Dive into layers of pure comfort with this Cheesy Tomato Casserole, a vibrant baked dish that combines juicy ripe tomatoes, gooey mozzarella, and a golden Parmesan breadcrumb topping. Perfect for showcasing fresh, in-season tomatoes, this casserole is seasoned with fragrant garlic, dried oregano, and fresh basil for a burst of Mediterranean flavor in every bite. Quick to assemble with just 20 minutes of prep time, it's baked to bubbly perfection in under 30 minutes, making it an easy weeknight dinner or an irresistible side dish for gatherings. The crispy breadcrumb crust adds the perfect contrast to the creamy, cheesy center, while the fresh basil garnish elevates its presentation. Ideal for tomato lovers and cheesy casserole enthusiasts alike, this dish is a must-try for your next comfort food craving.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Slice the tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds and set aside.
Finely chop the garlic and fresh basil leaves.
In a small pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
In a medium bowl, mix together the bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, melted butter, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and dried oregano. Stir until the mixture forms a crumbly topping.
Lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with olive oil.
Arrange a single layer of tomato slices to cover the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle them with a pinch of salt and pepper, a small amount of the sautéed garlic mixture, and some of the chopped basil.
Sprinkle a layer of mozzarella cheese over the tomatoes.
Repeat the layers (tomatoes, salt and pepper, garlic mixture, basil, and mozzarella) until all the ingredients are used, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
Evenly spread the breadcrumb mixture across the top layer of cheese to create a crispy topping.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
Let the casserole stand for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh basil, if desired.
Calories |
2032 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 132.8 g | 170% | |
| Saturated Fat | 56.0 g | 280% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 6.4 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 257 mg | 86% | |
| Sodium | 5243 mg | 228% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 122.4 g | 45% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 14.8 g | 53% | |
| Total Sugars | 32.0 g | ||
| Protein | 92.0 g | 184% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.0 mcg | 5% | |
| Calcium | 2342 mg | 180% | |
| Iron | 9.8 mg | 54% | |
| Potassium | 2327 mg | 50% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.