The Juicy Baked Parmesan Tomatoes Recipe Everyone Loves

Crispy and golden parmesan tomatoes burst with Mediterranean charm on your dinner plate.

Summer’s ripest tomatoes create magic when kissed by cheese and herbs.

Seasonal produce transforms into something spectacular with just a few simple ingredients.

Cheese lovers appreciate how quickly this dish comes together in any kitchen.

Fresh herbs add an unexpected layer of aromatic delight to each bite.

Juicy tomato slices become irresistible when coated with nutty parmesan and fragrant seasonings.

You’ll want to savor every single morsel of this delectable side dish.

Deliciously Simple Baked Parmesan Tomatoes

• Whip Up Quickly: Minimal ingredients and simple steps make this recipe a breeze to prepare, perfect for busy home cooks seeking delicious results.
• Customize with Ease: Versatile dish allows personal touches like adding different herbs, cheese variations, or spice levels to suit individual tastes.
• Elevate Everyday Meals: Transform ordinary tomatoes into a gourmet side dish that looks and tastes restaurant-worthy, impressing family and guests with minimal effort.
• Nutritious and Flavorful: Packed with fresh ingredients, this recipe offers a healthy option that doesn't compromise on taste, combining the richness of Parmesan with the natural sweetness of roasted tomatoes.

Ingredients Required for Baked Parmesan Tomatoes

• Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes that form the base of this delicious baked dish.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese that adds a rich, savory flavor and golden-brown topping.

• Garlic, Basil, Italian Seasoning, Salt, Black Pepper: A harmonious blend of herbs and spices that bring depth and aromatic taste to the tomatoes.

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A drizzle that adds richness and helps create a golden surface.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Provides a delightful crispy crunch to the baked tomatoes.

How to Bake Parmesan Tomatoes Perfectly

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Fire up your oven to a toasty 400°F (200°C), getting it ready for some delicious magic.

Step 2: Slice and Arrange Tomatoes

Carefully slice ripe tomatoes horizontally, revealing their juicy interior.

Nestle them cut-side up on a baking sheet, creating a beautiful canvas for flavor.

Step 3: Create Flavor Explosion

• Fresh garlic, finely minced
• Fragrant basil, chopped
• Sea salt
• Cracked black pepper
• Italian seasoning (optional)

Blend these ingredients in a small bowl to create a tantalizing herb mixture.

Step 4: Season the Tomatoes

Generously sprinkle the herb mixture over each tomato half, ensuring every bit gets maximum flavor coverage.

Step 5: Add Cheesy Goodness

Blanket each tomato half with a lavish layer of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, creating a mouthwatering golden topping.

Step 6: Drizzle and Enhance

Gracefully drizzle extra virgin olive oil over the tomatoes, adding a luxurious shine and rich flavor.

Step 7: Create Crispy Texture

Scatter panko breadcrumbs across the top, promising a delightful crunch with every bite.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven.

Let the tomatoes transform for 15-20 minutes until they become tender and the cheese turns a gorgeous golden brown.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Whisk the baked tomatoes directly from the oven to the table.

Serve as a stunning appetizer or irresistible side dish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Tips to Achieve Crispy and Flavorful Results

• Select ripe, firm tomatoes for the best texture and taste in this dish.
• Place tomatoes on a wire rack or pat dry before baking to reduce excess moisture.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for superior melting and a more intense flavor profile.
• Replace basil with oregano or thyme for a different aromatic twist when fresh herbs are unavailable.
• Substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts for a crunchy topping.

Variations to Elevate Your Baked Tomatoes

• Vegan Herb Roasted Tomatoes: Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast, use almond-based breadcrumbs, and add extra herbs like oregano for rich flavor.
• Low-Carb Cheesy Tomato Bake: Omit breadcrumbs, use extra sharp cheddar instead of Parmesan, and add crushed pork rinds for crunch.
• Mediterranean Tomato Medley: Incorporate feta cheese, sprinkle za'atar seasoning, and add chopped kalamata olives for an authentic Greek profile.
• Keto-Friendly Tomato Gratin: Use grated Pecorino Romano, add crushed macadamia nuts instead of breadcrumbs, and include fresh thyme for depth.

Serving Ideas for a Tasty Side Dish

• Summer Salad Companion: Nestle these cheesy roasted tomatoes atop a bed of crisp mixed greens for a light, refreshing meal that bursts with Mediterranean flavors.
• Pasta Partner: Toss these golden-brown parmesan tomatoes directly into warm pasta like linguine or penne, creating an instant sauce that elevates your entire dish with rich, tangy goodness.
• Grilled Protein Topper: Crown grilled chicken breasts or fish fillets with these savory baked tomatoes, transforming simple proteins into restaurant-worthy plates that look stunning and taste incredible.
• Bruschetta Twist: Carefully place these roasted tomato halves on toasted crusty bread slices, creating an elegant appetizer that will impress guests with minimal effort and maximum flavor impact.

Storing Tips to Keep Baked Tomatoes Fresh

• Store leftover baked Parmesan tomatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator, keeping them fresh and preventing moisture buildup.
• Warm refrigerated tomatoes at 350F for 8-10 minutes to restore crispy texture and revive melted cheese, ensuring they taste almost as good as fresh.
• Quickly reheat tomatoes in microwave for 30-45 seconds on medium power, but expect slightly softer texture compared to oven reheating.
• Best enjoyed within 1-2 days for optimal flavor and texture, as prolonged storage can make breadcrumbs soggy and diminish the original crisp quality.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of tomatoes?

Yes, you can use Roma, beefsteak, or cherry tomatoes. Just adjust baking time based on the size and thickness of the tomato variety.

• Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?

Reduce the amount of Parmesan cheese, use whole wheat breadcrumbs instead of panko, and choose a high-quality olive oil for added nutritional benefits.

• How do I prevent the tomatoes from becoming too watery?

Choose firm, ripe tomatoes and remove excess seeds before baking. Pat the tomato halves dry with a paper towel to reduce moisture.

• What herbs can I substitute for basil?

You can use fresh oregano, thyme, or parsley as alternatives. Each herb will bring a unique flavor profile to the dish.

Baked Parmesan Tomatoes Recipe

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4.6 from 39 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Baked parmesan tomatoes deliver a simple Mediterranean-style side dish packed with herb-infused flavor. Ripe tomatoes topped with savory cheese create an irresistible accompaniment that brings Mediterranean sunshine right to your plate.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 4 ripe tomatoes (vine-ripened or heirloom)
• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

Seasoning and Herbs:

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)

Binding and Coating:

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven by heating to 400F (200C), ensuring optimal temperature for roasting.
2. Carefully halve tomatoes horizontally, positioning them cut-side upward on a lined baking sheet.
3. Create a flavor-packed seasoning blend by combining minced garlic, fresh chopped basil, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning in a small mixing bowl.
4. Generously distribute the aromatic herb mixture across the tomato surfaces, ensuring even coverage.
5. Crown each tomato half with a lavish layer of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, allowing for maximum flavor absorption.
6. Enhance the dish by delicately drizzling extra virgin olive oil over the prepared tomatoes.
7. Sprinkle a light layer of panko breadcrumbs across the top, introducing a delightful crispy texture.
8. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, monitoring until tomatoes become tender and the cheese transforms into a golden, bubbling crust.
9. Remove from oven and serve immediately while hot, presenting as an elegant appetizer or accompanying side dish.

Notes

• Customize breadcrumb texture by toasting them lightly in a skillet before sprinkling for extra crunch and nutty flavor.
• Choose ripe, firm tomatoes like Roma or beefsteak varieties to ensure they hold their shape during baking and release maximum flavor.
• Make this dish gluten-free by substituting panko with almond meal or gluten-free breadcrumbs, maintaining the crispy topping.
• Elevate the recipe by experimenting with different hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or aged Asiago for varied taste profiles.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 120 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 250 mg
• Fat: 7 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 6 g
• Cholesterol: 10 mg