![- 4 large, ripe tomatoes, sliced into thick rounds - 1 medium onion, thinly sliced - 2 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped - 1 cup mozzarella cheese, freshly shredded The ripe tomatoes are the star of this dish. They bring a juicy and sweet flavor. Onions and garlic add a rich depth to the casserole. Fresh basil gives it a bright, earthy note. Finally, mozzarella cheese melts beautifully, tying everything together. - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably seasoned) - 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil - 1 teaspoon dried oregano Breadcrumbs provide a lovely crunch on top. Olive oil adds healthy fats and richness. Dried oregano enhances the dish with its warm, fragrant notes. - Seasoned breadcrumbs - Additional herbs and spices Feel free to use seasoned breadcrumbs for added taste. You can also play with herbs and spices like thyme or red pepper flakes. These can boost flavor and make the dish your own. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above. Start by slicing your tomatoes. Use four large, ripe tomatoes to get the best flavor. Cut them into thick rounds. Next, slice one medium onion thinly. Then, finely mince two cloves of garlic. This will add a nice kick to your dish. Finally, chop one cup of fresh basil leaves. You can use a knife or scissors for this. Don’t forget to shred one cup of mozzarella cheese. Fresh cheese melts better and tastes great. Now, it’s time to layer your casserole. Begin with a layer of half the sliced tomatoes. Place them evenly in a medium-sized baking dish. Next, add half of the sliced onion and half of the minced garlic. Spread them evenly over the tomatoes. Then, add half of the chopped basil. Season this layer with a pinch of sea salt, black pepper, and half a teaspoon of dried oregano. Now, sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over this layer. Follow with half of the breadcrumbs for a nice crunch. Repeat this process. Add the remaining tomatoes, onions, garlic, basil, oregano, mozzarella, and breadcrumbs. Layering creates great flavors! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is key for even cooking. Once preheated, cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. This helps keep moisture in while baking. Bake for 30 minutes. After that, carefully remove the foil. This allows the top to get crispy. Bake for another 15-20 minutes. You want the top to be golden brown and the tomatoes tender. Once done, take the casserole out of the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes. It will set nicely before you serve it. For the full recipe, refer to the provided details. Enjoy this easy baked tomato casserole! To avoid sogginess in layers, start with thick tomato slices. This helps them hold their shape. Use a good amount of breadcrumbs. They soak up excess moisture and add crunch. For seasoning, balance is key. Use sea salt and black pepper to enhance the flavors. Dried oregano brings warmth to the dish. Taste as you go to find what works best. For a great presentation, serve the casserole warm in the baking dish. It looks rustic and inviting. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for color and flavor. Pair your casserole with a side salad. A light, crisp salad complements the dish well. For drinks, try a chilled white wine. It enhances the tomato flavors perfectly. Adding protein can make your casserole heartier. Cooked ground beef, chicken, or sausage works well. Feel free to layer these with the tomatoes. Different cheese varieties can also elevate the taste. Try sharp cheddar or feta for a new twist. Mixing cheeses adds depth and richness to each bite. For the full recipe, check out the details above. {{image_4}} You can make this baked tomato casserole even better by adding more veggies. Try adding sliced zucchini or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture. These veggies will blend well with the tomatoes and add great color. If you need a gluten-free option, use quinoa or rice instead of breadcrumbs. They will give the dish a nice base while keeping it light and healthy. If you love meat, you can make this casserole heartier. Incorporate ground beef or sausage for a tasty twist. Just cook the meat ahead of time and layer it in with the tomatoes. You can also layer prosciutto in the dish. This adds richness and a savory taste that pairs well with the fresh tomatoes. Want to add some kick? Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or chili powder. This will give your casserole a nice heat without overpowering the dish. You can also create a Mediterranean twist by adding olives. The briny flavor of olives blends perfectly with the tomatoes and fresh basil, making each bite delicious. For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. To keep your baked tomato casserole fresh, store it in the fridge. Use an airtight container to lock in moisture and flavor. You can keep it for up to four days in the fridge. If you want to save it for later, freezing is a great option. Just let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you want to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. For the best taste, reheat your casserole in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in a dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until it's warm all the way through. You can use the microwave, but the oven makes it crispier. If you use a microwave, heat it on medium power for three to five minutes. Make sure to check it often to avoid hot spots. In the fridge, your baked tomato casserole will last for about four days. If you notice any strange smells or mold, it’s time to toss it. Look for changes in color or texture. If the top looks dry or the cheese has turned a weird shade, don’t eat it. Always trust your senses; they help you spot spoilage. Enjoy your leftovers while they’re still delicious! For the full recipe, check out the complete guide. Yes, you can prepare this casserole a day in advance. Just layer all the ingredients in your dish. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Store it in the fridge until you're ready to bake. This can save time on busy days. Just make sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps it cook evenly. If you need a cheese alternative, try these options: - Cheddar cheese for a sharper taste - Provolone for a richer flavor - Feta for a crumbly, tangy twist - Vegan cheese for a dairy-free option These options can change the flavor and texture of your dish. Choose one based on your taste and dietary needs. To make this recipe vegan, substitute the mozzarella cheese with vegan cheese. You can also use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Replace the olive oil with a plant-based oil, if needed. Use a vegetable broth instead of any animal-based ingredients. With these changes, you can enjoy a tasty, plant-based version of this dish. This baked tomato casserole is simple and full of flavor. I covered key ingredients like ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and tasty spices. Step-by-step, you saw how to prep, layer, and bake it for a delicious dish. Remember, add your own twist with veggies or meat. Don’t forget how to store leftovers for later enjoyment. With these tips, you’re ready to create a meal that everyone will love. Enjoy customizing your casserole to fit your taste!](https://tossedflavors.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/e88ed1b7-4559-41e8-bd27-d4608d4a3419.webp)
Looking for a simple and tasty dish to impress your family? This Easy Baked Tomato Casserole is just what you need! With juicy tomatoes, fresh basil, and gooey mozzarella, this dish bursts with flavor in every bite. Even better, I’ve included helpful tips and variations to suit any taste. Stay with me, and let’s create something delicious together!
Ingredients
Key Ingredients for Easy Baked Tomato Casserole
– 4 large, ripe tomatoes, sliced into thick rounds
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, freshly shredded
The ripe tomatoes are the star of this dish. They bring a juicy and sweet flavor. Onions and garlic add a rich depth to the casserole. Fresh basil gives it a bright, earthy note. Finally, mozzarella cheese melts beautifully, tying everything together.
Pantry Staples Needed
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably seasoned)
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Breadcrumbs provide a lovely crunch on top. Olive oil adds healthy fats and richness. Dried oregano enhances the dish with its warm, fragrant notes.
Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
– Seasoned breadcrumbs
– Additional herbs and spices
Feel free to use seasoned breadcrumbs for added taste. You can also play with herbs and spices like thyme or red pepper flakes. These can boost flavor and make the dish your own.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping Your Ingredients
Start by slicing your tomatoes. Use four large, ripe tomatoes to get the best flavor. Cut them into thick rounds. Next, slice one medium onion thinly. Then, finely mince two cloves of garlic. This will add a nice kick to your dish. Finally, chop one cup of fresh basil leaves. You can use a knife or scissors for this. Don’t forget to shred one cup of mozzarella cheese. Fresh cheese melts better and tastes great.
Layering the Casserole
Now, it’s time to layer your casserole. Begin with a layer of half the sliced tomatoes. Place them evenly in a medium-sized baking dish. Next, add half of the sliced onion and half of the minced garlic. Spread them evenly over the tomatoes. Then, add half of the chopped basil. Season this layer with a pinch of sea salt, black pepper, and half a teaspoon of dried oregano.
Now, sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over this layer. Follow with half of the breadcrumbs for a nice crunch. Repeat this process. Add the remaining tomatoes, onions, garlic, basil, oregano, mozzarella, and breadcrumbs. Layering creates great flavors!
Baking the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is key for even cooking. Once preheated, cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. This helps keep moisture in while baking. Bake for 30 minutes. After that, carefully remove the foil. This allows the top to get crispy. Bake for another 15-20 minutes. You want the top to be golden brown and the tomatoes tender.
Once done, take the casserole out of the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes. It will set nicely before you serve it. For the full recipe, refer to the provided details. Enjoy this easy baked tomato casserole!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your Casserole
To avoid sogginess in layers, start with thick tomato slices. This helps them hold their shape. Use a good amount of breadcrumbs. They soak up excess moisture and add crunch. For seasoning, balance is key. Use sea salt and black pepper to enhance the flavors. Dried oregano brings warmth to the dish. Taste as you go to find what works best.
Serving Suggestions
For a great presentation, serve the casserole warm in the baking dish. It looks rustic and inviting. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for color and flavor. Pair your casserole with a side salad. A light, crisp salad complements the dish well. For drinks, try a chilled white wine. It enhances the tomato flavors perfectly.
Enhancing Flavor with Additional Ingredients
Adding protein can make your casserole heartier. Cooked ground beef, chicken, or sausage works well. Feel free to layer these with the tomatoes. Different cheese varieties can also elevate the taste. Try sharp cheddar or feta for a new twist. Mixing cheeses adds depth and richness to each bite. For the full recipe, check out the details above.
Variations
Vegetarian Variations
You can make this baked tomato casserole even better by adding more veggies. Try adding sliced zucchini or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture. These veggies will blend well with the tomatoes and add great color. If you need a gluten-free option, use quinoa or rice instead of breadcrumbs. They will give the dish a nice base while keeping it light and healthy.
Meat Lover’s Version
If you love meat, you can make this casserole heartier. Incorporate ground beef or sausage for a tasty twist. Just cook the meat ahead of time and layer it in with the tomatoes. You can also layer prosciutto in the dish. This adds richness and a savory taste that pairs well with the fresh tomatoes.
Spice It Up
Want to add some kick? Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or chili powder. This will give your casserole a nice heat without overpowering the dish. You can also create a Mediterranean twist by adding olives. The briny flavor of olives blends perfectly with the tomatoes and fresh basil, making each bite delicious.
For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe].
Storage Info
How to Properly Store Leftovers
To keep your baked tomato casserole fresh, store it in the fridge. Use an airtight container to lock in moisture and flavor. You can keep it for up to four days in the fridge. If you want to save it for later, freezing is a great option. Just let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you want to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Reheating Instructions
For the best taste, reheat your casserole in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in a dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until it’s warm all the way through. You can use the microwave, but the oven makes it crispier. If you use a microwave, heat it on medium power for three to five minutes. Make sure to check it often to avoid hot spots.
Shelf Life of Baked Tomato Casserole
In the fridge, your baked tomato casserole will last for about four days. If you notice any strange smells or mold, it’s time to toss it. Look for changes in color or texture. If the top looks dry or the cheese has turned a weird shade, don’t eat it. Always trust your senses; they help you spot spoilage. Enjoy your leftovers while they’re still delicious! For the full recipe, check out the complete guide.
FAQs
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this casserole a day in advance. Just layer all the ingredients in your dish. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This can save time on busy days. Just make sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps it cook evenly.
What can I substitute for mozzarella cheese?
If you need a cheese alternative, try these options:
– Cheddar cheese for a sharper taste
– Provolone for a richer flavor
– Feta for a crumbly, tangy twist
– Vegan cheese for a dairy-free option
These options can change the flavor and texture of your dish. Choose one based on your taste and dietary needs.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the mozzarella cheese with vegan cheese. You can also use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Replace the olive oil with a plant-based oil, if needed. Use a vegetable broth instead of any animal-based ingredients. With these changes, you can enjoy a tasty, plant-based version of this dish.
This baked tomato casserole is simple and full of flavor. I covered key ingredients like ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and tasty spices. Step-by-step, you saw how to prep, layer, and bake it for a delicious dish. Remember, add your own twist with veggies or meat. Don’t forget how to store leftovers for later enjoyment. With these tips, you’re ready to create a meal that everyone will love. Enjoy customizing your casserole to fit your taste!
![- 4 large, ripe tomatoes, sliced into thick rounds - 1 medium onion, thinly sliced - 2 cloves garlic, finely minced - 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped - 1 cup mozzarella cheese, freshly shredded The ripe tomatoes are the star of this dish. They bring a juicy and sweet flavor. Onions and garlic add a rich depth to the casserole. Fresh basil gives it a bright, earthy note. Finally, mozzarella cheese melts beautifully, tying everything together. - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably seasoned) - 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil - 1 teaspoon dried oregano Breadcrumbs provide a lovely crunch on top. Olive oil adds healthy fats and richness. Dried oregano enhances the dish with its warm, fragrant notes. - Seasoned breadcrumbs - Additional herbs and spices Feel free to use seasoned breadcrumbs for added taste. You can also play with herbs and spices like thyme or red pepper flakes. These can boost flavor and make the dish your own. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above. Start by slicing your tomatoes. Use four large, ripe tomatoes to get the best flavor. Cut them into thick rounds. Next, slice one medium onion thinly. Then, finely mince two cloves of garlic. This will add a nice kick to your dish. Finally, chop one cup of fresh basil leaves. You can use a knife or scissors for this. Don’t forget to shred one cup of mozzarella cheese. Fresh cheese melts better and tastes great. Now, it’s time to layer your casserole. Begin with a layer of half the sliced tomatoes. Place them evenly in a medium-sized baking dish. Next, add half of the sliced onion and half of the minced garlic. Spread them evenly over the tomatoes. Then, add half of the chopped basil. Season this layer with a pinch of sea salt, black pepper, and half a teaspoon of dried oregano. Now, sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over this layer. Follow with half of the breadcrumbs for a nice crunch. Repeat this process. Add the remaining tomatoes, onions, garlic, basil, oregano, mozzarella, and breadcrumbs. Layering creates great flavors! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is key for even cooking. Once preheated, cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. This helps keep moisture in while baking. Bake for 30 minutes. After that, carefully remove the foil. This allows the top to get crispy. Bake for another 15-20 minutes. You want the top to be golden brown and the tomatoes tender. Once done, take the casserole out of the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes. It will set nicely before you serve it. For the full recipe, refer to the provided details. Enjoy this easy baked tomato casserole! To avoid sogginess in layers, start with thick tomato slices. This helps them hold their shape. Use a good amount of breadcrumbs. They soak up excess moisture and add crunch. For seasoning, balance is key. Use sea salt and black pepper to enhance the flavors. Dried oregano brings warmth to the dish. Taste as you go to find what works best. For a great presentation, serve the casserole warm in the baking dish. It looks rustic and inviting. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for color and flavor. Pair your casserole with a side salad. A light, crisp salad complements the dish well. For drinks, try a chilled white wine. It enhances the tomato flavors perfectly. Adding protein can make your casserole heartier. Cooked ground beef, chicken, or sausage works well. Feel free to layer these with the tomatoes. Different cheese varieties can also elevate the taste. Try sharp cheddar or feta for a new twist. Mixing cheeses adds depth and richness to each bite. For the full recipe, check out the details above. {{image_4}} You can make this baked tomato casserole even better by adding more veggies. Try adding sliced zucchini or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture. These veggies will blend well with the tomatoes and add great color. If you need a gluten-free option, use quinoa or rice instead of breadcrumbs. They will give the dish a nice base while keeping it light and healthy. If you love meat, you can make this casserole heartier. Incorporate ground beef or sausage for a tasty twist. Just cook the meat ahead of time and layer it in with the tomatoes. You can also layer prosciutto in the dish. This adds richness and a savory taste that pairs well with the fresh tomatoes. Want to add some kick? Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or chili powder. This will give your casserole a nice heat without overpowering the dish. You can also create a Mediterranean twist by adding olives. The briny flavor of olives blends perfectly with the tomatoes and fresh basil, making each bite delicious. For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. To keep your baked tomato casserole fresh, store it in the fridge. Use an airtight container to lock in moisture and flavor. You can keep it for up to four days in the fridge. If you want to save it for later, freezing is a great option. Just let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you want to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge. For the best taste, reheat your casserole in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in a dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until it's warm all the way through. You can use the microwave, but the oven makes it crispier. If you use a microwave, heat it on medium power for three to five minutes. Make sure to check it often to avoid hot spots. In the fridge, your baked tomato casserole will last for about four days. If you notice any strange smells or mold, it’s time to toss it. Look for changes in color or texture. If the top looks dry or the cheese has turned a weird shade, don’t eat it. Always trust your senses; they help you spot spoilage. Enjoy your leftovers while they’re still delicious! For the full recipe, check out the complete guide. Yes, you can prepare this casserole a day in advance. Just layer all the ingredients in your dish. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Store it in the fridge until you're ready to bake. This can save time on busy days. Just make sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps it cook evenly. If you need a cheese alternative, try these options: - Cheddar cheese for a sharper taste - Provolone for a richer flavor - Feta for a crumbly, tangy twist - Vegan cheese for a dairy-free option These options can change the flavor and texture of your dish. Choose one based on your taste and dietary needs. To make this recipe vegan, substitute the mozzarella cheese with vegan cheese. You can also use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Replace the olive oil with a plant-based oil, if needed. Use a vegetable broth instead of any animal-based ingredients. With these changes, you can enjoy a tasty, plant-based version of this dish. This baked tomato casserole is simple and full of flavor. I covered key ingredients like ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and tasty spices. Step-by-step, you saw how to prep, layer, and bake it for a delicious dish. Remember, add your own twist with veggies or meat. Don’t forget how to store leftovers for later enjoyment. With these tips, you’re ready to create a meal that everyone will love. Enjoy customizing your casserole to fit your taste!](https://tossedflavors.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/e88ed1b7-4559-41e8-bd27-d4608d4a3419-300x300.webp)