Tomato Casserole
A comforting tomato casserole with a rich, tangy flavor complemented by melted cheddar cheese. Its simple ingredients and hearty taste make it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a warm, savory dish that highlights the freshness of tomatoes and the richness of melted cheese.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put the tomatoes and onion in a saucepan; bring to a boil.
- Add margarine, sugar, salt, and oregano.
- Reduce heat to medium and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add bread and stir.
- Pour into a 1 1/2-quart lightly greased casserole dish.
- Top with grated cheddar cheese.
- Bake, uncovered, at 325°F for 20 minutes or until cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the onions in olive oil instead of margarine, or experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme. If you want a crunchier texture, you can use day-old bread instead of fresh. For a lighter version, replace some of the cheddar cheese with a low-fat variety. This dish is great for using up pantry staples, making it a perfect choice for quick weeknight meals.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Tomato Casserole as a main dish alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with American recipes like Corncake or Large Broccoli Casserole. For a complete dinner, consider adding garlic bread or a creamy coleslaw as side dishes to enhance the overall flavor experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 325°F for about 15 minutes until warmed through, ensuring the cheese doesn’t dry out. You can also microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes, but the oven method will keep the topping crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomato Casserole contains roughly 1188 calories, with 13g protein, 146g carbohydrates, and 66g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (70% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (50% of the Daily Value), and calcium (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2781mg per serving (121% 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! You'll need about 3-4 cups of peeled and chopped tomatoes. Just be sure to cook them longer to reduce excess moisture, ensuring your casserole isn't too watery.
What can I substitute for cheddar cheese?
If you're looking for a different cheese, mozzarella or Monterey Jack can work well as substitutes. For a tangy flavor, consider using feta or goat cheese. Adjust the quantity according to your taste preference.
Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen! Make sure to cool it completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
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).