Cheese Stuffed Baked Tomatoes
Cheese stuffed baked tomatoes offer a savory blend of tender tomatoes filled with cheesy rice mixture, perfect as a comforting side or light main for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut a slice from the top of each tomato and remove seeds and some pulp to leave a shell. Do not peel.
- Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Cook chopped onions and celery in oil until tender.
- Add cooked rice, grated cheddar cheese, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Pile the filling into the tomato shells and sprinkle with bread crumbs.
- Bake at 400°F until crumbs are browned, about 10 to 12 minutes. Do not overcook.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like basil or oregano to the filling. If you don't have cheddar, any sharp cheese will work well as a substitute. For a lighter version, you can use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice. Remember to adjust the cooking time slightly if you're using larger tomatoes, as they may take a bit longer to cook through.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cheese stuffed baked tomatoes as a delightful appetizer or a side dish alongside grilled meats or a fresh salad. They pair beautifully with Tomato And Asparagus Casserole for a vibrant meal. For a heartier option, consider serving them with crusty bread or Dixie Lily Party Rolls to soak up the delicious filling.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cheese stuffed baked tomatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the tomatoes mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Stuffed Baked Tomatoes contains roughly 267 calories, with 6g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2409mg per serving (105% 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 these stuffed tomatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and stuff the tomatoes a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. If you do this, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure they heat through properly.
What type of cheese can I use instead of cheddar?
You can substitute cheddar with any sharp cheese, such as Gruyère or Monterey Jack, for a different flavor profile. For a creamier texture, consider using a blend of cheeses, or even adding cream cheese to the filling for richness.
Are these baked tomatoes suitable for vegetarian diets?
Yes, the cheese stuffed baked tomatoes are vegetarian-friendly. The ingredients used, including rice, cheese, and vegetables, make them a wholesome option for those following vegetarian recipes. Just ensure that the Worcestershire sauce used is vegetarian, as some brands contain anchovies.
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).