Baked Tomatoes With Cheese Recipe

I love how this recipe melds ripe tomatoes, mozzarella, Parmesan, and a scatter of fresh basil into a ready-to-enjoy treat. In my kitchen, I use baked tomatoes with Parmesan to craft an inviting side dish that pairs beautifully with any meal. Garlic, olive oil, and spices add a delightful punch of flavor.

I recently tried out a recipe for baked tomatoes with cheese that really surprised me with its simplicity and flavor. I used 4 large ripe tomatoes as the base, hollowed them out a bit, and filled them with shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan.

I mixed in some minced garlic, a bit of olive oil, salt and pepper before topping them with roughly chopped fresh basil. It might sound simple, but that combination of cheeses and herbs creates a dish that’s both elegant and approachable.

I love how this recipe can easily double as an appetizer or a side dish, perfect for when you’re in a rush yet still want something tasty and impressive. It reminded me of those creative tomato dishes where every bite is loaded with flavor and texture.

If you enjoy tomatoes with Parmesan cheese on a keto-friendly note, this one might just become your go-to recipe. Enjoy experimentin with it!

Why I Like this Recipe

I really like this recipe because it’s super quick and easy to make, even when im not the best cook, so i always feel confident whipping it up. I also love the mix of flavors – the sweetness of the tomatoes combined with the gooey, melted mozzarella and the sharp kick of the Parmesan just hits different. The garlic oil drizzle gives the dish a real punch of flavor that makes every bite exciting. Lastly, i appreciate that its a versatile dish that works as a side dish or even an appetizer at parties, so i always get compliments on how tasty it is.

Ingredients

• Tomatoes are rich in fiber and vitamins and give a tangy, fresh flavor
• Mozzarella is a mild, creamy cheese that adds protein and smooth texture
• Parmesan gives a salty kick and extra protein with its sharp, bold taste
• Basil is full of antioxidants and brings a fresh, herbal punch to the dish
• Garlic packs a subtle, healthful zing and is great for boosting flavor
• Olive oil provides healthy fats and its earthy aroma enhances overall taste

Ingredient Quantities

• 4 large ripe tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Handful of fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste

How to Make this

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.

2. Wash the tomatoes and carefully slice them in half horizontally.

3. Place the tomato halves in a baking dish with the cut side up.

4. In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic with the olive oil.

5. Drizzle the garlic oil evenly over the tomatoes and sprinkle them with salt and black pepper.

6. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the tomatoes.

7. Next, add the grated Parmesan cheese on top to get that extra cheesy flavor.

8. Scatter the roughly chopped basil leaves over the cheese.

9. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly browned.

10. Let it cool for a couple of minutes before serving and enjoy this easy cheesy treat!

Equipment Needed

1. Oven – Preheat it to 375°F before you start
2. Cutting board – For washing and slicing the tomatoes
3. Sharp knife – To cut the tomatoes in half horizontally
4. Baking dish – Use this for arranging the tomato halves, cut side up
5. Small bowl – To mix the minced garlic with olive oil
6. Measuring cups and spoons – To precisely measure the mozzarella, Parmesan, olive oil, salt, and pepper
7. Spoon – For drizzling the garlic oil evenly over the tomatoes

FAQ

Baked Tomatoes With Cheese Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• If you don’t have mozzarella, you can use Monterey Jack or provolone cheese.
• You could swap out the Parmesan for Pecorino Romano if you want a sharper kick.
• If fresh basil isn’t available, dried basil or even fresh oregano works pretty good.
• Instead of olive oil, try avocado oil or a bit of melted butter for a richer flavor.
• Can’t find garlic cloves? Garlic powder is a decent substitute, just use a little less.

Pro Tips

1. Try letting your garlic oil sit for a few mins after mixing it with the garlic so its flavor really gets into the tomatoes when they bake.
2. It helps to slice the tomatoes neat and even so they cook at the same speed, and if theyre too thick some parts might stay raw.
3. If you like your dish extra cheesy, you can add a little more mozzarella or even experiment with some provolone, but dont overdo it or it can get too heavy.
4. Give a quick broil at the end for just 1 or 2 minutes if you want that extra browning on the cheese, just keep an eye on it so it doesnt burn.