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Healthy Southern Tomato Pie

This Healthy Southern Tomato Pie delivers the classic comfort of a summer tomato pie with a lighter, more vibrant twist. The juicy, ripe tomatoes and fresh basil create a flavor explosion that’s perfectly balanced by a creamy, cheesy topping.

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 to 8 generous slices 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 9-inch deep dish pie crust, frozen
  • 3 large ripe tomatoes, chopped into pieces (around 3 to 4 cups)
  • 3/4 cup high-quality mayonnaise (e.g., duke's)
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella, shredded
  • Generous handful of fresh basil, sliced thinly or chopped (approximately 1/4 cup)
  • Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Tomatoes: Chop the ripe tomatoes into roughly 1/2-inch pieces. Place them in a colander over a bowl or in the sink and sprinkle generously with kosher salt. Let them drain for at least 15 minutes. This crucial step draws out excess water, which is the secret to preventing a soggy pie crust.
  2. Preheat Oven & Prepare Crust: While the tomatoes drain, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove the frozen pie crust from its pan and place it on a baking sheet. (Pro tip: Using a baking sheet makes it much easier to handle and promotes even browning on the bottom). You do not need to thaw or pre-bake it.
  3. Make the Cheesy Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded sharp cheddar, mozzarella, high-quality mayonnaise, chopped fresh basil, and a few cracks of black pepper. Stir until everything is evenly incorporated into a thick, cohesive mixture.
  4. Assemble the Pie: After draining, use your hands or a paper towel to gently press any remaining moisture from the tomato pieces. Spread the tomatoes in an even layer in the frozen pie crust. Then, spoon the cheesy mayonnaise mixture over the top, spreading it gently to cover the tomatoes completely and seal the edges.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Place the baking sheet with the pie in the preheated oven. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the topping is deeply golden brown and bubbly, and the crust is a rich golden color. The visual cue for doneness is a beautifully browned, puffed topping.
  6. Cool and Serve: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on the baking sheet for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. This resting time allows the filling to set, making for clean slices. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.
  • Author: Dorothy Miler
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
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