Baked Tomato And Cheese Casserole
A hearty baked casserole featuring tender tomatoes, melted cheese, and crispy bread crumbs, accented with onions and butter. This comforting dish offers a savory blend of flavors perfect for a casual family dinner or a cozy gathering, showcasing simple ingredients transformed through baking into a delicious meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place 1 cup of canned tomatoes in the bottom of the casserole dish.
- Sprinkle with one-third of the bread crumbs, then add 1/4 cup of grated cheese and chopped onion.
- Add the remaining tomatoes, bread crumbs, cheese, and onion on top.
- Dot the mixture with butter.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating garlic or herbs like basil and oregano into the tomato layer. If you don't have canned tomatoes, fresh tomatoes can be used; just ensure they're well-seasoned. You can also substitute the grated cheese with mozzarella or cheddar for different flavor profiles. If you're gluten-free, try using gluten-free bread crumbs instead.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. You could also serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a light soup to balance the richness. For a vegetarian option, consider adding layers of sautéed spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven gives the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Tomato And Cheese Casserole contains roughly 697 calories, with 5g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 62g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 829mg per serving (36% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's cold from the fridge.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Grated cheese like cheddar or mozzarella are excellent choices for this casserole. They melt beautifully and add a creamy texture. You can also experiment with other cheeses such as Parmesan or Gruyère for a more sophisticated flavor.
Can I add protein to this casserole?
Absolutely! You can mix in cooked ground meat, such as beef or turkey, or even cooked lentils for a vegetarian protein boost. Just ensure that any meat is fully cooked before layering it in the casserole.
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).