This Easy Tomato and Vidalia Onion Pie is a warm, cheesy treat perfect for dinner or a snack. With juicy tomatoes and sweet onions, it’s packed with flavor!
I love how simple it is to whip up! Just layer the ingredients in a crust, bake, and enjoy. If only my kitchen had this delightful smell all the time! 🍅🥧
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vidalia Onions: These sweet onions are great for this pie. If you can’t find Vidalia onions, you can substitute with other sweet onions like Walla Walla or Maui onions. I’ve found that using yellow onions is also a good choice if you want a bit more zing!
Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes are essential. If you can’t get fresh ones, canned diced tomatoes in juice can work in a pinch, but make sure to drain them well to avoid a soggy pie.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice flavor, but feel free to mix it up! You can use Monterey Jack or even mozzarella if you prefer a milder taste. I sometimes add crumbled feta for extra tang!
Pie Crust: A homemade crust is fantastic, but store-bought works perfectly fine too. If you’re gluten-free, consider a gluten-free pie crust option available at many grocery stores.
How Do You Sauté Onions for Maximum Flavor?
Sautéing onions is a key step that enhances their natural sweetness. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat olive oil in the skillet over medium heat, not too high—this ensures even cooking.
- Add sliced Vidalia onions and stick with it! Stir every few minutes.
- Cook until they soften and become lightly caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. This slow cooking really brings out their sweetness!
Remember, patience is key. You want them golden, not burnt! Adding a pinch of salt helps them release moisture and enhances their flavor.
Easy Tomato and Vidalia Onion Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust
- 3 medium Vidalia onions, thinly sliced
- 3 large ripe tomatoes, thickly sliced
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pie takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to bake. After that, let it cool for 10 minutes, and you’ll have a warm, cheesy delight ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will get it nice and hot for your pie.
2. Prepare the Pie Crust:
Take your unbaked pie crust and place it into a 9-inch pie dish. This will be the base for your flavorful filling.
3. Sauté the Onions:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced Vidalia onions and cook them, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and slightly caramelized. This should take about 8-10 minutes. Once they are perfect, remove the skillet from the heat.
4. Layer the Filling:
Spread the sautéed onions evenly on the bottom of your pie crust. Next, arrange the thick slices of tomatoes on top, overlapping them slightly for a beautiful presentation.
5. Mix the Cheeses:
In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir until the two are mixed together well, and then spoon this cheesy mixture evenly over the tomatoes.
6. Season the Pie:
Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper over the top of your assembled pie to enhance the flavors.
7. Bake the Pie:
Carefully place the pie in your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You want the crust to be golden and the cheese on top to be bubbly and slightly browned.
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This will make it easier to slice. Before serving, garnish with the chopped fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and extra flavor.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice up your delicious Tomato and Vidalia Onion Pie and enjoy it warm as a savory treat perfect for any meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Onions?
Yes! While Vidalia onions provide a sweet flavor, you can substitute them with other sweet varieties like Walla Walla or Maui onions. Yellow onions can also be used, but they will have a sharper taste.
Can I Make This Pie Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pie up to the baking stage and refrigerate it for 1-2 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s coming from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat slices in the microwave or in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through.
Can I Freeze This Pie?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked pie! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen, just adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
