one bite.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

Cheesy Southern Tomato Pie with Fresh Basil is a must-try because it brings together the very best of summer’s bounty with the richness of Southern comfort cooking. The juicy tomatoes bake down into a tender, slightly sweet layer that pairs beautifully with creamy, melted cheese and the aromatic freshness of basil—all tucked into a buttery, golden crust. The result is a dish that feels both comforting and gourmet at the same time.

This recipe is also incredibly versatile. Serve it as a light main course, a side dish at a family gathering, or even as the centerpiece of a brunch spread—it fits every occasion. Its balance of hearty and fresh flavors means it appeals to everyone at the table, from cheese lovers to garden-fresh veggie enthusiasts.

Most importantly, it’s not just delicious, it’s memorable. It captures the essence of homemade Southern cooking with a touch of elegance, making it a dish that everyone should try at least once. One slice, and you’ll understand why it’s a true Southern classic.

Recipe Information

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes (plus optional tomato draining time)
• Cooking Time: 40–45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour–1 hour 5 minutes
• Servings: 6–8 slices
• Calories: ~320 kcal per slice

Ingredients

For the Pie

• 1 (9-inch) pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
• 3–4 large ripe tomatoes (about 2 lbs)
• 1 tsp salt (for draining tomatoes)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2–3 tbsp fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 1–2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prep the Tomatoes

1. Slice tomatoes into 1/4-inch rounds.
2. Lay them on a paper towel-lined baking sheet and sprinkle with salt.
3. Let sit for 15–30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat dry.

Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place pie crust in a 9-inch pie pan, crimp edges, and prick the bottom with a fork.
3. Blind bake for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool slightly.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

1. Arrange a layer of tomato slices in the pie crust.
2. Sprinkle with some basil, green onions, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
3. Repeat layers until all tomatoes are used.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Topping

1. In a medium bowl, mix cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, and mayonnaise until combined.
2. Spread evenly over the top of the tomato layers.

Step 5: Bake the Pie

1. Bake in preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
2. Let rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing to help set the filling.

How to Serve

• Serve warm or at room temperature.
• Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
• Pair with a light green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Additional Recipe Tips and Variations

• Avoid sogginess: Draining the tomatoes is key—don’t skip it.
• Extra cheesy: Add a layer of provolone or fontina cheese for richness.
• Herb swap: Try oregano or thyme instead of basil for a different flavor profile.
• Crust alternative: Use puff pastry for a flakier base.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes.
• Freezing: Not recommended—the tomatoes will release too much water after thawing, making the crust soggy.

Special Equipment Needed

• 9-inch pie pan
• Baking sheet and paper towels (for draining tomatoes)
• Mixing bowl
• Spatula

FAQ

Q1: Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of large tomatoes?
Yes, but slice them in half and roast them first to reduce moisture.

Q2: What’s the best cheese combination for this pie?
Sharp cheddar for flavor, mozzarella for stretchiness, and Parmesan for depth.

Q3: Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble and refrigerate up to 8 hours ahead, then bake before serving.

Q4: Why is my pie watery?
You likely skipped or shortened the tomato draining step—always draw out excess moisture.

Conclusion

Cheesy Southern Tomato Pie with Fresh Basil is the ultimate celebration of summer flavors—fresh tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and gooey cheese, all baked in a buttery crust. It’s easy to make, adaptable to your taste, and perfect for brunch, lunch, or a light dinner. Serve it at your next summer gathering, and watch it disappear slice by slice.