When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the simplicity and satisfaction of baked tomatoes with cheese. This classic recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes with the rich, gooey goodness of melted cheese, creating a symphony of flavors that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Tomatoes with cheese
Ingredients:
| Ingredients | Amount |
|---|---|
| Large ripe tomatoes, sliced into 1/2 inch rounds | 4 |
| Shredded mozzarella cheese | 1 cup |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped | 1/4 cup |
| Dried oregano | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Freshly ground black pepper | To taste |
| Extra virgin olive oil | For drizzling |
| Crushed red pepper flakes | (Optional) For a bit of heat |
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that it’s ready when you’re done preparing the tomatoes.
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will make cleanup easier later on.
- Slice the Tomatoes: Take 4 large ripe tomatoes and slice them into rounds that are about 1/2 inch thick. Lay these slices out on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are slightly overlapping if needed.
- Season the Tomatoes: Sprinkle salt, freshly ground black pepper, and dried oregano over the tomato slices. These seasonings add flavor to the dish and complement the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.
- Add the Cheese: Generously pile shredded mozzarella cheese over each tomato slice. You can also add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor and a golden finish.
- Drizzle with Olive Oil: Drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil over the top of the cheese-covered tomatoes. This adds richness and helps achieve that irresistible golden-brown cheese when baked.
- Bake in the Oven: Place the baking sheet with the prepared tomatoes into the preheated oven. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Garnish with Basil and Optional Red Pepper Flakes: Once done, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Immediately sprinkle freshly chopped basil leaves over the baked tomatoes for a burst of freshness. If you like a bit of heat, feel free to add some crushed red pepper flakes as well.
- Serve and Enjoy: Plate up your delicious Baked Tomatoes with Cheese and serve them hot. They make a fantastic appetizer or side dish for any meal.
