Tomato-Bread Casserole
A comforting tomato-bread casserole layered with fresh tomatoes, cottage cheese, and Parmesan, offering a savory, cheesy flavor perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spread bread slices with margarine and cut into large cubes. Arrange on a jelly-roll pan.
- Toast in a 350°F oven for about 7 minutes.
- Place half of the bread cubes in a greased 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Drain canned tomatoes, reserving the liquid.
- Top the bread cubes with half of the fresh tomato slices, half of the reserved tomato liquid, half of the cottage cheese, half of the oil, half of the canned tomatoes, half of the seasoned salt, half of the oregano, and half of the garlic powder.
- Repeat the layers with remaining ingredients.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake, covered, in a 350°F oven for 40 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for 5 minutes longer to brown the top.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use day-old bread to enhance texture and flavor. If you're out of cottage cheese, ricotta works as a great substitute. For added depth, consider adding sautéed onions or bell peppers between layers. Fresh herbs, like basil or thyme, can also elevate the dish. To save time, prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Serving Suggestions
This Tomato-Bread Casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside Garlic Bread for a comforting dinner. For a heartier option, it also complements grilled chicken or fish, making it a versatile addition to your meal planning.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If you prefer a crispier top, you can uncover it for the last few minutes of reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato-Bread Casserole contains roughly 19 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
What types of bread work best for this recipe?
While any bread will work, crusty bread like ciabatta or sourdough adds great texture and flavor. You can also use whole grain or gluten-free bread if you prefer. Just ensure the bread is sturdy enough to hold up to the moisture from the tomatoes and cheese.
Can I freeze the Tomato-Bread Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. To bake from frozen, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time, checking for doneness as it cooks.
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).