There’s something magical about the combination of crispy bacon, caramelized onions, and juicy tomatoes all baked together in a flaky, golden crust. This Bacon Onion Tomato Pie brings those flavors together in perfect harmony, creating a dish that’s both rustic and elegant. Originating from Southern kitchens, this pie is a staple during tomato season, but honestly, it’s delicious year-round. I tried this recipe using a mix of heirloom and cherry tomatoes for extra color, and it turned out beautifully. The creamy filling, punctuated with smoky bacon and sweet onions, makes every bite comforting and flavorful. Whether you serve it warm for brunch, as a side for dinner, or even chilled for lunch, this pie never fails to impress. It’s the kind of recipe that brings people to the table — rich, hearty, and impossible to resist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe offers the perfect balance of textures and flavors — creamy, savory, and slightly tangy. The crisp crust contrasts beautifully with the juicy tomatoes and smoky bacon, while the cheese brings everything together in one delicious bite. Plus, it’s simple to make and requires minimal prep time. It’s a wonderful way to showcase ripe tomatoes and makes a beautiful centerpiece for any meal.
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Bacon Onion Tomato Pie – A Southern Classic with a Savory Twist
- Total Time: 55 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
A savory southern-style Bacon Onion Tomato Pie layered with juicy tomatoes, caramelized onions, smoky bacon, and a creamy cheese filling, all baked in a buttery pie crust for the perfect comfort dish.
Ingredients
- 1 9-inch pie crust, pre-baked
- 5 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 3 medium tomatoes, sliced and drained on paper towels
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and crumble. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pan.
- Add sliced onions to the pan and cook over medium heat until soft and lightly caramelized, about 8–10 minutes. Set aside.
- Layer the pie crust with half of the tomato slices, followed by half of the onions and bacon.
- Repeat the layers with remaining tomatoes, onions, and bacon. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and basil.
- In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, cheddar, mozzarella, and garlic powder until well combined.
- Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the top layer of tomatoes and bacon.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Drain tomatoes well to avoid a soggy crust.
- Use a store-bought or homemade pie crust.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter version.
- Perfect as a brunch dish, side, or light dinner.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Pie crust – A buttery, flaky base that holds all the delicious layers. You can use homemade crust or a quality store-bought one for convenience.
Bacon – Adds smoky depth and a satisfying crunch. I recommend thick-cut bacon for the best texture and flavor.
Onion – Sweet and aromatic, onions bring balance to the salty bacon and tangy tomatoes. Caramelize them slightly for extra richness.
Tomatoes – The star ingredient. Use ripe, firm tomatoes for the best results. Slice and drain them to avoid excess moisture in the pie.
Mayonnaise – The secret ingredient that adds creaminess to the filling and helps hold everything together.
Cheddar cheese – Sharp and melty, it gives the pie that irresistible cheesy layer.
Mozzarella cheese – Adds a smooth, gooey texture that pairs perfectly with the tomato and bacon.
Fresh basil – Provides a burst of freshness and a hint of peppery flavor that complements the savory filling.
Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural sweetness of the tomatoes.
Olive oil – A drizzle before baking gives the pie a golden finish and boosts flavor.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Start by partially baking your pie crust for about 10 minutes until lightly golden. Set it aside to cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove it and drain on paper towels. In the same skillet, sauté the onions until soft and slightly caramelized, absorbing all that lovely bacon flavor.
Next, layer the tomato slices on paper towels and sprinkle lightly with salt. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture, then pat dry.
To assemble, layer the cooked onions, tomatoes, and crumbled bacon inside the pie crust. In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, cheddar, and mozzarella cheese until combined. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over the top of the pie.
Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 6 to 8 servings, perfect for a family meal or small gathering. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, with a 30-minute bake time, so your delicious pie will be ready in roughly 45 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crisp. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain the crust’s flakiness. This pie can also be enjoyed cold, making it a versatile option for lunches or picnics.
Variations and Customizations
Southern-Style Charm
Add a few slices of green tomato along with red ones for a tangy twist.
Cheese Lover’s Delight
Try a mix of cheeses — sharp cheddar, provolone, or even pepper jack for a touch of spice.
Herb Garden Fresh
Mix in chopped chives, thyme, or oregano for extra flavor and aroma.
Vegetarian Option
Skip the bacon and use roasted red peppers or sautéed mushrooms instead.
Crustless Version
For a lighter version, bake the filling in a greased pie dish without the crust.
Mini Pies
Make individual pies using small tart pans — perfect for parties or brunch.
Extra Creamy Twist
Stir in a spoonful of sour cream or cream cheese to make the filling richer.
Mediterranean Spin
Add sliced olives and feta cheese for a flavorful Mediterranean-style pie.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pie crust?
Yes, a quality store-bought crust works perfectly and saves time.
Do I need to peel the tomatoes?
No, but if you prefer a smoother texture, you can quickly blanch and peel them.
How do I keep the pie from being soggy?
Salt and drain the tomatoes before assembling to remove excess liquid.
Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the pie up to a day in advance and bake it when ready.
Can I freeze Bacon Onion Tomato Pie?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze baked slices for up to a month.
What cheese works best?
A blend of cheddar and mozzarella gives the perfect balance of flavor and melt.
Can I make it without mayonnaise?
You can substitute Greek yogurt or sour cream, though the texture will differ slightly.
What’s the best tomato to use?
Roma or heirloom tomatoes hold up well and offer great flavor.
Can I add eggs to make it more quiche-like?
Yes, whisk in two eggs for a more custard-style filling.
What should I serve with it?
Pair it with a fresh green salad or a bowl of soup for a complete meal.
Conclusion
This Bacon Onion Tomato Pie is the essence of comfort — flaky crust, smoky bacon, sweet onions, and juicy tomatoes all wrapped in creamy, cheesy goodness. It’s a dish that tastes like home yet feels gourmet enough for guests. Whether you serve it at brunch, dinner, or a summer picnic, it’s bound to be a crowd favorite. Once you try this Southern-inspired classic, it will quickly earn a permanent spot in your recipe collection.
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