Name: Deep Dish Tomato Pie
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 pie crust deep dish pie crust; 4 tomatoes medium tomatoes (locally grown, varied colors); 1 teaspoon kosher or sea salt; 8 ounces feta cheese (crumbled, low-fat); 1 cup mozzarella cheese (part-skim, finely grated); 1/2 cup clean mayonnaise; 1 egg large egg (lightly whipped); 1/4 cup sweet onion (finely diced); 1/4 cup basil (freshly chopped (lemon if available)); 2 teaspoons thyme leaves (fresh); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese

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Today, I want to share one of my all-time favorite comfort foods, the Deep Dish Tomato Pie. There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a slice of this savory pie, especially during the warm summer months when tomatoes are at their peak. I remember the first time I made it for my family; we were gathered in the kitchen, laughter filling the air as the aroma of freshly baked pie wafted through the house. It was a day filled with sunshine, and as we enjoyed this delicious dish, the flavors of the ripe tomatoes, creamy cheeses, and aromatic herbs danced on our palates. The joy of sharing this pie made the experience even more memorable, and it’s become a staple in our summer meals.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
45 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
12 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
24 g

Tools Used:
Cutting Board, Grater, Oven, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet

What Makes This Deep Dish Tomato Pie Special

Why I Love This Recipe

Fresh Ingredients
The use of fresh, locally grown tomatoes in the Deep Dish Tomato Pie makes it truly exceptional. Nothing beats the sweetness and flavor of tomatoes harvested at their peak. Combine that with fresh herbs like basil and thyme, and you’re in for a treat!
Comfort Food
There’s something so comforting about a warm, cheesy pie. Each slice of Deep Dish Tomato Pie feels like a warm hug, reminding me of family gatherings and sunny afternoons. It’s the perfect dish for sharing with loved ones.
Easy to Make
Despite its impressive appearance, this pie is surprisingly easy to make. With a few simple steps, you can have a delicious dish ready to bake. It’s great for those who want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen.
Versatile Dish
The Deep Dish Tomato Pie can be served as a main course or as a side dish. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or a light soup. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up any extra garden tomatoes!
Perfect for Summer
This recipe shines during the summer months. With tomatoes in season, it’s the perfect opportunity to highlight their vibrant flavors. Nothing says summer quite like enjoying Deep Dish Tomato Pie al fresco.
Family-Friendly
Kids and adults alike will love this cheesy, savory pie. It’s a fun way to get everyone excited about eating their vegetables, and the layers of cheese make it irresistible!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Deep Dish Tomato Pie

When it comes to the ingredients for Deep Dish Tomato Pie, simplicity is key. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the rich, savory flavors we love. The combination of fresh, vibrant tomatoes and creamy cheeses transforms a humble pie crust into a culinary delight.

1 deep dish pie crust (9 inch, whole grain prepared): A sturdy base for our pie, it’s essential for holding all the delicious layers together.
4 medium tomatoes (locally grown, varied colors): The star of the dish, ripe tomatoes bring sweetness and acidity.
1 teaspoon kosher or sea salt: Enhances flavors and helps draw moisture from the tomatoes.
8 ounces feta cheese (crumbled, low-fat): Adds a tangy kick and creaminess to the filling.
1 cup mozzarella cheese (part-skim, finely grated): Melts beautifully and provides that gooey texture we crave.
1/2 cup clean mayonnaise: Creamy goodness that binds the filling together while adding richness.
1 large egg (lightly whipped): Acts as a binder and helps set the filling.
1/4 cup sweet onion (finely diced): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the flavor.
1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped, lemon if available): Fresh herbs add brightness and freshness to the pie.
2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves: Earthy flavor that complements the tomatoes beautifully.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: A touch of heat to balance the flavors.
2 tablespoons parmesan cheese: A final sprinkle for added flavor and crusty topping.

How to Assemble Deep Dish Tomato Pie

Assembling the Deep Dish Tomato Pie is just as fun as eating it! It’s a straightforward process that involves layering delicious ingredients. Follow these steps to create your masterpiece.

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees. This ensures your pie will bake perfectly and develop a beautiful crust.
Place the pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and refrigerate while you prepare the filling. This helps to keep it firm during baking.
Slice the tomatoes about 1/4-inch thick. Lay them on a baking sheet lined with paper towels. Sprinkle slices with 1 teaspoon of salt to draw out excess moisture. Set aside for about 15 minutes.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine feta cheese, mozzarella cheese, mayonnaise, egg, onion, basil, thyme, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined.
Now, it’s time to layer! Start by adding 1/3 of the cheese mixture into the pie crust.
Next, layer 1/3 of the sliced tomatoes on top of the cheese mixture.
Repeat the layers two more times, ending with the last 1/3 of the tomatoes on top.
Sprinkle the parmesan cheese over the top of the tomatoes. This will create a lovely golden crust as it bakes.
Bake for 25 minutes, then loosely cover with foil to prevent over-browning.
Continue cooking for an additional 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. The aroma will be irresistible!
Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature before slicing. This helps the filling set and makes serving easier.
Enjoy Deep Dish Tomato Pie the same day it’s baked for the best flavor and texture.

Things Worth Knowing

Always allow your pie to cool slightly before slicing. This helps it hold its shape.
For a crispier crust, consider blind baking the pie crust for a few minutes before adding the filling.
Experiment with different herbs. If you have rosemary or oregano, they can add unique flavors.
Using heirloom tomatoes can elevate this dish with their diverse flavors and colors.

Tips and Tricks about Deep Dish Tomato Pie

Making the perfect Deep Dish Tomato Pie can be a breeze with a few helpful tips. Here are some of my favorites:

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Freezing: You can freeze unbaked Deep Dish Tomato Pie. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Bake from frozen, adding extra time to ensure it’s heated through.
Serve with a Salad: Pair your pie with a light, fresh salad for a complete meal.
Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.
Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top just before serving can enhance the appearance and flavor.

How to Serve Deep Dish Tomato Pie

Perfect for Lunch or Dinner: The Deep Dish Tomato Pie is versatile enough to serve at lunch or dinner. It’s filling and satisfying.
Pairing Suggestions: Serve alongside a crisp garden salad or some garlic bread for a hearty meal.
Picnic Friendly: This pie can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it a great addition to picnics or potlucks.
Seasonal Delight: Enjoy it in summer when tomatoes are fresh and bursting with flavor.
Presentation: Serve slices on colorful plates to enhance the visual appeal.
Storing Leftovers: If you have any, store them covered in the fridge and reheat in the oven to maintain the crust’s texture.

FAQ

A Deep Dish Tomato Pie is a savory pie that features layers of fresh tomatoes, creamy cheeses, and aromatic herbs all encased in a flaky pie crust. It’s a comforting dish that celebrates the flavors of summer and is perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Absolutely! While feta and mozzarella are traditional choices for a Deep Dish Tomato Pie, you can experiment with other cheeses like ricotta, goat cheese, or even cheddar for a different flavor profile. Just ensure they melt well and complement the tomatoes.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through. This helps maintain the pie’s texture and flavor.

Yes, you can freeze Deep Dish Tomato Pie before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you’re ready to bake it, you can cook it from frozen, just add a bit of time to ensure it’s heated through.

Conclusion

The Deep Dish Tomato Pie is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that truly showcases the beauty of summer produce. With its creamy filling and perfectly baked crust, it’s a dish that can bring people together around the table. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; you won’t regret sharing this comforting pie with your loved ones!