Brenda Gantt Tomato Pie Recipe
If you love Southern cooking, you probably know Brenda Gantt. She is a viral cooking sensation from Alabama. Her recipes are simple, honest, and full of flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pre-baked 9-inch pie crust homemade or store-bought
- 4 large ripe tomatoes peeled and sliced
- 1/2 cup chopped sweet onion
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise Duke’s brand is preferred
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
Instructions
Prepare Your Tomatoes
- Slice the tomatoes into thick rounds. Place them on several layers of paper towels. Sprinkle a little salt over them. Let them sit for 10 minutes. This helps draw out the extra water. Pat the tops dry with more paper towels.
Pre-Bake the Crust
- Take your pie crust and place it in the dish. Prick the bottom with a fork. Bake it at 350°F for about 10 minutes. It should be light golden brown. Let it cool slightly before adding the filling.
Layer the Vegetables
- Start by placing a layer of tomato slices in the crust. Sprinkle some of the chopped onions over the tomatoes. Add a layer of fresh basil leaves. Repeat the layers until the pie crust is nearly full.
Mix the Cheesy Topping
- In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise and both cheeses. Stir in the black pepper and oregano. The mixture will be thick and creamy. This topping acts as a seal for the juicy tomatoes.
Spread the Mixture
- Use a spatula to spread the cheese mixture over the top. Cover the tomatoes completely to the edges. This prevents the steam from making the top crust soggy. Smooth it out for an even finish.
Bake the Pie
- Place the pie in the oven at 350°F. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The top should be bubbly and golden brown. If the edges brown too fast, cover them with foil.
Let it Rest
- This is the most important step for success. Remove the pie from the oven. Let it sit on the counter for 20 minutes. This allows the juices to set so it slices perfectly.
Notes
- Avoid the Sogginess: Always salt your tomatoes first. This removes water that would otherwise ruin your crust.
- Cheese Options: You can use Pepper Jack cheese for a spicy kick. Brenda loves sharp cheddar for the best flavor.
- Add Protein: Some people like to add cooked bacon bits between the layers. It adds a smoky depth to the pie.
- Peeling Tomatoes: To peel easily, drop tomatoes in boiling water for 30 seconds. The skin will slip right off.
- Herb Swap: If you don't have fresh basil, use dried basil. However, fresh herbs make a huge difference in taste.