Baked Tomatoes
Baked Tomatoes feature tender slices topped with crispy bacon, savory mushroom and garlic mixture, and melted Parmesan cheese, making a flavorful side perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry bacon until crisp; remove bacon and set aside.
- Reserve pan drippings in skillet.
- Set bacon aside to drain.
- Sauté garlic, onion, and mushrooms in the skillet until tender.
- Stir in bacon, flour, and seasoned salt.
- Cut tomatoes into 1/2-inch slices.
- Place half of the tomato slices in a lightly greased 10 x 6 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Spoon half of the bacon mixture over the tomatoes; sprinkle with 3 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese.
- Repeat layers and dot with butter.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme to the bacon mixture. If you're looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon can be used instead of traditional bacon. Additionally, feel free to substitute the mushrooms with spinach or zucchini for a different twist on this baked tomatoes recipe. Always ensure the tomatoes are ripe for the best taste.
Serving Suggestions
These baked tomatoes make a delightful side dish for grilled meats or pairs beautifully with Peggy'S Macaroni Salad for a complete meal. Serve alongside a fresh green salad or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices. For a heartier option, consider serving with Little Burgers for a casual dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place the baked tomatoes in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the tomatoes mushy and affect the texture of the dish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Tomatoes contains roughly 398 calories, with 15g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value), protein (31% of the Daily Value), and calcium (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 998mg per serving (43% 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 different types of cheese instead of Parmesan?
Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that mozzarella will melt more, creating a gooey texture, while cheddar will add a sharper taste. Just ensure to adjust the quantity to your preference.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of the pan drippings for sautéing the vegetables. You can also add more mushrooms or other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the layers in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just assemble the dish without baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, just pop it in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's cold from the fridge.
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).