Southern Tomato Pie: A Comforting Summer Classic
There’s nothing quite like the taste of a fresh, homemade Southern Tomato Pie. Bursting with the sweet acidity of summer tomatoes, the fragrance of fresh basil, and the richness of a cheesy, creamy topping, this pie is a comforting Southern tradition that deserves a spot on your table.
Served warm or cold, it’s perfect for brunch, picnics, potlucks, or an easy dinner. The combination of ripe tomatoes, herbs, and cheese inside a flaky, buttery crust makes each bite a blend of freshness and indulgence — a true taste of summer comfort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Southern Tomato Pie isn’t just a recipe — it’s a celebration of garden-fresh produce and simple ingredients. It’s creamy yet light, tangy yet savory, and so versatile that it can be served as a main dish or a side.
In many Southern households, this dish appears on the table as soon as tomato season arrives. The key is to use the ripest, juiciest tomatoes you can find — preferably straight from the garden or a local farmer’s market — to capture that unmistakable summer flavor.
Another reason Southern Tomato Pie has stood the test of time is its deep connection to Southern hospitality. This is the kind of dish you proudly bring to a neighbor’s porch, share at church gatherings, or serve when family drops by unannounced. It’s not just food — it’s a gesture of warmth and welcome, a way of saying “you’re home here” with every slice.

💡 Tips:
- Use heirloom or vine-ripened tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Add a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika for a flavor boost.
- Line the crust with a thin layer of Dijon mustard before layering for extra zing.

Southern Tomato Pie
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line tomato slices on paper towels, sprinkle with salt, and let sit 20–30 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat dry.
- In the pre-baked pie crust, layer half the tomato slices. Sprinkle pepper, green onions, and basil over the tomatoes.
- In a bowl, combine cheddar, mozzarella, mayonnaise, and optional Dijon mustard. Spread half over the tomatoes, then layer the remaining tomatoes and cheese mixture.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let cool 10–15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, at room temperature, or chilled.
Notes
🥄 Ingredients:
- 1 9-inch pre-baked pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
- 4–5 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup chopped green onions
- ½ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
🔪 Instructions:
- Prep the Tomatoes
Slice tomatoes and lay them on a paper towel-lined tray. Sprinkle with salt and let them sit for 20–30 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat dry with more paper towels to prevent a soggy pie. - Assemble the Layers
In the pre-baked pie crust, layer half the tomatoes. Sprinkle with pepper, green onions, and chopped basil. - Add the Cheese Mixture
In a bowl, mix cheddar, mozzarella, mayo, and Dijon mustard. Spread half over the first tomato layer. Repeat with remaining tomatoes and cheese mixture. - Bake
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. - Cool & Serve
Let cool at least 10–15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, room temp, or cold!

Tips for the Best Tomato Pie
- Choose ripe, flavorful tomatoes — they make all the difference.
- Drain thoroughly to keep the crust crisp.
- Try different cheeses for a unique flavor, like Gruyère or Monterey Jack.
- Add extra layers like caramelized onions, spinach, or crispy bacon for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
Southern Tomato Pie pairs beautifully with a light green salad, grilled chicken, or a fresh fruit platter. For brunch, serve alongside scrambled eggs or a breakfast casserole.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes to revive crispness.
- Freeze unbaked pie for up to 2 months; bake straight from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes to cooking time.
Why This Recipe Works
The magic of Southern Tomato Pie lies in its balance — the tangy tomatoes, fragrant basil, creamy cheese mixture, and buttery crust work together for a flavor-packed, crowd-pleasing dish. It’s simple, seasonal cooking at its finest.
Whether you’re hosting a summer brunch, contributing to a potluck, or just want a cozy dinner, this recipe is a guaranteed winner.
💡 Save this recipe for later! If you’re a fan of classic Southern comfort food, make sure to pin this Southern Tomato Pie recipe on your Pinterest boards. That way, you can easily find it when tomato season rolls around or when you need a crowd-pleasing dish for summer gatherings. It’s a keeper you’ll want to make again and again!