Tomato Cheese Pie

This Tomato Cheese Pie is a rustic, savory pie filled with juicy heirloom tomatoes, melty cheese, fresh thyme, and garlic, all baked in a buttery crust with a hint of fig preserves. It’s the perfect summer comfort food that highlights ripe tomatoes in a cozy yet elegant way.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pie combines the sweetness of ripe tomatoes with the richness of melted cheddar, gouda, or gruyère. The fig preserves add a subtle sweetness that balances the savory flavors, while fresh herbs and garlic bring out depth and aroma. The result is a golden, bubbly pie that’s perfect for summer dinners, brunches, or as a show-stopping side dish. It’s rustic, comforting, and absolutely delicious.

Ingredients

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

• 2 to 3 heirloom tomatoes, sliced

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 large pie crust round

• 2 tablespoons fig preserves or fig jam

• 2 cups cubed spicy cheddar cheese

• 1 cup cubed gouda, gruyère, fontina, or a mix

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme

• 6 to 8 cloves garlic, chopped

• Chili flakes, to taste

• Fresh basil, for serving

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Arrange tomato slices on a cutting board, sprinkle with salt, and let sit 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Blot dry.

3. In a small bowl, mix thyme, garlic, and chili flakes.

4. Roll out the pie crust on the prepared sheet and prick all over with a fork. Spread fig preserves over the dough, leaving a 1/4-inch border.

5. Layer half the cheese cubes over the preserves. Sprinkle with half the garlic-herb mix. Add half the tomatoes.

6. Repeat layers with remaining cheese, tomatoes, and garlic mixture. Fold the edges of the crust slightly over the filling.

7. Bake for 45 minutes, until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbling.

8. Garnish with fresh basil and sea salt. Slice and serve warm.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 45 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour

• Calories: approximately 456 kcal per serving

Variations

• Different cheeses: Try mozzarella, brie, or goat cheese for different textures.

• Fruit twist: Swap fig preserves with apricot or peach jam for a unique flavor.

• Add protein: Layer in crispy bacon, prosciutto, or shredded chicken.

• Spice it up: Add jalapeños or hot honey for a kick.

• Make mini pies: Use smaller pie crusts or puff pastry rounds for individual servings.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheat: Warm slices in a 350°F oven for 10–12 minutes until the crust is crisp again.

• Freeze: Bake the pie, cool completely, then freeze in slices. Reheat directly from frozen at 375°F until hot.

FAQs

Can I use regular tomatoes instead of heirloom?

Yes, but heirloom tomatoes have a sweeter, juicier flavor that makes the pie shine.

Why do I need to salt the tomatoes first?

Salting draws out excess moisture, preventing the pie from becoming soggy.

Can I make this with puff pastry instead of pie crust?

Yes, puff pastry works beautifully and creates a flakier crust.

Do I need to blind-bake the crust?

No, since the pie bakes fully in the oven, there’s no need for blind baking.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the pie up to step 6 and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

What can I serve with this pie?

It pairs well with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or grilled chicken.

Can I make it vegetarian?

It already is vegetarian-friendly, just ensure the cheese you use is vegetarian.

How do I prevent the crust from burning?

If the edges brown too quickly, cover with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.

Can I add caramelized onions?

Absolutely—caramelized onions add a sweet, savory richness to the filling.

How do I know when the pie is done?

The crust should be golden, and the cheese fully melted and bubbling.

Conclusion

Tomato Cheese Pie is a rustic yet elegant dish that celebrates the best of summer produce. With heirloom tomatoes, gooey cheese, fig preserves, and fresh herbs, it’s a savory-sweet pie that’s perfect for brunch, dinner, or entertaining. Serve it warm with fresh basil for a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

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