Save A vibrant, cheesy tomato bake that comes together quickly without feta—perfect for weeknight dinners or as a hearty side.
This tomato bake has become a favorite in my household, especially when I need something fast and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 700 g (1.5 lbs) ripe tomatoes: sliced
- 1 small red onion: thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic: minced
- 125 g (4.5 oz) fresh mozzarella: torn or sliced
- 40 g (1/4 cup) grated Parmesan cheese:
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil:
- 1 tsp dried oregano:
- 1/2 tsp dried basil:
- Salt and black pepper: to taste
- Fresh basil leaves: garnish optional
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Step 2:
- Lightly oil a medium baking dish. Arrange half the tomato slices in a single layer.
- Step 3:
- Sprinkle half the red onion and half the minced garlic over the tomatoes. Season lightly with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
- Step 4:
- Layer half the mozzarella over the vegetables.
- Step 5:
- Repeat with the remaining tomatoes, onion, garlic, seasonings, and mozzarella.
- Step 6:
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle Parmesan evenly over the top.
- Step 7:
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly and the tomatoes are tender.
- Step 8:
- Let cool slightly. Top with fresh basil before serving.
Save This recipe always sparks joy when I serve it at family dinners, everyone asking for seconds.
Notes
For extra flavor, add a handful of sliced olives or roasted red peppers between the layers. Swap mozzarella for ricotta or goat cheese if desired (still feta-free). Serve with crusty bread or over cooked pasta for a complete meal.
Required Tools
Medium baking dish, chefs knife, cutting board, grater.
Nutritional Information
Calories 210, Total Fat 13 g, Carbohydrates 11 g, Protein 11 g per serving.
Save This speedy tomato bake is sure to become a weeknight favorite because of its simplicity and great taste.
Recipe FAQ Section
- → Can I substitute the mozzarella with another cheese?
Yes, you can use ricotta or goat cheese as alternatives to mozzarella to keep the creamy texture without changing the bake's essence.
- → Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the layers in the baking dish and refrigerate for a few hours before baking. Add fresh herbs just before serving for the best flavor.
- → What sides pair well with this tomato bake?
This dish complements crusty bread, cooked pasta, or a fresh green salad, enhancing any meal with its rich, cheesy tomato flavor.
- → How can I add more depth to the flavor?
Adding sliced olives or roasted red peppers between the tomato layers introduces savory and smoky notes that deepen the bake's flavor.
- → Can this dish be made gluten-free and vegetarian friendly?
Yes, it’s naturally vegetarian and gluten-free. Just ensure the cheeses used are suitable for vegetarians if needed.