Tomato Pie Dip

This Southern Tomato Pie Dip brings together the rich flavors of creamy cheeses and juicy tomatoes with a savory cracker crust, creating the ultimate comfort dip. It’s a perfect choice for gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in, offering a satisfying blend of textures and tastes.

The dip’s hearty layers of cheese and tomato, enhanced by the fresh basil and crunchy cracker topping, make for an irresistible crowd-pleaser. Whether served with crackers or bread, this Southern-inspired dish is bound to impress with its rustic charm and delightful creaminess, appealing to both cheese lovers and tomato fans alike.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 large tomato, sliced thin
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until creamy and smooth.
  3. Spread the mixture into an 8×8-inch baking dish.
  4. Layer thinly sliced tomato on top of the cheese mixture. Drizzle with olive oil.
  5. In a small bowl, combine crushed buttery crackers with a little extra Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle over the top of the tomato layer.
  6. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
  7. Serve warm with crackers or bread for dipping.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes

Kcal: 280 kcal per serving | Servings: 8 servings

The preparation of Southern Tomato Pie Dip is both straightforward and adaptable, making it ideal for cooks of any skill level. One of the standout features of this recipe is how easy it is to assemble with minimal prep time. In just a few simple steps, you can create a flavorful and hearty dip that’s ready to bake and serve in under an hour.

Cheese Blend and Creamy Base: The core of this dip is its rich, cheesy base, which combines mayonnaise, cream cheese, sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. These ingredients are mixed together to form a smooth, creamy foundation that’s loaded with flavor. The mayonnaise adds a slight tanginess, while the cream cheese brings richness and smooth texture. The combination of cheddar and mozzarella ensures a perfect melt, while the Parmesan provides a salty, nutty finish.

When mixing the cheeses, it’s important to make sure that the cream cheese is softened to room temperature to ensure a smoother blend. This step makes it easier to mix all the cheeses and seasonings evenly, creating a consistent texture throughout the dip.

Tomato Layer: The tomatoes are another key element, adding brightness and freshness. For the best results, you’ll want to use fresh, ripe tomatoes. Thinly slicing the tomatoes allows them to cook evenly on top of the dip, releasing their juices into the cheese without making the dip too watery. If you’re concerned about excess moisture, you can lightly salt the tomatoes and let them sit for a few minutes to draw out some of the water, then gently pat them dry before layering them on the dip.

The combination of fresh tomatoes with garlic, onion powder, and basil creates a delightful balance between savory and fresh flavors. The basil, especially, brings a herbaceous, slightly sweet note that pairs beautifully with the tomatoes and cheese.

Cracker Crust: The final touch is the buttery cracker topping. Crushed crackers, such as Ritz or any other buttery variety, add a crunchy texture that contrasts with the creamy filling. The cracker topping is mixed with a bit of Parmesan, which enhances the golden crust when baked and adds a deeper, savory flavor. You can even drizzle a little olive oil over the top to help it brown to perfection.

Baking and Serving: Once assembled, the dip bakes in a moderate oven (350°F) for about 25 to 30 minutes, until it’s bubbly and golden brown on top. The key here is to bake until the edges are bubbling and the top is lightly crisped, signaling that the cheeses have melted perfectly and the cracker topping has toasted.

When serving, this dip is best enjoyed warm, as the cheeses will be gooey and the tomato flavor at its peak. For presentation, you can serve it in the same dish you baked it in or transfer it to a serving bowl, paired with an assortment of crackers, bread, or vegetable sticks.

Pro Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, you can personalize this recipe by adding additional herbs or spices. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a bit of heat or a few dashes of balsamic glaze can elevate the dish further. You can also substitute fresh heirloom tomatoes for a colorful twist or mix in some caramelized onions for added depth.

The Southern Tomato Pie Dip is a creative twist on the classic Southern tomato pie, transformed into a rich and creamy dip perfect for parties, gatherings, or casual snacking. This recipe captures the essence of Southern comfort food, blending fresh tomatoes, a medley of cheeses, and a crispy buttery cracker topping to deliver a dish that is both decadent and satisfying.

The star ingredient, ripe tomatoes, adds a juicy, tangy layer that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the mayonnaise, cream cheese, and a trio of cheeses: sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan. The fresh basil introduces a subtle herbaceous note, while the garlic and onion powders enhance the savory flavors. The cracker crust adds a delightful crunch, creating a perfect balance of textures in every bite.

This dip is not only flavorful but also versatile. You can serve it with crackers, crusty bread, or even vegetable sticks for a lighter option. It’s a fantastic dish to make ahead of time—just pop it in the oven when your guests arrive for a warm, bubbling appetizer that will impress.

The simplicity of the ingredients and quick preparation time makes this recipe ideal for beginner cooks or those looking for a hassle-free, crowd-pleasing dip. You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your preferences, such as adding extra herbs or spices, or incorporating heirloom tomatoes for a more colorful presentation. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, tailgate, or simply craving a warm, cheesy dip, the Southern Tomato Pie Dip is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

The Southern Tomato Pie Dip is a culinary homage to the traditional Southern tomato pie, but reimagined in dip form, making it a fun and convenient dish to share with friends and family. While the classic tomato pie typically includes layers of tomatoes, cheese, and a pie crust, this version is transformed into a luscious, creamy dip with layers of flavor and texture. It’s a perfect choice for entertaining because it takes the essence of a beloved Southern recipe and turns it into an approachable appetizer that everyone can enjoy.

The combination of cream cheese, cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan ensures a rich and indulgent flavor profile, while the fresh tomatoes provide a burst of sweetness and acidity that cuts through the richness. The addition of fresh basil gives the dip a light, aromatic quality that complements the creamy base. The buttery cracker topping offers a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the smoothness of the cheese, making every bite a delightful mix of textures.

Conclusion:

the Southern Tomato Pie Dip is a wonderfully rich and comforting dish that takes the classic flavors of Southern tomato pie and transforms them into an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing appetizer. With its creamy cheese base, fresh tomatoes, and crunchy cracker topping, it offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors. This versatile dip is perfect for gatherings, whether it’s game day, a family event, or just a cozy night at home.

Its straightforward preparation allows even novice cooks to achieve a gourmet result, while offering plenty of room for customization. The combination of savory cheeses, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic basil makes this dish a true Southern comfort food classic, bound to become a favorite at any table. Whether served with crackers, bread, or vegetables, this dip is sure to impress with its hearty, flavorful appeal.

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