As summer rolls in, there’s nothing quite like the taste of freshly picked tomatoes to celebrate the season. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a quiet evening at home, a Slab Tomato Pie is the perfect dish to captivate your family and friends. This flavorful pie is a specialty rooted in Southern cuisine, capturing the essence of leisurely summer days and family gatherings around the dinner table.
Inspired by childhood memories of visiting local farmers’ markets with my family, where the vibrant colors and rich aromas of ripe tomatoes would beckon us, this recipe captures that nostalgic essence. The beauty of the Slab Tomato Pie lies in its simplicity and the vibrant, fresh flavors that come together to create a truly unique dish. It’s an easy-to-make pie that showcases the best of summer’s bountiful harvest, making it a fantastic choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Slab Tomato Pie isn’t just another tomato-based dish; it’s a celebration of summertime goodness! First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it accessible for both novice and experienced cooks. The combination of juicy tomatoes and flaky crust is simply irresistible, offering a delightful contrast of textures.
Moreover, this recipe allows for plenty of customization, meaning you can experiment with different spices, cheeses, or add-ins to suit your palate. It also serves a crowd, perfect for potlucks or family reunions while remaining light and refreshing. And let’s be honest—who wouldn’t want a gorgeous slice of pie loaded with fresh tomatoes on their plate?
What Does The Recipe Taste Like
The Slab Tomato Pie features a delightful medley of flavors—sweet, savory, and aromatic. The tomatoes provide a natural sweetness, balanced by the creamy richness of the cheese and the fragrant herbs. When baked, the crust becomes golden and flaky, complementing the tender tomatoes beautifully. Each bite offers the brightness of summer, with a satisfying combination of texture and taste that’s hard to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating a delicious Slab Tomato Pie. Here’s what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients
- Tomatoes (4-6 cups, sliced): Use the ripest tomatoes you can find, as they provide the best flavor. Varieties like heirloom or vine-ripened will yield the juiciest results.
- Pie crust (1 prepared, store-bought or homemade): The crust acts as the base, providing structure and a delightful crunch to the dish.
- Cheddar cheese (1 cup, shredded): Adds a creamy, sharp flavor that pairs perfectly with the tomatoes.
- Mayo (1 cup): This creates creaminess and helps bind the filling together, ensuring every slice is full of flavor.
- Fresh basil (1/4 cup, chopped): Provides a herby aroma and freshness to the pie that elevates the overall taste.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients.
Optional Additions
- Red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch can add a spicy kick.
- Crumbled bacon: Add richness and depth to the dish with some crispy bacon bits.
- Other cheeses: Consider mixing in mozzarella or feta for a different flavor profile.
Special Garnishes
- Fresh basil leaves: For a burst of color and a hint of freshness, top the pie with additional basil before serving.
- Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of parmesan adds a savory finish that customers will love.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients, follow these steps to create your Slab Tomato Pie:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your pie will bake evenly.
- Prepare the crust: If using a store-bought pie crust, place it into a greased baking pan. If making homemade dough, roll it out and fit it into the pan.
- Slice the tomatoes: Use a sharp knife to slice the tomatoes evenly. Lay them on paper towels to drain excess juice; this step is crucial for avoiding a soggy pie.
- Mix the filling: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, shredded cheese, chopped basil, salt, and pepper. Add the sliced tomatoes and gently mix until everything is coated.
- Fill the crust: Pour the tomato mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake the pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.
- Cool and serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Slice the pie and serve warm or at room temperature.
Your Slab Tomato Pie is now ready to enjoy, bursting with delicious flavors that will remind you of sunny summer days.
Recipe Variations
The beauty of the Slab Tomato Pie lies in its versatility. If you’re looking to mix things up, consider these variations:
- Vegetable Medley: Add seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell pepper, or corn for a more substantial pie.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate a variety of fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or chives for a fragrant twist.
- Vegan Option: Substitute the cheese and mayo with plant-based alternatives for a vegan-friendly version without sacrificing flavor.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving your Slab Tomato Pie can be as casual or elegant as you like! It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or can stand alone as a satisfying dish. For best results, serve it warm or at room temperature, allowing the flavors to mingle. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture, or enjoy cold for a refreshing snack.
Helpful Tips
- Use the right tomatoes: Ripe, in-season tomatoes will provide the best flavor. If using larger varieties, consider dicing them to avoid excess moisture.
- Don’t skip draining: Laying the sliced tomatoes on paper towels is crucial to prevent a soggy pie.
- Cheese choices matter: Experimenting with different cheeses can completely change the flavor profile, so feel free to mix and match!
Special Equipment
While this recipe doesn’t require any fancy equipment, having the following can help streamline your cooking process:
- 9×13-inch baking pan: This is the ideal size for a slab pie, providing plenty of space for your filling.
- Sharp knife: For slicing your tomatoes cleanly, ensuring even pieces.
- Mixing bowls: For combining your filling ingredients easily.
- Paper towels: Useful for absorbing excess moisture from the tomatoes, which helps maintain crust integrity.

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought pie crust?
Absolutely! A store-bought pie crust is a convenient option and works just as well for this recipe. Feel free to use your favorite brand.
How can I make sure my pie doesn’t get soggy?
Draining the tomatoes on paper towels before adding them to the pie is a crucial step. This process helps to reduce excess moisture, keeping your crust flaky.
Can I freeze Slab Tomato Pie?
Yes, you can freeze the pie before baking it. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the freezer for up to three months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I add meat to the pie?
Definitely! Adding cooked ground meat, such as sausage or bacon, can provide a heartier flavor and texture if that’s to your liking.
Conclusion
The Slab Tomato Pie is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings people together. With its vibrant flavors and the comfort it offers, this dish can create lasting memories at your dining table. So gather your ingredients, share this recipe with friends, and prepare to experience the delightful taste of summer in every bite.
We invite you to try your hand at this Slab Tomato Pie and share your thoughts or adaptations in the comments below. It’s not just about the food; it’s about sharing moments with loved ones and creating stories that will be retold for years to come. Happy cooking!
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Irresistible Slab Tomato Pie Recipe for Ultimate Flavor Bliss
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in our irresistible Slab Tomato Pie recipe packed with ultimate flavor bliss and a crispy crust that will elevate your next meal
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Calories: 280 calories
- Sugar: 4 grams
- Fat: 20 grams
- Saturated Fat: 20 grams
- Carbohydrates: 25 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Protein: 7 grams




