Old Fashioned Tomato Pie Recipe

Old-fashioned tomato pie is a classic Southern dish that perfectly celebrates the sweetness and tanginess of ripe summer tomatoes. With a creamy, cheesy filling and a buttery pie crust, this savory pie is comfort food at its finest. It’s ideal as a light lunch, brunch centerpiece, or side dish for barbecues and family gatherings.

In this recipe, I’ll walk you through how to make this delicious tomato pie from scratch using simple ingredients like ripe tomatoes, mayonnaise, cheddar, mozzarella, and basil. The combination of juicy tomatoes, creamy cheese, and herbs baked in a flaky crust is pure Southern goodness in every bite.

1. Old Fashioned Tomato Pie Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 (9-inch) frozen deep-dish pie shell

• 3 large ripe tomatoes, cut into chunks (about 3 to 4 cups)

• ¾ cup good quality mayonnaise (Duke’s is highly recommended)

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• Large handful of fresh basil, chopped or thinly sliced (about ¼ cup)

• Kosher salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the frozen pie shell on a baking sheet and bake it for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden. This pre-baking step (known as blind baking) helps prevent the crust from becoming soggy when filled with tomatoes later.

Once done, remove the crust from the oven and let it cool completely while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomatoes

Slice or chop the tomatoes into medium chunks and place them in a colander. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and let them sit for 15–20 minutes to draw out excess moisture.

After draining, gently pat the tomatoes dry with paper towels. This step is essential to prevent a watery pie.

Step 3: Assemble the Tomato Filling

Layer the prepared tomatoes evenly in the cooled pie crust. Sprinkle freshly ground black pepper and additional salt, if needed, for seasoning.

Add the chopped fresh basil on top of the tomatoes, spreading it evenly across the surface.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Cheese Topping

In a small bowl, combine ¾ cup mayonnaise, 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar, and 1 cup shredded mozzarella. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended. This mixture creates the creamy, cheesy topping that holds the pie together.

Step 5: Top and Bake

Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the top of the tomatoes and basil. Use a spatula or spoon to smooth it out, covering all the tomatoes.

Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This resting time allows the filling to set, making it easier to serve.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the pie into six portions and serve warm or at room temperature. Tomato pie pairs beautifully with a green salad, roasted vegetables, or a bowl of soup for a comforting Southern meal.

2. Tips for the Perfect Old Fashioned Tomato Pie

Use Ripe, Firm Tomatoes:

Choose fresh, juicy tomatoes that are ripe but not overly soft. Roma or heirloom tomatoes work especially well because they have a balance of sweetness and firmness.

Drain Tomatoes Thoroughly:

The key to preventing a soggy pie is removing excess tomato juice. Salting and draining them in advance makes a big difference.

Pre-bake the Crust:

Always blind bake your crust before filling to keep it crisp. You can even brush the crust with a light egg wash after blind baking for extra protection.

Use High-Quality Mayonnaise:

The mayonnaise acts as a binder for the cheese layer. Duke’s or Hellmann’s mayonnaise gives the best flavor and texture.

Let It Cool Before Slicing:

Allowing the pie to rest for 10–15 minutes after baking helps the filling set properly, ensuring neat slices.

Customize Your Cheese Blend:

Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Parmesan, or Gruyère for a unique flavor twist.

3. Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh pie crust instead of frozen?

Yes! You can absolutely use homemade pie dough if you prefer. Just make sure to blind bake it first for about 8–10 minutes before adding the filling.

Can tomato pie be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare tomato pie a day ahead. Bake it as directed, let it cool, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes.

How do I keep the pie from being soggy?

Properly drain and pat dry the tomatoes, and always pre-bake the crust. These two steps are crucial to keeping your tomato pie crisp and firm.

Can I freeze leftover tomato pie?

While possible, it’s not recommended. The mayonnaise and tomato juices can cause the texture to change when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

What can I serve with tomato pie?

Tomato pie goes well with a variety of side dishes like mixed green salad, roasted asparagus, coleslaw, or even fried chicken for a full Southern-style meal.

4. Nutrition Information

This Old Fashioned Tomato Pie Recipe is a comforting dish that captures the spirit of Southern home cooking. With layers of ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a luscious blend of cheeses baked to golden perfection, it’s the perfect way to highlight the beauty of fresh produce.

Whether you serve it at brunch, a summer picnic, or a cozy family dinner, this tomato pie will quickly become a favorite. Simple, delicious, and steeped in tradition — it’s everything you love about classic Southern recipes in one pie dish.

Read More: How to Make Pie Crust from Scratch