Vera Cruz Tomatoes
Vera Cruz Tomatoes feature baked tomatoes filled with a creamy spinach and bacon mixture, topped with melted cheese — a savory, hearty dish perfect for brunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook bacon until crisp. Drain, reserving 2 tablespoons of drippings. Crumble bacon and set aside.
- Cook onion in reserved drippings until tender. Stir in spinach and cook, covered, until tender, 3 to 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in sour cream, onion, and hot pepper sauce.
- Cut tops from tomatoes and remove centers, leaving skins. Drain and salt skins.
- Fill the tomato skins with the spinach mixture.
- Place filled tomatoes in a baking dish and bake at 375°F for 20 to 25 minutes.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and bake an additional 2 to 3 minutes until cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian version, substitute bacon with smoked paprika for a similar flavor. If fresh spinach isn't available, frozen spinach can work well; just ensure it's well-drained. Adding some garlic to the onion while cooking enhances the flavor. You can also experiment with different cheeses like feta or cheddar for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed tomatoes make a delightful appetizer or side dish. Serve alongside a light salad, such as Hungry Person'S Salad, for a balanced meal. They also pair nicely with grilled chicken or fish, making them a versatile addition to your dinner table.
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 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Microwaving is also an option, but may result in a softer texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vera Cruz Tomatoes contains roughly 389 calories, with 11g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 854mg per serving (37% 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 prepare these tomatoes in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed tomatoes up to a day in advance. Just fill the tomato skins and store them covered in the refrigerator. Bake them just before serving to enjoy the melty cheese and warm filling.
What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese?
If you don’t have mozzarella, you can substitute it with provolone, gouda, or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile. Each cheese will bring its own unique taste to the dish.
How do I know when the tomatoes are done baking?
The tomatoes are done when they are tender and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden. A fork can easily pierce the skin, indicating they are cooked through. Monitor closely during the last few minutes to prevent overcooking.
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).