Ripley Tomatoes
Ripley Tomatoes is a savory casserole combining tender canned tomatoes with seasoned stuffing, baked to perfection with a hint of herbs and spices. Its comforting flavors make it ideal for family dinners or potlucks, offering a delightful blend of tangy, herby, and savory notes that appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a buttered 2-quart casserole, mix canned tomatoes and 2 cups of stuffing together.
- Stir in chopped onion, sugar, salt, oregano, crumbled rosemary, black pepper, and nutmeg.
- Dot the mixture with oleo (butter).
- Sprinkle the remaining stuffing on top of the mixture.
- Bake at 375°F for 45 minutes until heated through and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using fresh herbs instead of dried, or substitute with your favorite stuffing mix. If you'd like a healthier version, opt for a low-sodium canned tomato product. To enhance the dish, you might add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. This recipe is versatile, so feel free to experiment with different seasonings to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Ripley Tomatoes as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats or as a main vegetarian option paired with a fresh salad. It also goes well with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. For a complete meal, consider serving with a side of Aunt Almeda's Caramel Corn for a sweet contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Ripley Tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ripley Tomatoes contains roughly 272 calories, with 9g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (205% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (153% of the Daily Value), and calcium (123% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. It also contributes 43g 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 use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes; however, you will need to peel and chop them first. About 6-8 medium tomatoes will yield the equivalent of 4 cups canned. Keep in mind that fresh tomatoes might require a longer cooking time to break down appropriately.
Is there a gluten-free option for the stuffing?
Absolutely! Look for gluten-free stuffing mixes available in stores, or you can make your own with gluten-free bread. Just ensure that any broth or other ingredients you use are also gluten-free to maintain the dish's integrity.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the topping right before baking. This makes it convenient for gatherings or busy weeknights, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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).