Southern Tomato Pie Recipe

Introduction: A Slice of Southern Summer

Every summer, when the tomatoes in my garden hit their peak plump, ruby-red, and kissed by the sun I know exactly what I’m making: Southern tomato pie. It’s one of those dishes that whispers of tradition and family, wrapped in flaky crusts and creamy, cheesy layers. My grandmother used to say, “If you’ve got tomatoes, you’ve got supper,” and this recipe proves her right every time.

This Southern tomato pie recipe is more than just a meal it’s a celebration of summer’s best produce. Whether you’re hosting a backyard brunch or need a dish to impress at the next potluck, this pie delivers rich, savory comfort with every bite. Plus, it’s an easy way to use up all those beautiful tomatoes that are bursting off the vine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Peak Summer Flavor: Loaded with juicy, ripe tomatoes at their best.

• Southern Comfort: A true down-home classic with bold, creamy layers.

• Perfectly Balanced: Buttery crust, savory filling, and fresh herbs in every bite.

• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and bake when needed.

• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, brunches, or simple family dinners.

• Customizable: Easily adaptable with different cheeses or add-ins.

  Ingredients (Serves 4)

  For the Crust:

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and diced

  • ¼ cup ice water

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  (Optional: You can also use a store-bought 9-inch pie crust to save time.)

  For the Filling:

  • 4 large ripe tomatoes (heirloom or beefsteak recommended)

  • 1 teaspoon salt (for draining tomatoes)

  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

  • ½ cup grated mozzarella

  • ½ cup mayonnaise (Duke’s preferred for authentic Southern flavor)

  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped

  • 1 clove garlic, minced

  • ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried thyme)

  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

  • Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes (for a subtle kick)

    Step-by-Step Instructions

    1. Prepare the Crust

    1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt.

    2. Cut in the cold diced butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

    3. Slowly add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until a dough forms.

    4. Shape into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.

    5. Roll the dough on a floured surface and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish.

    6. Trim and crimp the edges. Prick the bottom with a fork.

    7. Pre-bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes. Let cool slightly.

    2. Prep the Tomatoes

    1. Slice tomatoes about ¼ inch thick.

    2. Lay slices on paper towels, sprinkle with 1 tsp salt, and let sit for 20–30 minutes to draw out moisture.

    3. Pat the tops dry with more paper towels to avoid a soggy pie.

    3. Sauté Aromatics

    • In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onion until translucent (about 3-4 minutes).

    • Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Remove from heat and let cool.

    4. Mix the Cheese Filling

    • In a mixing bowl, combine cheddar, mozzarella, mayonnaise, cooked onions and garlic, chopped basil, thyme, and a dash of black pepper.

    5. Assemble the Pie

    1. Place half of the tomato slices in the pre-baked crust.

    2. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the tomatoes.

    3. Layer remaining tomato slices.

    4. Top with the rest of the cheese mixture, smoothing the surface.

    6. Bake

    • Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30–35 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbling.

    7. Let It Rest

    • • Allow the pie to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps everything set beautifully.

         Serving Suggestions

        This Southern tomato pie recipe shines brightest when served warm or at room temperature, making it an ideal centerpiece for summer meals. Here’s how to serve it up like a true Southern host:

        Pair It With:

        • A fresh arugula or mixed greens salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness.

        • Southern-style green beans sautéed with garlic and a touch of bacon.

        • Sweet corn on the cob, boiled or grilled, slathered with butter and herbs.

        • A pitcher of iced tea classic sweet or infused with peach or mint for a twist.

        For Brunch?

        Slice it into wedges and serve alongside:

        • Scrambled or poached eggs

        • Roasted breakfast potatoes

        • A slice of watermelon or peach for something sweet and refreshing

        For a Picnic or Potluck:

        Let the pie cool completely, slice it neatly, and serve at room temperature. It travels beautifully!

        Storage Tips

        Tomato pie is best enjoyed fresh, but you can definitely store leftovers with success. Here’s how:

        In the Fridge:

        • Storage: Wrap the pie dish tightly in plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container.

        • Shelf Life: Keeps well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

        • Pro Tip: Place paper towels under slices to absorb any extra moisture and keep the crust from getting soggy.

        Reheating:

        • Oven (recommended): Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes until warmed through. This helps maintain the crispness of the crust.

        • Air Fryer: 5–7 minutes at 325°F for individual slices.

        • Microwave: Not ideal, but works in a pinch use a lower power setting to avoid a rubbery texture.

        Freezing:

        • Not highly recommended, as the texture of tomatoes and the crust may suffer after thawing. But if needed, freeze fully baked pie tightly wrapped for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.

        Variations & Creative Twists

        One of the beauties of this tomato pie recipe Southern-style is how versatile it is. Here are a few ways to make it your own:

         Cheese Variations:

        • Swap mozzarella with Gruyère or fontina for a richer flavor.

        • Add a sprinkle of Parmesan on top for an extra golden crust.

         Add-Ins:

        • Bacon: Crumbled cooked bacon adds smoky depth and texture.

        • Ham or prosciutto: Thin slices layered with tomatoes for a meaty bite.

        • Caramelized onions: Sweet and soft, they pair beautifully with the tomatoes.

        Herb Alternatives:

        • No basil? Use fresh oregano, chives, or parsley.

        • A bit of rosemary adds a savory, earthy note.

         Spice It Up:

        • Add a pinch of cayenne or a layer of sliced jalapeños for heat lovers.

        • Drizzle with hot honey before serving for a sweet-spicy finish.

         Crust Options:

        • Use a cornmeal crust for a more Southern-style base.

        • Try phyllo dough for a flaky, lighter texture.

        A Southern Staple: The Story Behind Tomato Pie

        In the American South, tomatoes aren’t just another garden crop—they’re summer royalty. When the vines are heavy with ripe fruit, Southern cooks reach for family recipes that have been passed down through generations. And few dishes represent the marriage of tradition, seasonality, and comfort quite like tomato pie.

        The origins of Southern tomato pie lie in the region’s love for making the most of what’s fresh and abundant. With humble ingredients ripe tomatoes, flaky pastry, mayonnaise, and cheese this dish exemplifies how simple, honest food can become unforgettable.

        Historically, it’s been a way to celebrate summer’s bounty and feed a family with grace and economy. Today, it continues to be a mainstay at potlucks, picnics, and family suppers, where it’s often made using heirloom tomatoes and fresh herbs from the backyard.

        This pie isn’t just a recipe it’s a story baked in a crust.

        Pro Cooking Tips

        Mastering this tomato pie recipe Southern-style is all about balance, texture, and letting those summer tomatoes shine. Here are my top tips to help you get it just right:

        1. Drain Those Tomatoes—Seriously!

        • This is the #1 step to avoid a watery pie.

        • Salt them and let them rest on paper towels for 20–30 minutes. Pat dry before layering.

        2. Layer Flavor, Not Just Ingredients

        • Add fresh herbs in between tomato slices.

        • A tiny pinch of salt and pepper in each layer brings depth.

        3. Use Real Mayonnaise

        • For authentic Southern flavor, Duke’s Mayonnaise is the gold standard.

        • Avoid low-fat or sweetened varieties they can alter the flavor and texture.

        4. Let the Pie Rest After Baking

        • Allowing it to cool for at least 10–15 minutes helps the filling set, making it easier to slice and serve.

        5. Bake on a Lower Rack

        • This helps ensure the bottom crust bakes through and stays crisp.

        6. Add a Touch of Cornmeal

        • Sprinkle a thin layer on the crust before adding tomatoes. It acts as a barrier against moisture and adds subtle crunch.

        Frequently Asked Questions

        Q: Can I use cherry or grape tomatoes instead of slicing tomatoes?
        A: Yes, but roast them first to concentrate the flavor and reduce moisture. Whole or halved, they can add a beautiful burst of sweetness.

        Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
        A: Absolutely! You can assemble the pie a few hours in advance and refrigerate it. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.

        Q: Can I freeze tomato pie?
        A: It’s not ideal. Tomatoes release water when frozen and thawed, which can make the pie soggy. For best results, enjoy it fresh or store leftovers in the fridge for a few days.

        Q: What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
        A: You can mix sour cream with a bit of cream cheese for a tangy alternative, though the flavor will differ slightly.

        Q: How do I keep the crust from getting soggy?
        A: Pre-baking the crust, draining the tomatoes well, and adding a sprinkle of cornmeal or cheese before layering the filling all help prevent sogginess.

        Share Your Slice!

        Tried this Southern tomato pie recipe? I’d love to see your creations!

        Snap a photo and tag it with #MyTomatoPie on Instagram or Pinterest.
        Share your twist in the comments did you add bacon, go heavy on the herbs, or try it with a different cheese?

        Every family has their own take on Southern classics, and I’d be thrilled to hear how this one fits into your kitchen story.