There’s something utterly irresistible about the combination of rich, gooey cheese and fresh, juicy tomatoes. Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes deliver a delightful medley of flavors, making them a perfect dish for any occasion. Imagine biting into a plump tomato, bursting with savory goodness, and discovering a cheesy filling that warms your heart and satisfies your cravings.
Beyond being a treat for the palate, these scrumptious stuffed tomatoes are also a visually appealing addition to your dining table. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, these cheesy tomato delights will captivate your guests. With a variety of fillings to choose from, you can easily customize them to suit your tastes, ensuring that every bite is a cheesy delight.
Ingredients for Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes:
To create delightful Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes, gather the following ingredients:
– 4 medium-large firm tomatoes: These will be the perfect vessels for your stuffing.
– 1 cup cooked rice: Provides a hearty element that fills the tomatoes nicely.
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Essential for that irresistible melty texture.
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty flavor and helps create a lovely crispy top.
– 2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the flavor profile and adds depth.
– 2 tablespoons olive oil: Keeps the filling moist and amplifies the tomatoes’ sweetness.
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of aromatic herbs that brings everything together.
– Salt and pepper, to taste: Just enough to elevate the dish without overpowering the flavors.
Once your ingredients are prepped, simply follow through with the baking process for a warm, cheesy dish that’s sure to impress. If you’re in the mood for another cheesy dish, consider trying out my delicious Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potato Casserole, as it shares that same delightful comfort of cheesy goodness. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to prepare Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes:
To create delightful Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes, start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Choose medium-large, firm tomatoes and cut off the tops, scooping out the insides gently to create a hollow. In a bowl, combine cooked rice, mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor. Mince a clove of garlic and stir that in, along with a drizzle of olive oil to keep the mixture moist.
Season the filling with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. Stuff the mixture back into your prepared tomatoes and top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan for a crispy finish. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
These stuffed tomatoes are not only delicious but also a beautiful presentation. For a complete meal, consider pairing them with baked feta pasta for a satisfying dinner.
Variations :
Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes are wonderfully versatile, allowing for numerous delicious variations. For a hearty option, try adding ground meat or sausage to the stuffing mix, which elevates the protein content and flavor. You can also explore different cheese blends like pepper jack for a spicy kick or creamy mozzarella for a classic touch. If you crave a Mediterranean twist, incorporate olives, feta cheese, and herbs like oregano.
Moreover, check out the recipe for Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potato Casserole for a complementary dish that maintains a similar cheesy flair. You can even swap the tomatoes for bell peppers or zucchini for a refreshing seasonal change.
Want more inspiration? Discover a detailed recipe for Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes that showcases how rich flavors can transform this simple dish into a crowd-pleaser.
Serving Suggestions for Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes:
Pairing your delightful Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes with complementary dishes can elevate your meal to new heights. Consider serving them alongside a refreshing salad, such as a light arugula and citrus salad. The zesty dressing will balance the rich flavors of the stuffed tomatoes beautifully. For a more robust meal, pair these cheesy delights with baked ziti, a classic favorite that brings comforting, hearty textures to your dinner table.
Additionally, for a fun appetizer option, serve sliced, stuffed tomatoes with crusty bread or toasted pita chips. This creates a great interactive dining experience. Completing the meal with a dessert like baked apple cider donuts can provide a sweet contrast to the savory richness of the tomatoes. With these serving suggestions, your Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes will shine on any occasion, leaving your guests impressed and satisfied.
Storage Tips:
To preserve the deliciousness of your Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes, store any leftovers properly. Allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. A good rule of thumb is to keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days, ensuring they maintain their flavor and texture. For longer storage, consider freezing them! Wrap each tomato tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place them in a freezer-safe container. Defrost them in the fridge overnight before reheating, so they stay juicy and tasty.
When reheating, avoid using the microwave if possible, as it can make the filling soggy. Instead, place your stuffed tomatoes in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This method restores their cheesy goodness. For a vibrant side dish to pair, try out our Baked Feta Pasta; the combination makes for a delightful meal!
Nutritional Information of Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes:
Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes are not only delightful but also packed with nutritional benefits. Each serving contains low calories, high fiber, and essential vitamins. This dish is rich in calcium from the cheese, and the tomatoes provide antioxidants. For a wholesome meal, pair these stuffed tomatoes with a side like baked feta pasta for added flavors and nutrients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What are Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes?
Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes are delicious, hollowed-out tomatoes filled with a creamy cheese mixture, often combined with herbs, vegetables, or meats. Baked until golden and bubbling, they serve as a perfect side dish or a main course for anyone who loves cheesy goodness.
How do I prepare them?
To prepare these scrumptious stuffed tomatoes, simply hollow out ripe tomatoes and mix cheese with your choice of seasonings, breadcrumbs, and optionally cooked meat. Fill the tomatoes with this mixture and bake until they are tender and the top is golden brown, similar to the process of making Baked Ziti.
Can they be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare your cheesy stuffed tomatoes in advance. Just prepare the stuffing and fill the tomatoes, then cover and refrigerate them. When ready to serve, bake them directly from the fridge, keeping an eye on the cooking time.
Are they suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes! You can easily make these Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes vegetarian-friendly by omitting any meat and focusing on the cheese and vegetables. Consider adding quinoa or lentils for added protein.
What are some serving suggestions?
These stuffed tomatoes pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or as a side to roasted chicken. You can also serve them alongside other cheesy dishes, such as Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potato Casserole, to create a comforting meal.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes! If you have any leftovers from your cheesy baked stuffed tomatoes, feel free to freeze them. Just ensure they are stored in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight and then reheat in the oven.
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Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes: Irresistibly Delicious Recipe
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes are a delightful blend of flavors and textures, featuring juicy tomatoes filled with a hearty mixture of rice, melty cheeses, and aromatic herbs, making them a perfect side dish or light main course.
Ingredients
Medium-large firm tomatoes
Cooked rice
Mozzarella cheese
Parmesan cheese
Garlic
Olive oil
Italian seasoning
Salt
Pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking dish.
- Cut the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the insides, reserving the pulp.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, reserved tomato pulp, olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff each tomato with the rice mixture, pressing down gently to pack it in.
- Place the stuffed tomatoes in the baking dish and drizzle with a little more olive oil on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender and the tops are golden brown.
- Let the tomatoes cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes!
Notes
Feel free to customize the filling by adding cooked ground meat or other vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Dessert
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed tomato
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
Keywords: Cheesy Baked Stuffed Tomatoes, baked tomatoes, stuffed tomatoes, cheesy recipes, Italian recipes