How to Make the Best Southern Tomato Pie Recipe (Easy & Delicious!)

Growing up in Alabama, summer always meant fresh heirloom tomatoes from my grandmother’s garden and the smell of a savory tart baking in the oven. Every Sunday, my family gathered around the kitchen, watching her carefully layering ripe summer tomatoes, melted cheese, and a flaky pie crust, turning simple ingredients into a dish bursting with Southern comfort.

The first time I tried to make Grandma’s Tomato Pie Recipe, I skipped one step—draining the tomatoes. The result? A soggy crust disaster! But after perfecting the baking technique and learning a few secret tips, I finally recreated that cheesy, golden, and utterly delicious pie.

If you love comfort food, Southern recipes, and cheesy, flavorful dishes, this Southern Tomato Pie Recipe will become a family favorite. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Classic Southern Tomato Pie Recipe

• A Savory Tart with Creamy, Cheesy Goodness – The perfect balance of ripe summer tomatoes, melted cheese, and a flaky pastry crust.
• Fresh Southern Ingredients – Uses heirloom tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and Vidalia onions for an authentic Southern taste.
• A Southern Potluck Favorite – This baked dish is a must-have at brunch, cookouts, and potlucks across the South.
• No More Soggy Crust! – Learn the best soggy crust prevention tips, like blind baking and properly draining the tomatoes before layering.

Ingredients You’ll Need for the Perfect Tomato Pie Recipe

The secret to an irresistible Southern Tomato Pie lies in using fresh, high-quality ingredients that bring out the dish’s signature savory, cheesy, and slightly tangy flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients:

• Summer tomatoes – Use heirloom tomatoes or beefsteak tomatoes for their rich flavor and juiciness.
• Pie crust – A homemade flaky crust or a par-baked crust ensures the perfect base.
• Vidalia onions – These sweet and mild onions enhance the dish without overpowering the tomatoes.
• Cheese and tomato pie essentials:
  • Cheddar cheese – Adds a sharp, bold taste.
  • Swiss cheese – Provides a smooth, nutty flavor.
  • Mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully for that perfect cheesy pull.

For the Mayo & Cheese Topping:

• Duke’s Mayo – The Southern classic that adds creaminess and a slight tang.
• Breadcrumbs – Sprinkled on top for a crispy, golden finish.
• Basil and chives – Fresh herbs that enhance the flavors and add a pop of color.

Optional Additions:

• Cornmeal crust – For extra crunch and a more traditional Southern texture.
• Bacon variation – Adds a smoky, salty twist to balance the tomatoes’ sweetness.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making This Southern Tomato Pie Recipe

Follow these simple steps to create a savory, cheesy, and perfectly baked Southern Tomato Pie.

1. Prepare the Pie Crust

• Use a flaky pastry crust—either homemade or store-bought.
• Blind bake the crust by pre-baking it with pie weights to prevent a soggy crust.

2. Slice & Drain the Tomatoes

• Slice heirloom tomatoes into even rounds.
• Lay them out on a paper towel and sprinkle them with a little salt to draw out excess moisture.
• Pat them dry after 10-15 minutes to keep the pie from becoming watery.

3. Layer the Pie

• Start with the baked pie crust as the base.
• Add a layer of drained tomatoes, followed by sliced Vidalia onions.
• Sprinkle a mix of cheddar, Swiss, and mozzarella cheese for a rich, cheesy bite.

4. Add the Mayo & Cheese Topping

• In a bowl, mix Duke’s Mayo, cheddar cheese, and Swiss cheese to create a creamy, tangy topping.
• Evenly spread the mixture over the pie, covering all the layers.

5. Bake to Perfection

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
• Let the pie rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to help it set.

Tips & Variations for the Best Southern Tomato Pie Recipe

1. Soggy Crust Prevention:

• Blind bake the pie crust before adding the filling to avoid a soggy bottom. This step ensures that the crust remains crispy even with the juicy tomatoes and cheese.

2. Make It Healthier:

• Swap out Duke’s Mayo for Greek yogurt to create a lighter topping without sacrificing the creamy texture. The yogurt will add a tangy flavor while reducing calories.

3. Serving Ideas:

• This Southern Tomato Pie pairs perfectly with a grilled chicken side dish or can be served as a standout brunch recipe. It’s a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings and a delicious option for potlucks!

4. Freezing & Storage Tips:

• Storing leftovers: Keep leftover Tomato Pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing instructions: Wrap individual slices in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating tips: To keep the crust crispy, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes. This helps to refresh the pie without making it soggy.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought pie crust?

• Yes! A pre-made baked pie crust saves time and still delivers a great result. If you’re short on time, this is a perfect option, but make sure to blind bake it to avoid a soggy crust.

2. What’s the best cheese for tomato pie?

• The best cheese blend for Tomato Pie includes cheddar cheese, Swiss cheese, and mozzarella cheese. This combination provides richness, meltability, and that delicious cheesy pull you want in every bite.

3. Can I add meat?

• Absolutely! For a smoky twist, add crispy bacon to the pie. It pairs wonderfully with the creamy cheese and summer tomatoes, giving the pie an extra depth of flavor.

4. Is tomato pie served hot or cold?

• Tomato Pie is best served warm so the cheese is melty and the flavors are fully blended. However, it also tastes fantastic at room temperature, making it a great dish to bring to potlucks or serve for brunch.

Conclusion

This classic Southern Tomato Pie is the perfect dish for bringing both comfort and flavor to your table. Whether you’re making it for a summer meal, serving it as a delicious brunch recipe, or pairing it as a side dish for grilled meat, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Give this recipe a try and let the rich combination of heirloom tomatoes, creamy cheese, and flaky crust take your taste buds on a Southern culinary adventure.

Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below, and let me know how your Southern Tomato Pie turned out!