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Savory Heirloom Tomato Pie Recipe with Easy Basil Cheddar Custard Filling

heirloom tomato pie - featured image

A savory pie featuring thick-sliced heirloom tomatoes layered with a creamy basil cheddar custard and baked in a flaky buttery crust. This recipe balances texture and flavor for a comforting yet fresh dish perfect for summer gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pre-made or homemade 9-inch pie dough, chilled
  • About 3 cups sliced heirloom tomatoes (45 medium tomatoes), assorted colors
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup half-and-half or whole milk
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish, pressing gently and trimming edges. Brush edges lightly with olive oil.
  2. Slice heirloom tomatoes about 1/4-inch thick. Lay on paper towel-lined plate, sprinkle lightly with salt, and let rest for 10 minutes to draw out moisture.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, half-and-half, and mayonnaise until smooth. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir in chopped basil and shredded cheddar until custard is slightly thick but pourable.
  4. Arrange a layer of tomatoes on the bottom of the pie crust, overlapping slightly. Pour half the custard over the tomatoes. Repeat with another layer of tomatoes and remaining custard.
  5. Bake on middle rack for 40-45 minutes until custard is set but slightly wobbly in the center and crust edges are golden and flaky. Check after 35 minutes to avoid overbaking.
  6. Remove from oven and let cool on a rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing to allow custard to firm up.

Notes

Salting and resting the tomato slices on paper towels is key to prevent soggy crust. Brush crust edges with olive oil before baking to encourage browning and create a moisture barrier. Check pie after 35 minutes to avoid overbaking. Let pie cool before slicing for cleaner cuts. For gluten-free, use gluten-free crust and adjust bake time slightly.

Nutrition

Keywords: heirloom tomato pie, savory pie, basil cheddar custard, summer recipe, tomato pie, easy pie recipe, vegetarian pie