This crustless tomato pie is a tasty and easy dish to make. With fresh tomatoes, cheese, and herbs, it’s bursting with flavor without all the carbs!
I love how simple it is—just mix everything, pour it in a dish, and bake! It’s great as a light lunch or side, and trust me, it won’t last long on the table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes are essential. If you can’t find them, you can use canned tomatoes, but make sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
Cheese: This recipe calls for mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan. If you want a lighter option, you can use reduced-fat versions. Also, feel free to swap in your favorite cheese like Colby Jack or feta for a unique twist!
Eggs and Cream: Eggs give structure to the pie. If you follow a dairy-free diet, substitute eggs with a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use non-dairy milk or cream like almond or coconut milk.
Herbs: Fresh basil and parsley add a nice flavor. If herbs aren’t available, Italian seasoning can work in a pinch. Just use about 1 teaspoon instead of fresh herbs.
How Do You Properly Prepare Tomatoes for the Pie?
Preparing your tomatoes correctly will enhance the flavor and texture of your pie. Start by following these easy steps:
- Slice your tomatoes evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Sprinkling salt on the sliced tomatoes helps draw out excess moisture. This step is key to avoiding a soggy pie!
- Let the salted tomatoes sit on paper towels for about 10 minutes, then pat them dry. This will help them keep their shape during baking.
Easy Low Carb Crustless Tomato Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This crustless tomato pie will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 35-45 minutes to bake, depending on your oven. After baking, it’s best to let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. So, you can expect to spend just under an hour to enjoy this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping Your Oven and Dish:
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a 9-inch pie dish or a similar baking dish and lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking. This makes for easier cleanup!
2. Preparing the Tomatoes:
Slice your tomatoes and lay them out on paper towels or kitchen towels in a single layer. Sprinkle them with salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This step helps draw out excess moisture, which is important for a perfect pie. After 10 minutes, gently pat them dry with another towel.
3. Making the Egg Mixture:
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, minced garlic, black pepper, oregano, and half of the chopped basil and parsley. This mixture will bind all the ingredients together and add flavor.
4. Layering the Ingredients:
To begin layering, spread half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly across the bottom of the pie dish. Then, arrange a layer of your prepared tomato slices over the cheese. Pour half of the egg mixture over the tomatoes, ensuring even coverage.
5. Adding More Cheese and Tomatoes:
Next, sprinkle half of the grated Parmesan cheese along with the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the tomatoes. Follow this with another layer of sliced tomatoes, just like before. Pour the remaining egg mixture over the top.
6. Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese and the fresh herbs on top of your pie. Then, drizzle olive oil over everything to enhance the flavor and help it brown nicely.
7. Baking the Pie:
Pop the pie into the oven and let it bake for about 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set. Keep an eye on it towards the end to avoid over-baking.
8. Resting and Serving:
Once done baking, take the pie out of the oven and allow it to rest for about 10 minutes. This resting time makes it easier to slice. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy your delicious low-carb crustless tomato pie!
Enjoy your delightful, healthy dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
FAQ for Easy Low Carb Crustless Tomato Pie
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan work wonderfully, feel free to substitute with your favorite cheeses. For a unique flavor, try using goat cheese or feta.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place slices in the microwave or warm them in an oven set to 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Make This Pie Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the pie a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge before baking. Just add about 5-10 minutes to the baking time if it’s going in cold, or bring it to room temperature before baking.
What Should I Serve With This Dish?
This crustless tomato pie pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It’s also great as a side dish to grilled meats or fish!
