Baked tomatoes with cheese is a delightful appetizer taught to me by my Italian friends, Pins and Mario Santacrosse. This easy and cheesy dish consists of sliced tomatoes topped with mozzarella cheese, resulting in a mouthwatering treat.
To begin, we create a simple sauce using fresh garlic, parsley, and olive oil. This flavorful mixture is spread onto each tomato slice, providing a tasty base. A slice of fresh mozzarella cheese is then added on top, and the tomatoes are baked for 30 minutes. The end result is a heavenly combination of melted cheese and juicy, caramelized tomato that bursts with flavor in every bite.
With its simplicity and deliciousness, this recipe is sure to impress your taste buds. Thanks to the guidance of Pins and Mario Santacrosse, this appetizer has become a go-to favorite that never fails to satisfy.
There’s nothing better than these baked tomatoes with cheese. They’re the perfect summer appetizer and one of my favorite healthy recipes to share with friends.
Notes
- Feel free to use whatever fresh herbs you like in this baked tomatoes recipe. My recommendations include chopped fresh basil leaves, fresh oregano, and fresh rosemary.
- You can also use any kind of cheese for baked tomatoes with cheese. Keep it simple with cheddar cheese or use freshly shaved parmesan cheese for baked parmesan tomatoes.
- Another option? Add a dollop of basil pesto to the tomato slice before adding the cheese and baking.
- For that quintessential Italian flavor, drizzle the baked cheese tomatoes with balsamic vinegar or a balsamic glaze before serving.
FAQs
How long do tomatoes go in the oven?
You want to roast tomatoes for 25 to 30 minutes until the tomato caramelizes and the cheese melts.
What are the best tomatoes to bake?
While any type of tomato will work, I do recommend using Roma tomatoes if possible for this baked tomato with mozzarella recipe. They have a lower water content compared to their counterparts, which makes them perfect for making oven-roasted tomatoes.
How do you serve baked tomatoes with cheese?
These cheesy baked tomatoes are best served as an appetizer or side dish. They pair perfectly with so many main meals, like grilled chicken, salmon, or lamb burgers. However, if you’d like to serve them as a main dish, enjoy them on toasted bread or an English muffin.
How do you store baked tomatoes with cheese?
Baked tomatoes are best served immediately. However, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. I do recommend reheating in a 375-degree oven or air fryer for about five minutes, as the tomatoes might burst in the microwave. Feel free to simply half the recipe to suit how many people you’re cooking for so there are no leftovers too.
Baked Tomatoes With Cheese
Ingredients
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 4 tbsp water
- 4 large tomatoes, halved crosswise
- 8 slices mozzarella cheese
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Brush a sheet pan with olive oil.
- Mix the garlic, parsley, olive oil, and water in a bowl.
- Place the tomato slices cut side up in the prepared pan. Top each tomato half with herb and garlic mixture, then place a slice of mozzarella on each tomato half.
- Bake the tomatoes for 30 minutes, until the cheese melts and turns golden brown.
Nutrition
About the Author: Koula Barydakis
