Easy Southern Tomato Pie

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tomato pie is a true Southern delicacy, and this easy recipe brings all the traditional flavors together in a quick and simple way. The sweetness of ripe tomatoes is balanced by the sharpness of cheddar and Parmesan cheese, while the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard add creaminess and depth of flavor. The buttery Ritz cracker crust provides the perfect texture, crispy on the outside and a little soft on the inside. This dish is the perfect way to showcase summer tomatoes, making it ideal for those warm-weather months when tomatoes are at their peak.

Ingredients

Tomato Pie Filling:

• 4 large tomatoes (or 5-6 medium)
• 8 ounces grated sharp cheddar cheese (about 2 cups)
• 1.5 teaspoons kosher salt (divided)
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper

Cracker Pie Crust:

• 1.5 cups crushed Ritz crackers (about 45 crackers)
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Make the Crust:

1. Prepare the cracker crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until everything is well combined.
2. Form the crust: Press the cracker mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish to form an even crust. Use the back of a spoon to press the crumbs firmly.
3. Bake the crust: Place the crust in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and slightly crispy. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.

Make the Tomato Filling:

4. Prepare the tomatoes: While the crust is baking, slice the tomatoes and remove most of the seeds and excess juice to avoid a soggy pie. You can use a paper towel to blot the tomatoes dry.
5. Assemble the filling: In a bowl, combine the grated cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, grated Parmesan, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, black pepper, and the tomatoes. Mix gently to combine everything.
6. Fill the crust: Spoon the tomato mixture into the prepared cracker crust, spreading it out evenly.

Bake the Pie:

7. Bake the pie: Return the pie to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly browned.
8. Cool and serve: Allow the pie to cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving to help it set. Slice and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 40-45 minutes
• Total time: 55-60 minutes

Variations

• Add fresh herbs: Top the pie with fresh basil or parsley before serving for a burst of fresh flavor.
• Spicy tomato pie: Add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a little heat.
• Vegan version: Swap the mayonnaise for a plant-based alternative and use vegan cheeses for a dairy-free version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover tomato pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the pie in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual slices for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use any type of tomato for this recipe?

While any tomatoes will work, Roma or beefsteak tomatoes are ideal because they’re meaty and not too juicy. Be sure to remove any excess moisture to avoid a soggy pie.

Can I make this tomato pie ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the pie up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze this pie?

This tomato pie can be frozen before baking. Assemble the pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

What can I substitute for Dijon mustard?

If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can use yellow mustard, though it will give a slightly different flavor. You could also omit the mustard for a milder flavor.

Can I use a different type of cracker for the crust?

Yes, you can substitute Ritz crackers with another buttery cracker like Club crackers or even crushed saltines. However, Ritz crackers give a unique flavor that’s hard to replicate.

Can I add more cheese to the filling?

Yes, feel free to add more cheese if you like your pie extra cheesy. Mozzarella or Gruyère would also work well in this dish.

How do I prevent the pie crust from getting soggy?

Make sure to press the cracker crust firmly and bake it until golden brown before adding the filling. This helps the crust stay crispy even after the tomatoes are added.

Can I use pre-grated cheese?

Yes, you can use pre-grated cheese, but freshly grated cheese tends to melt more smoothly and has a better flavor.

Can I make the pie gluten-free?

Yes, you can make the crust gluten-free by using gluten-free crackers. Just check the label of your crackers to ensure they’re gluten-free.

How do I serve this pie?

This tomato pie is great served warm or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, grilled meats, or just on its own as a light meal.

Conclusion

Easy Southern Tomato Pie is a perfect blend of comfort and Southern charm. With its creamy, cheesy filling and buttery cracker crust, it’s the kind of dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish at a family gathering or as the star of a light meal, this pie will impress anyone who takes a bite. Simple, flavorful, and downright delicious, this classic Southern recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

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