Smoky Southern Tomato Bacon Pie – With a Bold New Twist
Smoky Southern Tomato Bacon Pie is a delicious dish that brings together fresh tomatoes, crispy bacon, and creamy cheese. This pie has a smoky flavor that makes it stand out from regular tomato pies. It’s perfect for gatherings and family dinners, and it’s easy to make!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is great for many reasons! Firstly, it’s a unique twist on the traditional tomato pie. The combination of smoky bacon and rich cheeses elevates the classic flavors. Also, using fresh heirloom tomatoes gives the pie a lovely color and taste. It is a wonderful dish to impress your guests or to enjoy as a comforting family meal.
How to Make Smoky Southern Tomato Bacon Pie
Ingredients:
- 1 prepared pie crust
- 3 heirloom tomatoes, sliced and salted
- 5 slices applewood-smoked bacon, chopped
- 1/2 cup smoked Gouda cheese
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup mayo
- 1 tbsp chipotle in adobo, finely minced
- 1 green onion, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the pie crust for 10 minutes until it’s lightly browned.
- In a skillet, sauté the chopped bacon until it becomes crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- Pat the tomato slices dry to remove excess moisture.
- In a bowl, combine the mayo, chipotle in adobo, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.
- Layer the tomato slices, crispy bacon, chopped green onion, and both cheeses in the baked pie crust.
- Spread the chipotle mayo mixture evenly on top.
- Bake in the oven for 30 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
- Let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.
How to Serve Smoky Southern Tomato Bacon Pie
This pie is best served warm. Cut it into slices and serve it on a plate. It pairs nicely with a simple green salad or some crusty bread. This dish is a yummy centerpiece for a picnic or potluck, and it can also be enjoyed as leftovers.
How to Store Smoky Southern Tomato Bacon Pie
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven until warm. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the crust soggy.
Tips to Make Smoky Southern Tomato Bacon Pie
- Use fresh, ripe heirloom tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Make sure to salt the tomatoes and pat them dry to reduce excess moisture in the pie.
- Feel free to adjust the level of spice in the chipotle mayo according to your taste.
- For extra flavor, you can try adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme.
Variation
You can add different ingredients to customize this pie. For a veggie version, consider adding sautéed spinach or zucchini. You can also use different kinds of cheese, like cheddar or fontina, to create your own unique flavor profile.
FAQs
1. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Bake it just before serving for the best taste.
2. Can I freeze Smoky Southern Tomato Bacon Pie?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked pie. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, cook it for a bit longer from frozen.
3. What can I serve with this pie?
This pie goes well with a side salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables. It’s versatile enough to pair with many dishes!
