This Crustless Tomato Pie brings the best of summer tomatoes, savory cheeses, and fresh herbs together in one comforting dish. It’s easy to make and requires no pie crust—just a simple, flavorful filling that’s baked to perfection. Each slice offers a cheesy, tangy bite that’s perfect for a light dinner or as an appetizer for guests.
Not only is it a delicious treat, but it’s also versatile! You can add in extra herbs or even a sprinkle of your favorite spices to make it truly your own. Whether served warm or at room temperature, this pie will soon become a family favorite. Perfect for warm summer evenings or a comforting meal on a cooler night, it’s a must-try for any tomato lover.
Full Recipe:
-
4 large tomatoes, sliced
-
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
-
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
-
1/2 cup mayonnaise
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
-
1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
-
Salt and pepper to taste
-
1/4 cup fresh breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Directions:
-
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
-
Arrange sliced tomatoes in a greased 9-inch pie dish or baking dish.
-
In a mixing bowl, combine mozzarella, Parmesan, mayonnaise, garlic, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
-
Spread the mixture evenly over the tomatoes, ensuring that the tomatoes are fully covered.
-
If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crispy finish.
-
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
-
Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why Crustless Tomato Pie?
Many classic tomato pie recipes rely on a traditional pie crust, but opting for a crustless version brings out the flavors of the tomatoes and cheese in a more pronounced and simplified way. Without the need for a dough-based crust, this dish is lighter, yet still deliciously satisfying. It also eliminates the step of blind-baking the crust, making it an easier and quicker option for busy cooks or those who want to avoid extra steps.
Crustless tomato pie is a great option for anyone following a gluten-free or low-carb diet. It’s the perfect way to enjoy all the comforting elements of a traditional pie without the carbs from the crust. Moreover, the combination of fresh, wholesome ingredients makes it a nourishing option for people of all dietary needs, without compromising on flavor or satisfaction.
Perfect for All Seasons
One of the fantastic things about this dish is its versatility in terms of seasonality. During the summer, when tomatoes are at their peak, the vibrant red and juicy fruits shine in this dish, offering the most flavorful and fresh results. However, even in the cooler months, you can make this recipe using high-quality canned tomatoes or even sun-dried tomatoes, allowing you to enjoy the delicious flavors year-round.
Additionally, this dish is highly adaptable to your taste preferences. You can customize it with different types of cheese, herbs, and seasonings. Want to add some garlic or onion for an extra layer of flavor? Go for it! Or, perhaps, you like a bit of heat—adding some red pepper flakes can give the dish a delightful kick. The beauty of crustless tomato pie is that it can be easily adjusted to suit your individual tastes.
Healthier Alternative to Traditional Tomato Pie
Traditional tomato pie can sometimes be heavy, thanks to the pie crust and copious amounts of butter or oil that are used in the preparation. In contrast, the crustless version is significantly lighter, making it a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor. By eliminating the crust, this version of tomato pie contains fewer calories and carbs, making it a perfect choice for those who are watching their weight or looking to eat more consciously.
You also have control over the amount of cheese you use, so you can adjust the richness to your liking. Choosing part-skim mozzarella and adding a small amount of Parmesan allows you to get all the cheesy goodness while reducing the fat content.
The Importance of Fresh Ingredients
Freshness plays a vital role in this recipe. The tomatoes are the star of the show, and using ripe, in-season tomatoes ensures the dish tastes its best. When tomatoes are at their peak, they are naturally sweet and juicy, which complements the richness of the cheese and mayonnaise in the recipe. The addition of fresh herbs, like basil and oregano, elevates the dish, giving it an aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with the tomatoes.
If you’re making this dish in the winter months, you can still use fresh herbs that are available or rely on high-quality dried herbs. However, don’t skimp on the freshness of the tomatoes—using good-quality canned or even roasted tomatoes can bring out the best flavors.
A Dish for Every Meal
One of the reasons crustless tomato pie has become such a favorite is its versatility. It can be served at any time of day. Whether it’s for a hearty breakfast, a light lunch, or a satisfying dinner, this dish adapts beautifully to any meal. It’s especially great for brunch gatherings, where guests can enjoy a mix of savory and fresh flavors.
Pair it with a simple salad or serve it as an appetizer to any meal. For a more substantial dinner, consider adding a protein like grilled chicken or shrimp alongside the pie. Its versatility also means it works wonderfully as a side dish for a variety of meals, from pasta dishes to roasted meats.
Serving and Presentation Ideas
To make this dish even more enjoyable, consider adding some creative touches when serving it. Garnishing the crustless tomato pie with fresh basil or parsley right before serving not only adds color and freshness but enhances the flavor too. If you want to elevate it even more, drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the top or add a dollop of tangy sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast.
For a family-friendly meal, slice the pie into wedges and serve it alongside a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette. It’s a perfect balance of warm, cheesy goodness and cool, crisp vegetables. If you’re serving it at a gathering, cut it into bite-sized pieces, making it easy for guests to grab and enjoy.
Storage and Leftovers
Crustless tomato pie can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place individual slices in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. This makes it a great option for meal prep or as a make-ahead dish.
Leftovers are a great lunch or snack, as the flavors continue to meld together, making it just as delicious the next day. You can even enjoy it cold, straight from the fridge, as a refreshing, savory snack.
The Perfect Recipe for Any Skill Level
Another wonderful aspect of this crustless tomato pie is that it’s beginner-friendly. Even if you’ve never made a savory pie before, this dish is incredibly simple to prepare. The ingredients are minimal, and the steps are straightforward. This recipe is perfect for those new to cooking or anyone who needs a quick, easy dish for a busy day.
Advertisement
The ease of preparation combined with the ability to make it ahead of time makes this a great dish for busy home cooks. It’s a fantastic recipe for those who want something that’s both simple and satisfying without a lot of prep work involved.
Conclusion: A Must-Try for Tomato Lovers
Crustless tomato pie is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a flavorful, comforting dish. Whether you’re making it for a family meal, a gathering, or a special occasion, it’s sure to impress. The combination of juicy tomatoes, melty cheese, and fresh herbs offers a delightful experience that everyone will love. Plus, its versatility means that you can easily adjust the recipe to suit your preferences and dietary needs.
Give this crustless tomato pie a try, and discover how easy it is to create a dish that’s as delicious as it is satisfying. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.