Stuffed tomatoes are a delightful and versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main course. These baked stuffed tomatoes are filled with a savory mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs, making them a flavorful addition to any meal. This recipe is simple to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe and enjoy the deliciousness of stuffed tomatoes!
Ingredients
For the Tomatoes:
- 6 large tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Filling:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup milk (optional for a creamier filling)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your tomatoes bake evenly and turn out perfectly golden.
- Prepare the Tomatoes: Cut the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the insides with a spoon. Be careful not to puncture the tomato skin. Lightly salt the insides of the tomatoes and place them upside down on a paper towel to drain excess moisture for about 15 minutes.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, finely chopped onion, fresh parsley, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix these ingredients thoroughly.
- Add Moisture to the Filling: Add olive oil to the breadcrumb mixture and stir until well combined. If you prefer a creamier filling, you can also add a little milk at this stage and mix well.
- Stuff the Tomatoes: Place the hollowed-out tomatoes in a baking dish. Fill each tomato with the prepared filling, pressing down lightly to pack it in.
- Drizzle with Olive Oil: Drizzle a little olive oil over the tops of the stuffed tomatoes. This will help them develop a beautiful golden crust as they bake.
- Bake the Tomatoes: Bake the stuffed tomatoes in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the tomatoes are tender.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the tomatoes cool for a few minutes before serving. These stuffed tomatoes are delicious on their own or as a side dish to your favorite main course.
Tips and Variations
- Add Protein: For a heartier version, you can add cooked ground beef, turkey, or sausage to the filling mixture.
- Use Different Cheeses: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta, goat cheese, or cheddar, to change the flavor profile.
- Add Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value by adding finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the filling.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Herb Variations: Fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or chives can be used instead of dried herbs for a fresher taste.
FAQs
1. Can I prepare the stuffed tomatoes ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the stuffed tomatoes up to a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator and bake them just before serving.
2. How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover stuffed tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
3. Can I freeze stuffed tomatoes? It’s not recommended to freeze stuffed tomatoes as the texture of the tomatoes can become mushy upon thawing. However, you can freeze the filling mixture separately and use it when needed.
4. What can I serve with stuffed tomatoes? Stuffed tomatoes pair well with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, pasta, rice, or a simple green salad.
5. How can I make the filling gluten-free? To make the filling gluten-free, simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Stuffed tomatoes are a delicious and visually appealing dish that is sure to impress your family and guests. With their rich, savory filling and tender, juicy tomatoes, this recipe is a wonderful addition to any meal. Whether you’re making them as an appetizer, side dish, or main course, these stuffed tomatoes are sure to become a favorite. Give this easy recipe a try and enjoy the delightful flavors of baked stuffed tomatoes!
