Marigold Tomatoes
Marigold Tomatoes is a cheesy, savory casserole with a flavorful tomato base, crunchy cracker topping, and melted cheese, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix stewed tomatoes, sugar, salt, paprika, dry mustard, and shredded cheddar cheese in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture into a 9 x 9 inch casserole dish.
- Sprinkle crumbled Ritz crackers evenly over the top.
- Spoon melted margarine over the cracker topping.
- Bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of Marigold Tomatoes, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or chopped onions to the mixture. For a healthier alternative, you can substitute whole wheat crackers for the Ritz and use a reduced-fat cheese. If you prefer a bit of heat, a dash of cayenne pepper can add an interesting twist.
Serving Suggestions
Marigold Tomatoes make a great side dish alongside grilled meats or a fresh green salad. Consider serving it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. This dish also pairs beautifully with Florida Sweet Corn Cakes for a complete meal that celebrates the flavors of summer.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Marigold Tomatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out, then warm at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marigold Tomatoes contains roughly 210 calories, with 8g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (110% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (65% of the Daily Value), and iron (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1208mg per serving (53% 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 Marigold Tomatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step and refrigerate it for a day. When ready to serve, simply bake it from the refrigerator, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through properly.
What can I use instead of cheddar cheese?
If you're looking for a different cheese, Monterey Jack or Gouda will work well in this recipe. For a stronger flavor, try using a sharp cheddar or even a blend of cheeses for added complexity and richness.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarian diets?
Yes, Marigold Tomatoes is a vegetarian recipe, making it a great option for meatless meals. Just ensure that any cheese used is rennet-free if you are adhering to strict vegetarian guidelines.
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).