Pearline'S Baked Tomatoes
A savory baked tomato dish with bread crumbs, cheese, and spices, perfect for a comforting side or light meal that appeals to cheese and tomato lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour juice off the tomatoes and drain them well.
- Mix together the tomatoes, bread crumbs, chopped onion, sugar, red pepper, salt, garlic powder, and 1/2 stick of butter.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Dot the remaining butter on top of the mixture.
- Sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake at 350°F for 30-40 minutes or until set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on this dish, consider using homemade bread crumbs for added texture and flavor. You can substitute the cheddar cheese with mozzarella or a mix of your favorite cheeses for a different taste. If you prefer a bit more heat, add additional red pepper or incorporate diced jalapeños. Make sure to drain the tomatoes thoroughly to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these baked tomatoes as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats or as a main course with a fresh garden salad. They pair beautifully with the Favorite Chicken And Stuffing Bake for a comforting meal. This dish is also great for brunch, accompanied by scrambled eggs or a light yogurt parfait.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover baked 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 retain moisture. Heat at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pearline'S Baked Tomatoes contains roughly 500 calories, with 12g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value), and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2233mg per serving (97% 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 use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! Just peel and chop about 4-5 medium tomatoes, and be sure to remove excess moisture by draining them well before mixing. This will help maintain the desired texture of the dish.
What can I do if I don’t have garlic powder?
If you don't have garlic powder, you can substitute it with 1-2 cloves of minced fresh garlic or use garlic salt. Just be cautious with the salt in the recipe if using garlic salt to avoid over-seasoning.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the cheese and remaining butter before baking. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 24 hours. This makes it a great option for meal prep!
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).