Tomatoes Parmesan
A comforting baked tomato and bread casserole topped with Parmesan cheese, featuring rich flavors of garlic, basil, and buttery croutons, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove skins from tomatoes and quarter them.
- Place tomatoes in a buttered casserole dish.
- Melt butter in a pan.
- Add crushed garlic and basil leaves to the melted butter.
- Cube the bread slices and add them to the seasoned butter.
- Saute bread cubes over low heat for a few minutes until lightly toasted.
- Spread the bread cubes over the tomatoes in the casserole.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of balsamic vinegar to the tomatoes before baking. If fresh basil isn't available, dried basil can be used as a substitute, but reduce the amount to about 1 tsp. Stale bread works well for this recipe; it absorbs the butter better and adds texture. For a twist, try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for variation.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a complete meal. It can also be served alongside grilled chicken or fish for added protein. For a comforting vegetarian option, consider serving it with a side of Italian recipes like Hot Brie Pasta A'La Diane or Two Cheese Polenta.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through to maintain the crispiness of the bread topping. Avoid reheating in the microwave as it may make the bread soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tomatoes Parmesan contains roughly 596 calories, with 14g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value), protein (27% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 898mg per serving (39% 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 different types of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While French bread is traditional, you can use sourdough, ciabatta, or even whole grain bread for a different flavor and texture. Just ensure the bread is sturdy enough to hold up when sautéed and baked.
Is it necessary to peel the tomatoes?
Peeling the tomatoes is not absolutely necessary, but it does enhance the texture and presentation of the dish. If you prefer to keep the skins on for added nutrients, just ensure to chop them finely to blend with the other ingredients.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it without baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
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).