Description
Baked Tomato Parmesan is a simple and flavorful side dish featuring juicy tomatoes topped with a savory mixture of Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic, and Italian herbs. Baked to perfection until tender and golden, this easy recipe transforms fresh tomatoes into a delicious accompaniment that’s perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Tomatoes
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, halved
Topping
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Seasoning & Oil
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Tomatoes: Arrange the halved tomatoes cut-side up in the prepared baking dish, ensuring they fit snugly but with some space between them.
- Make the Topping: In a mixing bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and Italian seasoning until well mixed.
- Season and Oil Tomatoes: Sprinkle the tomatoes evenly with salt and black pepper, then drizzle the olive oil over them to add richness and help the topping brown.
- Add the Topping: Spoon the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture evenly over each tomato half, covering the exposed flesh.
- Bake the Tomatoes: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender and the topping is golden brown and crisp.
- Optional Broil: For a deeper golden crust, broil the tomatoes for 1 to 2 minutes at the end, but watch carefully to avoid burning the Parmesan topping.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve the baked tomatoes warm as a delicious side dish.
Notes
- Use firm, ripe tomatoes to ensure they hold their shape during baking.
- For a cheesier topping, add shredded mozzarella with the Parmesan mixture.
- Fresh basil leaves can be sprinkled on after baking for added flavor and freshness.
- When broiling, keep a close eye on the tomatoes as the Parmesan topping can quickly brown or burn.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
