When summer is in full swing, and fresh, ripe tomatoes are abundant, there’s no better way to celebrate their juicy sweetness than with a simple dish that truly lets them shine. These Cheesy Baked Florida Tomatoes are a testament to that philosophy – a delightful blend of tender, sun-kissed tomatoes topped with gooey melted cheese and aromatic herbs, all baked to perfection. It’s a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful side dish or light snack that captures the essence of the season.
Why I Love This Recipe
I’m a firm believer that the best dishes often come from the simplest ingredients, prepared with care. What I absolutely adore about these Cheesy Baked Florida Tomatoes is how they transform humble tomatoes into something truly special. The baking process intensifies the tomatoes’ natural sweetness, while the melted mozzarella and Parmesan create a savory, comforting blanket.
It’s an incredibly versatile recipe that works as a fantastic side dish for almost any meal, a light appetizer, or even a satisfying snack on its own. Plus, it comes together in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you want fresh, homemade flavor without a lot of fuss. It’s a guilt-free way to indulge in the vibrant tastes of summer!
Ingredients
To create these delightful cheesy baked tomatoes, you’ll need:
- 4 large ripe Florida tomatoes, cut into thick 1/2-inch slices
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Swaps and Notes
- Florida Tomatoes: While the recipe specifies Florida tomatoes, any large, ripe, and firm tomato variety (like Beefsteak, Roma, or even heirloom tomatoes) will work wonderfully. Choose tomatoes that are heavy for their size and have a vibrant color.
- Cheese: The combination of mozzarella for its meltiness and Parmesan for its salty, nutty flavor is fantastic. Feel free to adjust the ratios or substitute with other good melting cheeses like provolone, Gruyere, or a sharp cheddar. A sprinkle of crumbled feta could also add a tangy kick.
- Herbs: Italian seasoning is a classic choice, but you can customize with other dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or a pinch of dried basil. Fresh herbs (basil or parsley) for garnish add a bright, fresh finish and are highly recommended.
- Spice: For a little warmth, a tiny pinch of red pepper flakes can be added along with the other seasonings.
- Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the flavor of the tomatoes.
List of Steps for the Recipe
- Preheat Oven & Prep Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Arrange Tomatoes & Season: Carefully arrange the thick 1/2-inch slices of Florida tomatoes on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Try not to overlap them so they can bake evenly. Brush each tomato slice lightly with olive oil.
- Season Tomatoes: Evenly sprinkle each tomato slice with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to taste. Don’t be shy with the seasoning, as it really enhances the tomato flavor.
- Add Cheese Topping: In a small bowl, quickly mix together the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Generously sprinkle this cheesy blend over each tomato slice, ensuring good coverage.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted, bubbly, and just beginning to turn golden brown around the edges.
- Broil for Crispness (Optional): If you crave an extra crispy, golden-brown top, turn on the broiler for an additional 1–2 minutes. Keep a very close eye on it, as cheese can burn quickly under the broiler!
- Garnish & Serve: Remove the baked tomatoes from the oven. Let them cool slightly on the baking sheet before carefully transferring them. Garnish with fresh chopped basil or parsley if desired for a burst of freshness and color. Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Tips for Success
- Ripe, Firm Tomatoes: Choose ripe but firm tomatoes. Overly soft tomatoes can become too watery when baked.
- Don’t Overlap: Arranging tomatoes in a single layer ensures even cooking and browning.
- Even Seasoning: Ensure a uniform sprinkle of seasonings and cheese on each slice for consistent flavor.
- Watch the Broiler: If using the broiler, do not walk away! Cheese can go from perfectly golden to burnt in seconds.
- Serve Warm: These tomatoes are best enjoyed warm when the cheese is still gooey and the flavors are at their peak.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These Cheesy Baked Florida Tomatoes are incredibly versatile and can enhance many meals:
- Side Dish: A perfect side to grilled chicken, fish, steak, or pork chops.
- Light Lunch: Enjoy a few slices on their own for a light and flavorful lunch.
- Appetizer: Serve them as a simple, elegant appetizer for a gathering. They’re a breeze to prepare and always a hit, similar to the ease and appeal of This Baked Brie Appetizer is My Favorite Effortless Way to Impress Guests.
- Bruschetta Topping: Chop them up after baking and use them as a topping for toasted baguette slices.
- Egg Dishes: Serve alongside scrambled eggs, omelets, or a frittata for a delicious breakfast or brunch.
- Italian-Inspired Meals: They complement pasta dishes, like Classic Spaghetti Recipe with Homemade Sauce, beautifully.
- Hearty Main Courses: Pair with other comforting dishes such as This Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole is My Favorite One-Pan Dinner That’s Always a Hit.
Storage and Leftover Tips
Cheesy Baked Florida Tomatoes are truly best enjoyed fresh and warm from the oven. If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days.
To reheat, the best method is to use a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly again. Microwaving is not recommended as it will make them soggy.
More Recipes You Will Love
If you enjoyed the fresh, savory flavors and ease of this recipe, be sure to explore some of these other fantastic dishes from Chef Maniac:
- For another delicious way to enjoy tomatoes and other fresh veggies, try This Tomato Skillet with Okra and Sausage is My Favorite Quick Dinner Packed with Southern Flavor.
- And if you’re a fan of easy, cheesy appetizers that are always a crowd-pleaser, check out Easy Cheesy Chicken Sliders with Marinara Garlic Butter.
Final Thoughts
These Cheesy Baked Florida Tomatoes are a celebration of simplicity and fresh flavor. They’re quick to prepare, incredibly delicious, and highlight the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes. Whether you serve them as a vibrant side, a light snack, or a beautiful appetizer, they’re sure to bring a taste of summer sunshine to your table.
Did you add any other herbs or spices to your baked tomatoes? What’s your favorite way to enjoy fresh summer tomatoes? Share your ideas and feedback in the comments below! And for more amazing recipes that celebrate fresh ingredients and effortless cooking, be sure to follow Chef Maniac and Jason Griffith.
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