Indulge in the comforting flavors of a classic Southern dish with this Deep South Tomato Casserole. Featuring layers of ripe, juicy tomatoes, sautéed onions, and garlic, all nestled under a blanket of sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese, this casserole is a must-try for tomato lovers. A golden, buttery breadcrumb topping adds the perfect crunch, while a hint of sugar enhances the naturally sweet and tangy flavor of the tomatoes. With simple ingredients and a bake time that leaves your kitchen smelling heavenly, this recipe is as easy as it is delicious. Serve it alongside your favorite Southern mains or let it shine on its own—either way, this crowd-pleasing dish is a celebration of comfort food at its finest. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you’re craving a taste of the Deep South!
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x9-inch casserole dish with olive oil or butter.
Slice the tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds and set aside. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Remove from heat.
Arrange a single layer of tomato slices on the bottom of the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt, pepper, and sugar.
Add a layer of the sautéed onion and garlic mixture over the tomatoes.
Sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the layer. Repeat the layers (tomatoes, seasoning, onion mixture, cheese) until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter until evenly coated.
Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs on top of the casserole, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese.
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Calories |
2156 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 152.1 g | 195% | |
| Saturated Fat | 78.4 g | 392% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 350 mg | 117% | |
| Sodium | 5520 mg | 240% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 142.6 g | 52% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 16.3 g | 58% | |
| Total Sugars | 37.4 g | ||
| Protein | 83.2 g | 166% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 1863 mg | 143% | |
| Iron | 8.6 mg | 48% | |
| Potassium | 2109 mg | 45% | |
*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.