Transform your mealtime with these irresistible Tomato Pots—hollowed-out ripe tomatoes packed with a flavorful blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, garlic, and golden breadcrumbs. This easy-to-make dish is oven-baked to perfection, creating a tender-yet-structured tomato that holds its shape while the filling melts into a savory, cheesy delight. With just 15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes in the oven, these perfectly portioned stuffed tomatoes shine as a hearty appetizer, a satisfying side dish, or the star of a light dinner. Drizzled with olive oil for a beautiful golden topping and enhanced with optional red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, these Tomato Pots are a versatile, crowd-pleasing addition to your recipe collection. Perfect for showcasing fresh summer produce or adding a touch of elegance to any meal, this is the ultimate recipe for tomato lovers!
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Wash the tomatoes and slice off the tops. Carefully hollow out the insides with a spoon, being cautious not to puncture the outer walls. Reserve the scooped-out pulp for another use, or discard.
Sprinkle a pinch of salt inside each hollowed-out tomato to help draw out excess moisture. Turn them upside down on a paper towel and let them drain while you prepare the filling.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped basil, breadcrumbs, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix well until you achieve a uniform texture.
Pat the tomatoes dry with a paper towel and place them upright in a baking dish. Spoon the filling into each tomato, pressing down gently to pack it in, and slightly mounding the top.
Drizzle a little extra olive oil over the tops of the stuffed tomatoes to help them brown nicely.
Bake the tomatoes in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the tomatoes are tender but still hold their shape.
Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the tomatoes cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Serve warm as an appetizer, side dish, or alongside a fresh salad for a light meal.
Serving size | 955.3 grams (955.3g) |
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Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
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Calories | 1023 |
Total Fat 62.50g | 80% |
Saturated Fat 23.30g | 117% |
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g | |
Cholesterol 108mg | 36% |
Sodium 3108mg | 135% |
Total Carbohydrate 75.90g | 28% |
Dietary Fiber 11.10g | 40% |
Total Sugars 24.60g | |
Protein 46.50g | 93% |
Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
Calcium 1137mg | 87% |
Iron 6mg | 33% |
Potassium 1847mg | 39% |
Source of Calories