If you are looking for a delightful dish that brings together freshness, warmth, and rich flavors, you have to try this Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe. These juicy baked tomatoes are loaded with a savory blend of herbs, vegetables, and cheese, making them a perfect light side or a charming appetizer. Each bite bursts with the garden-fresh essence of tomatoes paired with the comforting notes of Parmesan and garlic, creating a simple yet unforgettable dish everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients, each playing a vital role in flavor, texture, and appearance. From the bright freshness of parsley to the savory depth of Parmesan, these ingredients come together effortlessly to deliver a satisfying dish.
- 6 medium tomatoes: Choose firm, ripe tomatoes for the perfect juicy vessel.
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low carb): Adds a lovely texture and helps bind the filling.
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese: Delivers a sharp, salty richness that elevates the mix.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Infuses the filling with aromatic warmth.
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley: Brings a bright, fresh herbal note to the dish.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Keeps the filling moist and adds silkiness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential to balance and highlight all flavors.
How to Make Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes
Begin by preheating your oven to 375 °F (190 °C), setting the stage for perfectly baked tomatoes. Slice the tops off each tomato carefully, creating little lids to keep later. Scoop out the pulp with a spoon — this creates hollow pockets ready to be filled with all the delicious ingredients. Don’t throw the pulp away; it can be reserved for soups or sauces.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a bowl, combine the breadcrumbs (or almond flour if you want a low carb option), Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until well incorporated. This mixture should be slightly moist, allowing it to hold together while baking but still retain some texture.
Step 3: Stuff the Tomatoes
Fill each hollowed tomato with the prepared mixture, packing it gently but firmly so every bite is bursting with flavor. Place the stuffed tomatoes upright in a baking dish, arranging them snugly to prevent tipping during baking. Replace each tomato’s top to keep the filling protected and moist.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Pop the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the tops are beautifully golden and the tomatoes have softened just enough to meld tenderly with the filling. Baking draws out the sweetness of the tomatoes while turning the cheese topping beautifully crisp.
How to Serve Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil leaves adds a vibrant pop of color and a refreshing herbal aroma. A light drizzle of good-quality olive oil just before serving can enhance the richness, while a few shavings of extra Parmesan offer an extra touch of indulgence.
Side Dishes
These stuffed tomatoes are scrumptious on their own, but they also shine alongside light salads, crusty bread, or even a bed of quinoa or rice for extra substance. Pairing with a crisp green salad and a glass of chilled white wine really brings out the Mediterranean spirit of the dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming twist, serve each stuffed tomato nestled on a little leaf of lettuce or arugula to add contrast in texture and color. You can also arrange them on a serving platter grouped by color if you use heirloom tomatoes, creating a stunning, edible centerpiece that’s sure to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The tomatoes may release a bit of juice, so keeping the container sealed well will preserve their fresh flavors and prevent moisture from making other fridge items soggy.
Freezing
While fresh is always best, you can freeze the stuffed tomatoes if needed. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently in the oven to maintain their texture and flavor.
Reheating
To enjoy your stuffed tomatoes warm again, reheat in a preheated oven at 350 °F (175 °C) for around 10 minutes until heated through. This method helps the filling regain its baked charm and prevents sogginess, unlike microwaving which can make the tomatoes watery.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese for the filling?
Absolutely! While Parmesan adds a wonderful sharpness, you can swap in mozzarella for a creamier, melty texture or goat cheese for a tangy twist. Just adjust the seasoning since cheeses vary in saltiness.
Is it possible to make this Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe vegan?
Yes, you can omit the Parmesan and use vegan cheese alternatives or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Also, use almond flour or a vegan breadcrumb substitute to keep it fully plant-based.
Can I add cooked rice or quinoa to the stuffing?
Definitely! Adding cooked grains like rice or quinoa makes the dish heartier and perfect for a main course. It also adds an interesting bite and boosts the nutritional content.
What size tomatoes work best for this recipe?
Medium-sized tomatoes are ideal because they balance size and bake time well. If you choose larger ones, you may need to increase baking time and adjust filling quantities accordingly.
Can this recipe be made ahead of time before baking?
Yes, you can prepare and stuff the tomatoes up to a day in advance, cover them, and refrigerate. When ready, just bake as directed. This makes it a fantastic option for entertaining or a stress-free weeknight meal.
Final Thoughts
This Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Its bright flavors, comforting textures, and elegant presentation make it a dish worth making over and over. I hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do — it’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Give it a try, and watch it become a fast favorite in your kitchen too!
Print
Stuffed Tomatoes Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 stuffed tomatoes
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These juicy baked tomatoes are stuffed with a savory blend of herbs, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and garlic, resulting in a light and flavorful dish that’s simple to prepare and perfect as a side or appetizer.
Ingredients
Tomatoes
- 6 medium tomatoes
Filling
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low carb)
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375 °F (190 °C) to prepare for baking the stuffed tomatoes.
- Prepare Tomatoes: Slice the tops off the tomatoes and carefully scoop out the pulp to create hollow vessels for the filling.
- Make Filling: In a bowl, mix together breadcrumbs (or almond flour), Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Stuff Tomatoes: Fill each hollowed tomato with the prepared mixture, packing it gently but firmly.
- Arrange and Bake: Place the stuffed tomatoes upright in a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, until the tops are golden and the filling is cooked through.
Notes
- Add cooked rice or quinoa to the filling mixture for a heartier meal.
- Top the stuffed tomatoes with shredded mozzarella cheese before baking for a deliciously melty finish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
