Tomato Pie with Bacon and Onion: Savory Cheese Filling and Flaky Crust

Cheesy Bacon Tomato Pie

There’s nothing quite like a cheesy bacon tomato pie when you’re craving something hearty, flavorful, and deeply comforting. This Southern-inspired dish combines ripe tomatoes, caramelized onions, crispy turkey bacon, and a creamy cheese filling nestled in a flaky pie crust. It’s the perfect balance of savory richness and freshness, making it ideal for any meal of the day—from brunch to dinner.

This tomato pie stands apart thanks to its layers of sharp cheddar, fresh basil, and tangy sour cream and mayonnaise blend that bakes into a golden, bubbly topping. It’s a clever fusion of Southern comfort food and modern dietary preferences, especially with the use of turkey bacon as a leaner alternative to traditional pork. You can find more about this lighter substitute in the Wikipedia article on turkey bacon, which outlines its benefits and usage.

Unlike an Italian tomato pie, which is usually served cold with a bread base and minimal cheese, the Southern tomato pie is a warm, savory bake. This variation is filled with creamy, melty textures and bold flavors that make it perfect as a centerpiece dish. Learn more about the history of Southern cuisine and how tomato pie fits into this delicious culinary tradition.

Whether served warm with a fresh green salad or enjoyed as leftovers, this pie delivers satisfaction in every slice. It’s not just a recipe—it’s a celebration of seasonal ingredients, flavor layering, and comfort.

this recipe

What Is a Tomato Pie?

A tomato pie is a savory dish rooted in Southern American cuisine, typically made with fresh tomatoes, cheese, and a creamy filling baked into a flaky crust. Unlike a quiche, it doesn’t contain eggs as the primary binding agent. Instead, a blend of mayonnaise, sour cream, and cheese creates a rich, custard-like consistency that sets beautifully in the oven.

There are two primary versions of tomato pie: the Southern-style tomato pie and the Italian tomato pie. The Southern version, like the one featured in this article, is served warm or at room temperature, and highlights the richness of summer tomatoes. You can read more about the differences between these types on Wikipedia’s page about pie, which covers both savory and sweet varieties.

In contrast, the Italian version is a cold, bakery-style sheet pie often found in northeastern U.S. cities like Philadelphia. It uses thick tomato sauce on a bread-like crust, usually without cheese. This Southern-style pie, however, is all about that creamy-cheesy goodness, often made with cheddar, Parmesan, or mozzarella. For insights on cheese options, explore the various cheddar cheese varieties, which help define the flavor profile of tomato pie.

The tomatoes themselves play a crucial role. Varieties like Roma, heirloom, or beefsteak are ideal due to their low moisture content and intense flavor. Properly prepping the tomatoes—like salting and draining—is essential to avoid a soggy crust and concentrate the tomato’s natural sweetness. You can learn more about tomato types and preparation at Wikipedia’s tomato page.

What makes tomato pie truly special is its flexibility. It works for casual lunches, potlucks, or as a side dish for grilled meats. Its nostalgic flavor and visual appeal—vibrant red tomatoes against golden cheese—make it a seasonal favorite. For inspiration on how others present and customize their tomato pies, check out Pinterest’s tomato pie recipe boards, which are filled with creative variations.

Why This Recipe Works

This cheesy bacon tomato pie recipe stands out for its balance of flavor, texture, and ease of preparation. Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to enhance the others, resulting in a dish that’s both indulgent and approachable. From the crisp flaky crust to the savory filling, every bite delivers comfort and satisfaction.

The layering of flavors begins with the ripe tomato slices, which offer a juicy, acidic base. These are paired with caramelized onions, lending a sweet, mellow undertone that contrasts beautifully with the saltiness of the crispy turkey bacon. The use of turkey bacon not only reduces the overall fat content but also delivers a satisfying crunch and smoky flavor. You can learn more about the health aspects of turkey bacon on Wikipedia’s turkey bacon page.

The heart of the pie lies in the creamy cheese filling, a luscious mix of sharp cheddar, mayonnaise, and sour cream. The cheddar adds depth and sharpness, while the mayo and sour cream bind the ingredients with a smooth texture. For a deeper understanding of how mayonnaise contributes to the richness and consistency of baked dishes, refer to Wikipedia’s article on mayonnaise.

The cheese blend is key. Cheddar brings a bold tang, and adding a bit of Parmesan offers an umami-rich boost. Parmesan is often overlooked in tomato pies, but its dry, nutty profile helps enhance the pie’s savoriness without overpowering it. Learn more about different cheddar cheese varieties and their applications on Wikipedia’s cheddar cheese page.

Texture is equally important. The flaky pie crust offers contrast to the soft, melty filling. By blind baking the crust before filling, you prevent sogginess and ensure a crisp base. For guidance on crust techniques, visit Wikipedia’s overview of pie, which includes baking tips and crust types.

Finally, the inclusion of fresh basil adds a burst of herbal freshness that lifts the richness of the dish. This small detail adds complexity without requiring extra effort. The end result is a pie that’s both comforting and complex—a balance of creamy, crunchy, tangy, and savory elements in every slice.

For visual ideas and serving styles, browse Pinterest’s summer tomato recipes, where variations often include roasted vegetables, different crusts, and herb infusions.

This recipe also appeals to a broad audience. Whether you’re preparing a meal for guests, looking for an easy weeknight dinner, or making the most of seasonal produce, this pie delivers. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and deeply satisfying—qualities that make it a go-to comfort food.

Key Ingredients Breakdown

Tomatoes

The tomatoes are the heart of this recipe, offering acidity, juiciness, and color. For the best results, use firm varieties like Roma, beefsteak, or heirloom tomatoes. These types are meatier and less watery, helping to maintain the pie’s structure. Before layering the tomatoes, it’s essential to salt them and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This draws out excess moisture, preventing the pie from becoming soggy and concentrating the tomato flavor. For more detail on tomato types, visit Wikipedia’s tomato page.

Turkey Bacon

Turkey bacon is used instead of traditional pork bacon, reducing fat while keeping a smoky, savory flavor. It crisps up well when pan-fried and adds a salty contrast to the sweet caramelized onions and tomatoes. If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can swap it for plant-based bacon alternatives. You can explore Wikipedia’s turkey bacon page to understand its nutritional profile and common uses.

Caramelized Onions

Slow-cooked onions add depth, sweetness, and complexity to the pie. To properly caramelize onions, cook them over low heat with a bit of oil until golden brown—this process can take 20–30 minutes. The Wikipedia article on caramelization offers insight into the science behind this flavor-enhancing technique.

Cheese Blend (Cheddar + Parmesan)

Cheddar cheese provides a bold, tangy flavor, while Parmesan contributes nuttiness and umami. This combination melts beautifully and browns nicely on top, creating a savory crust. If you’d like to learn more about the flavor profiles and textures of various cheeses, check out Wikipedia’s page on cheddar cheese.

Crust

A standard 9-inch deep-dish pie crust is used here, preferably pre-baked to avoid sogginess. You can use a store-bought crust or make your own using flour, butter, and cold water. Pre-baking, or blind baking, helps set the crust before the wet filling is added. Refer to Wikipedia’s article on pie for more on different crust types and baking techniques.

Binding Ingredients: Mayonnaise & Sour Cream

The mayonnaise and sour cream blend creates a creamy texture and binds the cheese filling. Mayonnaise brings a slight tang and oil content that helps brown the top, while sour cream adds richness and a subtle tang. Some people substitute Greek yogurt or cream cheese for a lighter or tangier result. Read more about the role of mayonnaise in cooking.

Fresh Basil

Just a tablespoon of chopped fresh basil adds brightness and herbal contrast to the rich filling. You can also experiment with thyme or oregano, depending on your flavor preference. Basil is a classic pairing with tomato and cheese and elevates the overall flavor profile.

For creative ingredient swaps and garnishing inspiration, explore Pinterest’s bacon recipe ideas and discover how others incorporate similar ingredients into savory dishes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Preheat the Oven
  Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Pre-Bake the Pie Crust
  Place your unbaked 9-inch deep-dish pie crust in a pie pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes until it turns lightly golden. Remove and let cool.
• Prepare the Turkey Bacon
  Cook 6 slices of turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove, crumble, and set aside.
• Caramelize the Onions
  In the same skillet, sauté 1 large thinly sliced onion over low heat until soft and golden brown. This should take about 20 minutes.
• Layer the Tomatoes
  Slice 3 medium tomatoes. Salt them lightly and let them rest on paper towels for 10 minutes to release excess moisture. Layer them on the bottom of the pre-baked pie crust.
• Add Bacon and Onions
  Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the tomatoes, then sprinkle the crumbled turkey bacon on top.
• Mix the Cheese Filling
  In a bowl, combine:
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  Mix until smooth.
• Top and Bake
  Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the pie. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
• Cool and Serve
  Let the pie cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.

For additional serving inspiration and tomato pie variations, you can explore Pinterest’s tomato pie recipe board.

Customizations and Variations

This pie is wonderfully versatile. Here are some ways you can change it up:

• Add Vegetables: Spinach, roasted red peppers, or sautéed mushrooms can be added for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Switch the Cheese: Try Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or feta for a twist on the classic cheddar.
• Make It Vegetarian: Omit the bacon or use plant-based bacon alternatives.
• Try Different Crusts: Use puff pastry, phyllo dough, or a gluten-free crust if needed.
• Spice It Up: Add chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture for a bit of heat.

Pinterest offers a wealth of ideas for creative twists on this recipe. Explore more on Pinterest’s summer tomato recipes to see how others personalize their pies.

Serving Suggestions

This cheesy bacon tomato pie is best served warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with light, fresh sides that balance its richness. Here are a few serving ideas:

• A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Grilled or roasted seasonal vegetables
• A chilled bowl of gazpacho or cucumber soup
• Beverages like iced tea, sparkling water with lemon, or a dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc

It’s a flexible dish perfect for brunch, lunch, or even as a light dinner. For outdoor gatherings or potlucks, serve it in slices alongside a fresh summer spread.

Make-Ahead, Storage, and Reheating Tips

Tomato pie stores well and can be made ahead, making it a great meal-prep option.

• Make Ahead: Prepare and assemble the pie up to 24 hours in advance. Keep covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
• Storing: Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat slices in a 325°F oven for 10–12 minutes to preserve the texture. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the crust soggy.
• Freezing: While possible, freezing may affect the texture of the tomatoes and crust. If freezing, wrap tightly and use within 1 month. Reheat directly from frozen in a 350°F oven.

Health and Dietary Considerations

This pie can be modified to meet different dietary needs:

• Lower Fat: Use reduced-fat cheese, light mayonnaise, and light sour cream. Turkey bacon already helps reduce saturated fat.
• Vegetarian: Omit the bacon or use a plant-based substitute.
• Gluten-Free: Choose a gluten-free pie crust from the store or make one with almond flour.
• Low-Carb/Keto: Use a crustless version or replace the crust with a thin layer of almond flour-based dough.

Nutritionally, the pie is rich in protein and calcium thanks to the cheese and bacon, and offers lycopene and vitamins from the tomatoes.

FAQs

What is the difference between Southern and Italian tomato pie?
Southern tomato pie is baked in a pie crust with fresh tomatoes, cheese, and a creamy filling, typically served warm. Italian tomato pie is a cold, focaccia-style pizza with tomato sauce and no cheese.

Can I make tomato pie without mayo?
Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt, cream cheese, or even ricotta for mayo. The flavor and texture will vary, but it will still hold together.

How do I prevent the pie from being watery?
Salt and drain the tomato slices before assembling the pie. Pre-baking the crust and cooking off extra moisture from onions also helps.

Can tomato pie be eaten cold?
Yes, it’s delicious at room temperature or cold. However, many prefer it slightly warm for optimal flavor and texture.

How do I keep the crust from getting soggy?
Blind bake the crust and allow all components (especially tomatoes) to release moisture before assembly. You can also sprinkle a thin layer of cheese on the crust before adding the tomato layer.

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