Microwave Tomato Casserole
A quick and flavorful microwave tomato casserole layered with mozzarella and herbs, perfect for a light, cheesy, fresh dish that’s easy to prepare and serves six.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Scatter croutons over the bottom of a 9-inch glass pie plate.
- Overlap alternate slices of tomato and mozzarella cheese on top in a circular pattern to cover.
- Sprinkle with basil, chives, and ground pepper.
- Microwave uncovered on High for 3 to 4 minutes until cheese is melted.
- Remove from microwave; spoon dressing on top.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try using different cheeses like feta or cheddar instead of mozzarella. You can also replace fresh herbs with dried ones if needed, just use less. To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute croutons with gluten-free bread cubes. The microwave cooking time may vary, so keep an eye on the cheese to avoid overcooking. This dish is perfect for a quick meal or as part of a larger spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delightful casserole warm as a side dish or a light main course. It pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad, such as Country Garden Pea Salad, or crusty bread. You can also serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. For a pop of color, garnish with extra basil or chives before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, covered with a microwave-safe lid, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, which will help maintain the texture of the croutons.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Tomato Casserole contains roughly 204 calories, with 9g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (60% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value), and iron (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 17g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time by layering the ingredients in the pie plate and covering it tightly with plastic wrap. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the microwave cooking time when you're ready to serve.
What can I substitute for croutons?
If you don't have croutons, you can use torn pieces of stale bread or make your own by toasting bread cubes in the oven with olive oil and seasonings. Alternatively, gluten-free breadcrumbs or even cooked quinoa can work as a base for this casserole.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Microwave Tomato Casserole is a great option for vegetarian recipes. It features fresh vegetables and cheese, making it a satisfying choice for meatless meals. Pair it with other vegetarian dishes, like Summer Trifle for dessert, for a complete vegetarian feast.
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).