Down South Breakfast
A hearty Southern breakfast featuring baked tomatoes filled with eggs, Cheddar, and herbs, perfect for a comforting start to the day or a special brunch.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut tomatoes in halves crosswise; scoop out pulp, leaving shells intact.
- Invert the tomato shells to drain excess moisture.
- Place the tomato shells in an 8-inch casserole dish.
- Break one egg into each tomato shell.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese, bread crumbs, pepper, and parsley flakes over the eggs.
- Drizzle melted butter over the top.
- Bake uncovered at 400°F for 15 to 20 minutes or until eggs are cooked to desired doneness.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some cooked bacon or sausage into the egg mixture. If you don’t have Cheddar cheese, any melting cheese like Monterey Jack or Gouda can work well. You can also substitute the bread crumbs with crushed crackers for a different texture. Make sure to drain the tomatoes well to prevent a watery dish.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed tomatoes make a hearty breakfast or brunch dish. Pair them with crispy hash browns or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. They also go well with a side of fruit, or you can serve them alongside Peach French Toast (Start The Night Before) for a delightful brunch spread.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed 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, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the tomatoes soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Down South Breakfast contains roughly 179 calories, with 7g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (61% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium.
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 vegetables for this recipe?
Absolutely! While tomatoes are traditional, you can use bell peppers or zucchini as a base. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different vegetables may require more or less time to soften and cook through.
How do I know when the eggs are done baking?
The eggs are done when the whites are set and no longer translucent, while the yolks should be cooked to your liking. For a runny yolk, check around the 15-minute mark; for a firmer yolk, leave them in for closer to 20 minutes.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed tomatoes the night before by assembling them and covering them tightly with plastic wrap. Store them in the refrigerator and bake them in the morning for a quick and easy breakfast option.
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).