Baked Stuffed Tomatoes

Baked Stuffed Tomatoes: A Rustic and Flavorful Delight 🍅🌿🧀

1. Introduction

Looking for a simple yet satisfying dish that’s both comforting and bursting with fresh flavors? Look no further than this delightful baked stuffed tomatoes recipe! These vibrant stuffed tomatoes are incredibly versatile, making them perfect as a light lunch, a bright and flavorful side dish, or even a satisfying vegetarian main course. This recipe beautifully combines juicy, ripe tomatoes with a savory and aromatic filling, creating a wholesome and delicious meal that’s sure to impress even the pickiest eaters.

One of the best things about this baked stuffed tomatoes recipe is just how customizable it is. Feel free to get creative and personalize the filling with your favorite ingredients! Ground meat (like beef or sausage) adds heartiness, different cheeses offer unique flavor profiles, and extra vegetables boost the nutritional value. The beauty of stuffed tomatoes truly lies in their adaptability, making it incredibly easy to cater to diverse tastes, dietary needs, and what you already have on hand. Consider adding leftover grilled chicken for extra protein!

If you’re new to cooking or simply searching for an easy stuffed tomatoes recipe that delivers big flavor without a lot of fuss, you’ve absolutely come to the right place. This recipe is designed to be approachable and straightforward. Just follow these easy-to-understand steps, and you’ll have a batch of wonderfully flavorful baked tomatoes ready to enjoy in no time!

By the way, if you’re a fan of quick and delicious meals, you might also enjoy our recipe for Mini Quiche Cups. They’re equally versatile and satisfying! Or if you’re looking for a healthy breakfast option, check out our Spinach Mushroom Omelet.

2. Ingredients Needed

• 6 medium-sized tomatoes, ripe but firm. Roma or vine-ripened tomatoes work well.
• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown). Leftover rice is perfect for this!
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend). Get creative with your cheese choices.
• 1/4 cup chopped onion. Yellow or white onion will do.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced. Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its rich flavor.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley. Fresh herbs add a vibrant touch.
• Salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning to your preference.
• Optional: Breadcrumbs for topping. Panko breadcrumbs create a nice crispy topping.

3. Equipment Required

• Baking dish. A 9×13 inch baking dish is ideal.
• Knife. A sharp knife for slicing the tomatoes and chopping vegetables.
• Spoon. For scooping out the tomato pulp and mixing the filling.
• Mixing bowl. To combine the filling ingredients.
• Cutting board. To protect your countertop while chopping.

4. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes

Start by gently washing and thoroughly drying the tomatoes. This step is essential for preventing soggy baked tomatoes. Carefully cut off the top of each tomato, creating a “lid,” and set these tops aside – you’ll use them later! Using a spoon, gently scoop out the pulp and seeds from the inside of each tomato, leaving a hollow shell that will hold the delicious filling. Be careful not to pierce the sides or bottom of the tomato. Sprinkle the inside of each tomato generously with a little salt and pepper. This critical step helps to draw out any excess moisture from the tomatoes and seasons them from the inside, ensuring they are flavorful and not bland.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, olive oil, and chopped fresh parsley. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until they are evenly combined. At this point, you can taste the filling and adjust the seasonings as needed to perfectly match your preferences. For a subtle kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. For a richer and more developed flavor, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in olive oil in a small pan over medium heat until softened and fragrant before adding them to the rice mixture. This simple step enhances the overall depth of flavor in your stuffed tomatoes.

Step 3: Stuff the Tomatoes

Using a spoon, carefully spoon the prepared rice mixture into each of the hollowed-out tomatoes, filling them generously to the top. Gently press the filling down into each tomato to ensure it’s compact and that there are no air pockets. This helps the filling stay in place while baking. If desired, sprinkle a little extra shredded cheese or breadcrumbs on top of each tomato before baking; this will create a beautifully golden and crispy finish. Place the tomato tops (the “lids” you set aside earlier) back on top of the filled tomatoes, or leave them off for a more rustic and open-faced look. This easy stuffed tomatoes recipe is coming together beautifully!

Step 4: Bake the Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to a moderate temperature of 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures the tomatoes cook through without burning. Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent the stuffed tomatoes from sticking to the bottom. Carefully place the prepared stuffed tomatoes in the greased baking dish, making sure they are evenly spaced. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender and slightly softened, the filling is heated through, and the cheese (if using) is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. If you notice the tops of the tomatoes starting to brown too quickly during baking, you can loosely cover the dish with aluminum foil for the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent them from burning.

Looking for other easy and healthy recipes? You might enjoy our Grilled Zucchini Boats, another great way to use seasonal vegetables.

5. Tips and Variations

• Add Meat: For a heartier and more protein-packed dish, add cooked ground beef, Italian sausage (removed from the casing), or spicy chorizo to the filling. Be sure to brown the meat thoroughly and drain off any excess grease before adding it to the other filling ingredients.
• Use Different Grains: Instead of rice, experiment with other grains like quinoa, couscous, or barley. These grains offer different textures and nutritional profiles. Cook the grain according to package directions before adding it to the filling.
• Incorporate More Veggies: Boost the nutritional value and flavor of your stuffed tomatoes by adding diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or orange), zucchini, mushrooms, spinach, or even corn to the filling. Sauté the vegetables lightly before adding them to the filling for a more developed flavor.
• Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or a finely chopped jalapeño pepper to the filling mixture.
• Cheese Variations: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses! Try feta cheese for a salty and tangy flavor, goat cheese for a creamy and slightly tart taste, or Parmesan cheese for a nutty and savory note. You can also use a combination of cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.

For another delicious and healthy side dish, why not try our Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad?

6. Serving Suggestions

These flavorful baked tomatoes are incredibly versatile and can be served hot as a satisfying main course, a flavorful side dish to accompany your favorite protein, or as a delightful appetizer for your next gathering. They pair exceptionally well with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette, crusty bread for soaking up the delicious juices, or a medley of roasted vegetables. For added flavor and presentation, consider serving them with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or oregano, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Consider featuring these beautiful stuffed tomatoes at your next brunch, potluck, or summer barbecue – they’re guaranteed to be a hit! You could even pair them with our Grilled Tuna Steak for a complete and healthy meal.

7. Nutritional Information

A serving of this delightful baked stuffed tomatoes recipe is not only incredibly delicious but also packed with essential nutrients, making it a healthy and guilt-free choice. Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, which are important for immune function and overall health, as well as powerful antioxidants like lycopene, which has been linked to various health benefits. The filling provides carbohydrates for energy, protein for satiety and muscle building, and healthy fats for hormone production and nutrient absorption, making it a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Keep in mind that the specific nutritional content will vary depending on the exact ingredients used in the filling, so be sure to adjust accordingly based on your specific dietary needs and preferences.

If you are focusing on eating healthy, you should try out Healthy Chicken Pad Thai recipe!

8. Storage Instructions

If you happen to have any leftover stuffed tomatoes (although they are so delicious, this is unlikely!), you can easily store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days without compromising their flavor or texture. To reheat, simply place them back in a baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for a quick and convenient meal. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can also freeze the baked stuffed tomatoes for longer storage. To do this, wrap them individually in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating as directed above. Stuffed tomatoes are also great to enjoy with Chopped Cobb Salad

9. Conclusion

In conclusion, this versatile baked stuffed tomatoes recipe provides a fantastic and flavorful way to enjoy the abundance of fresh, seasonal produce, while simultaneously creating a satisfying and nutritionally balanced meal that the whole family will love. Whether you consider yourself a seasoned chef with years of experience or a complete beginner to the culinary arts, this easy stuffed tomatoes recipe is guaranteed to become a cherished favorite in your recipe repertoire. With its endless variations, simple steps, and delicious results, you can easily customize this dish to perfectly suit your unique tastes and preferences. For an alternative recipe, you can also check another source. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, follow these straightforward instructions, and get ready to experience the joy of creating and savoring a batch of incredibly delicious and satisfying baked tomatoes! You can find more recipes here!

Print