If you are looking for a dish that is bursting with fresh flavors, luscious melted cheese, and a hint of herbal brightness, then this Baked Tomatoes with Cheese Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It combines simple, wholesome ingredients into a comforting, satisfying bite that feels both rustic and elegant. The juicy Roma tomatoes transform under the warm oven heat, blending beautifully with the golden Parmesan and creamy mozzarella, while fresh basil adds a refreshing pop. This recipe is not only incredibly easy to prepare but also a true celebration of summer’s vibrant bounty.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully straightforward, yet each one plays an essential role in marrying taste, texture, and color to make this dish truly shine. Let’s break down what goes into this simple but decadent recipe.
- 4 large Roma tomatoes: Sliced thick, these tomatoes provide the juicy, tangy base essential for the dish.
- 1 cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese: This adds a salty, nutty crust that crisps up beautifully when baked.
- 1 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into a creamy, gooey topping that perfectly balances the Parmesan sharpness.
- ½ cup chopped fresh basil: Fresh basil injects a fragrant, herbal brightness that lifts every bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling): Adds a silky richness and helps brown the cheese for that irresistible golden finish.
How to Make Baked Tomatoes with Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by heating your oven to 400°F. While it warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure an easy cleanup and prevent sticking. Setting the foundation right is the first step to success!
Step 2: Arrange the Tomatoes
Lay the slices of Roma tomatoes neatly on the lined baking sheet. This arrangement allows even cooking and ensures every slice gets a perfect layer of cheesy goodness on top.
Step 3: Add the Cheese Layers
Start by generously topping each tomato slice with freshly shredded Parmesan, which will add a crispy, flavorful crust. Then, pile on the mozzarella for that luscious, melted texture that makes this dish so irresistible.
Step 4: Sprinkle with Fresh Basil
Scatter the chopped fresh basil over the cheesy tomato stacks. This step adds a pop of color and a fresh, aromatic note that balances the richness beautifully.
Step 5: Drizzle Olive Oil
Give each tomato a light drizzle of olive oil. This not only helps the cheese brown but also infuses the dish with a subtle, fruity richness that rounds out the flavors perfectly.
Step 6: Bake Until Bubbling
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes. You want the cheese to melt fully and become bubbly — that moment when you know it’s just right for the next step.
Step 7: Broil for Golden Perfection
Switch your oven to the broil setting and let the tomatoes broil for 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye here; this step crisps and browns the cheese topping for a beautiful, golden finish that adds both texture and flavor.
How to Serve Baked Tomatoes with Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper make beautiful garnishes. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil just before serving can add depth and shine to the dish, making it look as vibrant as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for sopping up the melted cheese and juices. Consider serving alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded, colorful meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming appetizer, serve these baked tomatoes with cheese on small individual plates or over a bed of arugula. You can also hollow out larger tomatoes, fill them with the cheese mixture, and bake for an elegant twist that’s sure to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days, making for an easy snack or quick addition to a lunch plate.
Freezing
Since the texture of tomatoes changes when frozen, it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh. Freezing is not recommended because thawing will make the tomatoes watery and the cheese texture may become less appealing.
Reheating
To reheat, place the leftovers on a baking sheet and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melty again. Avoid microwaving, which can make the tomatoes soggy and the cheese rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use other types of tomatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Roma tomatoes are ideal for their firmness and size, you can experiment with beefsteak, heirlooms, or even cherry tomatoes sliced in halves for a different presentation and flavor.
What if I don’t have fresh basil? Can I use dried?
Fresh basil is best for its bright, aromatic quality, but dried basil can be used in a pinch. Use about one-third of the amount and sprinkle it over the tomatoes before baking.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
You can definitely make a vegan version by substituting the cheeses with plant-based alternatives like cashew cheese or vegan mozzarella. Make sure the cheese melts well for the best results.
How do I know when the cheese is perfectly melted?
Look for cheese that is fully melted, bubbly, and just starting to brown around the edges. When it’s golden and slightly crisp on top, the dish is ready to come out of the oven.
Can I prepare this recipe for a large group?
Yes! Simply multiply the ingredients accordingly and use multiple baking sheets or a larger one. Just keep an eye on the baking time as it might vary slightly depending on thickness and oven capacity.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Tomatoes with Cheese Recipe is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug from the oven. It’s quick, easy, and makes a perfect side or appetizer that never fails to impress. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or treating yourself, I encourage you to dive into this beautiful combination of fresh tomatoes, cheesy goodness, and fragrant basil. Once you do, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen too!
Print
Baked Tomatoes with Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A simple and delicious recipe for baked tomatoes topped with a blend of melted Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. Perfect as a warm appetizer or a light side dish, this quick bake highlights the juicy sweetness of Roma tomatoes complemented by rich, bubbly cheese and aromatic herbs.
Ingredients
Tomatoes
- 4 large Roma tomatoes, sliced
Cheese
- 1 cup freshly shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
Herbs and Seasoning
- ½ cup chopped fresh basil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare Tomatoes: Arrange the sliced Roma tomatoes evenly on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are in a single layer for even cooking.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle a generous layer of freshly shredded Parmesan cheese over each tomato slice to add sharpness and flavor.
- Add Mozzarella Cheese: Layer freshly shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the Parmesan for a creamy, melty texture.
- Add Fresh Basil: Evenly sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the cheese to give a fresh, aromatic flavor dimension.
- Drizzle Olive Oil: Lightly drizzle olive oil over each tomato slice to enhance richness and assist with browning.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes until the cheeses are melted and bubbly.
- Broil to Brown: Switch the oven to broil and broil the tomatoes for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese develops a golden-brown crust. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
Notes
- Use ripe Roma tomatoes for best flavor and juiciness.
- Freshly shredded cheeses melt better and taste fresher than pre-shredded options.
- Broiling adds a lovely browned top, but watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
- Can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even on top of toasted bread for a quick bruschetta.
