Save A vibrant, cheesy tomato bake that comes together quickly without feta—perfect for weeknight dinners or as a hearty side.
I love how this dish is versatile and comes together so fast that it becomes my weeknight favorite.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 700 g (1.5 lbs) ripe tomatoes, sliced, 1 small red onion, thinly sliced, 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Cheese: 125 g (4.5 oz) fresh mozzarella, torn or sliced, 40 g (1/4 cup) grated Parmesan cheese
- Herbs & Seasoning: 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1/2 tsp dried basil, Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Garnish (optional): Fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Step 2:
- Lightly oil a medium baking dish. Arrange half the tomato slices in a single layer.
- Step 3:
- Sprinkle half the red onion and half the minced garlic over the tomatoes. Season lightly with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
- Step 4:
- Layer half the mozzarella over the vegetables.
- Step 5:
- Repeat with the remaining tomatoes, onion, garlic, seasonings, and mozzarella.
- Step 6:
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle Parmesan evenly over the top.
- Step 7:
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly and the tomatoes are tender.
- Step 8:
- Let cool slightly. Top with fresh basil before serving.
Save This recipe always reminds me of cozy family dinners where everyone asks for seconds.
Notes
For extra flavor add a handful of sliced olives or roasted red peppers between the layers. Swap mozzarella for ricotta or goat cheese if desired (still feta-free). Serve with crusty bread or over cooked pasta for a complete meal.
Required Tools
Medium baking dish, Chef's knife, Cutting board, Grater
Nutritional Information
Calories: 210, Total Fat: 13 g, Carbohydrates: 11 g, Protein: 11 g per serving
Save This speedy tomato bake is sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation for its ease and flavor.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute mozzarella with another cheese?
Yes, mozzarella can be replaced with ricotta or goat cheese for a different texture and flavor while maintaining the feta-free aspect.
- → How do I prevent the dish from becoming watery?
Using ripe but firm tomatoes and avoiding excess layering of watery ingredients helps. Baking time also reduces moisture, resulting in a thicker texture.
- → What herbs complement this tomato bake best?
Dried oregano and basil are classic choices here, enhancing the Mediterranean flavors. Fresh basil added after baking brightens the dish.
- → Is this suitable for vegetarians with milk restrictions?
This dish contains dairy from mozzarella and Parmesan, so check cheese labels for rennet if strict vegetarian guidelines apply.
- → Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving to maintain freshness and the golden bubbly top.