Baked Parmesan Tomatoes

$- 4 large ripe tomatoes - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko) - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 2 tablespoons fresh basil (or 1 tablespoon dried) - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste When I make Baked Parmesan Tomatoes, I always start with the freshest ingredients. You want ripe tomatoes that are firm yet juicy. They should be bright in color and free from blemishes. The Parmesan cheese gives the dish its rich, savory flavor. I prefer using freshly grated cheese for the best taste. Breadcrumbs, especially panko, add a delightful crunch to the topping. For optional ingredients, I often add garlic for its wonderful aroma. Fresh basil brightens the dish with its herbal notes. Dried oregano adds a hint of earthiness. If you like a bit of heat, consider red pepper flakes. They elevate the overall flavor without overwhelming the dish. Finally, olive oil is a must. It not only helps with browning but also adds a smooth richness. Don't forget to season with salt and pepper. This will bring out all the flavors in your tomatoes. For the full recipe, you can check out the details earlier in the article. - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). - Slice the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out seeds and pulp. To start, you want those tomatoes ready for stuffing. Preheating your oven sets the stage for a perfect bake. When cutting the tops, make sure to keep the sides intact. This way, they hold their shape. After slicing, gently scoop out the seeds and pulp. I like to use a spoon for this. Save the insides for another dish or toss them. - Combine Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic, basil, oregano, and seasonings in a bowl. - Mix until well combined for perfect consistency. Next, grab a bowl and mix the magic! Combine grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, and chopped basil. Add oregano, salt, and pepper as well. If you like a kick, toss in red pepper flakes. I always mix until it's smooth and well blended. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor. - Fill each hollow tomato with the cheese mixture. - Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the tops are golden. Now it’s time to fill those tomatoes! Use a spoon to pack the cheese mixture into each hollow tomato. Press down gently to fit it all in. Place them in a baking dish, making sure they stand upright. Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. The tops should turn a nice golden brown, and the tomatoes will feel tender. For the full recipe, check the section above. Enjoy this savory treat! - Bake in a single layer for even cooking. This helps the heat move around each tomato. - Avoid overfilling to prevent spillage. The cheese and bread mix should stay inside the tomato. - Allow tomatoes to sit in salt for a few minutes before filling. This helps draw out moisture and enhances the taste. - Experiment with different herbs and spices for unique variations. Try thyme, parsley, or even a hint of cumin for a twist. - Pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. This adds freshness and texture. - Serve as an appetizer or side dish. They are great for gatherings or cozy dinners. Follow the Full Recipe for detailed steps and enjoy this savory delight! {{image_2}} You can switch up the cheese for a new taste. Try mozzarella for a creamy melt. Feta adds a tangy twist that pairs well with tomatoes. Fresh herbs also change the flavor. Use thyme for a woodsy note or parsley for brightness. If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes. This will make your dish zesty. You can also layer in jalapeños for extra spice. They bring a nice kick to each bite. For those who crave meat, add cooked bacon bits to the filling. Sausage also works well for a savory bite. For a heartier meal, use ground turkey or beef. This turns your baked tomatoes into a filling dish. To explore the full experience, check out the Full Recipe! To keep your Baked Parmesan Tomatoes fresh, cool them completely first. This step is key to avoid steam build-up. Once cooled, place them in airtight containers. This helps keep the flavors and texture intact. For quick meals, you can freeze the tomatoes before baking. Just prepare them as usual, but do not bake. Wrap them tightly and place them in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, reheat them in the oven. This will keep the cheese nice and melty. If stored in the fridge, eat the leftovers within 3 days. This ensures you enjoy the best taste and texture. If you freeze them, they can last up to 3 months. Just remember to label your containers to track the dates. Yes, you can prepare and refrigerate them, then bake on serving day. This makes meal prep easy. Just follow the recipe steps until filling the tomatoes. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap. When you're ready to bake, take them out of the fridge and pop them in the oven. They will still taste fresh and delicious. They pair well with salads, meats, or bread. A crisp green salad adds a nice touch. You can also serve them with grilled chicken or fish for a hearty meal. Garlic bread is great for soaking up any leftover juices. These tomatoes make a perfect side dish or appetizer. They should be tender and the tops golden brown. You can check them with a fork. If the fork goes in easily, they are ready. The cheese topping should look crispy and inviting. Trust your eyes and nose; the aroma will also tell you when they are done. Absolutely! Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavors. Mozzarella adds a nice stretch, while feta gives a tangy kick. You might also try goat cheese for a creamy texture. Feel free to mix cheeses for more depth. The key is to find what you enjoy the most. In this post, we covered how to make baked Parmesan tomatoes. You learned about essential ingredients like ripe tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs. I shared tips on preparing the filling, baking, and serving ideas. You can even try different flavors with optional spices or other cheeses. Baked Parmesan tomatoes are not only tasty but also easy to customize. They make a great dish for any meal. Enjoy the cooking process and share your results!$

Discover a delicious and easy recipe for baked Parmesan tomatoes that will impress your family and friends! This dish features juicy tomatoes filled with a savory blend of Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and herbs, baked to perfection. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, these tomatoes are both flavorful and nutritious. Click through to explore this simple recipe and bring a burst of flavor to your table today!

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Ingredients

4 large ripe tomatoes

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for added crunch)

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Slice the tops off the tomatoes and gently scoop out the seeds and pulp using a spoon, creating hollow bowls. Set the insides aside for another use or discard.

In a bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Fill each hollowed tomato generously with the cheese and breadcrumb mixture. Press down slightly to pack the filling.

Place the filled tomatoes in a baking dish, standing upright. You can drizzle a little olive oil over the tops for extra flavor if desired.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the tomatoes are tender.

Remove from the oven and let cool for a minute before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4