Jonda'S Very Best Tomato Casserole
A comforting tomato casserole layered with bread, cheese, and bacon, offering rich flavors and a hearty texture, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add the sautéed onions to the tomatoes along with brown sugar and basil.
- Cut the bread into small cubes.
- In a greased casserole dish, layer the tomato mixture, bread cubes, and cheese; repeat the layers.
- Spread the cut bacon pieces on top.
- Bake, covered, for 1 hour at 325°F.
- Place under the broiler to crisp the bacon.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using fresh basil instead of dried. You can substitute the margarine with butter for a more traditional taste. If you're out of bacon, try using cooked sausage or omit it entirely for a vegetarian version. To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free bread and ensure your cheese is compliant. A dash of hot sauce can add a nice kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole warm as a hearty side dish or a main course, accompanied by a fresh garden salad for a light meal. It pairs beautifully with grilled sandwiches for a satisfying lunch. For a complete dinner, consider serving it alongside rotisserie chicken or any of your favorite pork recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but the oven will keep the texture better.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jonda'S Very Best Tomato Casserole contains roughly 274 calories, with 6g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2149mg per serving (93% 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 prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to bake it right before serving. If baking straight from the fridge, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
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).