Baked Or Stuffed Tomatoes
Baked or stuffed tomatoes featuring a savory mixture of shrimp or ham, bread crumbs, and herbs, baked until golden, perfect as a flavorful appetizer or light main dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in an iron skillet and cook the minced onion and celery over low heat until the onions are clear.
- Add the canned tomatoes and bring to a boil, about 2 minutes.
- Add bread crumbs (saving some for the top) and stir well.
- Add minced parsley and cooked shrimp, deviled ham, or diced ham, if desired.
- Turn the mixture into a 1-quart casserole and dot with butter and slices of bacon.
- Sprinkle the top with the remaining bread crumbs.
- Bake at 350°F until the top is brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding some grated cheese to the breadcrumb topping or mixing in some spices such as paprika or garlic powder. If you're out of shrimp or ham, canned tuna could work as a substitute. Ensure to drain any canned ingredients well to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or crusty bread. Consider serving it alongside some steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a delightful twist, try incorporating it into a seafood recipes theme night, featuring dishes like Lobster Stew or Fishing Shack Chowder.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, individual servings can be microwaved for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Or Stuffed Tomatoes contains roughly 989 calories, with 5g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 95g fat. It is a good source of iron (13% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but you'll need to peel and chop them. About 4-5 medium tomatoes should suffice. Cooking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on the mixture to ensure it thickens properly.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can omit the shrimp or ham and add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and texture. You might also consider using vegetable broth instead of butter to sauté the onions and celery.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble the dish and add the breadcrumb topping before baking it to ensure a fresh, crispy texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).