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Easy Baked Tomatoes with Cheese

Baked Tomatoes with Cheese - featured image
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A quick and delicious side dish featuring juicy tomatoes topped with gooey melted cheese and fragrant herbs. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or as a light snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large ripe tomatoes (beefsteak or heirloom)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or Parmesan, cheddar, or a mix)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease your baking dish with olive oil.
  2. Wash and dry your tomatoes, then slice them into thick rounds, about ½ inch (1.25 cm) thick. Arrange them in a single layer in the baking dish.
  3. Drizzle olive oil over the slices, then sprinkle them with minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  4. Generously top each tomato slice with shredded cheese. Spread it evenly to cover the surface.
  5. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. For a golden, crispy cheese topping, switch to broil for the last 1-2 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
  7. Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

For best results, pat the tomatoes dry before baking to prevent excess water. Use freshly grated cheese for better melting. Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked tomatoes, cheesy side dish, quick side dish, healthy comfort food, easy tomato recipe

Find it online: https://blairrecipes.com/easy-baked-tomatoes-with-cheese-perfect-cheesy-side-dish/