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Caprese Stuffed Baked Tomatoes

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These Caprese stuffed baked tomatoes are an easy Italian side dish featuring juicy tomatoes filled with creamy mozzarella, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. Baked until golden and bubbly, they’re a crowd-pleasing, vegetarian option perfect for summer gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large ripe tomatoes (about 1.1 lbs, such as beefsteak or heirloom; choose firm, round tomatoes)
  • 6 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 1–2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp kosher salt (plus extra for seasoning tomatoes)
  • 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Fresh oregano or thyme (optional, swap some basil for these if desired)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Wash and dry the tomatoes. Slice off the tops (about 1/2 inch from the stem end). Using a spoon, gently scoop out the seeds and some flesh, leaving about 1/2-inch walls. Be careful not to puncture the bottoms.
  3. Sprinkle a pinch of salt inside each tomato. Place them cut-side up in your baking dish.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine diced mozzarella, chopped basil, minced garlic (if using), 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp pepper. Toss gently to mix. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.
  5. Spoon the filling into each tomato cavity, pressing down lightly. Leave a little space on top for melting cheese.
  6. Drizzle 2 tbsp olive oil over the stuffed tomatoes. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan, if using.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until tomatoes are tender and mozzarella is bubbling and lightly browned. For a deeper golden top, broil for the last 2 minutes, watching closely.
  8. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra basil leaves if desired.

Notes

Use firm, ripe tomatoes for best results. Let the tomatoes cool for a few minutes before serving to help the cheese set. For extra flavor, drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving. Can be made ahead by stuffing tomatoes and refrigerating until ready to bake. Not recommended for freezing.

Nutrition

Keywords: caprese stuffed tomatoes, baked tomatoes, Italian side dish, mozzarella, vegetarian, summer recipe, easy, basil, gluten-free, healthy

Find it online: https://blairrecipes.com/caprese-stuffed-baked-tomatoes-recipe-easy-italian-side-with-mozzarella/