Cheese And Tomato Bake
A cheesy tomato bake with crispy croutons, perfect for a comforting vegetarian meal or side dish, combining melty mozzarella, fresh tomatoes, and savory seasonings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Arrange croutons in a 9-inch pie plate, then add sliced tomatoes and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- In a small bowl, beat eggs, milk, salt, paprika, and dry mustard with a fork until well combined; pour over the cheese layer.
- Bake for 40 minutes, or until browned and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using seasoned croutons or adding herbs like basil or oregano to the mixture. If you don't have mozzarella, any melting cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack can work. You can also substitute half-and-half for milk for a creamier texture. If tomatoes are out of season, canned tomatoes can be a great alternative.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect as a light lunch or dinner option. Serve it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Savory Spinach Squares for a delicious vegetarian spread. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or a side of pasta.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the Cheese And Tomato Bake to cool completely before storing. Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the dish for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This will help maintain the cheese's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese And Tomato Bake contains roughly 1087 calories, with 44g protein, 141g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (102% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (89% of the Daily Value), and protein (87% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1888mg per serving (82% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Cheese And Tomato Bake a day in advance. Assemble the ingredients in the pie plate, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before preheating the oven.
Can I freeze the Cheese And Tomato Bake?
Freezing is possible, but it may affect the texture of the cheese. To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then cover tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I substitute for croutons?
If you don't have croutons, you can use stale bread cubes, breadcrumbs, or even cooked rice as a base. Just be mindful of adjusting the liquid in the recipe slightly if using bread, as it may absorb more moisture than croutons.
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).