This dish brings together juicy summer tomatoes and cheesy goodness, all layered with crispy bread crumbs on top. It’s like a warm hug on your plate!
Whenever I make this, I end up swooning over those crunchy croutons. They really make the dish pop! It’s easy to whip up and perfect for hot days. Yum! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tomatoes: Use juicy summer tomatoes for the best flavor. If they’re out of season, try canned tomatoes, but drain excess liquid.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a nice kick! Feel free to mix it up with mozzarella or gouda for different tastes.
Breadcrumbs: Fresh breadcrumbs work best for texture, but panko crumbs are a great crunchy alternative. Stale bread? Just toast and pulse it in a blender!
Onion: Adding sliced onion enhances sweetness. If you prefer, replace it with shallots for a milder taste.
Herbs: Fresh basil or thyme bring freshness. If you don’t have fresh, dried herbs can be used, just reduce the amount since they’re more potent.
How Do I Layer the Ingredients Properly?
Layering is key to ensure every bite is tasty! Start with tomato slices at the bottom, sprinkled with salt and pepper. Here’s how:
- Lay down your tomato slices evenly, ensuring they slightly overlap.
- Sprinkle each layer with garlic, cheese, and a touch of Dijon or mayonnaise for flavor.
- Keep repeating layers until you run out, finishing with cheese on top to create a delicious, golden crust.
Remember to keep an eye on the baking time. You want bubbles and crispy topping for that perfect finish!
Easy Summer Scalloped Tomatoes with Crispy Croutons
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 4 large ripe summer tomatoes, sliced about 1/4 inch thick
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs or panko crumbs
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil or thyme leaves, chopped (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a slight tang)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise or sour cream (optional, for creaminess)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. So plan for about 45 minutes total to bring this delicious dish to your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First, set your oven to preheat at 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, grab a medium-sized baking dish and lightly grease it with oil or butter.
2. Start Layering the Tomatoes:
Begin by arranging a layer of sliced tomatoes in the bottom of your greased baking dish. Don’t worry about making it perfect—just spread them out evenly! Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and some minced garlic to add great flavor.
3. Add a Touch of Flavor:
If you’d like, spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard or mayonnaise/sour cream over the tomatoes. This adds a nice tangy flavor and creaminess to the dish.
4. Cheese Time:
Now, sprinkle a nice mix of shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese over the tomatoes. This will give the dish a lovely cheesy goodness.
5. Repeat the Layers:
Keep layering! Add more tomato slices, seasoning with salt, pepper, garlic, and cheese until you’ve run out of all your ingredients. Aim to finish with a delightful layer of cheese on top!
6. Prepare the Croutons:
In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter and any chopped fresh herbs you’re using. Toss it all together until the crumbs are well coated.
7. Top It Off:
Evenly sprinkle your breadcrumb mixture on top of the assembled tomatoes and cheese layers. This will create a wonderfully crispy topping!
8. Optional Onion Addition:
If you like, scatter some thinly sliced onion on top. This adds a sweet crunch that pairs perfectly with the tomatoes.
9. Bake Your Dish:
Pop the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. You want the tomatoes to be bubbling and the topping to turn a lovely golden brown and crispy.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. If you have any fresh herbs left, sprinkle those on top for a lovely finish. Enjoy your bright and delicious summer scalloped tomatoes!
FAQ for Easy Summer Scalloped Tomatoes with Crispy Croutons
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar and Parmesan work great, feel free to use mozzarella, gouda, or any cheese you love. Just keep in mind that softer cheeses may result in a creamier texture!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain that crispy topping. You can also microwave it, but the topping may lose some crunch.
Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or panko. Ensure any sauces used (like mayonnaise) are also gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the dish.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This scalloped tomato dish is perfect as a side for grilled meats or roasted chicken. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or with crusty bread to soak up those delicious juices!
