Ever Craved a Savory Pie That’s Pure Southern Comfort?
Picture slicing into a flaky, buttery pie crust filled with smoky bacon, sweet caramelized onions, juicy tomatoes, and a creamy, cheesy topping. Sounds like a warm hug in pie form, right? That’s exactly what Bacon Onion Tomato Pie delivers! This Southern-inspired dish combines rich, savory flavors with a gourmet twist, making it perfect for brunch, a light supper, or a potluck showstopper. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through every step to create this indulgent yet easy pie, with tips to make it a hit. Ready to bake some comfort food magic? Let’s get started!
Overview: Why This Pie Shines
Bacon Onion Tomato Pie is a savory masterpiece that balances smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors in a flaky crust. With a creamy cheese topping and simple pantry staples, it’s easy to make, serves 6-8, and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. It’s versatile enough for any occasion and pairs beautifully with a crisp salad or a glass of white wine.
- Time Requirement: 15 minutes prep, 45 minutes cooking. Total: 1 hour.
- Difficulty Level: Easy. Simple assembly and baking make it beginner-friendly.
- Why It’s Special: Serves 6-8, offers a perfect mix of textures (flaky, creamy, juicy), and uses everyday ingredients for a gourmet result.
- Health Perks: Tomatoes provide vitamin C and antioxidants, but this rich pie with bacon and cheese is a treat best enjoyed in moderation.
Grab your pie dish, and let’s create a Southern classic that’s sure to impress!
Essential Ingredients
This pie uses straightforward ingredients to deliver bold, comforting flavors. Here’s what you need and why each one matters:
- Deep-Dish Pie Crust (1, store-bought or homemade, pre-baked): The flaky foundation.
- Why it matters: Holds the savory filling and adds buttery crunch.
- Substitution: Use a gluten-free crust or puff pastry for a twist.
- Thick-Cut Bacon (6-8 slices, cooked and crumbled): Adds smoky, savory depth.
- Why it matters: Brings bold flavor and crispy texture.
- Substitution: Use turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon for a lighter or meat-free option.
- Yellow Onion (1 large, thinly sliced): Provides sweet, caramelized flavor.
- Why it matters: Balances the richness with natural sweetness when cooked.
- Substitution: Use sweet onions (like Vidalia) or red onions.
- Tomatoes (2 medium, thinly sliced): Add juicy, tangy freshness.
- Why it matters: Bring brightness and balance to the rich filling.
- Substitution: Use heirloom tomatoes or drained canned tomatoes.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (1 1/2 cups): Creates a melty, creamy topping.
- Why it matters: Adds gooey texture and mild flavor.
- Substitution: Use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a dairy-free cheese.
- Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): Forms a creamy, tangy topping base.
- Why it matters: Combines with cheese for a rich, casserole-like topping.
- Substitution: Use Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Sour Cream (1/2 cup): Adds tang and creaminess.
- Why it matters: Enhances the topping’s richness and balances flavors.
- Substitution: Use plain yogurt or dairy-free sour cream.
- All-Purpose Flour (1 tbsp): Thickens the topping.
- Why it matters: Prevents the topping from being too runny.
- Substitution: Use cornstarch or gluten-free flour.
- Garlic Powder (1/2 tsp): Adds subtle savory depth.
- Why it matters: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Substitution: Use onion powder or fresh minced garlic.
- Black Pepper (1/4 tsp) and Salt (1/4 tsp): Season the filling.
- Why it matters: Balance and elevate all flavors.
- Chopped Fresh Chives or Parsley (1 tbsp, optional): Add a fresh, herby finish.
- Why it matters: Provide color and a pop of flavor.
- Substitution: Use green onions or dried herbs.
Pro Tip: Use ripe, firm tomatoes to avoid excess liquid, and pre-bake the crust to keep it crisp. Cook bacon until crispy for the best texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Bacon Onion Tomato Pie is simple with a few key steps to ensure a flaky, flavorful result. Follow these for a perfect pie:
- Prepare the Crust:
- Pre-bake a deep-dish pie crust (store-bought or homemade) according to package or recipe instructions (typically 10-12 minutes at 375°F/190°C). Let cool slightly.
- Tip: Prick the crust with a fork before baking to prevent puffing.
- Cook the Bacon:
- Cook 6-8 slices thick-cut bacon until crispy, then drain on paper towels and crumble. Set aside.
- Tip: Save a little bacon grease to cook the onions for extra flavor.
- Caramelize the Onions:
- In a skillet over medium-low heat, cook 1 large thinly sliced yellow onion in 1-2 tbsp bacon grease or olive oil until soft and golden, about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally.
- Let cool slightly.
- Tip: Low and slow cooking ensures sweet, caramelized onions without burning.
- Prepare the Cheese Topping:
- In a medium bowl, mix 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella, 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/2 cup sour cream, 1 tbsp flour, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp salt until smooth.
- Tip: Stir until fully combined to avoid a grainy texture.
- Assemble the Pie:
- Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the pre-baked crust.
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the onions.
- Layer 2 medium tomatoes, thinly sliced, over the bacon, overlapping slightly if needed.
- Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the tomatoes, covering the filling completely.
- Tip: Pat tomato slices dry with paper towels to reduce excess moisture.
- Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the pie for 25-30 minutes, until the topping is golden and bubbly.
- Tip: Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Let the pie cool for 5-10 minutes, then sprinkle with 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional).
- Slice into 6-8 wedges and serve warm or at room temperature.
- Health Benefit: Tomatoes provide vitamin C and antioxidants, but this rich pie is best enjoyed as a comforting treat!
Assembly: Building Your Pie
This pie is all about layering savory, smoky, and creamy elements for a cohesive dish. Here’s how to make it perfect:
- Start with the Crust:
- Pre-bake the crust to ensure it stays flaky against the moist filling.
- Tip: Cool the crust slightly to prevent sogginess.
- Layer the Filling:
- Add caramelized onions, bacon, and tomatoes in even layers for balanced flavor in every bite.
- Presentation Tip: Arrange tomato slices in a spiral for a pretty look.
- Top with Cheese Mixture:
- Spread the creamy cheese topping evenly to seal in the filling.
- Presentation Tip: Smooth the top for a polished, golden finish after baking.
- Garnish and Slice:
- Add fresh herbs for color and slice carefully to show off the layers.
- Presentation Tip: Use a sharp knife for clean cuts, wiping between slices.
Serving Suggestion: Serve with a crisp green salad (arugula or spinach) or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Pair with a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc for a sophisticated touch!
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Bacon Onion Tomato Pie is great for prepping ahead:
- Storing Leftovers:
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Tip: Reheat slices in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to revive the crust’s texture.
- Freezing:
- Freeze the baked pie (or individual slices) for up to 2 months, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
- Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
- Tip: Freeze without herbs; add fresh garnish when serving.
- Make-Ahead:
- Pre-bake the crust and prepare the filling components (onions, bacon, cheese mixture) up to 1 day ahead; store separately in the fridge.
- Assemble and bake just before serving for the freshest flavor.
- Tip: Caramelize onions in advance to save time.
Recipe Variations
Want to mix things up? Try these fun twists on Bacon Onion Tomato Pie:
- Spicy Kick: Add 1/4 tsp cayenne or chopped jalapeños to the cheese mixture.
- Veggie Delight: Replace bacon with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for a vegetarian version.
- Cheesy Swap: Use cheddar or smoked gouda instead of mozzarella for a bolder flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pie crust and substitute flour with cornstarch in the topping.
- Herb Boost: Mix 1 tsp fresh basil or thyme into the cheese topping for extra aroma.
Quick Prep Tip: Cook bacon and onions ahead and store in the fridge to speed up assembly.
Conclusion
Your Bacon Onion Tomato Pie is ready to bring Southern comfort to any table! With its flaky crust, smoky bacon, sweet onions, juicy tomatoes, and creamy cheese topping, this pie is a perfect blend of indulgence and ease. Whether for brunch, dinner, or a potluck, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Serve it warm or at room temperature, pair it with a salad or wine, and enjoy every savory bite. We’d love to see your creations—share your photos or tips in the comments or on social media! Happy baking!
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Bacon Onion Tomato Pie
Description
Picture slicing into a flaky, buttery pie crust filled with smoky bacon, sweet caramelized onions, juicy tomatoes, and a creamy, cheesy topping. Sounds like a warm hug in pie form, right? That’s exactly what Bacon Onion Tomato Pie delivers! This Southern-inspired dish combines rich, savory flavors with a gourmet twist, making it perfect for brunch, a light supper, or a potluck showstopper.
Ingredients
This pie uses straightforward ingredients to deliver bold, comforting flavors. Here’s what you need and why each one matters:
- Deep-Dish Pie Crust (1, store-bought or homemade, pre-baked): The flaky foundation.
- Why it matters: Holds the savory filling and adds buttery crunch.
- Substitution: Use a gluten-free crust or puff pastry for a twist.
- Thick-Cut Bacon (6-8 slices, cooked and crumbled): Adds smoky, savory depth.
- Why it matters: Brings bold flavor and crispy texture.
- Substitution: Use turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon for a lighter or meat-free option.
- Yellow Onion (1 large, thinly sliced): Provides sweet, caramelized flavor.
- Why it matters: Balances the richness with natural sweetness when cooked.
- Substitution: Use sweet onions (like Vidalia) or red onions.
- Tomatoes (2 medium, thinly sliced): Add juicy, tangy freshness.
- Why it matters: Bring brightness and balance to the rich filling.
- Substitution: Use heirloom tomatoes or drained canned tomatoes.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (1 1/2 cups): Creates a melty, creamy topping.
- Why it matters: Adds gooey texture and mild flavor.
- Substitution: Use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a dairy-free cheese.
- Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): Forms a creamy, tangy topping base.
- Why it matters: Combines with cheese for a rich, casserole-like topping.
- Substitution: Use Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Sour Cream (1/2 cup): Adds tang and creaminess.
- Why it matters: Enhances the topping’s richness and balances flavors.
- Substitution: Use plain yogurt or dairy-free sour cream.
- All-Purpose Flour (1 tbsp): Thickens the topping.
- Why it matters: Prevents the topping from being too runny.
- Substitution: Use cornstarch or gluten-free flour.
- Garlic Powder (1/2 tsp): Adds subtle savory depth.
- Why it matters: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Substitution: Use onion powder or fresh minced garlic.
- Black Pepper (1/4 tsp) and Salt (1/4 tsp): Season the filling.
- Why it matters: Balance and elevate all flavors.
- Chopped Fresh Chives or Parsley (1 tbsp, optional): Add a fresh, herby finish.
- Why it matters: Provide color and a pop of flavor.
- Substitution: Use green onions or dried herbs.
Pro Tip: Use ripe, firm tomatoes to avoid excess liquid, and pre-bake the crust to keep it crisp. Cook bacon until crispy for the best texture.
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Pre-bake a deep-dish pie crust (store-bought or homemade) according to package or recipe instructions (typically 10-12 minutes at 375°F/190°C). Let cool slightly.
- Tip: Prick the crust with a fork before baking to prevent puffing.
- Cook the Bacon:
- Cook 6-8 slices thick-cut bacon until crispy, then drain on paper towels and crumble. Set aside.
- Tip: Save a little bacon grease to cook the onions for extra flavor.
- Caramelize the Onions:
- In a skillet over medium-low heat, cook 1 large thinly sliced yellow onion in 1-2 tbsp bacon grease or olive oil until soft and golden, about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally.
- Let cool slightly.
- Tip: Low and slow cooking ensures sweet, caramelized onions without burning.
- Prepare the Cheese Topping:
- In a medium bowl, mix 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella, 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/2 cup sour cream, 1 tbsp flour, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp salt until smooth.
- Tip: Stir until fully combined to avoid a grainy texture.
- Assemble the Pie:
- Spread the caramelized onions evenly over the pre-baked crust.
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the onions.
- Layer 2 medium tomatoes, thinly sliced, over the bacon, overlapping slightly if needed.
- Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the tomatoes, covering the filling completely.
- Tip: Pat tomato slices dry with paper towels to reduce excess moisture.
- Bake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the pie for 25-30 minutes, until the topping is golden and bubbly.
- Tip: Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Let the pie cool for 5-10 minutes, then sprinkle with 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives or parsley (optional).
- Slice into 6-8 wedges and serve warm or at room temperature.
- Health Benefit: Tomatoes provide vitamin C and antioxidants, but this rich pie is best enjoyed as a comforting treat!
FAQs
1. Can I use a different crust?
Yes! Try a puff pastry crust for a flakier texture or a homemade butter crust for extra richness.
2. Is this pie healthy?
Tomatoes offer vitamin C and antioxidants, but bacon, cheese, and mayo make it a rich treat. Enjoy in moderation or use turkey bacon and Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
3. How do I prevent a soggy crust?
Pre-bake the crust, pat tomatoes dry, and avoid overloading with wet ingredients.
4. Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Swap bacon for sautéed mushrooms, smoked tofu, or extra veggies like bell peppers.
5. How long does this pie last?
Up to 3-4 days in the fridge or 2 months in the freezer, stored properly. Reheat for best texture.
6. Can I use canned tomatoes?
Yes, but drain and pat dry thoroughly to avoid excess moisture. Fresh tomatoes give the best flavor.