Chile-Cheese Tomatoes
Chile-Cheese Tomatoes offer a flavorful combination of ripe tomatoes topped with a cheesy, spicy mixture, perfect as an appetizer or side dish for casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut each large tomato into 3 thick slices.
- Squeeze each gently to remove some of the seeds.
- Arrange the tomatoes, with cut sides up, on the rack of a broiler pan.
- In a small bowl, combine the sour cream with the salt, pepper, sugar, flour, green onion, and green chilies; stir until well blended.
- Spoon mixture evenly over the tomatoes, then sprinkle the cheese evenly over the top.
- Preheat the broiler and place the tomatoes about 4 inches from the heat.
- Broil just until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, about 4 minutes.
- Serve the tomatoes just warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs like basil or oregano in the sour cream mixture. If Longhorn Cheddar isn't available, sharp Cheddar or Monterey Jack can work as great substitutes. Make sure to choose firm tomatoes to prevent them from becoming mushy during broiling. This dish can also be easily adapted to suit vegetarian recipes by using different vegetables or cheeses.
Serving Suggestions
These Chile-Cheese Tomatoes can be served as a delicious appetizer or side dish alongside grilled meats, enhancing any summer barbecue. They pair beautifully with a light salad, such as a Festive Strawberry Salad, or even with a hearty main like Chicken Alfredo for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Chile-Cheese Tomatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as this may cause the tomatoes to become watery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chile-Cheese Tomatoes contains roughly 47 calories, with 2g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1119mg per serving (49% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tomatoes and the sour cream mixture a few hours in advance. Assemble them and refrigerate until you're ready to broil. However, it's best to broil them just before serving to ensure the cheese remains bubbly and golden.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
Greek yogurt is a great alternative to sour cream and will add a similar creaminess with a tangy flavor. You can also use a dairy-free sour cream for a vegan option, though it might change the taste slightly.
How do I know when the cheese is done broiling?
The cheese is done when it becomes bubbly and starts to turn golden brown, typically within 4 minutes of broiling. Keep a close eye on it, as broilers can vary in intensity and may cook unevenly.
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).